I have a hand held Dyson model dc16 and it does not hold a charge, the the batteries go bad

battery has failed, new unit on ebay for 20

Make sure the charger is operating. Then if it is, look at a failed battery.

It needs a replacement battery or check the output of charger, may need to get an electrical experienced person for this with an volt meter

Hi Alan, it's Jack at Dyson.

If you own a Dyson DC16 handheld vacuum, the battery removes at the push of a button. Press the catch and pull the battery away from the machine horizontally. If you're fitting a replacement battery, this will attach to the machine in the same way.

If you own a different model of Dyson handheld vacuum, please reply to confirm which model you have so we can provide further advice.

Alternatively, if you'd prefer you're welcome to call our experts directly on 0800 298 0298 (UK), 1-866-693-9766 (US), 1-877-397-6622 (CA) or 1800 239 766 (AU).

I have the same vaccumm with the same problem, went back to exchange it and the same thing happened, I usually get about 10-15 minutes non stop out of the battery, I read that the battery memorizes the first charged time and then will only charge for that long. Did you happen to charge it 24 hrs?

go here for instructions
http://www.manualowl.com/m/Dyson/DC16/Manual/205816?page=5

Hi there,

If you're concerned that your DC16's battery doesn't seem to be working correctly, please get in touch with us directly. One of our experts will be happy to run some troubleshooting over the phone with you to determine whether the battery needs replacement.

You can call us free on 08002980298 (UK), or 1866MYDYSON (US). We'll look forward to hearing from you.

Kind regards,

Jack
Dyson Online Customer Support

After two years the batteries are probably no longer holding a charge and need to be replaced.

I didn't understand what you need exactly, but anyway, you can find both of them on amazon (the entire vacum, or just a battery 1500Mah). take a look on following links:
1. entire vacum: Dyson DC16 Root 6 Handheld Vacuum Cleaner
2. just battery: Pwr 1500mAh Extended Capacity Battery for Dyson Dc16 Root 6 Vacuum Cleaner...

Hi its Darran at Dyson.

If you call our Helpline they will be able to run through some simple checks to detemine the cause of this issue.

Please call 0800 298 0298 (UK) or 1866MYDYSON (US).

Kind regards
Darran
Dyson Customer Service