A:Answer Kate, it sounds like you have a bad belt. These vacuums are fairly simple to examine. You may want to remove some of the screws and access your belt , so that You can inspect it. You may be able to find a YouTube video that would help. Just don't over tighten the screws when You put your parts back together, if You decide to try a repair. The parts are only plastic and can be stripped out by over tightening. Besides, the screws will most likely stay in place if they are just firmly snugged in. I hope You get results and hopefully this may help.