dyson ball animal 2 making a loud rattling noise when i turn it on

Diagnosis

The loud rattling noise in a Dyson Ball Animal 2 is almost always caused by a mechanical imbalance or a foreign object trapped in the high-speed rotating components. Most frequently, this is a "brush bar jam" where a hard object—like a coin, small pebble, or plastic toy—has wedged itself between the brush bar and the cleaner head housing. As the motor spins the brush bar at thousands of RPMs, the object bounces rapidly against the plastic casing, creating a metallic rattling or vibrating sound. Another common culprit is a failing brush bar bearing or a loose drive belt. If the rattle is accompanied by a high-pitched whine or a smell of burning rubber, the belt may have slipped or partially frayed, causing it to slap against the interior wall of the cleaner head. To confirm the source, turn the machine on for two seconds and listen closely: if the noise is loudest at the floor level, it is the brush bar; if the noise is coming from the main canister body, you likely have a debris blockage rattling in the intake pipe or a loose internal baffle in the bin.

How to Fix It

Follow these precise steps to clear the obstruction and stabilize the brush bar:

1. Power Down: Immediately turn the power switch to 'Off' and unplug the unit from the wall outlet. Do not attempt to clear the brush bar while the unit is plugged in to avoid accidental activation.
2. Access the Brush Bar: Lay the vacuum flat on its back on a hard surface. Locate the end cap of the cleaner head. Use a coin or a flat-head screwdriver to turn the end cap counter-clockwise to unlock the brush bar.
3. Extract the Bar: Slide the brush bar out of the cleaner head housing. Inspect the bar for tangled hair, string, or wrapped debris. Use a pair of heavy-duty scissors to cut through any hair wraps, being careful not to slice the bristles.
4. Clear the Housing: Reach into the cleaner head cavity and feel for any hard objects (coins, screws, or pebbles) that may have been rattling against the plastic. Use a flashlight to ensure the intake port is completely clear.
5. Inspect the Belt: Check the drive belt for any fraying or "stretching." If the belt looks loose or has missing threads, it must be replaced.
6. Reinstall and Lock: Slide the cleaned brush bar back into the housing. Ensure the drive gear is properly seated. Turn the end cap clockwise until it clicks firmly into the locked position.
7. Test Run: Stand the vacuum up and power it on. The rattle should be gone, and the brush bar should spin smoothly without vibration.

If That Didn't Work

• Check the Bin Baffle: Remove the clear bin by pressing the red release button. Inspect the internal "shroud" or baffle where the air enters the cyclone. If a small hard object is trapped here, it will rattle violently as air rushes past. Shake the bin upside down over a trash can to clear any hidden debris.
• Inspect the Hose Connection: Disconnect the flexible hose from the main body. Drop a coin or a small ball through the hose to see if it moves freely. If it gets stuck, there is a blockage causing air turbulence that can sound like a rattle. Use a broom handle to gently push the blockage out.
• Verify the Ball Pivot: Check the ball mechanism at the base. If a piece of grit or a small stone has entered the pivot joint, it can cause a clicking or rattling sound as the vacuum steers. Wipe the joint clean with a damp cloth and ensure no debris is wedged in the plastic housing.
• Replace the Brush Bar: If the noise persists and the bar is wobbling on its axle, the internal bearings have failed. Replace the brush bar assembly (Part #965652-01 or equivalent for your specific model) to restore balance.

Heads Up

• Avoid Wet Debris: Never vacuum wet spills or damp carpets. Moisture causes dust to clump into hard "pebbles" inside the motor head, which leads to the exact rattling and imbalance issues described above.
• Monthly Maintenance: Once a month, use a seam ripper or scissors to clear the brush bar. Allowing hair to build up puts excessive strain on the motor and wears out the belt prematurely.
• Filter Care: Always wash your pre-motor filter every 3 months and let it air dry for at least 24 hours. A clogged filter increases suction pressure, which can pull loose internal components or debris further into the machine.
• Avoid Heavy Rugs: If you are vacuuming high-pile shag rugs, turn the brush bar setting to "Hard Floors" to prevent the motor from overheating or the belt from slipping due to excessive resistance.