How to Fix a Bissell Vacuum Cleaner Brush That Won't Rotate

Unplug the vacuum cleaner to avoid injury.

Step on the handle release lever on the lower left side of the Bissell. Lower the handle to the floor and turn the cleaner over so that the underside of the cleaning head is facing up.

Remove the access plate on the bottom of the cleaning head. The Bissell model you have will determine how the plate should be removed. Use a Phillips head screwdriver if your model's cleaning head access plate is screwed on. Depress the clips on either side of the plate if your model's access plate is held on by plastic clips. Remove the plate and set it aside.

Pull the brush roll from the cleaning head. Remove the old belt if it is still wrapped around the brush roll. Remove the belt from the motor shaft on the left side of the cleaning head.

Inspect the intake opening on the right side of the cleaning head to make sure it is not clogged with dust and other debris. Clean the opening if you find obstructions lodged inside the intake.

Place the new belt around the motor shaft. Loop the belt around the brush roll. Replace the brush roll into the slots on either side of the cleaning head. Slide the side opposite where the belt is located into the cleaning head slot first. Slide the side of the brush roll where the belt is situated into the cleaning head slot. Rotate the brush roll by hand to ensure a smooth rotation and signify a successful belt replacement.

Replace the cleaning head access plate. Use a Phillips-head screwdriver to turn the screws or press firmly to snap the plate back into place.