the rewind function on my pet hair eraser turbo isn't working, i press the button and the cord just jerks a little

Diagnosis

The "jerking" motion you experience when pressing the rewind button on the Bissell Pet Hair Eraser Turbo Rewind (Model 27909) indicates that the internal clock-spring mechanism is under tension, but the cord is physically obstructed or "bird-nested" within the spool housing. This typically happens when the cord is pulled out at an extreme angle or if the vacuum was stored with the cord twisted, causing the cable to overlap itself on the drum rather than winding in a neat, concentric circle. When the cord overlaps or bunches, it creates a friction point that exceeds the torque capacity of the rewind spring. The "jerk" is the spring attempting to engage, but the friction from the bunched cord acts as a mechanical brake. In some cases, a small piece of debris or a stray thread may have entered the housing through the cord aperture, jamming the guide wheel that ensures the cord feeds smoothly. If you hear a clicking sound but see no movement, the spring is likely intact, but the physical path is blocked.

How to Fix It

To resolve a jammed rewind mechanism, you must manually reset the tension and clear the path of the cord. Follow these precise steps:

1. Disconnect the vacuum from the wall outlet and place the unit on a flat, hard surface. Ensure the vacuum is stable so it doesn't tip over during the process.
2. Locate the rewind button. Press and hold it firmly while slowly and steadily pulling the power cord outward. If the cord resists, do not yank it; instead, gently wiggle the cord side-to-side while pulling to loosen any internal bunches.
3. Extend the cord to its absolute maximum length. You should feel the tension in the spring release completely. Ensure the cord is fully extended and straight, with no kinks or loops.
4. Inspect the cord aperture (the slot where the cord exits the machine). Use a flashlight to check for any hair, lint, or small objects that may have migrated into the opening. Use a can of compressed air or a thin toothpick to clear any visible debris.
5. Hold the cord taut and let the rewind button release. If the button was held down, let go of it.
6. Slowly feed the cord back into the housing by hand. Do not simply press the button and let it zip back; instead, guide the cord in a straight line, ensuring it enters the housing without twisting. This "hand-feeding" process re-seats the cord on the internal drum.
7. Once the cord is nearly all the way in, press the rewind button one final time to snap the plug firmly into the housing.

If That Didn't Work

• Spring Calibration Reset: If the cord still jerks, the internal spring may have "set" in a bound position. Fully extend the cord again, but this time, gently tug the cord outward an extra inch beyond its normal stop point (without forcing it) while holding the rewind button. This can sometimes "pop" a misaligned coil back into place.
• External Lubrication: If the cord feels "sticky" as it enters the housing, it may be due to residue or dust buildup on the jacket of the cord. Wipe the entire length of the power cord with a damp microfiber cloth and a small amount of isopropyl alcohol to remove grime, then dry it completely before attempting to rewind.
• Mechanical Housing Check: If the button feels "mushy" or doesn't click, the plastic actuator arm inside the chassis may have slipped off the spring hook. While the unit is unplugged, gently tap the side of the rewind housing with the handle of a screwdriver to see if the mechanism jars loose.
• Internal Debris Removal: If the vacuum was used in an area with heavy sawdust or drywall powder, these fine particles can enter the spool. Use a vacuum hose on the highest suction setting to vacuum the cord aperture itself for 30 seconds to pull out any internal grit.

Heads Up

• Avoid Over-Extension: Never pull the cord to its absolute mechanical limit; stop when you feel the first sign of resistance to prevent the internal spring from snapping or slipping.
• Storage Habit: When storing the vacuum, always ensure the cord is fully retracted. Leaving the cord partially extended for long periods can weaken the spring tension over time.
• Avoid Cord Twisting: When pulling the vacuum across a room, avoid letting the cord wrap around the wheels or the base of the unit, as this introduces twists that lead to the "bird-nesting" jam described above.
• Voltage Warning: Never attempt to open the rewind housing while the unit is plugged in, as the stored energy in the clock-spring can cause the housing to snap open violently, potentially causing injury.