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Error Code 3

Cleaning Head Obstruction

Symptoms & Causes

Symptoms:

Red light flashing continuously, robot stops cleaning and returns to dock. May display error message on Dyson Link app indicating cleaning head is stuck or obstructed.

Common causes:

  • Hair, string, or debris wrapped around brush bar
  • Large objects blocking cleaning head movement
  • Carpet fibers or threads tangled in brush mechanism
  • Dirt or dust buildup preventing brush bar rotation
  • Foreign objects stuck in vacuum inlet

Severity Level

🟡

Medium Priority

Should be fixed soon

Required Tools

Basic maintenance tools

Step-by-Step Solution

1

Safety First - Power Down

Press the power button on the robot to turn it off completely. Remove the robot from the dock and place it on a flat, clean surface where you can work comfortably.

Watch this helpful video guide: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dyson360cleaning

2

Inspect the Cleaning Head

Turn the robot over and examine the cleaning head area. Look for visible obstructions such as:

• Hair wrapped around the brush bar • String, thread, or fabric caught in the mechanism • Large debris blocking the brush housing • Built-up dirt preventing brush movement

Step 1.1: Visual Inspection

Carefully examine all areas around the brush bar and cleaning head. Look for any obvious blockages or tangled materials.

Step 1.2: Check Brush Bar Movement

Try to manually rotate the brush bar gently. If it doesn't move freely, there's likely an obstruction that needs to be cleared.

3

Remove the Brush Bar

Using a coin, turn the brush bar fastener counter-clockwise to unlock it. Carefully lift out the brush bar from its housing.

Step 2.1: Unlock the Fastener

Locate the coin-operated fastener on the cleaning head. Turn it counter-clockwise (left) until it clicks open.

Step 2.2: Remove Brush Bar

Gently lift the brush bar straight up and out of the housing. Be careful not to force it if there's resistance.

For detailed visual instructions, watch: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dyson360brushremoval

4

Clean the Brush Bar Thoroughly

Remove all debris from the brush bar by hand. For stubborn tangles:

• Use scissors to carefully cut away wrapped hair or threads • Remove any built-up lint or fabric fibers • Clean both ends of the brush bar where bearings are located • Wipe down the brush bristles with a damp cloth

Step 3.1: Manual Debris Removal

Pull away any loose hair, string, or debris wrapped around the brush. Work from one end to the other systematically.

Step 3.2: Cutting Stubborn Tangles

For hair or threads that won't pull away easily, use small scissors to carefully cut them. Cut close to the brush bar, being careful not to damage the bristles.

Step 3.3: Deep Cleaning

Wipe the brush bar with a slightly damp cloth to remove any remaining dirt or residue. Make sure it's completely dry before reinstalling.

5

Clear the Brush Housing

With the brush bar removed, inspect and clean the housing:

• Remove any debris from the brush chamber • Check for objects stuck in the vacuum inlet • Wipe down the interior surfaces • Ensure the drive mechanism moves freely

Step 4.1: Housing Inspection

Look inside the brush housing for any debris, hair, or objects that may have fallen in when you removed the brush bar.

Step 4.2: Drive Mechanism Check

Gently rotate the drive mechanism inside the housing to ensure it moves freely. This is what spins the brush bar.

Watch this maintenance video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dyson360maintenance

6

Reinstall and Test

Once everything is clean:

1.

Place the brush bar back into the housing, ensuring proper alignment 2.

Turn the fastener clockwise with a coin to lock it in place 3.

Turn the robot right-side up 4.

Power on the robot and start a cleaning cycle 5.

Observe for 2-3 minutes to ensure normal operation

Step 5.1: Proper Reinstallation

Align the brush bar correctly in its housing - it should drop in easily without forcing. The bristles should face the correct direction for cleaning.

Step 5.2: Lock the Fastener

Turn the coin-operated fastener clockwise (right) until it clicks securely. Ensure it's tight but don't over-tighten.

Step 5.3: Test Run

Start a short cleaning cycle and monitor the robot for the first few minutes. The red light should disappear and normal cleaning should resume.

7

Preventive Maintenance

To prevent future Error 3 occurrences:

• Check and clean the brush bar weekly • Remove long hair and strings promptly after each cleaning • Inspect the cleaning area for small objects before starting • Clean the entire robot monthly

Solution 1: Weekly Brush Maintenance Make it a habit to quickly check the brush bar after every few cleaning cycles. Remove any visible hair or debris before it builds up.

Solution 2: Pre-Cleaning Area Prep Before starting your Dyson 360 Eye, do a quick scan of the cleaning area for shoe laces, cables, small toys, or other items that could cause obstructions.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I clean the brush bar on my Dyson 360 Eye?

For optimal performance, inspect and clean the brush bar weekly or after every 3-4 cleaning cycles. If you have pets or long-haired family members, you may need to clean it more frequently to prevent hair buildup that can trigger Error 3.

Can I wash the brush bar with water?

Yes, you can rinse the brush bar with cool water if needed for deep cleaning. However, make sure it's completely dry before reinstalling. Never submerge the entire cleaning head or use hot water, as this could damage the components.

What if Error 3 keeps happening even after cleaning?

If Error 3 persists after thorough cleaning, check for: 1) Worn brush bristles that need replacement, 2) Drive mechanism issues inside the housing, 3) Damaged brush bar bearings. If the problem continues, contact Dyson support as the cleaning head may need professional service or replacement.

Is Error 3 covered under Dyson warranty?

Error 3 due to normal wear and debris buildup is considered regular maintenance and not covered under warranty. However, if the error is caused by a manufacturing defect in the brush bar or cleaning head mechanism, it may be covered. Check your warranty terms or contact Dyson support for specific cases.

Can I prevent Error 3 from happening?

Yes! Regular maintenance is key: 1) Clean the brush bar weekly, 2) Remove hair and debris promptly, 3) Clear the cleaning area of small objects before use, 4) Schedule monthly deep cleaning of the entire robot. These simple steps can prevent most Error 3 occurrences.

Still Need Help?

If these steps don't resolve your issue, it may be time to contact professional support.

Contact Dyson Support