Why Can't You Repair Your Shark Vacuum?

[@sutrasandwich983]

After 40 years in the vacuum repair business, I agree with you on the waste these companies are creating. Thank you for this video.

[@vacuumsrus]

Thanks for watching!

[@elainescott6791]

I understand the recycling part but I don’t think that’s a huge investment over four years five years but I wouldn’t buy a Dyson one by Jason over shark that’s just my own professional opinion specially, if it’s cordless, they lose their power very quickly

[@Viewer765]

Who’s best for repairs what’s Dyson like

[@michaelg.294]

I work as a service plumber and have all the tools required for these repairs, but even then the repairs to my Shark have been far from easy. So far I've come out victorious but my collection of leftover screws grows with each repair.

[@jrockofages5413]

I can add 2 more from today....

[@queueeeee9000]

We should open up a second hand Shark parts shop

[@suloget]

I am up to my elbows trying to repair a Shark Rocket Powerhead. I think it's the belt. The security screws ended up being the least of my problems. I can't snap off the motor cover. There is a good tutorial on ifixit until you get to that exact step, which is completely skipped! Aargh! @@queueeeee9000

[@poopster1946]

Me to:)

[@FalconTechSolutions]

🤣😆 us engineers always have left overs,

[@Mega_Casual]

This is great info. This whole business model of eliminating right-to-repair is growing exponentially in the U.S. I hope Shark Sales are reading these comments. Because of their eliminating right-to-repair, I for one, will never buy another shark vacuum, ever. Josh, thanks again for your valuable information.

[@vacuumsrus]

Glad we could help!

[@cheddarcheese]

Add Dyson to that list, Electrolux, Samasung, Apple, most TVs and newish cars.

[@Cj032188]

Same, I currently own a shark (about 4-5 years old now) When i am replacing it I will not buy another shark.

[@boggy7665]

Now, before I buy anything, I look at the maker's reputation for providing repair parts and information.

[@jamesbizs]

⁠​⁠​⁠@@Cj032188you had a shark last for 5 years. And it still works. But you’re not going to get another one?

[@texinn]

Absolutely spot on. We have been using a $300 Shark for the past couple of years which just bit the dust, and I have been trying to source the part that's broken. It's near impossible. Shark does not sell that part any more which is strange since its been just a couple of years. The thing about the screws is true as well. I have a fair range of driver bits including the security bits which I used to loosen the screws, but could not pry the panels off. After watching the video, I now get why I could not. I am so glad I watched this video. I had been otherwise satisfied with the product, but I refuse to support a company that plans to screw its own customers.

[@robertmisiuk7137]

Take a look to see if you can find a used vacuum. Best place to get parts. I've rebuilt several that way.

[@mattschiele8080]

Little tidbit, a manufacturer has to support parts for a product minumum 7 years after date of manufacturer. I use to go through it when I was as a printer/copier technician, several times. There were instances where manufacturer sent out refurbished units instead of repair part because they did not have repair part in stock or no longer manuntactured part.

[@barackblows1942]

Buy a Dyson😎, it’s a little more expensive but it’s totally repairable. There are no belts to replace and no tools are needed to open and clean the roller head. I paid $300.00 for mine 15-years ago and it still sucks in a good way. FJB 🖕🇨🇳

[@mharvey62203]

Thank you for this video. I was going to see if I can fix whatever is going on with the vacuum, we have liked it a lot but definitely will not buy another shark.

[@anthonym.pacelli1960]

So, the brush stopped spinning, after discovering the security screws and using much profanity I went to TSC and they had the right bit set in the discount bin. Took the unit apart, the brush opposite the drive belt has a roller bearing set in cheap plastic which naturally had disintegrated and stopped up the roller. That's when I realized Satan himself held a round table to design this navigator vacuum.

[@kristalmorey6938]

Mine too.... I agree 💯%

[@patriciaengelsiepen9461]

So Satan himself is involved in Shark vacuum debacle. I can actually hear him laughing his fiendish laugh watching people try as they might to fix their vacuums over and over again! With this in mind, I have decided to sacrifice my Shark on the altar dedicated to poor design and cheap manufacturing practices of this company!

[@indboat]

Had the same problem. Went to Oreck. No problems since.

[@thegildedagemadonnabe]

Why does this comment only have 11 likes? This shit is glorious! I took mine apart because the cat peed on the carpet, and I used a lot of vinegar and baking soda. Well the baking soda pretty much caked everything up the next day, and so I had to rinse out all the hoses, my husband accidentally broke one of the Allen wrench screws cause he didn't realize it was there. Got the roller out finally and cleaned that, and once we got it back together, it runs and works, but the brush indicator light isn't going on, and it's hardly sucking. So it's back to the drawing board.

[@bubbabubba2013]

Engineers are paid well to insure products die sooner than later.

[@phoebelara4296]

This video just explained every problem I've ever had trying to repair the multiple shark vacuums I've had over the course of 5 years. Self-employed house cleaner, I've had to order the "tamper free" screws, buy whole sets of bits for them, cracked the snap together casing after spending hrs carefully unscrewing what felt like 1000 screws..... good to know I'm not crazy. Also made with screws that strip like no other. Thanks for the video!

[@K.Kelly87]

Planned Obsolescence. We own one Shark. It's a small, rechargeable battery hand model. It was the best out of the 3 others I wasted my $$ on. It's about a year old now. It's only used to vacuum my Husband's Semi truck. It does better than most, but not as good as the 12 volt plug-in Dirt Devil we had in the early 1990s. That Dirt Devil was awesome! It had a "beater-bar-brush" and a reusable cloth bag. It vacuumed both the interior of the Semi truck AND THE DOG!!!! (SHE LOVED THAT THING!!!) I paid $389 for my Kenmore vacuum in 1998. Biggest problem I had with it was I ran over an unknown piece of ripped carpet, which is a LONG piece of very tough yarn. The power head has a safety shut-off. I had to take the head apart, remove the brush-roller and use a razor blade to cut the yarn off. Getting it back together with the brackets and belt needing to be assembled at the same time was so hard it took both of us to do it right. Oh and there's only ONE place that carries the bags for it anymore.... Otherwise, that Kenmore vacuum has been trouble free. It still sucks very well, the hoses are in great shape, and all the attachments are stored INSIDE it, so they never got lost.

[@nigelwilliams4954]

I'm on my second shark, and it will be my last, I will also make sure my friends don't buy one and circulate on social media, just what shark is all about. Great video, thanks for putting it out there, from every disgruntled shark buyer across the pond in the uk

[@vacuumsrus]

Glad you enjoyed!

[@ginapereira8948]

I know right! My second with the same thing.. the motor smells burnt and won't run!

[@sarahjessop1581]

I’m on my first Shark. I’ll never buy another one and I’ll advise my friends not to get one either. I spend more time cleaning the useless filters and emptying the tiny waste container than I do in vacuuming. The standard of cleaning has always been mediocre. With clean filters it blows vacuumed dust straight out of the side vents on the top filter. I’ve tried to open it up to clean out the insides but it’s impossible. I hate not being able to maintain something just because the manufacturers want us to throw it away and buy a new one instead. Shark are very deceitful. I’ll buy a Dyson when I can afford it.

[@xalen8856]

our shark navigator lower duct hose cracked within a year, so I replaced it last january. not only were there security bit screws, but the hose was glued in place. I had to dissolve the glue in nail polish remover. the replacement hose I ordered was much more rigid and has been fine ever since. I also totally agree with sharks becoming more difficult to repair. They weren't always easy but the older models for sure used to have regular philips screws. Such sad times we live in where we get screwed over in virtually every industry.

[@donaldsalkovick396]

Wow so nail polish remover is 99 cents..... and a lot of common products have done away with Phillips bits a long time ago dark ages??? Omg 😂

[@fododude]

No one knows what you're trying to say, Donald. @@donaldsalkovick396

[@Mojo32]

​@@donaldsalkovick396😂 Exactly, these people are ridiculous. It's incredibly easy to go to your local Harbor Freight, Tractor Supply, etc. and buy a few screwdriver bits or whatnot. And that's for cheapskates like me, if you want to spend more money on name brand tools that don't get used much then you have that option too, lol, and currently we still have access to the "world wide web" to get whatever else you may need/want to make things even easier, sheesh not sure what these people expect...😂

[@tstahler5420]

Amazon has the Navigator hose with fittings. Unfortunately for me I have a "Proclean" the replacement hose doesn't have the fittings.

[@the_rocs_roost]

Thanks so much for making this video. I accepted long ago the old maxim of, "You get what you pay for". I use an Electrolux Discovery II that my parents bought new in the 1980s. It works just as well as it did when new. The brush roll has been replaced twice in 40 years, but other than bags and occasional belts, that's it. I was driving through a neighborhood once a couple of years ago and I saw another Electrolux Discovery II on the curb for the garbage man to pick up. I stopped immediately and went up to the house, knocked on the door, and asked the lady if she was sure she wanted to get rid of her vacuum. She said yes, and I immediately asked if I could have it. She said yes again. I took it home and all it needed was a belt and to be cleaned up a little bit. I hope this little story can be useful to folks reading the comments. Thanks again for the video!

[@janicep1508]

I grew up with Electrolux, my great grandfather sold them. Nothing better. But I am now a senior with a dog and stairs. I need lightweight. That's why I got a shark

[@the_rocs_roost]

Weight is definitely one area where the shark wins! A few years back, I bought my parents a cordless Dyson, and they say that was one of the best gifts I've ever given them. There's probably not a day that goes by that they don't use it. They also have dogs, who love to track in leaves this time of year especially. 🐕🍂🍁

[@snappyjo571]

Electrolux are awsome

[@two_owls]

Hope y'all are advocating for more robust right to repair legislation at the federal level! Compared to places like the EU, even Canada, the US has pretty shoddy consumer protection laws. Hence our one-year warranties, intentionally hard to repair designs, and lack of replacement parts. Companies need to be forced to do the right thing. They're not gonna do it out of charity, and we can't rely on 'the market' because eventually one company will gobble up most of the competition (hello Apple) and we're back to unrepairable square one!

[@MickeyBlueEyes2]

I think 12 month guarantees are about the norm globally, but you're right on repairs, there should be available spares and ways and means of repair. (globally)

[@H0NSE]

​@@MickeyBlueEyes2 I'm in eu. My shark came with a 5 year warranty.

[@tomhoser9325]

@@nonelost1 I try and do the same, but with all the sharks, lawn mowers, tractors,ovens,etc. it's taking some time and some real estate to store all these cannibalized parts. Another problem is once you've stuck them away, can you find them in a year when you need them?

[@asherdie]

More regulations and the government have never helped the citizen/consumer. There is always "unintended" or "unexpected" negative results. The answer is the consumer do his due diligence and not support these companies that sell snake oil and gimmicks. Kirby and Oreck are actual vacuum manufacturers. Dyson and shark are grifter companies

[@goodun2974]

​@@nonelost1, our first Keurig coffeemaker (not a format I wanted but I stupidly let my wife have her way) lasted about 3 or 4 years. The second one lasted 2 years. When that one died we bought a replacement, which lasted 3 months. I called Keurig and they asked me to send a photograph of the machine showing the serial number, and the sales receipt, which I did. 2 months went by and I heard nothing about receiving a replacement so I called Keurig again and was told that my request was still "being processed". . That was almost 2 months ago and I've still received no communique and no replacement machine. My recommendation is, *never buy a Keurig*! We have gone back to a traditional "drip" coffee-brew machine, for half the price of a mid-level Keurig and with a much lower cost for actual ground coffee, and less waste since the plastic coffee "pods" aren't recyclable. ( We had actually been using Rio Grande coffee pods that cost $25 for 80 of them, which isn't too bad as the cost of coffee pods goes, but buying a pound of coffee is much much cheaper: We tried using the reusable/ refillable coffee pod cups but they were a pain to clean).

[@JTHootman1]

I appreciate you pointing out this to the American Consumer. I am a recycler of electronic materials and am floored at the number of sharks I pick up. I'm also shocked at how cheaply made they are.

[@davecundiff3663]

Not as cheap as the Bissell products.

[@cynthiafisherrose4178]

I’ve owned 2 Sharks. The first was Navigator. It lasted 10 yrs and it was easy to replace roller bar. I have had a Vertex for 5 years now which has saved my sanity picking up dog hair (I own Collies). Im quite hard on vacuums. While this one makes it harder to replace the larger roller w fins, the soft bar is super easy to remove and wash. As are the filters. You can “diss” Sharks but I’ve only had 2 repairs in 16 years so I don’t agree that it’s a brand designed by a Satanic round table, but that was very funny! . I’m a walking ad for their vacuums. At the lower end price point, I’m surprised at their quality and high level functionality, esp the Vertex if you own a shedding dog.

[@bobo-tv4cv]

Thank you for exposing this company. We had the exact problem you mentioned, a chewed cord by our new puppy. The frustration was overwhelming to do what we thought would be an easy fix. I personally will not buy another Shark so I hope their sneaky tactics continue to serve them well but I won't be part of their charade.

[@vacuumsrus]

I think Josh is going to do some cord replacement videos. It is not by any means an easy repair on any of their machines but it's such a ridiculous reason to have to throw some thing in the land fill.

[@andreapost2455]

Thank you, Josh! I’m on my first Shark, and I’ve liked it, but thanks to your insights and videos, when it finally dies, I’ll be looking into other brands that make repairs easier. Your videos have helped extend the life of my Shark by equipping me to perform some repairs at home, too, which has saved money and helps the environment. I appreciate you sharing your expertise!

[@vacuumsrus]

That's great to hear, we're glad we could help!

[@anitamarcotte1382]

The brush roller on my shark navigator broke and I am off to get torx bits. I have a Electrolux vacuum that's 40 years old that has never failed me.

[@delcat8168]

Don't buy a Dyson. I phoned the help line to find out how to remove the yellow central boss on the wheels... they wouldn't tell me (they prise out). The mains lead had broken. I fixed it, but eventually bought a Bosch (still a pig to open up)

[@robertboykin1828]

I ordered special bits to fit the screws, around 20 bucks. glad I did it.

[@peachyclean93]

You're going to be waiting a long time I've never had a shark vacuum die on me in my previous comment and this column I have always given away my shark to get a new one and everyone that I've given my sharks to they still have them! Hands down they are the best vacuum out there My dad has my old shark and his 6-year-old Dyson crap the bed hands down sharks are the best! I'm getting ready to purchase a new one a shark stratos so some will be getting my old stick vac That looks practically brand new but is well over 7 years old!

[@Valentina-km8cg]

You've opened my eyes! I have a Shark that I've loved for 3-4 years. Terrific with long dog hair in particular. The switch went out to where I only get the floor function. The switch goes to carpet and nothing changes. It was a cheap vacuum, under $150, and now I know I'll never get another Shark. Off to find which brands you folks do recommend. I HATE that I'll just have to throw it away. Thank you so much!

[@mybestlastyears]

I wish I saw this one month ago. Thank you for validating my frustration.

[@vacuumsrus]

Glad it was helpful!

[@pauls.garrett8507]

We have a Shark UV540 26. It is about 5 years old. I thought we had a broken belt, turned out to be something totally different but took off the skid plate anyway. There are 11 screws and yes two different sizes, #8&10. These were security head screws with the little nub in the center. I used my standard Torx tools and removed 10 of the 11 screws with no problem but did go to Harbor Freight and purchased a set of security bits for one of the small #8 screw heads. There were no tabs holding the head unit together. It was a very simple project and Amazon had the replacement roller bar and belt had I needed it. Thanks for your video but there is still hope.

[@QuadGrips]

Probably less of the nonsense 5 yrs ago. Steadily getting worse. I'm working on a 3 yr old Shark IX140. Different size heads and a few security screws in the mix. Tabbed so easy to break off.

[@Plusse]

Until anecdotes like yours are the rule and not the exception, I'll reserve my hope for more realistic investments.

[@lieslscheffel9299]

I’m trying to fix mine, and just discovered that in order to change the belt, it looks like I have to replace the whole roller assembly. There’s a clear plastic cover that the roller is in that I can’t seem to take apart. Plus I thought my issue was a broken belt, but the belt looks good, so now I’m afraid it’s the motor. Thinking of just throwing in the towel and buying something new, which is what they want, I’m sure…

[@OrlandoHarris-dh5oh]

I’ve had this vacuum for a few years now and it’s still going strong. kzbin.infoUgkx8ISPQRRAfpAaX4msGjyodObTBnlj4T5g I was cleaning it today and thinking about how much I love no bags to buy and that it comes apart for easy clean up. When I first purchased it we had two dogs and a cat and it kept up well. The suction was great then and still is now. I’m always amazed at the amount of hair it picks up, it works better than any other vacuum I’ve had for pet hair. The attachments are handy and work well. It’s easy to use with arthritic hands. I just had to come write a review because I’m still so pleased with this purchase.

[@SharonKaraa]

Wait until it needs to be repaired. I was also in love with my Shark until simply replacing the battery in a handheld became mission impossible. I won't be buying a Shark again.

[@cassandrawestfall60]

​@@SharonKaraasame here my.rollers stopped will not buy another shark

[@thehillhalls]

@@SharonKaraaI’m in this boat now. It’s my first, it won’t suck up pet hair, and I was looking for a video to show me how to take this apart to fix it. Now I don’t feel crazy! I thought - there HAS to be something I’m missing. Nope. I’ll never buy a sharp again.

[@DOLRED]

Glad to watch your video. About 2005, my wife bought 3 purple hand held Sharks SV780N (Battery operated). They were excellent and we still use one of those. After deep internet researching, these Sharks suffer from a "Disease" wherein the thumb operated off-on switch goes bad. The off-on switch is mounted onto a tiny circuit board which itself is mounted into the handle. Repairing this cannot be done as no new parts were available, so I trashed 2 of the 3 Purples for this fault alone. We are still using a Montgomery Ward floor canister vac which dates to at least 1970 (It has a metal case, imagine that!!). The foot operated switch is well worn but keeps on clicking!!

[@PresetsDiscovery]

Thank you for the education. I don't own a shark...I guess I'll keep it that way. Bad business practices.

[@vacuumsrus]

Terrible practices unfortunately. We always recommend looking into the repairability of a brand before purchasing.

[@user-yt3ls2uh1y]

I'm glad I found this video. I have run into every problem you described in taking my shark brush and motor housing apart. I have Torx bits, but the screws are set so deep I had to buy a set of long Torx bit handles. I found one bit, probably a security bit that would not come out. I tried to drill the screw and found the housing still wouldn't come apart and I can see now they have some interior clips that keep the housing together. What a rip off. I won't buy another one. Thanks for the video.

[@MrMattDat]

I am a lifelong DIY'er and Shark's security screws were no problem for me. Disassembly and diagnosis? No problem. Reassembly? Problem. I noticed tabs at the front of the "chassis" broke off quite easily removing the side covers. Put it all back together and the slide locks for the top cover now bind up. I've already figured out a solution, but your video really shed light on their designed obsolescence.

[@bjuliene]

Please share the solution with us

[@MrMattDat]

Sheet metal screws through the cover. A bit more work to clean the rollers, but it worked!@@bjuliene

[@marambula]

@@MrMattDat thanks for the insight, what a PITA and greedy design

[@bjuliene]

Thanks Matt!!

[@MrMattDat]

@@marambula Absolutely. You can also easily disable the cover switch on the side (unplug it, tie the wires together and remove the switch) to address more. I will probably do that the next time I need to go in there.

[@rlbond]

I've had my Miele canister vacuum for 15 years now. It cleans amazingly well and still works fantastically. You get what you pay for.

[@fabianmckenna8197]

I paid £275 for my Shark upright and it stopped picking up after just over a year! Now buying a Victor cleaner which I used for twelve years at work without issue.

[@frankvucolo6249]

Great video. This goes beyond vacuums to consumer electronics and even power equipment like lawnmowers. The problem is partially driven by the better quality, repairable units. Parts are so expensive that repair is sometimes prohibitive. 2 years ago I had a Miele vac where the head stopped working. I disassembled (I have torx, a multimeter and the right tools and knowledge,) diagnosed and priced out the parts needed to repair. $300, doing the repair myself. So do I invest $300 in a 5 year old vac that I paid $600 for? Or do I just buy a $200 vac and get what I can from it? Back to mowers… Honda will stop selling push lawn mowers in 2024. They quit on riders years ago. They make a very impressive $1000 mower that is durable and repairable. The vast majority of consumers want the $300 box store mower that will get the job done for a few years. We are living in a disposable world. For every consumer who will go to a fine establishment like yours (or like my local power equipment dealer,) there are a busload buying from Amazon or a box store on price point.

[@jjk2one]

I am not a professional but I bet the new low voltage requirements for appliances is going to make them wear out even quicker. I really hope it does not hurt the homes electrical system. GREED _______________________________________________________________________________________________ "Low-voltage Electrical Appliances Market" is segmented into Regions, Applications (Industrial, Commercial, Civil Building), and Types (Power Distribution Appliances, Terminal Appliances, Control Appliances, Power Supply Appliances, Electronic Appliances). The report presents the research and analysis provided within the Low-voltage Electrical Appliances Market Research is meant to benefit stakeholders, vendors, and other participants in the industry. This report is of 107 Pages long. The Low-voltage Electrical Appliances market is expected to grow annually by magnificent (CAGR 2023 - 2030).

[@rjberes333]

How can it be a great video all he did was complain

[@Smh85]

Sad but true!! It's my generation of "instant gratification" millennials that are ruining it. I'm 38 and didn't get Amazon until everything was shut down during Covid, and appreciate brick and mortar stores and repairing things myself.

[@johnjones4825]

I'm on my 2nd ever vacuum cleaner, I've been in my house for 33 years now. 1st was a Hoover that lasted about 22 years, with numerous repairs, until the replacement motor burned out. The whole machine was to cracked and had broken housing, so I bought a new Electrolux, about 10 years ago. Both machines were and are used every day (my wife is a clean freak). The Electrolux, although pretty battered, still works like a new one, I have only replaced the hose once, and the carpet brush attachment so far. two great machines!

[@mrfester42]

In addition to warning people about wasting their money you're also doing a great service regarding the negative ecological impact that Sharks is doing to the environment through such greedy business practices. My hat's off to you and Thank You for the video.

[@vacuumsrus]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@gregoryscott3858]

Call me crazy, but if someone is actually concerned about sustainability, they won't even consider buying a new vacuum, from anyone. There are sooo many perfectly good used vacuums of every size, type, and era, buying new is the least ecological thing you can do.

[@mrfester42]

@@gregoryscott3858 You're NOT crazy! You're 110% right! BUYING A NEW VACUUM CLEANER IS ECOLOGICALLY IRRESPONSIBLE AND UNWISE AND A COMPLETE WASTE OF MONEY! Yard sales, garage sales and flea markets are a great source for used vacuum cleaners. Also check your local; vacuum repair shop. CRAIGS LIST is another great source BUT if you're patient you don't have to spend any money at all to get a used vacuum cleaner. I am an apartment building maintenance man and I have never spent a cent on a vacuum cleaner. When a homeowner puts their vacuum out at the curb for trash pick-up and I see it as I drive by, I stop and throw it in my car. Almost always it turns out that there's really nothing wrong with it. It turns out to be a simple fix like needing a new belt or it has something like a pet hair ball or a sock OR SOMETHING ELSE stuck in the rollers or in the hose or a long piece of string wound around the rollers that jams it up. If it can't be fixed I scavenge the parts like hoses, belts, filters, power cords, switches, motors and attachments for future repairs. I ALWAYS save ANY removable SHARK parts because every different model uses different parts. You can buy some used SHARK parts on eBay but prices are absolutely ridiculous. It seams like every month or tSO I find another discarded vacuum. I have a lot of storage space in my buildings and I just stash them away. When the one I use at my job breaks and is beyond repair, I just grab another one. I also occasionally give one to a tenant when theirs breaks down and I keep their old one. I usually have about 12 to 15 of them waiting to be resurrected in my vacuum graveyard. I even occasionally have to give some away to local Charity Thrift Stores because they start piling up!! As a side note, I also very rarely buy new tools. Most of the thousands of tools I own were bought used and mostly from yard sales, garage sales and flea markets. Everything from table saws and drill presses to screw drivers and multi-testers.

[@goodun2974]

@mrfester42, "Sharks"?🤔 Sharks (in the ocean) are important for environmental health. Shark, the vacuum cleaner company, is terrible for the environment.

[@jamesbizs]

LOL. These things last for a few years. Compared to the plastic we throw out just from food, this is nothing.

[@Sparty1966grad]

Thank you. I noticed my neighbor had one out at the trash that looked brand new. I grabbed it figuring I would fix it up semi cheap if it needed some basic parts. As you say, it's way beyond that.

[@vacuumsrus]

Unfortunately!

[@kirbyyasha]

This just randomly popped into my feed and very well said! I have a Shark, that I have serviced, and it still works, but figured "Why not watch the video?" Glad I did! I have been using vacuums for many years. I love vacuum cleaners. I also love keeping things alive and have serviced many things including vacuums in the past for friends and family with factory service parts as I also feel the ecological impact of throwing away something that might be a simple fix is, well, ridiculous. I own and use a Kirby, but when I am tackling messy jobs, I do go for the quick and easy Shark. Was only $100 when I bought it many many moons ago. I have noticed prices have gone WAY up since I bought it. Figured Shark for everyday cleaning, Kirby for deep cleaning as the Kirby is just rock solid, but those bags. One day, I noticed my Shark, wasn't sucking well. Decided to open it up, rather easy task as, again, old model. Noticed TONS of filth in the power head. Saw the hose cracked. Figured, "No big deal, go find their parts site, and order a new hose" Well, that's when I discovered, I could buy a whole new power head... For $100. Armed with a caliper, found the hose diameter, bought it, noticed Shark glued the old hose in quite well. Broke it all off, replaced it, and it works great now. But that whole experience has made me never want a Shark again. I will keep using my current model. Once it dies, I wouldn't buy another

[@goodun2974]

Vacuum cleaners with bags not only do a better job of cleaning and filtration---- bagless vacs throw out the fine dust and dander back into the air ---- but the motor of a filter-bag vac will last longer because vacuum cleaner motors are invariably air-cooled, and running dust from a bagless vac through the motor shortens its life.

[@shannonluther9977]

As a house cleaner, I can say you are 100% correct. Removing the lid to brush rollers make them landfill ready. Of course, bissell and Hoover are a waste, so I would still recommend a very cheap basic shark for those looking for cost efficiency. Nothing beats a meile.

[@nicholastanton8404]

It's nice to see another housekeeper with the same opinion of the brands. I've used many different brands and still find shark the best for cleaning and ease of use. As for Bissell I do not understand why they can't design a cleaner you can use without the brush roll. That is maddening! All that being said, I've never liked the fact that sharks gave to be sent in to the manufacturer to be repaired. That's all I've known until seeing this video today. I didn't know any repair shop would even attempt a repair on a shark because where would they get the parts? Hadn't thought about recycling parts. I read years ago that the guy who started the company fled to Europe to avoid paying taxes. Sounds like the kind of guy with other business practices like this video explains. Fortunately I don't provide a vacuum in my business. I ask the customer to provide one. I have a couple I can use if they don't have one or for any construction clean up I do. Here at the house I use my roommates Rainbow which I absolutely hate. It's one thing to drag around a canister vac, try dragging one that's full of water! Ok, rant over.

[@nicholastanton8404]

Oh I do have a client with a meile. Very expensive thing that has lost some suction. I keep telling them this but they've done nothing about it. I charge by the hour so it just takes longer to get the rugs clean!

[@K.Kelly87]

@@nicholastanton8404 Rainbows are SOOOO bad!!! They cost around $2000 back in the early 2000s. They only thing they were good for was filtering allergens out.

[@AcmeRacing]

@@K.Kelly87 Only the wettable ones. You're better off with a machine that has a HEPA filter.

[@3schnauzies]

Housecleaning business owner since 1972. Meiles are a waste of money and awkward to maneuver. Makes the job take longer and harder on your back. I have a Shark I use in my own house...not the basic model, it's red and white...have had it for 6 or 7 years with no issues. Going to say that in all these years of cleaning, I've never had to have a vacuum of mine serviced. Take care of them! Changed belts and cleaned rollers...not too hard to manage.

[@user-oc1pd6di7m]

I’m here to get a tutorial on replacing the lower hose and immediately encountered the “security star” screws of different sizes and wondered “is it me?” I’m stunned by your video and I guess I’ll have to replace the vac but I can assure you after your video it won’t be a shark I buy next. Thank you for the PSA

[@matthewbanks187]

My previous Shark vacuum started having problems with the brush bar that was wearing out so I bought a Sebo vacuum.

[@vacuumsrus]

Sebo is one of the best brands out there, especially when it comes to repairability. You made a great choice.

[@sandra447murray]

Sebo, love it.

[@RestingCatNipFace]

I wish I could afford a Sebo. I know one thing though, I will never give Shark my money ever again.

[@o.b.v.i.u.s]

i JUST bought my first Shark... REALLY cheap! when it fails, i'm buying my next vacuum from YOU! thanks!!!

[@MelissaMorahan]

Thanks for posting this. I was trying to fix my shark vaccuum today and was frustrated by the weird screws at the bottom that I didn’t have a screw driver for(have since learned they are the security torx). I always try to repair my products before replacing and will be changing my vaccuum brand to one that allows me to do so.

[@gbedford]

Harbor Freight, if you have one close by, sells the torx security bits in a bundle with a variety of sizes. Happy to have on hand and fairly inexpensive.

[@jockwross]

Apple were the pioneers of this BS now nearly all tech gadget company's do this

[@mcpack3258]

Sebo vacuums have good reviews for repairability and performance

[@maggy313]

I dont know if this will help or not b now you have probably already bought a replacement , if you have RING cameras or know anyone that does they have a tool for use with RING It works perfect !!! Its blue about 5 inches long has a hole at the top it was my life saver

[@Jayson90210]

Man, just stumbled across your video because I was frustrated with the lower hose cracking on my UV810 multiple times. First it was a poor design of the brush roller that would build up hair and dirt behind the gear drive and seize up the roller..called Shark and they denied it..but I called them out on it.. ended up taking it back to Costco and got a model that was just 4 weeks newer (since my wife wanted a shark) we got another one. I immediately saw they had changed the design or the roller..I WOULD NEVER buy another shark because of the aforementioned issue, a TON of design flaws, and of course your expert opinion. Thanks for calling this to attention! 👍 Edit: Interesting, I called Shark to see if the flex hose was even a serviceable item and the really cool young kid I got said no, it needed a new head and those were discontinued. I then told him in a very nice way " older people are always getting blamed for polluting the planet, and here Shark is filling up landfills with non-serviceable vacuums" He totally agreed and said he had thought about that too. He put me on hold, came back a few mins later and said you now have a 6 year warranty, and since we don't have the part, I am sending you a whole new vacuum, and the shipping is on me! So there you go, Sometimes the squeaky wheel gets the grease. I still won't purchase another one, but it is nice not to spend money on a vacuum when things are barely affordable as it is. Happy Thanksgiving and Peace.

[@user-lt3yg8me9l]

My HV301 Shark Rocket has worked well for 5yrs and in rough on it. Best I’ve had. The hose cracked recently, replaced with one from Amazon. Security bits are found at many hardware stores or auto part store for $8-$10. It was easy and cheap!

[@Psythik]

I don't know what model I have (too lazy to check) but I've had mine for years and it's not designed this way. There are spots to insert a coin and turn to easily open up the thing and clean off the brushes + replace the belt.

[@3schnauzies]

People are so lazy and quick to blame the vacuum...maybe they shouldn't run over frayed carpet, clothes, rocks, liquid...and they wouldn't have these problems. I have never had them in 50 years of cleaning!!!

[@dant.6364]

@@3schnauziesok boomer

[@zach8495]

Very nice video. “It’s not you, you’re not crazy”. Just what I needed to hear. I had the screws removed and in my mind I knew I was moments away from breaking plastic tabs. lol.

[@philpeters8200]

Just ran across your video today and it confirms my long held belief about Shark vacs. I think they are initially attractive due to price and style. Also they work pretty well. After a few years of use I wanted to replace the brushes or the whole brush roller only to find Shark does not sell these parts. Additionally the hose cracked just like you mentioned in the video. Duct tape fixes the cracked hose and even with worn brushes the vac still picks up stuff. I'll probably use it until the motor goes out. Thanks for the video.

[@Miss.kittty]

Thank you for this information, I nearly purchased a shark. We are always being beaten with the recycling stick, and yet they make things that can not be repaired this really gets my goat.

[@Paul.Woodcraft]

Thank you for this video. Our second Shark died, the motor stopped working. As it wasn't that old, I assume it was a wire disconnected an easy repair, except despite undoing all the screws, the case wouldn't open. Now replaced with a Miele vacuum, our last Miele lasted 15 years but got rid of as the cost of replacement spares was getting expensive. But it turned out that this would have been less expensive than two unusable Sharks.

[@AcmeRacing]

I worked in a small independent vac shop in the mid 80s. Parts were readily available for almost all brands of vacs. Sharks are disposable plastic, much like Bissel used to be. In the background I see that Eureka is still making the same kind of Sanitaire commercial uprights; that design must be about 60 years old by now.

[@martinoamello3017]

Can't beat the older actual metal vacuums. My wife still has a couple of very old Rainbow vacuums that still work just fine and still produce enough suction to pull dried concrete apart. OK, maybe not that much suction, but I wouldn't be shocked if you could start up a B52 engine with one..lol

[@AcmeRacing]

@@martinoamello3017 Rainbows rarely last that long, mostly because people don't take care of them. If you follow the directions religiously, it makes all the difference.

[@80s_Gamr]

I remember being able to go to Sears and get parts for most vacuums. Sad it's not that easy anymore.

[@dalemihocik4732]

I'm glad Maytag isn't following Sharks business model. Love the way I can still repair and get parts for a 40 year old washer and dryer. I never was so frustrated trying to fix that Shark vac in my life. My local repair shop does his best to cannibalize discarded units for parts but that's not a reliable source.

[@harry130747]

Excellent video. In the UK. Shark is heavily promoted on the TV. I won't buy! I used to repair vacuum cleaners so I appreciate your comments.

[@vacuumsrus]

We're glad you enjoyed it!

[@lollyriley3430]

Thank you so much for this info, My shark duo is now 2 years old, grinding and making a horrific noise. We had a try at taking it apart, but no go. After seeing you video, we now know why! I have always had miele or dyson and will definately be going back to those. I hate the thought of all the landfill, thats dreadful and the main reason I will never buy a shark again.

[@interneteditor5258]

2 years seems to be the "planned obsolescence" limit - my two Sharks have died at around the 2 year mark. Coincidentally (or not) 2 years is the maximum mandated warranty period in the EU. I'll never buy another thing from these thieving ****s

[@Kittycat822]

I just went through this trying to clean the machine. It’s 6 years old and I plan to get a Simplicity stick vac for under beds and light vacuuming. I have had Riccar’s for years for my big vacuuming and been so happy with them.

[@GeorgeAustinwriter]

Wow! Thanks for taking the time to inform us about this problem. I have a Shark and am the kind of guy who fixes things myself. But, I discovered the things you brought to light. I bought the tools to do the job, then found out that even the access to that special torx screw was too narrow to get the bit head in there! You're like a good friend who just wants to help. If I was in your state I definitely would look you up. Maybe if you take a vacation in Florida...

[@Underskore]

security torx isn't that uncommon, but it's also not super common.

[@RichardArmstrongFingerstyle]

I have a ten year old Vax which is lighter, has better suction and is repairable. Consumers are getting rinsed more and more. Thanks for the info in your video. You have absolutely saved my phone from the wall of death.

[@vacuumsrus]

Glad we could help!

[@marambula]

I've been very happy with my shark duo, and was only looking for roller disassembly videos in order to do a deep cleaning. Sure enough I've got security Torx screws on mine, and the general story you told about repair rights vs wasteful and greedy consumerism has tainted this brand name in my mind. Being anti repair rights is anti human and abusive of our materials/environment. It's literally the poor man buying cheap boots is more expensive than being able to afford an expensive longer lasting pair analogy lmao so it's also intentionally abusive on people financially. I received mine as a moving gift, and I was planning to buy a cordless to gift to my sister when she moves soon, but there's no way I'm financially supporting shark now after seeing those Torx screws on my unit and since learning that a belt replacement would require a catastrophic disassembly.

[@witterquickly]

I tried to raise a warranty claim with them because after 3 years I noticed that the inner hose in the base had split (I have a 5 year warranty). "Wear and tear - you've been misusing the your vacuum cleaner" was the response :|

[@John52416]

A T-10 will remove those security torc screws I just did it trying to take mine apart to see why the one back wheel won't turn freely. Even with removing screws it wouldn't come apart came across this video searching for a repair video.

[@nonsequitor]

Great video!! I just ditched them after realizing the same thing - I choose hoover product now after checking their spare parts supply. Happily it's also much easier to dismantle and service. Btw I got into my Shark fine as I have a cheap Chinese off Amazon set of security torx bits - but that didn't help with the atrocious component design.

[@SaraWittenberger]

I found this video and your other video while trying to replace the microswitch my newer Shark vacuum. I think they caught on to everyone getting around the star screws, because they are now using POP RIVETS on the inside to hold this and other parts in place. Before I went down the Shark repair rabbit hole I had no idea about their awful business practices or that they make things so difficult that even professionals are frustrated. I getting was ready to throw it away, but it made me more determined to fix this thing just to spite them, so tomorrow I am getting a grinder bit to purge these god awful rivets so that I can install my $6 part. And this will be my first and last purchase of anything Shark.

[@cecilecarson4511]

I wondered why the screw snapped off when I was replacing it.

[@jgwoodworking]

There are two types of torx drives bits. normal torx's bits and the torx's security bit. Initially I was confused as to why my torx's bits did not work, upon closer inspection I saw the security nub. Yes this would stop most people from being able to repair, also the "Hidden" scerws is very sad. I watched a few videos to clean the Brush and was suprised there were 3 hidden screws. Thank You and all the people who help people repair their stuff.

[@Mark-yj3fc]

Josh, we love this vacuum but I cannot accept the inability to repair.. What make would you recommend?

[@bjuliene]

The older version Sharks. Or Bissell. In my experience those have been the best!

[@dant.6364]

Avoid Bissell, consider the more expensive Kenmores. Lower end Kenmore is disposable junk.

[@MichelleRieber]

I can’t thank you enough for taking the time to share this information. I will stop searching the internet now for information on my shark vacuum and check out your site for suggestions. I am sure you will not be receiving a Christmas or holiday card from the Shark corporation anytime soon.

[@vacuumsrus]

Probably not! But we're just happy to help share the info!

[@thomasf1146]

Great video i just wish you would of given your professional advice on a brand or vacuum to get that is good and easier to repair. Or at least linked your videos

[@DonSims-ki6ps]

I have called them as mine was under warranty… they have replaced two vacuum cleaners in about 2 years! 20 months… they make me cut the main cord. This is absurd. Glad to find this video

[@dankelly2147]

Took delivery on a new Shark this morning. My old Shark lasted 16 years before it died the other day. Damned sure wish I’d have run across this video before I spent $400 on the new one. Had I done so I’d have purchased a deferent brand.

[@vacuumsrus]

Unfortunate timing. When your ready for a new vacuum check out your local vacuum store. They will get you going in the right direction.

[@mrfester42]

Why not try and returning it.. even if you did open the box or even use it? It would be worth a shot. You never know. They just might take it back.

[@laanshokanson1380]

Thank you for this. I'm a Harry Homeowner that repairs everything, not so much to save money but to reduce my ecological footprint. The T15/T20 deeply recessed screws on my RV100AE/UR1000SR seemed downright evil; even after I found the bits, the channel is too narrow. I bought 3 bots for 3 locations, thinking I could act as my own repair shop... and because the stand-up Shark I have is really a quite excellent design from a consumer POV. Now I have to rethink my brand allegiance pretty heavily.

[@518miller]

Thank you for the heads up with regard to Shark and also discussing the ecological damage their business plan results in. Would you please go one step further and discuss what brands have a better track record?

[@caroljenkinson5858]

They all do it!

[@sheilawiley4812]

Thank you SO much for this video! Knowledge is power. I'm currently dealing with that one screw that's way down deeper than the rest. I did think I was crazy for a minute. I've purchased two sets of screws, called all around, and watched tons of videos. I thought I had finally found a screwdriver that wasnlong enough and narrow enough at Ace Hardware. But... it didn't have the hole at the bottom to accommodate the pin. So, I'm going to set this vacuum cleaner out on the curb. And I will feel bad if someone takes it thinking they have a good vacuum cleaner. You're awesome! Thank you! ❤

[@vacuumsrus]

We're glad we could help!

[@kcgunesq]

Security Torx sets are available at Harbor Freight for $5 or so. Or on Amazon for $7-12. I am surprised that everyone doesn't have a set as they work on regular Torx and Torx is the easiest type to use for all sorts of home projects.

[@kathyrobertson4493]

My Shark Vertex Ultralight is the dream vac. About two years old, no problems at all. I have two dogs, long haired and carpet in main rooms. This vac picks up everything, lots of hair, trash and dirt. I’ve had a Rainbow, Whirlpool, Mighty Might, Miele, Hoover, Electrolux and an Oreck and none have worked or cleaned as well as this Shark. I wash out the dust cup and the filters about every third vacuum session and remove the front roller and wash it with Dawn, rinse and air dry, snap it all back together and keep on vacuuming. If it fails tomorrow it will be replaced by a new one exactly like it. By far the best vacuum I have ever owned. My carpet looks like it did when it was new, before the Shark I was ready to replace the carpet because the pile no longer stood up and looked flat. I donated a 6month old Miele because it didn’t do half the job this does. If my Shark can’t be repaired at some point it’ll be okay because you can’t find vacuums that will do the job this one does. The only con is the cup isn’t large but I’m fine with dumping if it needs it mid vacuuming session. The amount of hair this thing picks up is truly amazing. The filters can be thoroughly washed and put back in, this alone will save you a lot of money. Don’t let this video keep you from getting a Shark you can’t beat (the one I own) it for doing a thorough job. Yes, I have attachments and no I don’t work for Shark and I paid full price for my vacuum.

[@JerryClark-ym2br]

@kathyrobertson4493 I totally agree with you about how well the Shark vacuum works on pet hair as I own 3 dogs one being a black lab who seems to shed more than my previous Springer spaniels. You are right about having to empty the main dust chamber once or twice during the vacuuming job. The sponge & fiber filter are easy to wash but the lower HEPA filter is more of a challenge and I can do this with the aid of my air compressor. The first Shark vacuum is just over 5 years & my wife brought to my attention that she smelt of burnt rubber I took it apart without issues after watching a couple videos and being technically inclined to work with plastic covers. I found nothing wrong with it. Fortunately, I bought another Shark within 6 months discounted by 50%, and put it away for when the previous one would die. Now I'm going to see how well Shark handles their 5-year warranty on the one I just started to use & yes I have my receipt. Stay tuned!

[@kathyrobertson4493]

@@JerryClark-ym2br Maybe people just need a few long haired pets, then they’d realize just how much cleaning this thing actually does. Hope yours lasts forever.

[@stevenhsommer]

I just started trying to take apart my Shark Lift Away after a sock destroyed a belt. Immediately ran into the torqs security bits. Drilled out the center pin to be able to use my torqs drivers. Next, the grey end caps on the rollers were snapped in with no way to remove. After watching your video, I realized there is no way to take them off so I just broke them off. I'm pretty crafty and will try to figure out a way to put this back together so it's useable, but this is disgusting. We'll never buy another Shark. 🤮

[@domosautomotive1929]

Harbor freight sells the torx security bits.

[@bjuliene]

So what did you come up with? Has it been successful?

[@cannonjanes994]

I found this video while trying to take apart a shark battery pack. It is proving to be very difficult and your video perfectly explains why

[@vacuumsrus]

Glad we could help!

[@Troberts8910]

I read that Spain wont allow certain domestic appliances on the market unless a company has available parts for at least three years or more (i think). I saw this on Spanish video on repairing Shark vacuums. I have had mine for five years, mainly clean hard floors and a few rugs. I managed to blow the motor, bought a replacement for £25 and connected, hardest part was the torx screws, but i just used a flat head. New filters, works very well. But it is definitely a scam how things are made, and the build quality of the Shark wasn't great at all, cheap plastic crap really.

[@kenjepson1908]

EU law requires parts availability and support for set periods for domestic appliances.

[@Troberts8910]

@@kenjepson1908 And rightly so. 👍🏾

[@thedaveking]

Any product without published repair guides, or without individual parts (as opposed to more expensive full assemblies) being made available to the public on a reasonable and non-discriminatory basis, should be required by law to have the word "disposable" in its name on all marketing materials. Also, even if guides and parts are available, the disposable label should still apply if any critical force bearing components are made of thin brittle plastic that is likely to break under normal use. Example: the dust cup pin retainers in my Shark vac.

[@bobluhrs]

Wow. I've just replaced a big Shark lower hose, and it was not impossible, only one screw was security torx, the rest Philips. It was tricky and without a video I probably would've failed. This is a 400 dollar Shark I got from a thrift store for 10 bucks and added a new lower hose, costing 2.50 to make it work fine. I got the hose from ebay in a set of 4 for about 18.00 shipped. Hoses for Sharks seem to be either 1.5 or 1.25 inches across, and about 6 inches long. Previously I bought another smaller Shark, which had a plastic button that held the shaft onto the body, but failed to work. So, I drilled a quarter inch hole in the body and shaft and added a steel pin with a metal ring through it. To disassemble, you just grab the ring like a grenade and pull out the pin. It works better than their lousy plastic button let me tell you. I think they're good machines, but know what you mean about the repairs. Dyson ain't a lot better, now you have to buy whole assemblies for 125 bucks, etc. Royal went under, too bad, they were terrific machines, fixable almost always. One guy just bought a Dyson Dc14 off me second hand simply because he had one already which worked well for "years" till it stopped sucking. I showed him how to remove and clean the filter and he realized he'd never done that. So now he has TWO DC14's but knows to clean the filters. He had only tried to clean the HEPA filter which he found right away. DC14 pre-filters are sort of hidden under a tab in the carry handle which is faintly marked but not very obvious. Vacuums are addictive fun for me in retirement, but you're right about the fact some simple, stupid little things just can't be fixed. anymore. cheers, Bob

[@bjuliene]

So many people throw theitheir vacuums away because of that pesky FILTER they knew nothing about... i see it all the time

[@leebarker539]

Excellent. Shark off my list. Kudos to Josh for clear and reasonable facts and their inevitable conclusion.YT needs more Joshes!

[@billdoodson4232]

We are on our 2nd Dyson Vac in something over 25 years. We did have a Panasonic for about 3 years but when that failed we went back to a Dyson. I have just had to buy a new hose for our latest Dyson, took 5 minutes to change including watching the KZbin video on how to do it. My son bought a Shark which broke after 9 months so was still under warranty. He took it back to the supplier and traded it against a new Dyson, that's still going strong 6 years later.

[@bcwingit]

We purchased a Rainbow vacuum 21 years ago at that time it cost us $1,800.00 with a couple of accessories. I don't think there are many people that would spend that kind of money on a vacuum but we liked that it used water and that it was very versatile. We still use it once a week or more have had zero issues with it.

[@vacuumsrus]

Most people spend a lot more than $1,800 on a vacuum by buying lousy products that break every year. You hacked the system and bought some thing that actually works out of the gate. Talk about a life hack ;-P

[@dustydawson8977]

Had one in Europe had to replace tank separator and gasket. But I don't vacuum once a week at minimum every other day.

[@K.Kelly87]

WOW! you got a good one! My friend bought one... She spent about $2000 on it. the suction was horrible. It did filter the allergens out of the carpet though. I can see getting one if you have bad allergies... But... I hated it for every time you dragged it across he floor it splashed the big fan on the bottom of the motor... and dumping is was a GAG FEST.

[@huskyvacs]

I got a Rainbow D-3 from the 1960's from Goodwill for $20. Using a pail of water as a dirt bag is very strange but I guess it's a novelty.

[@ChrisR]

Tamper-proof torx screws are pretty easy to bypass. Many times a small punch and hammer can be used to break the center pin off, and then you can use a regular torx bit. I've done it this way quite a few times with success. Another method is to find a small flatblade screwdriver and use it to go into the screw head using two corners of the star and the center post as leverage points and then you can just start turning the screw out.

[@allangibson8494]

Or you can go to the local hardware store and buy the tamperproof torx screwdriver bits… They aren’t as rare as this guy thinks… The triangular bits are a bigger problem…

[@dant.6364]

@@allangibson8494What is Shark afraid of by using security Torx bits - that teen teenage thugs are going to break in your house and replace the belt on your vacuum cleaner?

[@kcrcr173]

I just phoned Shark Customer Service and they told me their products have a 5 year guarantee so that is your first course of action if your Shark Vacuum is less than 5 years old but I agree that being unable to repair these units is ecologically bad for the environment. Quick update, had a video call with customer service who verified the fault and sent out a replacement unit.

[@dant.6364]

And if your replacement unit is remanufactured you lose your original 5 year warranty.

[@bustedknucklesSD]

This is great info, we have a Shark NV100 15 years old now, and I had to replace a few parts over the years. No problem until we had to replace the cord. That machine was never seen again.

[@roy-whereamI]

Thanks for this video. I'm on my first Shark vacuum. It will be my last.

[@scarrafc]

You are so right, on my 2nd shark duo clean lift away now within a space of 4 years and both have broken, 1st motor suddenly died funny enough just after warranty finished and now my 2nd one has a broken part where the main hoover sits so now can see the wires but nightmare to use because have to keep it sitting in the base and cannot find a replacement cover for it. So done with shark now, let's see how my new vax works.

[@Pamelayarns]

Thank God for honest people like you. ❤ I will never buy another Shark.

[@tommaguire8704]

Thanks for sharing. Discovering all this the hard way , my shark belt roller bit the dust after less than 18 months domestic use and reading closely I doubt they will honour the warranty. The more exposure this issue receives the better for all.

[@stevemoss7793]

Here in the UK, Shark vacuum cleaners come with a 5-year guarantee. Something I was grateful for when the latch that keeps it upright broke, and I discovered you have to replace the entire bottom assembly!

[@tomiossi8092]

Thank you for the video. I am happy to say we have had ours for a good 10 years with not an issue. Except a broken handle/hose that I was able to order parts for. Still miss my oreck upright which also went 10 years but was a bit more expensive than my shark.

[@jeremyflowers8908]

BTW: Shark are not alone in this tactic. LG tv remote controls have same issue - hidden internal plastic clips that break when you try and take them apart. I had the torx bit in my iFixit toolkit for my Shark - and the base was somewhat similar to the one you showcased. I unscrewed 11 torx screws and found there were 4 plastic rivots - I could see them in the one you showed too, so I couldn't get to remove the cylindrical brush. I managed to get a anti static wrist strap /cord would round about 20 times within a second or two when I inadvertently sucked it out from the side of my computer bench. What should have taken me 10 minutes to untangle took over 90 minutes due to the big metal clip on popper buttons being so large for the small gap in the vacuum. I love their products - not their consumer unfriendly maintenance policies.

[@chinnyvision]

Internal clips in electronics are easy to deal with if you have the correct tool, called a spudger. It's a plastic tool you use to ease the item open. No big deal.

[@grilledflatbread4692]

Every cell phone has plastic clips, they are extremely annoying. I have changed screens and batteries for all my cellphones, I'm on my 7th so far.

[@grilledflatbread4692]

@@chinnyvision Not when the case is glued in... Then you have to heatgun it for so long you're cooking the display

[@georgeburns7251]

Oh my, just in time. Was buying a new vacuum and was about to buy a Shark. You saved me from a big mistake. Thanks

[@vacuumsrus]

Glad we could help!

[@nomad1517]

Shark: Making Bic look expensive since 2010.

[@QuadGrips]

Very good video. We live in a small town. The vacuum shops like yours are an hr away. We will browse your info and possibly buy from you. We got this Shark from our daughter. She is moving and didn't want it. We were trying to take it apart to clean the roller brush. That is when we discovered the fiasco of a fairly permanent assembly. We watched a couple video's of how to take the head apart and in both some tabs broke. We broke one too. We were down to removing the motor for the head when I searched again and found this video and decided to just reassemble and use it until it dies.

[@rhiantaylor3446]

It would be a great resource if there were a list of makes that are sympathetic to repair and others like Shark and Apple who go out of there way to make you buy a whole replacement machine - though why they would think anyone would repeat the error of buying an unfixable anything is a mystery.

[@gomeranne]

Very informative ! I love(d) Shark vacs but am on #4 and will never buy another new one. The last ones I bought were 2 Vertex models, one for me and one for my daughter. About 2 years in I noticed the self cleaning roller brush vinyl fin was tearing loose at one end. Good grief, but no problem, I'll just replace the roller. Ha! The roller is part of the motor assembly, I had to buy the whole assembly at about $125 if memory serves me. And I have to rely on my memory because the Shark website crashed a while back and all my buyer information is gone. They eventually got the website up and running again but not the detailed buyer info, they apparently had no backup system. As a former customer I'd say Shark certainly has poor business practices and continue to get worse. Since I take good care of my "things" I will buy a refurbished old model that allows for replacement of the brushes and rollers, buy extra brushes and rollers, and keep it going for as long as possible. Since I am 75 maybe it will even outlast me. LOL

[@heronimousbrapson863]

Never buy a shark vacuum. Got it.

[@shythawks9549]

No that’s not true at all haha. To be honest I’m not even sure why he made this video. I repair vacuums and I’ve rarely had shark brand vacuums come in but when they do they can be fixed. Everytime

[@zmanifest]

I happen to agree with you @shythawks9549 I don’t know why he made this video telling people Shark Vacuums can’t be repaired when it’s actually possible to repair them. It’s just absurd.

[@shielacannon2974]

I had a white one for 10 years, got to where it wouldn’t stop fouling over, worked really good. I got the strato, and the red lite comes on all the time. I can’t get in it to clean it. I know I won’t buy a new ever again.

[@krs.10]

Currently having a frustrating time. On the opposite side of the belt, there is small hair jammed deep in there, had to use my Cricut weeder to pick at it but it's deep in there and seems impossible to take apart. It's as if they allow a narrow opening enough for hair to get in there. I'm pretty much at the point of "F this" lol. Next vacuum will not be a Shark.

[@Fred70115]

Planned obsolescence has been around a long time. Thank you for highlighting the Shark and its terrible practices.

[@PerformanceReviews]

Shark 🚮

[@johndn9238]

Thanks for a very informative video. We bought our first Shark a number of years ago and have generally been pleased with its performance. Inevitably it has finally broken down and I am about to investigate the cause. Researching on line videos led me to yours and some others which don't bode well for a successful repair. If we need to replace the machine, then this lack of basic repairability will certainly dissuade us from buying a second Sharp. Its a great shame that an otherwise well designed product is spoilt by this marketing philosophy.

[@cecilecarson4511]

This describes my problems exactly! On my third Shark; this one is only two years old and the brush roller won’t spin. Really fed up!

[@thebobbyflores]

Thank you for a great video! I'm very into right to repair and keeping my stuff running. The suction motor on my shark just stopped and this was the 2nd video that came up. I'm glad I didn't just dive into a repair assuming there would be parts available. Sounds like I'm on the hunt for a more durable and repairable vacuum!

[@cornellvom]

Thank you for the straightforward video. I am done buying this brand because of your education. Today my vacuum sucked up a skinny cord with a nub ending. I cannot get the brush out to access the cord; it is inside a metal cage. I either sacrifice this specialty cord or I trash the vacuum. At this point I'll sacrifice the cord because the vacuum is fairly new, but I will never purchase another one. What a scam they have going on!

[@CaptainRon1913]

I've had my Oreck XL for over 20yrs. Replaced brushes and belts, but it just keeps working great like the day it was new.

[@stevemondin4960]

Thank You so Much I am sitting here with my Shark Rotator unscrewed and about to order a new power cord from Amazon. This one frayed at hte base of the unit. I went to the shark website and knew something was up when I did not see the cord for sale for my unit. Now that it appears that I can not even get the current cord off, It seems as if I need to throw this away. I WILL NOT be buying another Shark vaccum and making social media post about it. Glad I found this All The Best!!

[@georgesteffens7489]

Interesting to know for the future. We got a Shark NV801 about six years ago, and it served surprisingly well. Recently the lower hose finally cracked, though I got by wrapping it in tape. I just called customer service as it was still under warranty, and they are sending us a new VZ2000 for just shipping cost. On doing my own cleaning maintenance of the old unit I saw all the quirks you describe. We will seek other options when this next one dies and it’s time to invest in another vacuum.

[@mejones325]

Our Navigator lift-away is going on 12 years old and still works great. I've replaced the belt once and just ordered a new brush roller from Amazon because the original one has worn down. My main problem is the long fur from my Flst-coated Retreiver that gets wrapped around the roller.

[@BMMEC2009]

Ive had multiple Roombas over the years, the older ones have been given to friends and relegated to garage/basement duty. I robot has gone in the opposite direction by making thier vacumes modular, so if a part breaks there are many oem or aftermarket options. In fact my i5 had a mother board failure and it took $40 and 15 minutes to repair it. I have a shark i purchased on a deep discount rack at Lowes and very rarely use it.

[@threestans9096]

5:10 what do you suggest to be a better solution? Screws usually don’t give a very good seal without help. Phones require suction cups and a razor blade to remove yet those are viewed as okay for right to repair.

[@andrewmccartneyy6981]

I'm glad you made this video, I thought it was just me, they are not made to be repaired, and I am a retired engineer, and as for the small bottom hose between the head and the upright it is a non-standard size (in the UK) I had to fit a smaller size inside the original hose to get it to work

[@jrockofages5413]

Fixed my Shark DuoClean today. I ordered the bits and had to take out about 20 screws. When I finally got the belt module out, I had the wrong belts. Cleaned it up and lubricated it, put it all back together... and the brush is turning again. Only had 2 extra screws. It is now our backup vacuum.😅

[@shanisafan]

Than you for this video! My floor nozzle no longer has suction and I tried to repair it but now I know that repair is impossible by design. I will never buy another Shark product again! I thought about buying a new nozzle but I don't even want to give them my money. My hose cracked which is exactly what you describe. Shame on Shark for doing this to customers!

[@renaeaz76]

THANK YOU FOR THIS. I did think I was crazy. I mean, couldn't find the parts, then couldn't get in, saw another video about the security screws, I remember thinking "huh thats weird, almost like they don't want you to get into it". Even the guy in the video was having a hard time getting the plastic parts apart (snapped together). I mean something as simple as a BELT! Yep, I'm done with shark, good vac but never again. I want something I can fix for $7 bucks down the road if its a simple part. Oh and you were spot on, my shark died 2 yrs after buying it (its making a loud noise by the brush head but I CAN'T GET IN to find out what the problem is without breaking into it). I am jumking it and head'n to store, thanks.