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Machine Technical Issues
Machine shows “Out of Service”
Quick checks for door switch, temperature, and payment device errors.
Updated Feb 9, 2026
Overview
Start with the door switch. If the machine thinks the door is open, it will lock out sales. Confirm the switch is pressed and the door is aligned.
Check for temperature faults. Many snack and drink machines go out of service if the temperature exceeds the food safety threshold. Verify refrigeration is running and the temp sensor is seated correctly.
Review the controller error log for MDB or payment device faults. Reseat MDB cables, reboot the payment devices, and run a test vend to confirm the error clears.
Diagnostic checklist
- Check the controller for active error codes and clear them after service.
- Verify the machine is not in “service” or “audit” mode.
- Test door switch continuity if the status does not change.
Preventive maintenance
- Keep door hinges aligned to avoid switch misreads.
- Clean condenser coils to prevent high-temp lockouts.
- Update payment firmware quarterly for compatibility.
When to escalate
- The error returns immediately after clearing.
- Multiple subsystems fail simultaneously.
- Controller board shows intermittent resets or display flicker.
Expanded guidance
- Confirm all steps are documented so the next technician can reproduce the results.
- Capture before/after metrics (errors cleared, sales restored, or uptime improved).
- Review machine, reader, or route settings to ensure they match location standards.
Common pitfalls
- Skipping a controlled test leads to false positives.
- Updating hardware without documenting configuration changes.
- Forgetting to verify payout, refund, or reconciliation data after changes.
Next-step checklist
- Run a final test with known-good inputs.
- Log the outcome with date, time, and device identifiers.
- Schedule a follow-up check if the location has high traffic or seasonal demand.
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Additional details
Operational notes
- Document changes with time, machine ID, and location name.
- Verify settings, pricing, and service modes after each fix.
- Capture before/after results to confirm resolution.
Field checklist
- Test with known-good inputs and controlled conditions.
- Validate telemetry, alerts, and payment logs where applicable.
- Confirm location expectations and update the site contact.
Common root causes
- Configuration drift after firmware or component swaps.
- Inconsistent power or network conditions at the location.
- Gaps in preventive maintenance routines.
Next steps
- Monitor for 7 days and note any repeat errors.
- Schedule follow-up if the site is high-traffic.
- Escalate with full logs and photos if issues repeat.
Technical deep dive
Diagnostics
- Inspect harness integrity, connectors, and power supply stability.
- Review error codes against the OEM manual before swapping parts.
- Compare with a known-good component to isolate the fault.
Preventive actions
- Clean sensors monthly and replace wear parts on schedule.
- Log firmware versions and configuration baselines.
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