If your Roomba’s main brush isn’t spinning, you’re likely facing a common issue that many iRobot vacuum owners encounter. This problem can prevent your Roomba from effectively picking up dirt and debris, compromising the cleanliness of your home. This guide will provide practical solutions to resolve the issue of your iRobot brush not spinning. Stay with us as we guide you through the process of identifying and solving the problem.
Why is my Roomba main brush not spinning?
The most common reason for Roomba main brush not spinning is due to tangled hair, dust and debris that accumulates around the brush over time. This causes resistance which stops the spinning motion of the brush. In some rare cases, it could be due to a worn-out brush module, a defective motor or damaged wiring.
Common Reasons Why Roomba Main Brush is Not Spinning

Obstruction due to debris or hair
The most common reason for your Roomba’s main brush not spinning is often due to obstructions caused by hair, dust, or debris. As your Roomba goes about its cleaning routine, it’s normal for it to pick up these culprits, leading them to accumulate around the brush. This build-up results in resistance, preventing the brush from spinning as it should.
However, don’t discount other reasons just yet. While the accumulation of debris is common, there could be other underlying causes for your Roomba’s brush not spinning. These are rarer but shouldn’t be overlooked.
Worn-Out Brush Module
The brush module of your Roomba, responsible for the rotation of the brush, can become worn out with time and extensive use. This wear and tear may result in the brush not spinning properly, or not spinning at all. Regular inspection can help identify if the brush module is to blame and if it needs replacement.
Defective Motor
The motor is the driving force behind the spinning of your Roomba’s brush. If your Roomba’s main brush is not spinning, it could be due to a defective motor. Motors can malfunction for a variety of reasons, including age and overuse. If you’ve checked for obstructing debris and the brush module seems fine, the issue might lie with the motor.
Damaged Wiring
The electrical wiring in your Roomba provides the necessary power for the motor and, in turn, the brush. If the wiring is damaged, this will disrupt the power supply and potentially stop the brush from spinning. Carefully inspect the wires for any visible damage or signs of burning which could indicate a short circuit. In such cases, professional repair might be necessary.
Software Issues
In very rare cases, the iRobot Roomba’s main brush not spinning could be due to software issues. These issues can prevent the vacuum from performing its functions correctly, including spinning the main brush.
Firmware Update
Sometimes, the cause might be as simple as needing a firmware update. iRobot regularly releases updates to improve the function and performance of their products, and not having the latest update installed can sometimes cause performance issues.
Software Reset
If your software is up-to-date, a software reset might be necessary. This action can correct minor software glitches that could be causing the main brush not to spin. However, ensure that you’ve backed up any custom settings before performing a reset, as these will be lost.
More Complex Software Issues
For more complex software issues that cannot be resolved through an update or reset, contacting iRobot’s customer service may be the best course of action. Their technicians can provide more advanced troubleshooting advice or determine if your Roomba needs to be serviced.
How do I fix my vacuum brush not spinning

Checking for visible blockages
Firstly, ensure your Roomba is switched off and disconnected from the charger to prevent any electrical shorts or shocks. Then, remove the main brush by releasing the brush guard. Thoroughly examine the brush and surrounding area for any visible hair, dust, or debris. If you spot any, carefully remove the obstruction and clean the brush before reinstalling it.
Inspecting Brush Module
Next, check the brush module. This is the part that holds the main brush and allows it to rotate. Look for signs of wear and tear, such as cracked or broken parts. If the brush module appears to be damaged, it may need to be replaced.
You can get the brush module here: For 600 700 series , For 800 900 series
Testing the Motor
The motor of your Roomba could be the issue. To check this, try running the Roomba without the main brush installed. If the motor is working properly, you should hear it running. If not, the motor could be defective or damaged and may need repairing or replacing.
Looking for Wiring Issues
Then, examine the wiring. Be on the lookout for signs of damage, such as frayed wires, burns, or signs of a short circuit. If you see any of these signs, do not attempt to fix the wiring yourself. Instead, contact a professional for repair.
Updating and Resetting Software
Lastly, ensure your Roomba’s software is up-to-date. You can do this by connecting your Roomba to your home’s Wi-Fi network and checking for updates through the iRobot app. If your software is up-to-date and the brush still isn’t spinning, try a software reset. Remember to backup any custom settings before doing so, as a reset will erase them. If these steps do not solve the issue, contact iRobot’s customer service for further assistance.
Others Roomba related troubleshooting guides
Roomba Is Not Charging – Step By Step Guide To Fix
Roomba Stops Charging After a Few Seconds: Simple Fix
Conclusion
If your iRobot brush is not spinning, it could be due to a variety of reasons. The most common cause is debris or hair build-up around the brush, which can be easily cleared. However, issues with the brush module, motor, or wiring can also prevent the brush from spinning and may require professional repair. Additionally, software issues can sometimes interfere with your Roomba’s function, and a firmware update or software reset may be necessary. By following these steps and troubleshooting methods, you can quickly identify and resolve the issue, keeping your Roomba running efficiently. So, next time your iRobot brush is not spinning, don’t panic. Instead, follow these practical steps to get your Roomba back to its optimal cleaning performance.