Just had this issue and took it to a Dyson service center and they told me that the vacuum will perform perfectly WITHOUT those defective rings! Still on back order. Just toss and keep it moving!
You CAN use it without this ring, just make sure to clean that upper part of the vacuum (which the red silicone is for) in the meantime while the order is delivered. Replacing it is best
Dang! The same seal broke on my V12! I stumbled upon this video so this looks like very common. I was just putting it back after cleaning it and it just broke.
In that case you might consider the aftermarket seal, because the original clip maybe broken on yours. This is so common when I went to Dyson repair center they told me this part is out of stock and will be for months.
I have the same issue, Dyson is sending me a replacement, one of the teeth got knocked out so cant just assemble it back either it comes out so, did superglue the ring and its seal together so it doesnt pop back out when removing the canister from the vacuum cleaner.
In the long term, it will allow dirt to enter areas where they are not supposed to be at, so it will work without the seal but it's better to have it fixed either through factory or aftermarket parts.
It will damage the motor as dust gets sucked directly into the motor without protection. I suggest wearing a utility leather glove when using it, just like using any other motorized garden tools, it will help reduce hand strain. Cheers