Espresso used to run too much water through, now not enough

I fill the 2-cup thing full to almost the rim, then mash it in using the circle on the end of the scoop thingy. I learned not to smash too hard, as my machine doesn't like that.
After it has warmed up, I put the espresso "bowl" thing with the handle onto the machine, locking it in place.
I then hit the 1-cup button, and less than 1 shot of espresso comes out before it beeps several times, and the lights flash on and off repeatedly. It seems angry when it does this. I wait a couple minutes, then try again, and finally get a full shot of espresso.
What am I doing wrong? I'm just trying to get a double-shot, but it now barely gives me 1. I even replaced the little metal cup thing with a new one, no change. I switched to pre-ground espresso in case it was the grind being too fine, but still not better.
Did I buy a bad machine???