Vitamix Blender Troubleshooting
Vitamix blenders are known for their versatility, efficiency and durability. Even though problems with these units are rare, this Vitamix blender troubleshooting guide will help you identify and resolve issues quickly and easily.
The information in this article pertains to models like the 62828, VM0100 and BarBoss Advance. For more information on maintaining your unit, take a look at our Vitamix blender cleaning guide.
Blender Won’t Start/Turn On
- Machine isn’t turned on - Use the power button to turn the unit on.
- Unit isn’t plugged in - Plug the power cord into an outlet. If it’s already plugged into an outlet, make sure the cord is plugged in firmly.
- Electrical outlet is faulty - Contact a qualified electrician to remedy the issue.
- Fuse is blown or circuit breaker is off/tripped - Reset the circuit breaker. If issues persist, call a licensed electrician to address the problem.
- GFCI outlet is tripped - Press the “RESET” button located on the outlet.
Unit Won’t Blend
- Switches aren’t responsive - Clean the switches with warm water, mild detergent and a soft cloth, then dry: this should allow the switches to move freely when pressed. If issues persist, contact a licensed technician to address the problem.
- Thermal protector shut the motor off - Reset the unit by turning it off for 30 seconds. If issues persist, power down the unit for up to 45 minutes. To cool the motor quickly, place the motor base in a cool location and/or use a fan to circulate cool air around the base.
Blender Stopped Working When Mixing Thick/Hard Ingredients
- Thermal protector turned the motor off - Reset the unit by powering it down for 30 seconds or turn it off completely for up to 45 minutes. Cool down the motor base more quickly by placing it in a cool location and/or using a fan to circulate cool air around it.
- Speed is too low - Increase the unit’s speed in order to mix and combine thick ingredients such as peanut butter or milkshakes.
- Unit is overfilled - Remove approximately half of the food in the container and continue blending. You may want to add a bit of liquid to help the mixing process, too.
- Proper order of ingredients wasn’t followed - Add soft ingredients first and then hard ingredients later in the recipe.
- Blades are jammed - Empty the container and refill according to directions, making sure to not overfill the unit.
Machine is Shaking/Vibrating Loudly
- Unit is on an uneven surface - Place the unit on a flat, solid surface such as a countertop or tabletop.
- Feet on bottom of unit aren’t level - Contact an authorized technician to remedy the issue.
- Drive socket is faulty - Schedule a service appointment with a licensed technician.
Unit Smells Like It’s Burning
- Motor is curing (normal operation) - It’s normal for the blender to emit a burning smell when the motor windings are curing. This smell should dissipate over time. If the burning smell persists, schedule an appointment with a licensed technician to service the unit.
- Motor is overheating - Turn the unit off for 30 seconds to reset the motor, or up to 45 minutes so the motor can cool down completely. Allow the heat to dissipate more quickly by putting the base in a cool area. Use a fan to circulate air around the motor base, too.
Blender is Leaking from the Bottom
- Retainer nut is loose - Call an authorized technician to service the unit.
Container is Leaking Around the Lid
- Lid is loose - Check to make sure the lid is secured tightly on the unit. If it isn’t, push it down firmly so it forms a tight seal around the top of the container.
- Lid plug is unlocked - Turn the lid plug to the locked position.
Container Moves Slightly When Units Starts
- Normal operation - It’s normal for the container to move slightly when the unit begins operation.
Noise is Coming from the Container
- Blade assembly has loose, damaged or nicked parts - If your unit is making a weird noise, such as a squeaking or grinding sound, reach out to a licensed technician to address the issue.
Noise is Coming from the Blade Area
- Drive socket is broken - Contact an authorized technician for service.
Blades Don’t Spin
- Drive socket is broken - Schedule a service appointment with a licensed technician.
Blender Won’t Run When Start/Stop Timer Switch is Activated (BarBoss Pulse/Timer Blender Only)
- Unit isn’t turned on - Use the On/Off switch to turn the unit on.
For more information on how to care for your machine, be sure to take a look at the impressive library of Vitamix manuals and diagrams on our site.