My car vacuum won't charge - anyone else had this?

So I got this cordless car vacuum (“DirtBeater 5000”) and it’s been great for a few months. Now the battery won’t charge. Plug it in, light comes on for like 30 seconds then goes off. Tried different outlets, resetting it. Anyone else run into this? Fixable or trash it?

Yo Hank, same thing happened with my shop vac. Turned out the battery contacts got dirty. Try cleaning them with a cotton swab and some rubbing alcohol. Also check the charger itself, sometimes the wires fray inside. If that don’t work, might be a dead cell.

Pete’s right about contacts. But also check the battery temperature. Some chargers won’t charge if the battery’s too hot or cold. If it’s been in a hot car, let it cool down. And if you’re handy, you can open the battery pack and test individual cells with a multimeter. I’ve brought a few back to life that way.

Thanks guys. Cleaned the contacts and let it sit in the house for a few hours - still no go. Guess I’ll crack it open and check the cells. Any tips on where to get replacement cells if I can swap em? Or is it a lost cause?

Lost cause if the cells are generic. But if it’s 18650s you can buy those online. Just make sure they’re matched. I’d say check the warranty first though - you might get a replacement for free. Otherwise, new vacuums aren’t that expensive. My Rigid one was only $60 and it’s been solid.