What you'll need
Phillips screwdriver
Zip tie cutters
Replacement LED strips (×2)
Phase 1 — Preparation
Step 1: Unlock and open the machine
Unlock the vending machine, open the door to access the interior panel.
Step 2: Remove the 6 panel screws
Locate and remove all 6 screws securing the interior panel, 3 on each side of the door: one at the top, one in the middle, and one at the bottom.
Phase 2 — Remove the Panel
Step 3: Gently pull out the panel from the bottom
Starting at the bottom of the panel, gently pull it outward. Take your time do not force it.
Tip: If it won't pull free, insert a screwdriver into the release hole on the left side and gently push. Repeat on the right side.
Step 4: Check for a hidden screw
Before fully removing the panel, check for one additional screw that may be hidden further inside. Remove it if present, then continue pulling the panel out.
Step 5: Wiggle the panel free — do not force it
Gently wiggle the panel back and forth to ease it out. Pull out side 1, then side 2.
Warning: Never force the panel out. The acrylic will crack or break if forced. Use finesse - slow, gentle wiggling only.
Phase 3 — Replace the LED Strips
Step 6: Unplug the LED power connector
Locate the connector labeled LED Power. Pull it out to disconnect the existing LED strips from power.
Step 7: Remove the old LED strips
Gently pull each LED strip out through the channel holes — one strip per side. Take your time; they may be held in place with tape or adhesive.
Tip: If a strip is stuck, reach inside from the other side to peel off the blue adhesive tape securing it from the inside.
Step 8: Cut the zip ties
Cut the zip ties holding the LED wires to the power strip. Also disconnect the prize box connector while you have access.
Step 9: Feed in the new LED strips
Push the new LED strips through the channel holes — one per side. Feed strip 1 through first, then strip 2.
Step 10: Orient the strip correctly
Before inserting, check the notch on the LED strip. The notch must face toward the screen. Inserting it backwards will prevent the panel from seating correctly.
Warning: Make sure you are installing the correct strip on each side. Check the notch direction before pushing in.
Phase 4 — Reassemble
Step 11: Seat the panel back into place
Start at the bottom of the panel. Align it and gently push it in, working your way up. Give it a small tap at the bottom to fully seat it. Repeat for both sides.
Step 12: Reinstall all 6 screws
Put the 6 screws back in — 3 per side: bottom, middle, and top. Do not overtighten.
Step 13: Plug in the LED power connector
Find the connector labeled LED Power and plug it back in securely.
Step 14: Test the lights
Power on the machine and confirm that both LED strips are lit and functioning correctly on both sides.
If both sides are lit, the replacement is complete. If one side is not lighting up, check that the LED Power connector is fully seated and that the strip notch was installed facing the screen.
If you continue to experience issues after following all steps, please contact your VTM support team for additional assistance.