E3
Black+Decker Motor Overload / Stall Protection

Vacuum stops during use, LED flashes red three times in a repeating pattern, then unit is unresponsive until power cycled

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Safety Warning

This repair may involve working with high voltage components or water connections. Always unplug the appliance before removing any panels.

If you are not confident in your ability to perform this repair safely, we strongly recommend contacting a professional technician.

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Possible Causes

Brush bar jammed by hair or debris, Blocked floor nozzle or wand, Severely clogged cyclonic assembly or filter, Failing motor drawing excessive current

How to Fix / Troubleshooting

Safety first: Turn OFF the vacuum and remove the battery pack before clearing any jams.

  • Inspect brush bar: Remove the floor head from the wand. Access the brush bar by opening the bottom plate or end cap (per model instructions). Cut away hair, threads, and debris with scissors, avoiding the bristles. Ensure the brush rotates freely by hand.
  • Check for clogs: Look through the floor nozzle, wand, and handheld inlet for blockages. Use a straight, non-metallic tool to gently push out any debris.
  • Clean filters and bin: Empty the dust bin. Remove and clean the pre-filter and HEPA or foam filter. If washable, rinse under cold water and allow to dry completely (at least 24 hours) before reinstalling.
  • Inspect motor vents: Check the handheld unit's air inlets and outlets for lint buildup and clean with a soft brush.
  • Test operation: Reinstall the battery and run the vacuum on low power first. If E3 recurs quickly with a free-spinning brush and clean airflow, the motor may be failing and require replacement.
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Repair Difficulty

Medium 3/5

Required Part

Motor Assembly
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