Food Processor Blade Not Spinning - What To Do?

Food processors are an essential kitchen tool that makes chopping food a breeze. But sometimes the blades stop working, and it can make an easy job tedious. Lucky for you, there are a few ways to quickly fix a food processor with a blade that won't spin.

Several things can cause the blades to stop spinning. Some of these culprits are:

The container has been overfilled.
There's insufficient liquid.
The processor isn't put together properly.
Your processor may be having mechanical errors.
Your power source may be insufficient.

Now that you know why your blades may not be working, you probably want to know how to solve each problem. The rest of this post will explain how to fix each problem. Without further ado, let's get into it!

1. Overfilled Container

One of the most common reasons the blade stops spinning is that there's too much food in the container.

The blades don't have enough room to spin when the container is overfilled, and food can get trapped under the blade. After food gets trapped under the blade, the blade will lose its mobility.

To fix the problem, remove some of the food. Most food processors have a line that indicates how full the container should be. When you fill the container, never fill above this line, and you can avoid this problem.

If you overfill your container, you may need to empty your container and make sure there is no food stuck up under the blade. To ensure there's nothing stuck, simply clean the blade and resume processing.

2. Not Enough Water

Most of the time, it is not recommended to add water to your food processor. However, some foods are extremely dry, making it hard for the blade to cut through them.

To make it easier, add a little bit of water, broth, or oil to make it easier on the blades.

By adding this slight lubrication, your blades will spin more easily. However, be sure not to put a ton of liquid or end up with a leak. You want just enough to lubricate the blades.

3. Your Food Processor Isn't Assembled Properly

Most food processors have safety mechanisms to prevent any kind of injury from the machine. For this reason, they won't run if they are not correctly assembled.

So, if your food processor is having trouble spinning or running, you will want to make sure the blade and other components are perfectly put together.

When the blade won't spin, it usually means that either the driveshaft or the blade isn't installed correctly. So be sure to check these parts when the blade won't spin.

This video by Kris McPhee explains how to assemble a Black and Decker food processor, but the process is similar for most food processors.

4. Mechanical Errors

If you have checked the things above, and it's still not spinning, there may be broken parts on your food processor.

What Happens If The Food Processor Blade Does Not Turn, But The Motor Runs?

When your motor on your food processor is running but the blades won't spin, you will need to first clean and lubricate your blade. Check your blade for any damage and replace it if you notice any.

Sometimes, the piece that attaches the blade to the machine will become damaged. This will prevent the blade from spinning. If this piece gets broken, you will need to replace it.

Disassembling Your Food Processor

Before you make any food processor repairs, you will need to disassemble your food processor. To do this, you will need a screwdriver, pliers, wrenches, a lubricant, and a multimeter.

First, remove the control knob and any body screws. Then, remove plugs to disconnect the circuit board from electricity and remove any other pieces that make it so you can't access the machine's internal parts.

Next, you will want to turn it upside down and remove the base and sometimes the feet. From here, you can remove any part you need to make repairs.

Direct Drive Food Processors

For direct drive models, check the gears for damage. A direct drive food processor is a food processor made with the motor under the food bowl. If the gears are worn or broken, you will need to replace them.

To replace a gear, disassemble as shown above until you can see the gears. Use a toothbrush to clean the gears while you inspect them for damage. Then, replace any damaged gears and lubricate the gears if they are in good condition.

Belt-Drive Food Processors

If your food processor is belt-drive, meaning the motor is on the side of the bowl and it operates on a belt, you need to check that the belt has enough tension and is placed properly. If it's not placed properly, the blades won't turn.

Once you have made sure the belt is placed properly, you should also check to ensure it isn't damaged. If there's any damage, you will need to replace the belt.

To replace this belt, you will need first to take your food processor apart until you can access the belt. First, check the tension on the belt by moving it with your hand to assess if it's too tight or too loose.

Use the adjustment wheel to adjust the belt until it has the correct amount of tension, and make sure to tighten the adjustment screw so it won't loosen.

If you notice the belt is damaged upon inspection, replace it with a belt with the same dimensions.

5. Insufficient Power Source

If your food processor isn't receiving a continual stream of power, it may result in a weak spin or not spinning at all. To check this, simply unplug the cord and move it to another power source.

Cuisinart Food Processor Blade Not Spinning

There are a few reasons that a Cuisinart Food Processor's blades might stop spinning. These reasons are that the parts are out of alignment or there are broken parts, usually the capacitor, drive shaft, a damaged motor, or safety feature.

To make sure your machine is aligned correctly, make sure the bowl is locked into place with the handle facing the front of the machine.

If your driveshaft will spin easily when you move it by hand, your capacitor will likely have problems. If it doesn't spin by hand, your driveshaft will need to be replaced.

IFixIt has a great explanation of how to fix all of these different problems and other issues you may run into.

Kenmore Food Processor Blade Not Spinning

Like many other food processors, if your Kenmore blade isn't spinning, you should check that it is assembled properly and that all the parts are in working order.

If the motor is working but the blades aren't, it is usually due to improper assembly or impaired blades.

First, check that your blades are clean and well-lubricated. Also, check to ensure the blade is free from any damage. If your blade is worn out, you will need to replace it.

After making sure the blade is in working condition, make sure your food processor is appropriately assembled.

If it needs repairs, you can call a repairman or do it yourself. This video from Emoneyblue will show you how to fix a Kenmore Elite 14 Cup Food Processor.

What Do You Do With A Broken Food Processor?

Once you have tried all the above suggestions and attempted to fix any issues, you may have to admit that you need a new food processor. However, instead of just throwing away your appliance, consider recycling it.

There are several things you can do instead of just throwing it out. One of them is to take it apart and take the metal components to a metal recycling plant.

You can usually place a food processor's glass bowl in your regular recycling if glass is included as a recyclable where you live.

Most cities have a place where you can recycle used electronics. A quick Google search can tell you where your nearest one is.

Once you have located this recycling plant, you can take your food processor there. If your town doesn't have one, you can also check for churches and schools that may have a project going.

Closing Thoughts

If your food processor blades aren't spinning, you should ensure your machine is aligned correctly and that all the parts are in working order. You should make sure to only fill your container to the max fill line and keep your blades well-lubricated.

If, despite all your efforts, you can't fix your machine, consider recycling it. If you enjoyed this article, check out these others:

Cuisinart Food Processor Not Working – What To Do?

How Long Does A Food Processor Last?