I noticed these symbols on my Bosch dishwasher too — the star icon and the arrow pointing to a vertical line can be confusing if you’ve never seen them before. There’s not always a clear explanation on the panel.
Quick Answer
- The star symbol means rinse aid is low or needs refilling
- The arrow pointing to a vertical line means the cycle has finished (end of program)
Step-by-step explanation of the symbols
1. Star symbol = Rinse Aid indicator
This is one of the most common Bosch indicators.
- It lights up when rinse aid is low
- Rinse aid helps:
- Improve drying
- Prevent water spots
What to do:
- Open the dishwasher door
- Locate the rinse aid dispenser (next to detergent compartment)
- Fill it until full
2. Arrow pointing to a vertical line = Cycle end
This symbol simply tells you:
- The wash program has finished
- The dishwasher is ready to be opened
Some models may also:
- Beep
- Show a time of 0:00
Extra tips and best practices
- Always keep rinse aid topped up for better drying results
- Use the correct rinse aid setting depending on your water hardness
- Wait a few minutes after cycle end before opening for better drying
- Check your manual for model-specific icons
Common mistakes to avoid
- Ignoring the rinse aid light (leads to poor drying and streaks)
- Confusing the cycle-end symbol with an error
- Overfilling rinse aid (can cause excess foam)
FAQ
Why is the star symbol still on after refilling?
It may take one or two cycles for the sensor to reset.
Does the cycle end symbol mean there is a problem?
No. It simply indicates the program is complete.
Can I use the dishwasher without rinse aid?
Yes, but dishes may come out wet or spotty, especially on glass.
Conclusion
These symbols are actually simple once you know them. The star reminds you to refill rinse aid, while the arrow symbol just confirms the cycle is done. No fault, no issue — just normal operation.
Reference links
https://www.bosch-home.co.uk/customer-service/get-support/dishwashers
https://www.bosch-home.com/us/owner-support/get-support/dishwashers
https://www.manualslib.com/manual/1377207/Bosch-800-Plus-Series.html
