Replacement of the side brush of the robot vacuum cleaner Xiaomi: instructions with photos and videos

Xiaomi's robot vacuum cleaner side brushes are one of the most vulnerable elements of the design. They rub against walls, furniture and floors constantly, collecting dust, hair and debris. Over time, the bristles wear out, lose their elasticity, and the plastic mounts break. If your vacuum cleaner starts to clean up worse along the boards or makes extraneous sounds when working, it's probably time to replace the side brushes.

In this article, we will discuss in detail how to change the side brush on the Xiaomi Mi Robot Vacuum, Viomi V2/V3, Dreame D9 and other popular models. You will learn what tools you need, how to remove the old brush correctly without damage, how to choose a compatible replacement and avoid typical errors. We will also give tips on extending the life of new brushes and tell you when to contact the service center.

Signs that it is time to change the side brush

It is not always obvious that the cleaning problem is related to the side brushes, and here are the key symptoms that indicate the need for replacement:

• 🔊 Extraneous sounds such as creaking, knocking or vibration when the vacuum cleaner is running, especially along the walls. This may mean that the brush is clinging to the body due to worn-out fasteners.
• 🧹 Poor cleaning of corners - dust and debris remain along the boards, although the main roller works normally.
• 🌀 The brush does not rotate - if on visual inspection it is visible that the side brush is standing still, mientras el robot está en funcionamiento, the problem may be a broken mechanism or a jammed shaft.
• 🔄 Spontaneous shutdown – Some Xiaomi models stop cleaning if sensors detect overload on the side brush.

If you notice any of these signs, look at the brush visually.

• 🔍 The length of the bristles - if it is shorter 5 The efficiency of cleaning is reduced by 40-60%.
• 🔧 Integrity of plastic fastening – cracks or chips can lead to failure of the mechanism.
• 🧲 The presence of foreign objects – thread, hair, or debris can block rotation.

⚠️ Warning: Don't confuse side brush wear with main roller problems! if the vacuum cleaner doesn't pick up garbage well throughout the area, not just near the walls, check the center brush or filters.

What side brushes are suitable for Xiaomi robot vacuum cleaners

Xiaomi robot vacuum cleaner side brushes are not universal, they vary in size, shape and type of attachment.

When buying a spare part, pay attention to:

• 📏 Size and shape – even if the article is the same, visually compare the brush with the original. For example, brushes for Mi Robot Vacuum 1 will not work for Viomi V3 crooked.
• 🔗 Type of attachment - some models have latches, others have a threaded connection.
• 🌿 Bristles material - Xiaomi's original brushes typically have nylon bristles with antistatic coating. Cheap counterparts can electrify and collect dust worse.

Where to buy it?

• 🛒 Official stores - Mi Store, AliExpress (official Xiaomi sellers) The price of the original brush: 300-800 ₽.
• 🏬 Marketplaces - Wildberries, Ozon, Yandex Market. Look for sellers with a rating above 4.8.
• 🔧 Service centers – often sell parts at a discount on replacement.

⚠️ Warning: Be careful with "universal" brushes from unknown brands. They may not fit in size or damage the mounting mechanism. For example, brushes for Roborock look similar to Xiaomi, but have a different shaft diameter.

Preparing for replacement: security tools and measures

Replacing the side brush is a simple procedure that requires no special skills, but to avoid damage to the vacuum cleaner, prepare in advance.

You'll need:

• 🔧 Cross screwdriver (usually) PH0 or PH1) — for the removal of the mounts on some models.
• 🧲 Tweezers or thin pliers – will help remove the brush if it is jammed.
• 🧴 Alcohol wipes - for cleaning the shaft and fastenings from dust.
• 📸 Smartphone – take a picture of the disassembly process so as not to confuse the details during assembly.

Security measures:

• ⚡ Disconnect the vacuum cleaner from the mains and take out the battery (if possible). Even when it is off, some models can apply voltage to the engines.
• 🧹 Clean the vacuum cleaner of debris - especially around the side brush.dust can get into the mechanism and cause jamming.
• 👶 Keep parts away from children and pets – small braces and bristles can be dangerous.

If your vacuum cleaner is warranty, check if the self-replacement of the terms of service will violate the warranty. In some Xiaomi models (for example, Mi Robot Vacuum-Mop 2 Pro), side brushes are considered consumables, and replacing them will not void the warranty.

Step-by-step instructions for replacing the side brush

The replacement process may vary slightly depending on the model, but the overall scheme is the same. We will look at the universal algorithm with the example of Xiaomi Mi Robot Vacuum 1S.

Step 1: Remove the old brush

1. Turn the vacuum cleaner upside down and put it on a flat surface, and it's better to use a soft cloth so you don't scratch the body.
2. Find the side brush lock, usually a plastic clamp or screw, and on the Mi Robot Vacuum, it's on the side, next to the wheel.
3. If the latch holds: Press it with your finger or screwdriver and pull the brush over you. If the brush doesn't lend itself, gently swing it left-right.

If the lock on the screw:

• Wrap the screw with a cross screwdriver (do not make excessive efforts - the thread can be plastic!).
• Remove the fastening plate and remove the brush.

Step 2: Cleaning the mechanism

Before installing a new brush, be sure to clean the shaft and mounts of dust and dirt, this will prolong the life of the new part and prevent jamming. Use alcohol wipes or a cotton swab dipped in isopropyl alcohol.

• 🌀 Valu brushes - it should not be plaque or rust (for models with a metal shaft).
• 🔗 mounting slots – check if there are chips or deformities.
• ⚙️ The wheels of the drive (if they are visible) - they should rotate freely.

Step 3: Installation of a new brush

1. Compare the new brush with the old one – they should be completely the same in shape and size.
2. Insert the brush into the groove so that the bristles are directed downwards (to the floor). Some models have marks or arrows indicating the correct position.
3. Fix the brush: For latch: press until the characteristic click. For screw fastening: lock the plate and twist the screw (do not pull!).

Check the rotation - the brush should rotate freely, without backlash.

Step 4. Test launch

After replacement:

1. Turn on the vacuum cleaner and start cleaning in test mode (for example, around the perimeter of the room).
2. If the brush is clinging to the body, check if the installation is correct.
3. Make sure the vacuum cleaner cleans properly along the walls, and if the efficiency hasn't improved, there may be a problem with the drive mechanism.

Cost of repair in the service center:

If your vacuum cleaner is warranty, don’t try to repair it yourself – this can void warranty obligations.In Xiaomi service centers, replacing the side brush is usually worth it. 300-600 ₽ (without taking into account the cost of the part), but if the problem is in the mechanism, repairs will cost more.

Before the service visit:

1. Reset the vacuum cleaner settings (Plug the power button for 10 seconds). Sometimes errors are associated with software failures.
2. Clean the vacuum cleaner from garbage - the service can charge an additional fee for cleaning.
3. Bring your checks and warranty card (if any).

FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions