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Vinci S: Output stops and blue light flashes three times during a puff

The device cuts out mid-puff and the blue LED flashes three times. This is the built-in cartridge-not-recognised alert, meaning the device cannot detect a valid connection with the pod or coil.

Why this happens

  • Dirty or contaminated gold contact pins between the pod and the mod, caused by e-liquid or condensate build-up
  • The gold pin in the mod is stuck or not springing back, so it cannot make a firm connection with the pod
  • E-liquid or condensate blocking the auto-draw sensor inside the mod
  • A faulty or incompatible coil inside the pod causing the device to fail its connection check

How to fix it

  1. Remove the pod and inspect the gold contact pins on both the pod base and the mod. If you can see any e-liquid residue or condensate, clean both sets of pins with an alcohol cotton swab and allow them to dry fully before reseating the pod.
  2. While the pod is out, gently press the gold pin in the mod with a cotton swab tip to check it moves up and down freely. If it feels stuck or does not spring back, clean around it carefully with a dry cotton swab. Do not use anything sharp or metallic, and do not attempt to open the device.
  3. Use an alcohol cotton swab to clean inside the auto-draw sensor area of the mod, removing any e-liquid or condensate that may be interfering with the sensor.
  4. Rotate the pod 180 degrees and reinsert it, then try a puff. This can help seat the contacts differently and rule out a positional connection issue.
  5. If the fault persists, remove the coil from the pod and fit a fresh, compatible replacement coil. This confirms whether the problem is with the coil itself rather than the mod or pod body.
  6. If none of the above steps resolve the three-flash alert, the fault may lie with the mod rather than the pod or coil. Contact your retailer or support for further assistance.
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