What F11 Means
F11 means the dishwasher can't complete its drain phase — water isn't leaving the tub within the time the control board expects, so the cycle stalls rather than finishing wet.
Common Causes of F11
- Blocked filter combination in the base of the tub
- A piece of glass, bone, or debris lodged in the drain pump
- Kinked or clogged drain hose
🔧 One Safe Check You Can Try
Pull the lower filter combination (it twists out by hand in most Miele dishwashers) and rinse it under running water — a clogged filter is the single most common cause of F11.
⚠ Why You Shouldn't Go Further Than That
- If cleaning the filter doesn't clear it, the debris is lodged further down in the pump or hose, which needs partial disassembly to reach safely.
- Reaching into the pump housing without disconnecting power first risks injury from the impeller.
- Debris left behind after an incomplete DIY attempt can damage the pump motor if the dishwasher keeps running with an obstruction still in place.
Opening a panel to inspect or repair something yourself doesn't automatically cancel your manufacturer's warranty — but it can risk accidental damage, and some manufacturers do have specific service conditions. Check your product's warranty terms, or ask us, before deciding.

