July 23, 2026

Common Vape Problems and How to Fix Them: Complete Guide for Australian Vapers 2026

Introduction

Every vaper encounters problems with their device at some point. A burnt taste, a leaking tank, or a device that refuses to fire can be frustrating, especially when you are new to vaping. The good news is that most common vape problems have simple fixes that require no special tools or technical knowledge.

This guide covers the most frequent issues Australian vapers face and provides step-by-step solutions to get your device back to working order. Whether you use a disposable vape, a pod system, or a refillable tank, you will find practical troubleshooting advice here.

1. Burnt Taste When Vaping

A burnt or dry hit is the most common complaint among vapers. The taste is unmistakable: a harsh, acrid flavour that makes you cough.

Causes

  • Worn-out coil: Coils have a lifespan of 1-2 weeks. When the wicking material degrades, it burns instead of vaporising e-liquid.
  • Chain vaping: Vaping repeatedly without giving the coil time to re-saturate with e-liquid.
  • Low e-liquid level: Running the tank dry even briefly can singe the coil wick.
  • High wattage: Running a coil above its recommended wattage range burns the wick material.

Solutions

  1. Replace the coil with a fresh one. See our Vape Coils Guide for replacement intervals.
  2. Prime new coils by dripping a few drops of e-liquid onto the exposed wicking ports before installation.
  3. Allow 5-10 minutes after filling a new tank for the wick to fully saturate.
  4. Take shorter puffs with longer pauses between draws (15-30 seconds).
  5. Lower your wattage if using a variable-wattage device.

2. Vape Leaking from the Tank or Mouthpiece

Leaking is messy and wastes e-liquid. It usually happens when e-liquid escapes from the tank through the airflow holes or mouthpiece.

Causes

  • Overfilling: Filling the tank above the recommended level creates pressure that forces liquid out through airflow channels.
  • Worn O-rings: The rubber seals that keep the tank airtight degrade over time.
  • Temperature changes: E-liquid thins in hot weather and can seep through seals. This is particularly relevant in Australian summers.
  • Device stored on its side: E-liquid can escape through airflow holes when the device is horizontal.

Solutions

  1. Do not fill the tank beyond the indicated maximum fill line.
  2. Replace O-rings if they appear cracked or worn.
  3. Store your device upright, especially in warm conditions.
  4. Close the airflow control ring when not in use.
  5. Use thicker e-liquids (higher VG ratio) which are less prone to leaking.

3. Gurgling or Spitting E-Liquid

A gurgling sound when inhaling, or hot e-liquid spitting into your mouth, indicates that excess liquid has accumulated in the coil airway.

Causes

  • Flooded coil: Too much e-liquid has entered the coil chamber.
  • Thin e-liquid: High-PG e-liquids are thinner and more likely to flood the coil.
  • Inhaling too hard: Aggressive draws pull excess liquid into the coil.

Solutions

  1. Remove the drip tip and blow gently through the tank into a paper towel to clear excess liquid.
  2. Fire the device while holding it upside down to burn off the excess.
  3. Switch to a higher-VG e-liquid for thicker consistency.
  4. Take slower, gentler draws.

4. No Vapour Production

If your device is firing but producing little or no vapour, the issue is usually power-related or coil-related.

Causes

  • Low battery: Most devices produce less vapour as the battery depletes.
  • Clogged coil: Residue buildup blocks airflow.
  • Wrong wattage: Too low a wattage fails to vaporise e-liquid effectively.
  • Blocked airflow: Dirt or e-liquid residue in the airflow path.

Solutions

  1. Charge the battery fully.
  2. Replace the coil if it has been in use for more than two weeks.
  3. Check and adjust wattage to the coil’s recommended range.
  4. Clean airflow holes with a cotton swab and isopropyl alcohol.

5. Battery Not Charging or Holding Charge

Battery issues are among the most serious vape problems because they can pose safety risks.

Causes

  • Faulty charger or cable: Damaged USB cables fail to deliver power.
  • Dirty charging port: Dust and e-liquid residue block the connection.
  • Battery degradation: All lithium-ion batteries lose capacity over time.
  • Device auto-firing: When a device fires continuously, it drains the battery rapidly.

Solutions

  1. Try a different charging cable and power adapter.
  2. Clean the charging port gently with a dry toothbrush or compressed air.
  3. If the battery does not charge on any cable, the device may need replacement.
  4. For safety tips, refer to our Vape Battery Safety Guide.

6. Device Auto-Firing

Auto-firing occurs when a vape device continues to produce vapour even after you have stopped inhaling or pressing the fire button. This is a serious safety concern.

Causes

  • E-liquid leakage into the circuit board: The most common cause of auto-firing.
  • Faulty fire button: A stuck or damaged button.
  • Poor tank connection: Loose 510 connection can cause intermittent firing.

Solutions

  1. Turn off the device immediately and remove the tank.
  2. Clean the 510 connection with a cotton swab and isopropyl alcohol.
  3. If the device continues to fire after cleaning, discontinue use immediately.
  4. Replace the device if auto-firing persists.

Important safety note: Auto-firing can cause batteries to overheat and vent toxic gases or catch fire. Do not leave a device with known auto-firing issues unattended while charging.

When to Replace Your Coil

Knowing when to change your coil can prevent most vape problems before they start. Replace your coil if you notice any of these signs:

  • Flavour has become dull or muted
  • Vapour production has noticeably decreased
  • You taste a burnt or metallic flavour
  • The coil has been in use for more than two weeks
  • E-liquid is darker than usual after refilling

For a complete overview of coil types and maintenance, read our Vape Coils Guide: Types, Lifespan and When to Replace Them.

Preventative Maintenance Tips

Follow these simple habits to keep your vape running smoothly and avoid common problems:

  • Clean your tank weekly: Disassemble and rinse with warm water, then dry thoroughly before reassembly.
  • Prime new coils: Always saturate the wick before first use.
  • Store properly: Keep your device upright in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
  • Use the right e-liquid: High-VG blends for sub-ohm devices, balanced PG/VG for pod systems.
  • Replace coils on schedule: Do not wait until you taste burning to change your coil.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does my vape taste burnt after charging?

A fresh charge delivers higher voltage, which can burn a coil that was already near the end of its lifespan. Try replacing the coil after charging.

Can a leaking vape be fixed without replacing parts?

Often yes. Try tightening the tank connections, storing the device upright, and ensuring you are not overfilling. If leaking persists, check the O-rings for damage.

How often should I clean my vape tank?

Clean your tank every time you change flavours, or at least once a week if you use the same e-liquid.

Is it safe to use a vape that tastes burnt?

No. Inhaling burnt coil material can irritate your throat and lungs. Stop using the device and replace the coil immediately.

References

  1. Australian Department of Health – Vaping safety and product standards. health.gov.au
  2. Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) – Nicotine vaping product safety. tga.gov.au
  3. Public Health England – Vaping device safety evidence review. gov.uk
  4. Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) – Product safety for batteries. productsafety.gov.au