I had the exact same problem on the brand new B&D 12 cup processor.. I resolved it by placing a popsicle stick at the small arrow at the handle, turned it on and applied pressure on the popsicle stick to activate the little round piece that must be pushed down in order for it to be activated. Had to apply pressure with one hand while machine was activated which was a hassle but it finally worked! This is a defect in the unit obviously. But that little round metal piece has to be depressed and that’s the only solution that would work for me.