Causes
If your vacuum does not stand on its own and you have no control over the direction you are vacuuming, a spring inside of the vacuum may have come undone. You will need to take all of the screws out of the bottom of the vacuum as if you are replacing the vacuum’s belt. Inside, there is a spring that is supposed to go next to one of the vacuum’s wheels. If the spring has come off, put it back on, and reassemble your vacuum. Then, see if it will stand up on its own.
If the vacuum does not stand on its own, the vacuum’s latch may be broken. Call customer service to inquire about latch replacement options. When you buy the vacuum you have a 5-year warranty, so broken pieces are easily replaceable. You can purchase replacement parts either on Amazon.com or on Shark’s website.