Cricut Explore 4 Issues

Cricut Explore 4 can experience certain issues once in a while, which can stop it from functioning, make it produce grinding noise, or stop the cutting mat from loading. However, all these issues are easy to fix with proper troubleshooting methods. 

Problem 1: Machine Pauses While Working

The Cricut Explore 4 may pause in the middle of a project due to a technical issue with the machine or computer. If multiple programs are running in the PC’s background, it can also contribute to the machine’s performance. 

Fix 1: Close Other Programs Running on the PC

Background programs running on the PC can slow down the Cricut Explore 4. Close any unnecessary applications, especially heavy ones like Photoshop or Adobe Illustrator, as they may affect the machine’s performance.

Fix 2: Reboot the Computer

Here are the steps to reboot your computer:

1. Click the Windows icon on the computer’s taskbar at the bottom left.
2. Select the power button and click Restart.

If rebooting the computer doesn’t fix the problem, try the next method.

Fix 3: Reboot the Machine

Similar to restarting the computer, you can reboot the Explore 4 machine. Sometimes, a machine’s internal functions can be disturbed due to overuse. Use these steps to reboot the machine.

1. Press and hold the machine’s power button to turn it off.
2. Disconnect the machine’s power cable from the power socket.
3. Wait for 1-2 minutes and reconnect the power cable to the power supply.
4. Press and hold the power button on the machine to turn it on.

Problem 2: Cricut Explore 4 Is Not Cutting Properly

The Explore 4 can experience problems while cutting due to incorrect material settings or issues with the blade. However, it can be resolved with these methods.

Fix 1: Check for the Right Material

If you haven’t selected the right material in the Design Space, it will cause problems with the cutting. Therefore, check if the right material is selected using these steps:

1. Open the project on the Design Space software.
2. Click the Make It button in green.
3. Check your material type on the “Set the base material” screen.
4. Confirm if it’s the same material you selected.

If your material differs from the selected one, update it in the Design Space and restart cutting.

Fix 2: Check the Blade Housing

If the blade is not set correctly, the machine won’t cut properly. In this situation, check the position of the blade using these steps:

1. Turn off the Explore 4 machine by pressing the power button and disconnecting its power cord.
2. Open the machine’s lid located at the top by lifting it upwards.
3. Check for the tool carriage, a part that moves left and right.
4. Open the clamp B, which holds blades.
5. Verify that the blade is positioned correctly and not tilted.
6. Ensure the blade is securely in place and not loose.
7. Remove the blade from the housing by pressing the plunger, which will smoothly slide the blade out of the housing.
8. Clean the blade thoroughly and ensure that no dirt or dust remains on it.
9. Fix the blade again into the clamp and ensure it sits properly.

Problem 3: The Cutting Mat Is Unable to Load

Sometimes, the cutting mat can’t load on the Cricut machine due to incorrect alignment or pressing the wrong button. Use these steps to ensure that the mat loads properly.

1. Slide the mat gently to the left and ensure it goes against the rollers.
2. Gently hold the mat while pressing the Load button.

Note: Check if the mat is folded or stuck between the rollers. Plus, ensure that you press the right button. If you’re loading the mat, press the Load button, and if you’re unloading the machine, press the Unload button.

Problem 4: Machine Is Making Unusual Noises

The Cricut Explore 4 can make weird noises while cutting. It can happen when you’re using an incorrect mat type or the mat is not aligned correctly. Use these steps to fix this problem.

Fix 1: Check for the Right Cutting Mat

If you’re not using the right cutting mat for the right material, the machine will struggle to cut the specific material. There are different cutting mats for different materials. Here are the details:

Light Grip (Blue): Paper, vinyl, and light cardstock

StrongGrip (Purple): Wood, leather, and chipboard

Standard Grip (Green): HTV, regular vinyl

Fabric Grip (Pink): For fabrics, as the name suggests

If the cutting mat is right and still making unusual noises, check the next method.

Fix 2: Load the Mat Correctly

If the cutting mat is not loaded correctly, the Explore 4 can make unusual noises. Use the instructions below to load the mat correctly:

1. Place the top-left corner of the mat against the left guide (the small plastic alignment mark beside the rollers) on the machine.
2. Gently slide the mat until it touches the rubber rollers. It should be beneath the rollers.
3. Gently press the mat with your hands and then press the Load button on the machine.