Is your DeWalt cordless drill not working like it used to? One common reason could be worn-out brushes.
Replacing the brushes can bring your drill back to life quickly and save you from buying a new one. In this guide, you’ll learn exactly how to replace the brushes on your DeWalt cordless drill, step by step. It’s easier than you think, and you don’t need to be an expert.
Keep reading to get your drill working like new again in no time!
Signs Your Drill Needs New Brushes
Knowing when your Dewalt cordless drill needs new brushes helps you avoid bigger problems. Brushes wear out over time. This causes your drill to stop working well. Watch for clear signs before damage happens.
Common Brush Wear Symptoms
Drill stops suddenly during use. The motor sounds weak or uneven. Sparks appear inside the drill near the brush area. The drill runs slower than usual. The tool makes unusual noises. These are common signs that brushes wear out.
Impact On Drill Performance
Worn brushes reduce power and speed. The drill may overheat quickly. It can cause the motor to fail. Your work becomes harder and slower. Replacing brushes keeps the drill running smoothly. It protects your drill from bigger damage.

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Tools And Materials Required
Replacing brushes on a Dewalt cordless drill needs specific tools and materials. Having the right items makes the job easier and safer. Prepare everything before starting to avoid interruptions.
Essential Tools List
You need a small screwdriver set to open the drill casing. A pair of needle-nose pliers helps to remove old brushes carefully. A clean cloth is useful to wipe dust and dirt inside the drill. Safety gloves protect your hands during the process. Also, keep a small container to hold screws and parts safely.
Choosing The Right Replacement Brushes
Select brushes made for your Dewalt drill model. Check the drill’s manual or label for the correct part number. Avoid generic brushes that may not fit well. Using proper brushes ensures better performance and longer drill life. Always buy from trusted sellers to get quality parts.
Preparing Your Drill For Brush Replacement
Preparing your Dewalt cordless drill for brush replacement is an important first step. Proper preparation ensures your safety and makes the process easier. Take time to follow these steps carefully before starting the repair.
Safety Precautions
Always wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from dust and debris. Use gloves to avoid cuts and scrapes. Work in a clean, well-lit area. Keep children and pets away from your workspace. Avoid loose clothing or jewelry that might get caught in the drill.
Removing The Battery
Remove the battery from your drill before any maintenance. Press the release buttons on both sides of the battery. Pull the battery away from the drill firmly. Check that the drill is completely off and cannot start. This step prevents accidental starts and electrical shocks.
Accessing The Brushes
Accessing the brushes on a Dewalt cordless drill is the first step in replacing them. The brushes are small parts that help the drill work smoothly. Over time, these brushes wear out and need to be changed. Knowing how to access them makes the repair easy and quick.
Locating The Brush Caps
The brush caps are small round covers on the drill’s motor. They are usually found near the back of the drill. Look for two caps, one on each side of the motor housing. These caps protect the brushes inside the drill. Finding them is simple once you know where to check.
Removing The Brush Caps
Use a small flathead screwdriver to twist the brush caps counterclockwise. Turn gently to avoid damaging the cap or the drill. Once loose, pull the caps out carefully. Inside, you will see the brushes ready for replacement. Keep the caps safe to put back after changing the brushes.
Removing Old Brushes
Removing old brushes from your Dewalt cordless drill is a key step for better performance. Worn brushes cause poor contact and reduce power. Taking them out carefully avoids damage to the drill.
Start with the drill powered off and battery removed. This ensures safety during the process. Next, access the motor by opening the drill’s casing. Handle all parts gently to keep them intact.
Extracting Worn Brushes
Locate the brush holders near the motor. They look like small rectangular blocks with wires attached. Use a screwdriver to remove the screws holding the brush caps.
Pull out the old brushes slowly. They might be stuck due to wear or dust. If they resist, wiggle them gently to free them. Avoid using force, which can break the holder or wiring.
Cleaning Brush Holders
Brush holders collect dirt and carbon dust over time. Clean them with a dry cloth or soft brush. Remove all debris to ensure good contact with new brushes.
Check for any damage or corrosion inside the holders. Clean contacts improve drill efficiency and brush life. Keep the area clean before placing new brushes back.

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Installing New Brushes
Installing new brushes in your Dewalt cordless drill is a key step to keep it running well. The brushes carry electric current to the motor’s spinning parts. Worn brushes can cause the drill to lose power or stop working.
Replacing them is simple if you follow the right steps. Focus on careful placement and securing of the brushes for best results. This ensures the drill works smoothly and lasts longer.
Inserting Brushes Properly
Start by identifying the brush slots inside the drill. Gently insert the new brushes into these slots. Make sure each brush fits snugly without forcing it. The brush must contact the motor’s commutator for good power flow. Check that the brushes move freely inside their holders. This allows proper contact during use.
Securing Brush Caps
Once the brushes are in place, secure them with the brush caps. These caps hold the brushes firmly. Screw the caps in carefully, avoiding overtightening. Tight caps prevent the brushes from moving or falling out. Confirm the caps are flush with the drill body. Properly secured caps ensure stable brush operation and longer tool life.
Testing The Drill After Replacement
Testing the drill after replacing the brushes is important. It confirms the repair worked well. It also ensures your Dewalt cordless drill runs safely and smoothly.
Start by putting the drill back together correctly. Then, check how it functions before using it for any job. This process helps catch any issues early.
Reassembling And Reinstalling Battery
Put all parts of the drill back in place carefully. Make sure the brushes fit tightly in their holders. Screw the cover back on securely to avoid any loose parts.
Next, insert the battery pack into the drill. It should click into place without force. Check that the battery is fully charged for the best test results.
Checking Drill Functionality
Hold the drill firmly and press the trigger gently. Listen for smooth motor sound without any strange noises. Watch the drill bit spin steadily without wobbling.
Test the drill at different speeds to confirm proper operation. If it runs well, the brush replacement was successful. If not, recheck the brushes and wiring for issues.
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Maintenance Tips For Longer Brush Life
Replacing brushes on a Dewalt cordless drill keeps it working well longer. Clean parts and check brushes often to avoid damage. This simple care helps your drill stay strong and last more time.
Keeping the brushes in good condition helps your Dewalt cordless drill last longer. Regular care prevents damage and reduces the need for frequent replacements. Simple steps can extend the brush life and keep the drill working well.
Understanding how to maintain the brushes saves time and money. It also improves the drill’s performance. Follow these tips to protect the brushes and enjoy better results from your tool.
Regular Inspection Routine
Check the brushes every few weeks, especially if you use the drill often. Look for signs of wear like cracks or uneven edges. Worn brushes cause poor contact and reduce power.
Clean the brush holders and remove dust or debris. Use a soft brush or compressed air to clear the area gently. This keeps the brushes free to move and work properly.
Replace brushes as soon as they look too short or damaged. Waiting too long can harm the drill’s motor. Keep extra brushes handy for quick swaps.
Proper Drill Usage Practices
Avoid pushing the drill too hard on tough materials. Excess pressure wears the brushes faster. Let the drill do the work with steady, moderate force.
Use the correct speed setting for the task. High speed on heavy jobs strains the brushes. Match the speed to the material and job size.
Turn off the drill properly after use. Let the motor cool before storing the tool. Heat buildup shortens brush life and damages parts.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do I Know When To Replace Dewalt Drill Brushes?
You should replace brushes when the drill sputters or loses power. Inspect brushes every 6 months. Worn brushes appear short or damaged. Replacing them improves motor performance and lifespan.
What Tools Are Needed To Replace Dewalt Drill Brushes?
You need a screwdriver, replacement brushes, and possibly pliers. A clean workspace and safety glasses help. Having the drill’s manual is useful for specific instructions.
Can I Use Any Brush For Dewalt Cordless Drills?
No, always use brushes designed for your Dewalt model. Using incorrect brushes can damage the motor or reduce efficiency. Check model numbers before purchasing replacements.
How Long Does It Take To Replace Drill Brushes?
Replacing brushes usually takes 10 to 20 minutes. The process is straightforward if you follow the manual. Proper replacement ensures optimal drill performance.
Conclusion
Replacing brushes on a Dewalt cordless drill keeps it working well. Regular checks help catch worn brushes early. Follow the steps carefully to avoid damage. Use the right tools for a smooth process. After replacing, test the drill to ensure it runs smoothly.
Taking care of your drill saves money and time. Small fixes like this extend your tool’s life. Easy and quick maintenance makes your drill reliable. Keep your drill ready for any project ahead.

