Cordless Vax vacuum cuts out shortly after starting, shows “E2” or a double-blink red fault pattern, often when using high power or carpet boost.
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.
Possible Causes
How to Fix / Troubleshooting
Safety first: Turn the vacuum OFF and remove the battery before clearing any blockages or accessing the brush bar.
- 1. Check for blockages:
- Remove the dirt bin and look through the cyclone inlet and outlet for compacted debris.
- Detach the wand and floorhead; look through the wand for obstructions and push them out with a flexible rod or broom handle (do not use sharp metal objects).
- Inspect the floorhead airway for hair, string, or large debris.
- 2. Clean the brush bar:
- Flip the floorhead over and remove the brush bar (most Vax cordless heads have a release cap or coin slot).
- Cut away hair and threads with scissors, avoiding the bristles.
- Check the brush bar end caps for wrapped hair and clean thoroughly.
- 3. Clean filters:
- Remove the pre-motor filter (usually in or on top of the dirt bin). Tap gently over a bin to remove dust.
- If washable, rinse under lukewarm water until clear. Do not use detergents. Allow at least 24 hours to dry completely before refitting.
- If fitted, check the post-motor/HEPA filter and replace if heavily clogged or damaged.
- 4. Test again: Reassemble the vacuum, refit the fully charged battery, and test on normal power first. If it runs normally without cutting out, the overload was likely due to blockage.
If the vacuum still shuts down quickly with E2 and all airways are clear, the main suction motor may be failing and drawing too much current. In that case, the motor housing or main body assembly should be replaced by a qualified technician.
Repair Difficulty
Required Part
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