Dyson vacuum cleaners use on-board electronics and sensors to protect the motor, battery, and airflow system. When something falls outside safe operating limits, the machine will often stop or pulse and display an F-series error code to help you locate the fault.
This hub brings together the most common Dyson F2–F20 error codes in one place, so you can quickly identify what the code means on your machine and jump directly to a focused repair guide. Because exact behavior can vary slightly by model, always double-check details against your user manual or Dyson’s official support, then use the linked guides for step-by-step fixes.
Summary of Dyson Vacuum Error Codes
| Code | Meaning |
|---|---|
| F2 | General protection fault detected by the vacuum's electronics; see the F2 section below for model-specific causes and fixes. |
| F3 | Fault condition that stops normal operation to prevent damage; see the F3 section below for details. |
| F4 | Warning that the machine has detected an abnormal operating state; refer to the F4 section for likely causes and remedies. |
| F5 | Protection code indicating a persistent fault that needs investigation; see the F5 guide below. |
| F6 | Error indicating that the vacuum has shut down due to an internal issue; check the F6 section for guidance. |
| F7 | Fault code signifying that the system has detected abnormal load or airflow; see F7 details below. |
| F8 | Protection error triggered when a component or sensor reports an out-of-range value; consult the F8 guide. |
| F9 | Indicates that the vacuum has entered a fault state and may not charge or run normally; see the F9 section. |
| F10 | More serious error indicating a critical internal fault or persistent protection event; refer to the F10 guide. |
| F11 | Code signalling an issue related to power delivery, battery, or internal electronics; see F11 details below. |
| F12 | Error code pointing to an airflow, filter, or sensor-related problem; check the F12 section for more. |
| F13 | Fault state commonly associated with restriction, overheating, or other protection triggers; see the F13 guide. |
| F14 | Indicates that a hardware or self-check fault has been detected; refer to F14 details below. |
| F15 | Motor, drive, or load-related error that stops the cleaner from running normally; see the F15 section. |
| F16 | Warning about a charging, battery, or power-pack related issue; check the F16 guide. |
| F17 | Code for an internal electronics or sensor fault that needs attention; see F17 details below. |
| F18 | High-severity error indicating the vacuum has shut down for protection; refer to the F18 guide. |
| F19 | Recurring fault state that may reappear after reset or power-cycle; see the F19 section. |
| F20 | Serious internal error code where professional service may be required; check the F20 guide below. |
F2: Dyson Vacuum Cleaner F2 Error Code Fix (Quick Guide)
The F2 error code indicates that your Dyson vacuum has detected a fault condition and has limited or stopped operation to protect key components. This can be caused by issues such as blockages, overheating, power irregularities, or faulty sensors, and the exact meaning may vary slightly by model. Read the full F2 guide for step-by-step diagnostics and repair options.
F3: Dyson Vacuum Cleaner F3 Fix
When a Dyson vacuum shows the F3 code, it is signaling that something in the system is outside normal operating limits. This may be linked to airflow problems, internal wiring or board issues, or other protection triggers detected by the control electronics. Read the full F3 guide to confirm model-specific causes and the safest way to fix them.
F4: Dyson Vacuum Cleaner F4 Fix (Error Code Guide)
An F4 error code means the machine has detected an abnormal operating state and has entered a fault mode. Depending on the model, this can relate to power delivery, motor control, or other internal subsystems that the vacuum monitors continuously. Read the full F4 guide for detailed checks and recommended repairs.
F5: Dyson Vacuum Cleaner F5 Fix: Error Code Guide
The F5 code typically appears when your Dyson senses a persistent issue that cannot be cleared by a simple reset. This might involve a stubborn blockage, overheating, battery or charging anomalies, or failing components that need closer inspection. Read the full F5 guide to walk through systematic troubleshooting steps.
F6: Dyson Vacuum Cleaner F6 Error Code Fix
Dyson F6 errors indicate that the vacuum has shut down due to an internal problem detected by the control system. Causes can range from sensor misreads and thermal events to more serious electrical or motor-related faults. Read the full F6 guide for model-aware checks and when to consider professional service.
F7: Dyson Vacuum Cleaner F7 Error Code Fix
The F7 error code shows that the vacuum has encountered an abnormal load or airflow situation and has activated its protection logic. This is often associated with heavy blockages, brush bar issues, or overheating, but the exact triggers depend on your Dyson model. Read the full F7 guide for a structured approach to finding and resolving the root cause.
F8: Dyson Vacuum Cleaner F8 Error Code Fix
F8 indicates that a monitored component or sensor is reporting values outside the safe operating range. This could be related to temperature, current draw, or other feedback signals that the vacuum uses to protect itself. Read the full F8 guide to learn how to inspect, clean, and, if necessary, replace the parts most often involved.
F9: Dyson Vacuum Cleaner F9 Fix (Error Code Guide)
An F9 code generally points to a fault that can affect both running and charging behavior of the vacuum. You may see symptoms such as the machine stopping shortly after start, pulsing, or failing to charge reliably until the underlying issue is cleared. Read the full F9 guide for detailed fault isolation and repair suggestions.
F10: Dyson Vacuum Cleaner F10 Fix (Fast Technician Guide)
The F10 error is usually treated as a more serious internal fault, where the vacuum’s electronics have detected conditions that could damage the motor, battery, or circuitry if operation continued. In some cases, resets and basic checks may clear it, but persistent F10 warnings can indicate failing components. Read the full F10 guide to follow a technician-style diagnostic workflow.
F11: Dyson Vacuum Cleaner F11 Error Code Fix
F11 codes are often associated with power delivery or battery-related problems picked up by the vacuum’s onboard diagnostics. This might manifest as intermittent power, unexpected shutdowns, or issues when docking or undocking the machine. Read the full F11 guide for checks covering the charger, battery, connectors, and wiring.
F12: Dyson Vacuum Cleaner F12 Fix (Error Code Guide)
When you see an F12 error, the vacuum is signaling trouble in the airflow, filtration, or sensor systems that ensure safe operation. Excessive dust build-up, clogged filters, or misaligned components can all contribute to this fault in many Dyson models. Read the full F12 guide for cleaning routines and component inspections that commonly resolve it.
F13: Dyson Vacuum Cleaner F13 Error Code Fix
The F13 code means the vacuum has detected a problem serious enough to repeatedly trigger its protection circuitry. Frequent causes include persistent blockages, overheating that returns after cooling, or underlying motor or board defects. Read the full F13 guide to differentiate between simple maintenance issues and faults that require parts replacement.
F14: Dyson Vacuum Cleaner F14 Fix: Real-World Fault Guide
F14 errors are typically linked to hardware or self-check problems found during the vacuum’s internal tests. Depending on your model, this may involve sensors, control boards, or other components that are not responding as expected. Read the full F14 guide for real-world fault patterns and repair strategies.
F15: Dyson Vacuum Cleaner F15 Fix (Error Code Guide)
The F15 code highlights issues with the motor, drive system, or mechanical load that the electronics interpret as unsafe. Symptoms can include loud changes in pitch, stalling brush bars, or the vacuum cutting out when placed under heavier load. Read the full F15 guide for targeted checks and when to consider motor or brush-bar replacement.
F16: Dyson Vacuum Cleaner F16 Error Code Fix
F16 generally signals that the vacuum has detected a concern with charging or the health of the battery pack. Ignoring this warning can shorten battery life or prevent the unit from charging fully. Read the full F16 guide for best practices on testing chargers, batteries, and related wiring.
F17: Dyson Vacuum Cleaner F17 Error Code Guide
The F17 error code refers to an internal electronics or sensor issue that the vacuum cannot automatically correct. Left unresolved, this may lead to inconsistent performance or repeated shutdowns shortly after startup. Read the full F17 guide to understand likely fault locations and repair options.
F18: Dyson Vacuum Cleaner F18 Fix (Straightforward Guide)
F18 is a high-severity protection error indicating that the vacuum has shut down in response to a serious internal condition. While simple causes such as severe blockages are possible, this code can also be associated with failing electronic or power components. Read the full F18 guide for a clear, step-by-step approach to diagnosing the problem.
F19: Dyson Vacuum Cleaner F19 Fix (Error Code Guide)
The F19 code often appears after the vacuum has been reset or power-cycled but an underlying issue remains unresolved. It signals that the protection system is still seeing something out of tolerance and is preventing normal operation. Read the full F19 guide to track down recurring faults and confirm a lasting fix.
F20: Dyson Vacuum Cleaner F20 Fix
F20 is one of the more serious Dyson error codes, usually indicating a significant internal fault that may not be safely addressed without detailed diagnostics. While you can still rule out simple issues like severe blockages or obvious damage, many F20 cases require professional assessment. Read the full F20 guide for guidance on what to check at home and when to seek expert repair.
Preventive Maintenance Tips for Dyson Vacuums
- Empty the dust bin before it reaches the max fill line and avoid vacuuming fine dust for long periods without breaks, as this can rapidly clog filters and overheat the motor.
- Clean or replace filters as often as your model's manual recommends (and more frequently in dusty homes), allowing washable filters to dry completely for at least 24 hours before refitting.
- Inspect the cleaner head, brush bar, and airways regularly for hair, string, and debris that can restrict airflow, strain the motor, and trigger protection codes.
- Use only compatible Dyson chargers, batteries, and parts, and avoid storing the vacuum in very hot, cold, or damp environments that accelerate wear on electronics and batteries.
- Periodically check for damaged seals, cracked hoses, and loose connections so minor air leaks or intermittent power faults don't develop into recurring F-series error codes.