Machine shows E12 and stops mid-brew; coffee quantity is much less than selected.

Safety first: Unplug the coffee maker before internal inspection. Hot water can cause burns.

Steps:

• Descale: Run a complete descaling cycle to remove scale from the flow meter, thermoblock, and outlet channels.
• Clean outlet spout: Remove and clean the coffee spout and any removable outlet parts. Use warm soapy water and a soft brush.
• Check water tank filter: Clean any mesh filter at the tank outlet to ensure full flow to the pump.
• Recalibrate volume (if supported): Some Tefal models allow programming cup volume. Reset to factory settings or recalibrate according to the manual.
• Inspect pump performance (advanced): If the pump sounds weak or intermittent, access it and check for leaks or loose hoses. A failing pump can cause underfill and E12.
• Reassemble and test: After cleaning and descaling, test with water-only brews to confirm correct volume. If E12 persists, the flow meter or pump may need replacement.