you do not say what model you have,is it a wet and dry?if you are getting a smell of burning,then its prob too late,you must keep the bag clean and replace often as the bag pores get blocked and cause overheating,if there are any filters replace them often,the motor does not require cleaning,i worked for hoover for twenty years and came across lots of burned out motors due to blockages in hoses,over full bags,and water ingress,if the motor is burned out,you would be cheaper buying new vacuum,hope this is of help
gts, August 2010