Capsule lever cannot lock or unlock; machine shows error and will not brew

Safety first: Unplug the machine before forcing the lever or opening the housing. Avoid using excessive force that can break plastic parts.

Basic checks:

• Remove any visible capsule or foil fragments from the capsule chamber.
• Gently move the lever up and down; do not force it if it feels solidly jammed.
• Check that the used capsule container is correctly inserted; some models interlock with the lever.

Internal mechanism inspection:

• Remove the top cover to access the capsule carriage and locking cam.
• Inspect for broken plastic pieces around the cam and linkage; replace the brew head or cam assembly if cracked.
• Clean coffee residue from the sliding capsule carriage rails and apply a small amount of food-safe silicone grease.
• Locate the lever microswitch or position sensor and verify that the lever actuates it fully; adjust or replace if misaligned or defective.

After reassembly, test lever operation without a capsule first, then with a capsule. If the lever still cannot lock smoothly, the entire brew head assembly may need replacement.