vape pen troubleshooting

10 Common Vape Pen Issues and How to Fix Them

A guide to walk you through potential issues that arise when using 510 vape pens and vape cartridges complete with troubleshooting tips and tricks.
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510-Thread Vape Pens: Convenient, Discreet, and Occasionally Troublesome

510-thread vape pens are one of the most popular ways to consume THC. They are convenient, discreet, and generally easier on the lungs than smoking. However, when your vape pen stops working unexpectedly, it can be frustrating. There’s nothing worse than preparing for a smoke session only to get no vapor when you take a draw.

Before you buy a new vape pen, check out these vape pen troubleshooting tips to get your 510-thread battery or cartridge working again.

10. Vape Pen Blinking Red? Time to Recharge

If your vape pen blinks red when you inhale, it's signaling a low battery. Charge your vape battery using the proper voltage to prevent damage. Most vape pens use USB chargers, making it easy to charge anywhere. Always use the charger provided with your device to avoid potential issues with third-party chargers.

9. Blinking White? Check the Vape Pen Connection

A blinking white light usually means your battery isn’t making a solid connection with the cartridge. Try these steps:

  • Unscrew and reconnect the battery, ensuring it's not too loose or too tight.

  • Clean the connection point with a Q-tip and rubbing alcohol to remove debris or leaked oil.

  • If the issue persists, use a paperclip to gently lift the connection plate on both the battery and cartridge to improve contact.

8. Difficulty Inhaling? Your THC Cartridge May Be Clogged

If you're struggling to pull vapor, the airway in your cartridge may be blocked by hardened oil. Fix this by:

  • Removing the mouthpiece and blowing through it with a napkin to catch excess oil.

  • Warming the cartridge by rolling it between your hands or placing it in a warm (not hot) environment.

  • If the clog is severe, use a thin needle to clear the airway.

7. Clean the 510-Thread Mouthpiece in Hot Water

For a deeper clean, remove the mouthpiece (if possible) and soak it in hot water. After soaking, clean the inside with a toothpick or Q-tip to remove any remaining residue.

6. Cannabis Oil Stuck at the Top of Cartridge

If the last bit of cannabis oil is stuck at the top:

  • Flip your cartridge upside down and let it sit in a warm area for a few hours.

  • Use a hairdryer on a low setting to gently warm the glass cartridge (never heat plastic cartridges).

  • Lightly tap the cartridge to encourage the oil to move downward.

5. Vape Pen Battery Overheating

Excessive use or exposure to high temperatures can cause your vape pen to overheat. To prevent this:

  • Take breaks between puffs to allow the battery to cool.

  • Keep your vape pen batteries away from direct sunlight and extreme heat.

  • If overheating occurs, place the vape in a cool, dry area and allow it to return to room temperature.

4. THC Oil Tastes Burnt? Adjust the Temperature

Burnt-tasting THC oil is often a result of high voltage settings. To avoid this:

  • Use the lowest voltage setting (2.0-3.2V) for THC cartridges.

  • Avoid exceeding 4.0V to prevent burning the oil and degrading terpenes.

  • If the taste persists, check if your cartridge is empty or clogged.

3. Don’t Over-Tighten Your 510-Thread Cartridge

Over-tightening your cartridge can restrict airflow or damage the connection. If your having trouble getting airflow from your vape pen, try loosening the cartridge slightly and testing the draw again.

2. Vape Pen Battery Won't Turn On

If your vape pen won’t power on:

  • Click the power button five times rapidly to check if it's off.

  • Try a different charger or charging cable to rule out a power issue.

  • If the light doesn't turn on when charging, your battery may be dead.

1. Replace the 510-Battery

Lithium-based batteries have a limited lifespan and will eventually stop holding a charge. If troubleshooting doesn’t revive your vape battery, it may be time for a replacement. For a reliable, long-lasting option, check out our 510-thread batteries at O.pen, which come with a lifetime warranty!


By following these troubleshooting steps, you can quickly resolve most common vape pen issues and get back to enjoying a smooth vaping experience. Keep your device clean, use the proper charging equipment, and handle your cartridges with care to maximize their lifespan.