DIAGNOSIS The ‘point and shoot’ bin release mechanism is clogged or jammed. Dirt, hair, and dust clump together in the cyclones and the bin opening, creating a plug that the slider can’t push out.
FIX Don’t just keep yanking the red lever. 1) Detach the bin from the main body. 2) Over a trash can, manually pull the red bin release lever all the way and hold it. 3) While holding it, use your other hand to reach into the bin opening (from the bottom, where it attaches to the vacuum) and gently poke/pull the compacted wad of debris loose. You can use a long, flexible object like a plastic ruler. 4) Once the main plug is out, continue holding the lever and tap the bin firmly against the inside of the trash can to dislodge the rest.
IF THAT DIDN’T WORK There might be a larger object (like a Lego, coin, or twist-tie) physically jamming the mechanism. You may need to take the bin apart. The clear bin can be separated from the cyclone top by pressing the gray release button near the handle and pulling it apart. Inspect the internal passages for blockages.
HEADS UP Empty the bin *before* it gets to the ‘MAX’ line. Overfilling it guarantees a jam. Also, give the filter a tap over the trash can every few empties to keep fine dust from building up.