Why Is Roomba Brush Not Spinning?

Your Roomba vacuum brush may not spin due to following reasons.

1. Jammed Side Brush Module

A jammed side brush module is a common reason why the Roomba side brush is not spinning. It will be jammed due to hair, dirt debris. It requires periodic cleaning to keep the side brushes clean.

The dust particles, hair, and debris can also block the side brush gearbox. It stops the spinning gears inside the gearbox from transferring power to the side brushes forcing them to spin slowly or halt.

2. Side Brush Motor Problems

The brush motor has moving parts that can dry if not regularly oiled. A dry motor will make noises, and the gears won’t turn properly. Check that your motor is properly oiled, especially if you haven’t lubricated it in a while. Some people have also reported side brush motor failure on older Roombas.

3. Damaged Brush Parts

Another possible reason your Roomba brush is not spinning freely is its damaged parts. Turn on the vacuum and check if the side brush is turning at the appropriate time or not. If the motor doesn’t gain any power, it could be due to a failure in the module.

If the side brush doesn’t spin, but the motor is running, it could be due to the cracks in the yellow part of the side brush. The cracks in the yellow part hinder it from spinning freely. If you find cracks or see this yellow part is worn out, it’s better to replace it.

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 Fix Roomba Brush That Is Not Spinning

1. Remove Dirt From The Side Brush

Dirt mainly accumulates underneath the side brush. You have to remove debris that is hindering the movement of the brush. Take a small screwdriver to remove the side brush from your Roomba vacuum. After removing the brush, you will have to clean it thoroughly. You can use a clean cloth or a pointed object to clean the brush.

After cleaning, reinstall the side brush to its place. Now check if the brush is spinning freely or not. If it still doesn’t spin, you have to replace or repair it. To fix this issue, you should check the gearbox also.

2. Clear The Gearbox From Dirt

Remove the back cover to access the gearbox of your vacuum cleaner and unscrew the side brush. Remove screws holding the back cover to its place. Unscrew the tow screws holding the side brush module.

Unscrew the cover of the gearbox with a screwdriver. Remove each gear one by one and inspect it thoroughly. The gunk buildup on the gears prevents them from moving. Remove any dirt, hair, and other accumulations on these gears.

Lubricate the gears before putting them back.

3. Apply Lubrication to The Side Brush Motor

Lubricate your Roomba side brush motor for its smooth running. Apply some oil on the motor shaft.

4. Check Wires and Connections

Check all wires and connectors if the above fixes don’t work. Replace the side brush motor if if the connections are damaged, loose, or corroded.

What does the Roomba side brush do?

The Roomba side brush is used for cleaning the edges to gather debris, dirt, and hair. The side brush spins and collects the debris in its way. Then it places it in front of Roomba’s suction path. Without a side brush, your Roomba will not reach the corners and edges for cleaning the floor.

Will Roomba work without a side brush?

Roomba without side brushes will not work as efficiently as it should. Side brushes help clean the edges and corners. Thus, if you run a Roomba without a side brush, it will not perform its cleaning duties up to the mark. It will be a sweeper, not a vacuum without brushes.

How to clean the side spinning brush of Roomba?

• Unscrew the side brush with a screwdriver.
• Pull off the brush and remove hair and dirt accumulated over it.
• Use a pointed object or a soft brush for cleaning.
• Reinstall the side brush back to its place.