September 01, 2015

How to replace stand mixer motor brushes

How to replace stand mixer motor brushes

This DIY repair guide explains how to replace the carbon motor brushes in a stand mixer. The motor brushes transfer electrical current to the motor armature to start and run the motor. If the motor sparks when running, the motor brushes are likely worn and need replacement. Replace the motor brushes with the manufacturer-approved replacement part.

Use these steps to replace carbon motor brushes in KitchenAid and Whirlpool stand mixers.

Quick links
Tools required
Work gloves
Slot screwdriver
Repair difficulty
Time required
15 minutes or less
Repair difficulty
Time required
15 minutes or less
How to replace carbon motor brushes in a stand mixer repair guide video.

Replacing stand mixer motor brushes video.

Instructions

  1. 01.

    Shut off the electricity

    Unplug the power cord.

  2. 02.

    Remove the carbon motor brushes

    Using a slot screwdriver, unscrew the motor brush cap and pull the cap and the carbon brush out.

    Repeat the process on the opposite side.

    Tip: The carbon brush caps are on spring-loaded. Hold onto the brush caps when removing them so they don't fly off.
    PHOTO: Remove the motor brush caps.

    PHOTO: Remove the motor brush caps.

    PHOTO: Pull out the motor brushes.

    PHOTO: Pull out the motor brushes.

  3. 03.

    Install the carbon motor brushes

    Looking from the back of the mixer, position the right side carbon brush with the flattened corner facing the upper left corner of the brush holder.

    Insert the right side brush into the brush holder.

    Reinstall the brush cap.

    Position the left side brush with the flattened corner facing the lower right corner of the brush holder.

    Insert the left side brush into the brush holder.

    Reinstall the brush cap.

    PHOTO: Install the new motor brush.

    PHOTO: Install the new motor brush.

    PHOTO: Reinstall the motor brush cap.

    PHOTO: Reinstall the motor brush cap.

  4. 04.

    Restore power

    Reconnect the power cord.

Warning: Undertaking repairs or maintenance to appliances or power equipment can be hazardous. Should you choose to undertake repairs or maintenance, you are assuming the risk of injury to your person or property. In an effort to reduce the risk, use the proper tools and safety equipment noted in the applicable guide and follow all instructions. Do not proceed until you are confident that you understand all of the steps and are capable of completing the repair. Some repairs or maintenance, however, should only be performed by a qualified technician.

Most common symptoms to help you fix your stand mixers

Choose a symptom to see related stand mixer repairs.

Main causes: phase control board failure, wiring connection problem, faulty electronic control board…

Main cause: worn carbon motor brushes…

Main cause: attachment clearance setting needs adjustment…

Main causes: bad wiring connections, faulty speed control plate, electronic control board failure…

Main causes: bad lubricating grease, mixer sitting idle for weeks at a time, mixer running constantly for more than 30 m…

Main causes: bad worm gear, damaged planetary gear assembly…

Main causes: lack of electrical power, wiring failure, worn carbon motor brushes, bad drive motor, tripped overload swit…

Most common repair guides to help fix your stand mixers

These step-by-step repair guides will help you safely fix what’s broken on your stand mixer.

How to replace a stand mixer worm gear

How to replace a stand mixer worm gear

Here’s how to replace the worm gear in your stand mixer if it’s worn or damaged.…

Repair difficulty
Time required
 30 minutes or less
How to replace a stand mixer phase control board

How to replace a stand mixer phase control board

The phase control board works with the governor and control plate to control motor speed. Replace the phase control boar…

Repair difficulty
Time required
 30 minutes or less
How to replace stand mixer motor brushes

How to replace stand mixer motor brushes

If the carbon brushes are worn and damaged, replace them using these steps.…

Repair difficulty
Time required
 15 minutes or less

Effective articles & videos to help repair your stand mixers

Use the advice and tips in these articles and videos to get the most out of your stand mixer.

How to use a multimeter to test electrical parts video

How to use a multimeter to test electrical parts video

Learn how to use a multimeter to check for wiring problems in an appliance that's not working…

5 secrets for getting great stand mixer results

5 secrets for getting great stand mixer results

Find out five tips and techniques to help get the most out of your stand mixer.…

Easy DIY stand mixer repairs

Easy DIY stand mixer repairs

Learn about some easy stand mixer repairs you can do yourself.…