DIAGNOSIS The pre-programmed cycles assume a specific load order and ingredient texture. Incorrect layering is the most common cause.
FIX You must layer ingredients in the correct order. Add liquids first, directly into the container. Then add soft fruits or vegetables. Add hard, frozen, or dense items (like ice, frozen fruit, hard carrots) last, on top. This creates a vortex that pulls ingredients down. Do not overfill. For the 64-oz container, total volume should not exceed 40 oz for the Smoothie program. Secure the lid. Use the tamper during the cycle only if prompted by the program and only through the lid plug opening.
IF THAT DIDN'T WORK Your ingredients may be too large. Cut all fresh produce into pieces no larger than 2-inch cubes before adding. For a single-serve smoothie in the large container, the mixture may be too shallow to vortex. Use a smaller, compatible Ascent Series container if available.
HEADS UP The programmed cycles have fixed run times. They cannot sense texture. For ultimate control, use Manual mode: start at Variable Speed 1, slowly increase to 5 or 6, and use the tamper to press ingredients into the blades.