Machine shows E03 and may stop mid-cycle; brew group may not move to home position and internal motor noises may be heard.

Safety first: Turn off and unplug the machine before removing the brew group or opening the service door.

Step-by-step checks:

• Remove and clean brew group: Open the service door, remove the brew group, and rinse it thoroughly under lukewarm water. Move the piston and lever by hand to free any stuck parts. Let it dry completely.
• Clean interior tracks: Use a brush and cloth to remove coffee grounds from the brew group rails and drive area inside the machine.
• Lubricate moving parts: Apply food-grade silicone grease to the brew group rails, piston seals, and contact points as recommended by Saeco.
• Reinstall correctly: Ensure the brew group is in the neutral position (funnel and piston aligned) and push it firmly into place until it clicks.
• Reset machine: Plug in, power on, and allow the machine to complete its self-test. Run a rinse cycle and then a test coffee.

When to call a technician: If E03 persists, or you hear grinding or clicking from the drive motor, the drive gear, motor, or position sensor may be damaged and require professional replacement.