Carbon brushes are the most common wear part in a mixer grinder. When they wear down, the motor sparks, loses power or stops altogether. The good news: replacing them is an inexpensive, straightforward repair you can often do at home in 20 minutes. This guide shows you how, safely.
Quick Answer
To replace a mixer grinder brush at home: unplug the mixer, open the motor housing, locate the two carbon brushes on opposite sides of the motor, remove the worn brushes, fit matching new ones, and reassemble. Always buy brushes that match your model. If your mixer is under warranty or you are unsure, use authorised service instead.
Signs the Carbon Brushes Are Worn
- Sparking visible through the motor vents during use.
- Loss of power — the motor runs weakly or struggles with normal loads.
- Intermittent stopping — the motor cuts in and out.
- The mixer suddenly will not start on an older, well-used unit.
- A faint burning or electrical smell from the motor area (if strong, see our guide on the mixer grinder burning smell before proceeding).
What You Will Need
- A matching pair of carbon brushes for your mixer model (buy genuine or exact-fit).
- A screwdriver set (Phillips and flat).
- A small brush or dry cloth to clean carbon dust.
- Good lighting and a clear, dry work surface.
Browse mixer grinder carbon brushes on Amazon India ↗
Step-by-Step Replacement
1. Unplug and prepare
Switch off and unplug the mixer. Remove the jar. Place the unit upside down or on its side on a stable surface. Never work on a plugged-in appliance.
2. Open the motor housing
Remove the screws holding the base or body cover. Keep the screws in a small dish. Gently open the housing to expose the motor.
3. Locate the carbon brushes
The two brushes sit on opposite sides of the motor, pressed against the commutator by small springs, usually inside little holders or caps. Note exactly how they are positioned before removing them.
4. Remove the worn brushes
Release the spring clip or unscrew the brush cap and slide each brush out. Compare them with the new ones — worn brushes are noticeably shorter. Clean away carbon dust with a dry brush or cloth.
5. Fit the new brushes
Slide the new brushes into the holders the same way the old ones came out, making sure the spring presses the brush against the commutator. Refit the caps or clips.
6. Reassemble and test
Close the housing, refit all screws, attach a jar, plug in, and run on a low setting briefly. The motor should run smoothly without sparking. If the mixer still will not start, see our brand guides such as Preethi mixer grinder not working or Philips mixer grinder not starting.
Tips and Precautions
- Always replace both brushes together, even if one looks better.
- Buy the correct size for your model — a wrong fit damages the commutator.
- Do not force parts; note the assembly order with a photo before you start.
- Keep jars clean so the motor is not overworked — see our jar cleaning guide.
When to Call a Technician
Use authorised service if:
- The mixer is still under warranty — opening it yourself may void the cover.
- After fitting new brushes the motor still sparks heavily or will not run.
- The commutator looks burnt or scored, or there is visible wiring damage.
- You are not comfortable working inside the motor housing.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often do mixer grinder carbon brushes need replacing?
Typically every 3 to 5 years depending on use. Heavy daily grinding wears them faster.
How much do carbon brushes cost?
They are inexpensive, usually a small fraction of the cost of a service visit, which is why this is a worthwhile DIY repair.
Can I use any carbon brush in my mixer?
No. Use brushes that match your model’s size and shape. The wrong size can damage the motor’s commutator.
Is it safe to replace brushes myself?
Yes, if you unplug the mixer, follow the steps carefully and are comfortable with basic tools. If in doubt, use authorised service.
Replacing worn carbon brushes is one of the cheapest and most effective mixer grinder repairs. Unplug, open the housing, swap both brushes for matching new ones, and reassemble — and your mixer often runs like new again.