Installation guide
Owner’s manual
Error Codes
How can I force my Bosch dishwasher to drain?
To force-drain your Bosch dishwasher model SHE55M16UC, cancel the current cycle so the unit switches into a drain-out. On many Bosch models, this is done by pressing and holding Start for about 3 to 5 seconds, then closing the door to begin draining (refer to the canceling/changing cycle steps in the owner's manual).
- Press and hold Start for 3 to 5 seconds (until the display changes or the cycle cancels).
- Close the door fully; the dishwasher should begin the drain pump phase.
- Wait for the drain to finish (you should hear the drain pump running).
- Open the door and check the tub water level.
- If water remains, clean the filter system and check the drain path before retrying.
A forced drain will not work if water cannot move through the filter, sump, or drain hose. For SHE55M16UC, we focus on these checks first:
- Filter system clogged: Remove the bottom rack, unlock the cylinder filter assembly (about a 1/4 turn), lift it out, and rinse the filters under running water.
- Large object trap blocked: Carefully inspect for glass, bones, labels, or other debris.
- Drain hose restriction: Look for kinks, pinches, or a blockage in the hose routing.
- Drain pump issue: If the pump hums but does not move water, the pump or an obstruction at the impeller is likely.
- Safety shut-off activated: If water is detected in the base, the dishwasher can stop normal operation until the condition is corrected.
| Symptom | What to check first | Part that may be needed |
|---|---|---|
| Standing water after cancel/drain | Filter system and drain hose | Drain pump 00642239 |
| Slow drain or intermittent drain | Hose routing and clogs | Dishwasher drain hose 00668108 |
Forcing a drain is a safe first step because it clears the tub before you remove filters or inspect the sump area. It also helps confirm whether the issue is a simple cancel/reset situation or a true drain-path or pump problem.
For additional troubleshooting by symptom and code, use our Bosch dishwasher error codes guide. If you need to order replacement parts for SHE55M16UC, start with the parts list for your model, or search by model number on Sears PartsDirect.
Last updated: February 2026
Is SHE55M16UC discontinued?
Yes. The Bosch SHE55M16UC dishwasher model is discontinued, which means it is no longer being manufactured or sold as a current model. You can still keep it running by using the correct replacement parts and the care and maintenance steps in the owner's manual.
Bosch model numbers can look similar, and the slash version matters for parts fit.
- Check the model tag on the tub edge (open the door and look along the inner frame)
- Match the model number exactly: SHE55M16UC
- Record the serial number as well (helpful when ordering)
- Use the parts list for your exact model to avoid wrong-fit returns
A discontinued dishwasher is still very serviceable; it just shifts your focus to maintenance and correct part matching.
| What you need | What to do | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Replacement parts | Order by exact model and part ID | Prevents fit and wiring mismatches |
| Documentation | Follow the installation guide for install-related specs | Avoids leaks, drain issues, and mounting problems |
| Troubleshooting | Use error code guidance when the unit stops mid-cycle | Speeds up diagnosis |
If your SHE55M16UC is acting up, these are frequent repair areas for this platform:
- Fill problems: dishwasher water inlet valve 00622058
- Not draining: drain pump 00642239 or dishwasher drain hose 00668108
- Leaks at the door: door seal 00432490
- Poor wash performance: sump filter 00441905
Once a model is discontinued, the best way to avoid repeat breakdowns is to diagnose accurately (symptom or error code), then replace only the failed part. For Bosch dishwashers, fill, drain, and filtration issues are the most common causes of “won’t run,” “won’t drain,” and “not cleaning.” For code-based troubleshooting, we use Bosch dishwasher error codes.
You can order replacement parts for your Bosch SHE55M16UC from the parts list for this model, or search by model number on Sears PartsDirect.
Last updated: February 2026
What's the most common problem with a Bosch dishwasher?
The most common Bosch dishwasher complaint is a no-start or “won’t run” condition caused by simple issues like the door not latching, a cycle not being selected, delay start being active, or the water supply being turned off. For your Bosch SHE55M16UC, we use the troubleshooting steps in the owner's manual to pinpoint the exact cause.
- Confirm the door is fully closed and latched (a partially latched door prevents starting).
- Make sure the dishwasher is actually turned on and a cycle is selected.
- Cancel or reset the cycle if a previous cycle did not complete.
- Check whether Delay Start is enabled.
- Verify the home breaker or fuse is good and the dishwasher has power.
- Confirm the water supply valve under the sink is turned on.
A Bosch dishwasher can seem to run a long time when water is not heating properly or when the cycle is being extended to reach target temperature. If you also notice poor drying, check rinse aid level and cycle selection in the owner's manual.
| Symptom | What it often points to | Example part for SHE55M16UC |
|---|---|---|
| Not filling with water | Water supply restriction or inlet valve issue | Dishwasher water inlet valve 00622058 |
| Not draining, water left in tub | Drain restriction or drain pump issue | Drain pump 00642239 |
| Poor cleaning, weak spray | Circulation problem or filter restriction | Dishwasher recirculation pump assembly 00442548 |
Most “common problems” are actually setup or maintenance related. A quick latch, power, and water-supply check prevents unnecessary part replacement and helps you get back to normal wash performance faster.
If you need to order a replacement part for Bosch SHE55M16UC, we list model-matched parts here, and you can also search by model number on Sears PartsDirect.
Last updated: February 2026
