A downdraft vent will not rise or retract normally

First identify whether the problem is movement, fan operation or both. Does the vent fail to rise at all, stop at the same point or reach its normal position while the blower remains off? Report what happened during ordinary use. Avoid repeated commands that keep driving a mechanism against an obstruction.

With the cooking surface off and cool, look only for an obvious item resting across the opening. Keep fingers and tools out of the moving gap. Follow the exact model manual for user controls and any removable parts; never pull the vent up by hand, push it down forcibly or bypass a position switch.

Explain whether the symptom followed a spill, countertop work or something falling near the opening. A technician may need access to equipment below the counter, and installation conditions can be relevant to the assessment. However, a vent that will not move does not by itself prove that the lift motor has failed. Power, controls and mechanical travel need to be considered together.

Useful observations before you call

• Record whether controls illuminate and whether the blower can be heard.
• Describe the last normal position and any unusual movement or sound.
• Photograph the installed vent and surrounding countertop without opening the mechanism.

Model-specific reference: Thermador owner manuals. Features and procedures vary; follow your appliance manual.