July 1, 2013

How to replace a vacuum suction motor

How to replace a vacuum suction motor

This DIY repair guide shows how to replace the suction motor in a canister vacuum. The motor, which is in the canister base, turns the fan that creates the vacuum's suction. If the motor stops working, the vacuum either won't have suction or won't run at all. If the problem is no suction, clear clogs from the hose and nozzle; if there's still no suction or if the motor doesn't run, replace the suction motor with the manufacturer-approved replacement part.

Use these steps to replace the suction motor in Kenmore, Whirlpool, Panasonic and Miele canister vacuum cleaners.

Quick links
Tools required
Phillips screwdriver
Work gloves
Repair difficulty
Time required
15 minutes or less
Repair difficulty
Time required
15 minutes or less

Instructions

  1. 01.

    Remove the exhaust filter

    Pull the release tab on the exhaust filter cover and lift the exhaust filter cover off the vacuum cleaner. Remove the exhaust filter from the housing.

    PHOTO: Remove the exhaust filter cover.

    PHOTO: Remove the exhaust filter cover.

    PHOTO: Remove the exhaust filter.

    PHOTO: Remove the exhaust filter.

  2. 02.

    Remove the canopy hood

    Pull the plastic release tab on the front of the canister and lift the canopy hood. Remove the hood from the canister.

    PHOTO: Remove the canopy hood.

    PHOTO: Remove the canopy hood.

  3. 03.

    Remove the motor cover

    Remove the 4 screws that secure the motor cover and remove the cover. 

    PHOTO: Remove the motor cover screws.

    PHOTO: Remove the motor cover screws.

    PHOTO: Remove the motor cover.

    PHOTO: Remove the motor cover.

  4. 04.

    Remove the motor

    With the wires still attached, carefully lift the suction motor out of the canister. Remove the foam padding that surrounds the motor. 

    Note the location of the wires and then disconnect them. Remove the motor and set aside for disposal.

    Tip: Take a digital photo of the connections before removing the wires.
    PHOTO: Pull out the motor.

    PHOTO: Pull out the motor.

    PHOTO: Remove the foam cover.

    PHOTO: Remove the foam cover.

    PHOTO: Disconnect the motor wires.

    PHOTO: Disconnect the motor wires.

  5. 05.

    Install the new motor

    Connect the wires to the new motor. Wrap the foam padding around the motor and then slide the motor into the canister.

  6. 06.

    Reinstall the motor cover and canister hood

    Reinstall the motor cover, insert the screws and tighten firmly. Snap the hood into place on the canister.

  7. 07.

    Reinstall the exhaust filter

    Reinstall the exhaust filter in the housing at the back of the canister. Snap the exhaust filter cover into place.

Warning: Undertaking repairs to appliances can be hazardous. Use the proper tools and safety equipment noted in the guide and follow all instructions. Do not proceed until you are confident that you understand all of the steps and are capable of completing the repair. Some repairs should only be performed by a qualified technician.

Symptoms common to all vacuum cleaners

Choose a symptom to see related vacuum cleaner repairs.

Main causes: broken drive belt, damaged brush roll, tripped brush roll motor overload, bad brush roll motor, wiring failure
Main causes: weak suction motor, vacuum bag is full, clog in suction air path, dirty exhaust filter, leaky vacuum hose
Main causes: damaged vacuum hose, clogged motor air filter, bad suction motor
Main causes: lack of power, bad power cord, drive motor failure, wiring failure

Repair guides for canister vacuums

How to replace a vacuum power head ribbed drive belt

Some canister vacuums have a ribbed drive belt that spins the brush roll on a power brush attachment. If the brush roll slips, you can replace it using these instructions.

Repair difficulty
Time required
 30 minutes or less
How to replace a vacuum suction motor

The suction motor on a vacuum creates the draw of air at the cleaning head that picks up dirt. If the vacuum won't run, give it a new life by replacing the suction motor. These steps explain how.

Repair difficulty
Time required
 15 minutes or less
How to replace a vacuum beater bar

Replace the brush roll if the bristles ares worn or the cylinder is damaged.

Repair difficulty
Time required
 30 minutes or less

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