E8 error code appears, often accompanied by beeping, and the cooker stops.

Safety first: Unplug the appliance before inspecting the lid mechanism.

• Check lid closure and latch: Ensure the lid closes fully and the latch engages. If the hinge is loose or the latch is damaged, tighten screws or replace the lid latch assembly.
• Inspect magnet and sensor: Many Hamilton Beach lids use a small magnet in the lid and a reed switch in the body. Verify the magnet is still present and not dislodged. If accessible, test the reed switch with a multimeter for continuity when the lid is closed.
• Check wiring: Follow the lid sensor wires from the hinge area to the control board. Look for pinched or broken wires, especially where the lid flexes.
• Replace faulty parts: If the reed switch or microswitch does not change state when the lid is closed, replace the lid sensor / reed switch assembly. If wiring and sensor are good but E8 persists, the main control PCB may be misreading the signal.