FAQ
TL;DR: A 10-minute, 12-screw contact-clean fixed TM5 Cook-Key failures for one user; "Cook-Key problem solved." This FAQ explains practical ways to restore TM5 Cook-Key detection and syncing. [Elektroda, FilippoPittarello, post #19624116]
Why it matters: TM5 owners losing guided cooking after Cook‑Key errors need fast fixes to restore recipes and sync.
Quick Facts
- Reported service cleaning cost: approx. PLN 100 restored operation after an update. [Elektroda, jubiler, post #18670997]
- DIY connector clean: 12 T15 screws, ~10 minutes, and ~10€ contact cleaner. [Elektroda, FilippoPittarello, post #19624116]
- Workaround: from Recently Cooked, open a recipe, then connect Cook‑Key to trigger sync. [Elektroda, Bombelek2020, post #18680262]
- Wi‑Fi proximity matters: placing TM5 next to the router enabled updates and stable operation. [Elektroda, suhotnik, post #19619069]
- Edge‑case symptoms: missing Network Configuration icon, unreadable Cook‑Key and ABC media, no Wi‑Fi. [Elektroda, marekjak, post #19312139]
Is the TM5 Cook‑Key not being read a known issue?
Yes. Another TM5 owner reported the same Cook‑Key detection failure. Their two recipe tablets still worked, pointing to the Cook‑Key. [Elektroda, admax71, post #18627059]
Does a factory reset fix TM5 Cook‑Key problems?
A factory reset did not help in the original case. Try it first to rule out software glitches, then move to the steps below if nothing changes. [Elektroda, jubiler, post #18582667]
How can I trigger a Cook‑Key sync if it won’t connect?
Use the Recently Cooked method. 1. Disconnect Cook‑Key. 2. Open Recently Cooked and tap a recipe; connect when prompted. 3. Plug in Cook‑Key and wait for network search, then Sync. The sync may take longer but completes. “After connecting the dongle, everything works fine.” [Elektroda, Bombelek2020, post #18680262]
Can weak Wi‑Fi cause error C513 or failed updates?
A weak Wi‑Fi link blocked updates in one case. Moving the TM5 next to the router restored updates immediately. “I took the Thermomix next to the router and it worked straight away.” [Elektroda, suhotnik, post #19619069]
Why is my Network Configuration icon missing and nothing reads?
One user saw the Network Configuration icon disappear, with no Wi‑Fi and no media detected. Treat this as a system edge‑case. Work through connectivity checks and try the connector‑clean approach described elsewhere in this FAQ. [Elektroda, marekjak, post #19312139]
How do I clean the TM5 connectors safely to fix Cook‑Key?
Power off and unplug. Remove the front panel (12 T15 screws). Unplug and clean the display and mainboard connectors with a contact cleaner, then reassemble. The report notes ~10 minutes and ~10€ for spray. “It was only necessary to disassemble the front panel and clean … the connectors.” [Elektroda, FilippoPittarello, post #19624116]
My TM5 rejects the Cook‑Key completely — any options?
If the TM5 rejects the key, the device will not read it. On‑device cleaning or syncing is unavailable. Use the connector‑clean method in this FAQ or contact service for inspection. [Elektroda, manjek1, post #18671061]
How do I tell if the fault is the Cook‑Key or the TM5?
Test other media. One user’s two recipe tablets worked while Cook‑Key failed. That points to a faulty Cook‑Key, not the base unit. [Elektroda, admax71, post #18627059]
Can I still cook on TM5 without Cook‑Key?
Yes. You can cook normally without Cook‑Key attached. Guided recipes and Wi‑Fi syncing remain unavailable until connectivity is restored. [Elektroda, jubiler, post #18671067]
Did a software update break my Cook‑Key?
In one case, the TM5 stopped reading Cook‑Key right after a software update. The device then rejected the key, preventing on‑device cleaning. [Elektroda, manjek1, post #18671061]
What will Thermomix service say if Cook‑Key fails?
A service center suggested a power supply or motherboard issue, even though the unit still cooked normally. That complicates diagnosing a Cook‑Key‑specific fault. [Elektroda, jubiler, post #18671067]
How much might a service cleaning cost?
One user paid about PLN 100 for a service cleaning. It restored operation, but the issue recurred after the next update. [Elektroda, jubiler, post #18670997]
