THis is not a self-propelled vacuum. The problem is that the brushes are no longer rotating on their own. They only 'brush and lift carpet' when I pull backward. I have ahd the vacuum for about 1 year. what do you think is the problem?

It's an issue that the front roller isn't engaged. there's usually a belt connected to the roller on one side of it. That belt is connected to the same motor that develops the suction. You have to find that area and either pull the belt over the motor and/or the brush. Close it back up and turn it on again.

check brush by spinning with fingers it should only take slight pressure to rotate, if hard to rotate disassemble head and remove any carpet or hair strands

Does it have a "brushes" lowering/higher switch?
Normally due to brushes being too low in particular on deep pile carpets??
check the actual fixings for the rotating brushes are ok and the brush not simply need "clicking" back into place?

I am having the same issue. The brush won't even move when I turn it with my hand. I just posted this same question.

I had the exact same problem with my Hoover U6485-900 Anniversary upright, self propelled, vacuum. It would move backwards and forwards, had good vacuum, but wouldn't pick up much because the brush/roller was not turning very well. I replaced the main drive belt (38528035) and it now works great. The old belt had stretched and was slipping under load. Thanks for the great suggestions.

Move the carpet height control switch to a higher position if the vacuum is difficult to push. If the setting is too low for the carpet being cleaned, the brushes press against the floor preventing the vacuum from moving easily.Set to a medium-high height setting then check.Slide the "Self-Propel" button to the "ON" position if the cleaner does not self-propel. -----------
The self-propel feature operates only when the cleaner switch and the self propel button are both ON. ---------- Try this settings and check.This should help.Thanks.Helpmech.

unfourtunatly it could be the height of your carpet also using on area rugs could cause it to do that too. check the brush roll and make sure it is spinning freely.

You didn;'t say what the problem is, but I assume that the brush roll is not turning. Take of the cover over the brush roll, then you can get to the brush roll and the belt. The belt probably came off or broke. Best to replace the belt.

With out seeing it, it will be hard to figure out what isn't right. Must be a different model then 1699. which model is it?

There may also be a reset button. If the brushes get stuck the unit can shut off power to the brushes to keep a total melt down from occurring. The reset button should return power in these types of vacuums.