Error 38

This step-by-step repair guide walks you through fixing error 38 on your Bosch HII8057U (Induction Range). With the right tools and parts, most homeowners can complete this repair in 1–2 hours and avoid a costly service call.

Part of our Top 20 Oven Models & Common Repair Issues Guide. Browse all oven repair guides for related models and issues.

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Common Symptoms & Causes

When Error 38 appears on your Bosch HII8057U, you’ll likely notice one or more of the following signs before or alongside the fault code:

The control panel displays “E38” and the unit stops responding to touch input
One or more induction cooking zones fail to heat or power on
The range shuts off unexpectedly mid-cook and cannot be restarted
A clicking or buzzing sound occurs when attempting to activate a burner zone

Error 38 is most commonly caused by a failing induction module, a damaged power relay, or a faulty connection between the control board and the cooking zone components — issues that often develop over time through normal heat cycling and wear.

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Safety First

Unplug the oven from the power outlet before starting any repair — never work on a live appliance.
Wear work gloves when handling metal brackets, sheet metal edges, or sharp components.
Take photos with your phone before disconnecting any wiring harnesses or connectors.
Work in a well-lit area with enough floor space to lay removed panels flat.

Tools & Parts Needed

Essential Tools

Phillips #2 screwdriver
¼” nut driver
Multimeter
Work gloves (heat-rated)
Flashlight

Replacement Parts

Step-by-Step Repair Instructions

Step 1

Unplug the range from the wall outlet before doing anything else — Error 38 on the Bosch HII8057U indicates a cooking zone overtemperature condition or a failed zone temperature sensor, and working on live induction electronics is a serious shock hazard. Disconnecting power also lets the protection circuit reset, which helps you determine whether this is a hard fault or a recoverable thermal event.

Step 2

With the range unplugged, check that there is at least 2 inches of clear space behind the unit. Bosch induction ranges exhaust heat through the rear vent, and if that opening is blocked by a wall, cabinet, or accumulated debris, heat builds up in the electronics bay and triggers Error 38 as a protective shutdown — not because a component has actually failed.

Step 3

After confirming the vent is clear, leave the range unplugged for 30 minutes to allow all internal components to cool fully, then restore power and observe whether the error returns. If the range powers on normally without Error 38, the root cause was thermal overload from restricted airflow rather than a faulty sensor or board, and improving ventilation alone resolves the issue.

Step 4

If Error 38 reappears immediately after restoring power, the zone NTC thermistor (temperature sensor) is the most likely culprit and must be tested. Disconnect the sensor connector and measure resistance across the sensor terminals with a multimeter set to Rx1 — a healthy NTC thermistor reads approximately 100 kΩ at room temperature, so a reading that is far outside that range, or an open/short circuit, confirms the sensor has failed and must be replaced. Pro tip: label the connector and photograph its routing before removal so reassembly is straightforward.

Step 5

If the NTC thermistor tests within the expected ~100 kΩ range at room temperature but Error 38 still persists, the induction control board itself is misreading or misprocessing the sensor signal and will need to be replaced. Use only a Bosch-specified replacement board for the HII8057U, as aftermarket boards may not be calibrated to the correct thermistor curve and could trigger false errors or, worse, fail to protect against real overtemperature events.

Step 6

After completing the repair, double-check that the rear vent area has the full 2-inch clearance Bosch requires, and make a habit of never placing cookware, foil, or any objects against the back of the range. Blocked ventilation is the most common trigger for Error 38 and a recurring cause of premature control board failure, so maintaining proper airflow is the single most effective way to prevent this fault from returning.

Where to Buy Replacement Parts

Find genuine OEM and aftermarket replacement parts for your Bosch HII8057U (Induction Range) on Amazon:

When to Call a Professional

If the issue persists after completing all steps above, the problem may involve the sealed refrigerant system, a failed main control board, or wiring that requires specialized diagnostic equipment. Contact a licensed appliance technician — attempting sealed-system repairs without EPA 608 certification is illegal and unsafe.

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How Much Does This Repair Cost?

DIY repairs for Error 38 typically cost between $20–$120, depending on whether you need a new cooling fan, thermal fuse, or control board component. A professional service call on a Bosch induction range generally runs $150–$300 in labor alone, before parts. Tackling this repair yourself can save you $100 or more.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What does Error 38 mean on my Bosch HII8057U?

Error 38 indicates a fault with the induction coil or its control board connection. It typically means the range has detected an overheating or communication failure within the cooking zone electronics.

Can I reset Error 38 without calling a technician?

Yes, start by powering the range off at the circuit breaker for 60 seconds, then restore power. If the error returns immediately, a hardware fault likely requires professional inspection.

Is it safe to keep using my range while Error 38 is displayed?

No, you should stop using the range until the error is resolved. Continuing to operate it could worsen the underlying fault or create a safety hazard.

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