how do you clean the brushroll on a shark navigator lift away? it's making a weird noise

Diagnosis

The "weird noise"—typically described as a high-pitched squeal, a rhythmic thumping, or a grinding sound—is almost always caused by a mechanical obstruction in the brushroll assembly of the NV356E. When long hair, carpet fibers, or sewing thread wrap around the agitator, they create a tight "sleeve" of debris. This increases friction and puts immense strain on the belt and the motor, leading to a loud humming or whining sound as the motor struggles to spin the roll at full RPM.

Beyond simple wraps, the noise often originates from the end caps (the bearings). Debris migrates into the gaps between the brushroll and the plastic housing, creating a grit-paste that wears down the bearing. If you hear a metallic rattling or a loud clicking, it is likely that a small pebble or hard plastic piece has become lodged in the brushroll chamber, or the belt has partially slipped or frayed, causing it to slap against the interior housing during rotation. You can confirm this by turning the vacuum off and attempting to rotate the brushroll by hand; if it resists or feels "crunchy," the assembly requires a deep clean.

How to Fix It

To properly sanitize and clear the brushroll on the NV356E, follow these precise steps:

1. Power Down: Completely disconnect the power cord from the wall outlet. Do not rely on the "off" switch, as the brushroll can engage unexpectedly.
2. Positioning: Lay the vacuum flat on its back on a hard floor. Ensure the Lift-Away canister is snapped securely into the base to prevent the unit from tipping.
3. Access the Roll: Locate the brushroll area on the bottom of the floor nozzle. The NV356E features a removable cover or a designated access slot. Use a coin or a flat-head screwdriver to turn the locking tabs if your specific sub-model has a locked plate.
4. The Slicing Technique: Do not attempt to pull hair out by hand, as this tightens the knots. Use a pair of heavy-duty sewing shears or a utility knife. Slide the blade carefully under the hair wraps and slice across the width of the roll from end to end.
5. Clear the End Caps: Use a pair of needle-nose pliers to pull the sliced debris out from the edges of the brushroll. Pay special attention to the left side (the drive side) where the belt connects; debris here often causes the "squealing" noise.
6. Debris Removal: Use a vacuum hose or a canned air duster to blow out any fine dust or grit trapped in the bearing housings.
7. Manual Rotation Test: Use your hand to spin the brushroll. It should spin smoothly with minimal resistance and no audible clicking.

If That Didn't Work

If the noise persists after a thorough cleaning, consider these deeper mechanical issues:

• Worn Drive Belt: Inspect the rubber belt for cracks, stretching, or "glazing" (where the rubber looks shiny and smooth). A worn belt will slip and screech. Replace the belt with a genuine Shark replacement part to restore the correct tension.
• Bearing Failure: If the noise is a consistent grinding, the internal bearings have likely failed. You will need to remove the entire brushroll assembly and replace the bearing pads. If the roll wobbles significantly when spun, the axle is bent and the entire brushroll needs replacement.
• Foreign Object in Airway: Check the "neck" of the vacuum (the area between the brushroll and the hose). A coin or small toy can get stuck here, vibrating against the plastic and creating a loud rattling noise that sounds like it's coming from the brush.
• Motor Brush Wear: If the noise is a high-pitched electrical whine coming from the top of the unit rather than the bottom, the carbon brushes in the motor may be worn down, requiring a professional motor service or replacement.

Heads Up

• Avoid Water: Never rinse the brushroll under a faucet. Water trapped in the bearings will cause them to rust and seize, permanently destroying the floor nozzle.
• Check the Height Adjustment: Ensure your height adjustment dial is set correctly for your carpet pile. Running the vacuum on "Low/Hard Floor" settings on thick carpet can cause the brushroll to overheat and the belt to snap.
• Monthly Maintenance: To prevent motor burnout, perform a "slice and clear" of the brushroll every 30 days, especially in households with long-haired pets.
• Check the Filter: A clogged pre-motor filter forces the motor to work harder, which can amplify the sound of a struggling brushroll. Clean both the foam and felt filters every two weeks.