Roomba Error Codes (Light Codes): The Complete Guide (2023)

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Roomba Error Codes (Light Codes): The Complete Guide (2)

Knapp:When there is a problem with a Roomba robot vacuum, a red light will illuminate accompanied by an error code and error message. This "light code" tells you what's happening and what you can do to fix the problem.

If an iRobot Roomba has a problem, it will alert you with a red light. The light ring on the top of the robot vacuum may remain lit or start flashing. This is accompanied by an error message and an error code. These codes, also called light codes, tell you exactly what is happening and what you can do. But of course you have to know what each light code means.

I've researched and collected all possible error codes. On this page you will find a complete guide with all the corresponding codes and solutions.

How do I find out what error code it is?

ONERoomba with red lightit means there is a problem. When there is a red light, you can press the CLEAN button to hear what's happening. Roomba will tell you exactly what the problem is, followed by an error code. To repeat the error message, you can press the CLEAN button or the front bumper.

Roomba Error Codes (Light Codes): The Complete Guide (3)

Is there ablue light on Roomba🇧🇷 Then there is no problem; indicates that the robot vacuum is busy with something.

Different Roomba error codes by series

Several overviews are available for error messages of the specific Roomba series. For example, the Roomba i Series has its own list of error codes, as does the Roomba 800 Series and Roomba J Series.

The biggest difference between these light codes is the number: For example, you only get 11 error messages with the Roomba 800, with the extensive J series there are over 40. However, the numbers of these codes indicate the same problem. For example, on all Roomba series, error code 1 means the left wheel is stuck and/or Roomba is stuck.

The biggest difference between these light codes is the number: For example, the Roomba 800 only has 11 error messages, while the extensive J series has more than 40

All Roomba error codes at a glance

It's time to list all Roomba error codes so you can quickly know how to solve the problem. I have listed all the errors in the table below.

code errorerror messageWeilsolution
mistake 1irregular surfaceLeft wheel is locked or Roomba is stuckLift Roomba off the floor and place it on a level surface
mistake2Clean brushesThe floor brush can no longer rotateClean brushes
mistake3irregular surfaceRight wheel is locked or Roomba is stuckLift Roomba off the floor and place it on a level surface
mistake4clean the wheelsThe left wheel is lockedCheck and clean the wheel.
mistake5clean the wheelsThe right wheel is lockedCheck and clean the wheel
mistake6uncovered cliffRoomba keeps detecting a cliffMove Roomba and make sure the sensors are clean
mistake7Rad ProblemThe side wheels cannot rotatePlace Roomba on a level surface and restart the activity
mistake8Problem vacuum cleanerVacuum cleaner has low suction powerClean dust container and filter and check for blockages
mistake9bumperThe bumper is blockedGently push the bumper to unlock it.
mistake10Rad ProblemThe right wheel cannot turnCheck if the wheel or the vacuum robot is blocked
mistake11Problem vacuum cleanerVacuum cleaner motor does not startCheck for trapped air. Dismantle the brush deck and manually rotate the motor
mistake12Cliff recognizedRoomba is stuck near a cliff or resting on a dark surfaceMake sure the sensors are clean and move Roomba to another location
mistake13irregular surfaceBoth wheels are on an uneven surfaceLift the robotic vacuum cleaner and place it on a flat surface
mistake14Replace the dust containerDust bin is not recognizedCheck that the dust container and filter are correctly connected
mistakefifteenInternal errorOften advertised later, after Roomba solves it itself
mistake16Lay on a flat surfaceThe robot cannot start because it is bent or the bumper is not installed correctlyPlace Roomba on a flat surface, press and hold the cleaning button, and resume activities
mistake17navigation problemThe vacuum robot is new territory and cannot return to the charging station.Pick up Roomba and place it in a familiar environment. resume activities
mistake18fit problemThe robot vacuum cannot park on the charging stationMake sure that nothing is hanging in front of the charging station.
mistake19withdrawal problemRoomba cannot move away from the charging stationClear any blockages in the charging station
mistake20Internal communication problemsPress the delete key to restart
mistake21Internal communication problemsPress the delete key to restart
mistake22Press the delete key to restart...The robot vacuum cleaner is stuckMove Roomba to another area and press the reset button
mistake23Battery is not recognizedMake sure that the battery is correct and really suitable for your Roomba. Read all aboutRoomba battery changehere
mistake24Lay on a flat surfaceThe robot vacuum is tiltedLift Roomba off the floor and place it on a level surface. Restart the cleaning activity
mistake25Internal card errorClick the Delete button to continue. If the problem persists, you can do thisReset Roomba
mistake26Problem vacuum cleanerfilter cloggingCheck the filter and clean it or replace it with a new one.
mistake27Problem vacuum cleanerVacuum Motor Too Hot: Worn motor or clogged filterIt may be necessary to replace the brush deck
mistake29Software update errorPlace Roomba on the charging station to continue the software update process
mistake30Problem vacuum cleanerThe vacuum cleaner cannot startClean Roomba's filter or replace it with a new one.
mistake32Smart map does not match the map in the appRestart Roomba by pressing and holding the button for 9 seconds
mistake33Place in new areaRoomba is unable to clear the path shown on the mapMake sure Roomba has a clear path to clean and remove objects
mistake34Internal communication errorClick the Delete button to continue working
mistake36Empty the dust containerThe dustbin full sensor is dirtyThoroughly clean the dust container under running water and let it dry.
mistake38Power supply/power communication problemPress the Delete button to restart the job
mistake39Power supply/power communication problemPress the Delete button to restart the job
mistake41Timeout during a cleaning activityPlace Roomba back on the charging station and fully charge it
mistake42Roomba no longer understands the locationCheck to see if there have been any major changes to the home and make changes. Place Roomba back on the base station and restart it.
mistake43Roomba started in a restricted zonePlace your Roomba in a convenient location and restart the cleaning activity.
mistake46low battery levelVery low battery levelCharge Roomba onto the base station
mistake47Invalid robot calibration, internal errorReset and dock Roomba
mistake48Rota do RoombaInvalid robot calibration, internal errorMake sure there are no objects in the path and remove them if necessary.
mistake66full disk spacePlace the robot back on the base station, after which it will restart
mistake68Camera did not work during cleaningRestart the robot vacuum if the problem persists
mistake74Very large cleaning areaPlace Roomba and the base station in the area it couldn't reach and start a new activity.
mistake75stick to objectsRemove items and keep Roomba running smoothly
mistake88Couldn't saveRoomba can no longer create backupsMove Roomba to a nearby location and press the cleaning button to resume activity
mistake89Activity takes too longRoomba has been working for a long timeLook for obstacles and remove them whenever possible
mistake 1003Internal communication errorClick the Clean button to restart the cleaning activity

Is an error code missing or can't find it? please send me a message,

Can you avoid error messages in the future?

As you have probably seen, many error codes have different causes. However, two main factors stand out. On the one hand, the environment seems to be the cause of an error message in many cases. Many error messages arise, for example, when the vacuum robot gets stuck or one of the wheels lands on a surface.

In addition, if the vacuum cleaner is poorly maintained, you can also expect a lot of error messages. For example, you will receive a series of error codes if a blockage can be found in the vacuum robot or if the parts do not (or no longer) connect properly.

To possibly avoid the error codes and error messages in the future, you can use the following tips:

  • Make sure the robot vacuum has time and space to get to know your home during installation.
  • Before activating Roomba, walk around the room and clean any items on the floor
  • Keep iRobot Roomba clean and clean it regularly

Curious about how to properly clean your robot vacuum cleaner and what goes into it? I've written a full guide on how to do thisCleaning Roomba.

In summary:When a Roomba issues an error message, a red light will illuminate. If you press the delete button or the bumper, you can hear what's happening, accompanied by an error code. The error code can help you figure out what you can do to fix the problem.

Sign:Robot vacuum cleanerRoomba vacuum cleaner

Roomba Error Codes (Light Codes): The Complete Guide (4)

Robert Tichelaar

Robbert Tigchelaar is the founder of Vacuumtester.com and a true vacuum guru. With over 10 years of experience in the electronics world, he knows better than anyone what is important in a vacuum cleaner. When a new vacuum cleaner appears, he wants to test it extensively.

FAQs

What do the symbols on my Roomba mean? ›

Solid white: Fully charged. Pulsing bottom half: Robot charged and on dock. Pulsing red: Charging, too low to start cleaning. Solid red: Error (tap Clean for details). Red sweep toward rear: Empty the bin (s Series), Filling the tank (m Series) .

How do I reset my Roomba error? ›

Roomba® s Series: Press and hold the CLEAN button on your robot for 20 seconds. When the button is released, the light ring around the bin lid will swirl clockwise in white. It may take up to a minute-and-a-half for your robot to turn on. The reboot procedure is complete when the light ring shuts off.

How do I run a diagnostic on my Roomba? ›

You can access the test by performing the following steps.
  1. Remove the Roomba from the charging base, make sure there are no leds on like the Clean button.
  2. Press and hold down both the Home button and Clean button and press the Spot button 6 times.
  3. Release all buttons and wait for the Roomba to play the BiTs tune.
Mar 19, 2021

Can you hard reset a Roomba? ›

Factory reset on a Wi-Fi Connected Roomba®

e Series Robots: Press and Hold the Home and Spot Clean and CLEAN button down for 20 seconds then release. 900 Series Robots: Press and Hold the Dock and Spot Clean and CLEAN button down until all LEDs illuminate.

What do dots mean on Roomba map? ›

The Key
Colour/IconWhat it Means
WhiteRepresents an area where Roomba did not clean (e.g., appliances, clothing pile on the floor)
Dark Green DotsIndicates an area where Dirt Detect™ was activated (i.e., areas where the robot found concentrated areas of dirt
Indicates the location of the Home Base on the map
1 more row
Nov 19, 2021

How do I know if my Roomba battery is bad? ›

You can easily check the status of the battery in the iRobot® HOME App.
  1. A battery icon will be displayed in the top-right corner, indicating the current status of the battery.
  2. The CLEAN screen will display "Ready to clean. ...
  3. The CLEAN screen will display "Ready to clean.
Dec 7, 2021

What does flashing red triangle mean on Roomba? ›

The voltage is to low. A properly charged OEM NiMH battery should have 17 to 17.5 vdc.

What is the life expectancy of a Roomba? ›

If you get a more affordable model, like Roomba 675 you can expect a lifespan of up to two years. Go to the higher-end, like the iRobot j7+, and our research and testing suggest you can get five years plus of cleaning with proper maintenance.

How do I reset my Roomba that won't charge? ›

But most Roomba models (such as S, I, and 900 Series versions) can be reset by holding the Home, Spot Clean, and Clean buttons simultaneously. Wait until you see a light appear around the Clean button, then let go. If you have a 600 or 800 series Roomba, press those same buttons but wait until you hear the vacuum beep.

What to do if Roomba stops working? ›

If your Roomba® i Series Robot Vacuum is not turning on or is not able to charge, rebooting your robot tends to solve most related issues. To reboot your Roomba: Press and hold the CLEAN button for 20 seconds. After you release the button, the light ring will show a white clockwise swirl while it reboots.

How do I run a self diagnostic? ›

Go to Start , then select Settings > Privacy > Diagnostics & feedback. Make sure that the Diagnostic data viewer setting is turned On, and then select Diagnostic Data Viewer.

How often do Roomba parts need to be replaced? ›

Every 6-12 months

How do you troubleshoot a robot vacuum? ›

You can simply diagnose the battery, filters, brush, and sensors with other outer accessories on it.
  1. Battery. ...
  2. Clean the side Brushes. ...
  3. Check the Roller Brush to fix the robot vacuum cleaner. ...
  4. Remove the dirt from the filter. ...
  5. Clean the sensors of cleaner. ...
  6. Unblock the wheels. ...
  7. Charger can fix a Robot Vacuum Cleaner?
Mar 5, 2021

What does it mean to reboot Roomba? ›

Rebooting Instructions

For some errors, rebooting Roomba may resolve the problem. To reboot Roomba, press and hold CLEAN for 10 seconds until all indicators illuminate, then release. When you release the CLEAN button, you will hear an audible tone signifying a successful reboot.

How do I CLEAN my Roomba full bin sensor? ›

Full Bin Sensors

Wipe the sensors on your robot with a clean, dry microfiber or soft cotton cloth. Wipe the inner and outer sensor ports on the vacuum bin with a clean, dry microfiber or soft cotton cloth.

How do you get rid of error 2 on Roomba? ›

Error Two (2) means the multi-surface rubber brushes cannot turn.
...
If yes – Error 2 persists:
  1. Please inspect the brushes and remove any hair or debris, especially under the end caps. ...
  2. Reinstall the brushes and re-test the robot: Turn the robot over, place it on a flat surface, and press the CLEAN button.

What are the squares on the iRobot map? ›

Dirt Detect™ is a feature that detects those dirt events and displays them as small green dots on a Clean Map™.

How many times does it take for Roomba to map House? ›

Roomba® can also learn your home as it cleans. It typically takes three (3) to five (5) cleaning missions or Mapping Runs to generate a fully developed Imprint™ Smart Map that you can then customize and use.

Does Roomba clean during mapping run? ›

Mapping runs are completely optional, as your robot will still map while cleaning as long as Smart Maps is activated. A Mapping run is a special mode where your robot will navigate through your home without cleaning so that it can run longer on a single battery charge.

Can Roomba battery be replaced? ›

Loosen the five (5) screws that retain the bottom cover with a cross head screwdriver. Unclip the original battery to remove it from the robot. Insert the replacement battery in the battery well. The battery tab will secure it into place.

How do I check my Roomba battery? ›

The battery level indicator in the iRobot HOME App will let you know when the battery is fully charged on the base and if the battery needs to be charged. The indicator is located on top of the CLEAN button on the screen and appears as a battery icon.

Does Roomba light stay on while charging? ›

The light on the Home Base® will go on for approximately four (4) seconds and then turn off and remain off while the robot continues to charge. The light ring on your robot will illuminate to signal that it is charging.

What do you do when you see the red light flashing on a robot? ›

It means that the auto program is in "Pause" mode, which means the robot will not depart from the Base Station automatically and will only depart by pressing manually on the operation keypad.

Why is my robot blinking red? ›

Flashing red indicates a problem with battery charging. Either the charger is bad, or the charging circuit in your Roomba is bad.

What does red light on vacuum mean? ›

Upright Vacuum: Why is my vacuum cleaner's red light always on? When the dirt sensor lights stays red constantly, dirty sensor eyes or a failed dirt sensor control board could be causing the problem. Unplug the vacuum cleaner and clean the sensor eyes using a soft, dry cloth.

How long are Roombas under warranty? ›

Each eligible product sold at iRobot comes with a limited one-year warranty.

Does Roomba have a lifetime warranty? ›

RobotShop announces today the offer of a lifetime warranty on all iRobot Roomba Robotic Vacuums for an undetermined period of time. The RobotShop Limited Lifetime Warranty is applicable on certain selected items only such as the iRobot Roomba for a normal, non-commercial use.

Can I leave my Roomba charging overnight? ›

Keep it charged and use it often

For the Roomba's nickel-based (not lithium ion like smartphones) batteries, it's best to keep the unit charging whenever you're not using it. However, don't leave it in its dock for days at a time -- lots of vacuuming will keep its battery healthy.

How do you clean a robotic vacuum sensor? ›

The standard sensors are located on the robot vacuum's bottom and bumper. Clean the sensors with a dry cotton swab. Never use a damp cloth or cleaning fluids; this could damage the sensors.

How do I reset my Roomba battery? ›

To reset the battery for a Roomba model in the 700, 800 or 900 series, connect the robot to the charger and press and hold the CLEAN button for 10 seconds. When you see blue text reading "r S t" on the display, release the button. You should hear a beeping tone, which tells you the reset was successful.

What does error 43 mean on Roomba? ›

Error forty three (43) means Roomba i Series is stuck in the infrared (IR) beam of a Virtual Wall® or Home Base®. Move Roomba® to a new location, and then press CLEAN to restart. If you have multiple Virtual Walls® facing each other, Roomba® may experience issues with navigation.

What does a flashing battery light mean on a Roomba? ›

Light Ring while idle

Solid white: Fully charged. Pulsing white: Charging. Pulsing red: Charging, too low to start cleaning. Solid red: Error (tap Button for details).

How do I know when I need a new Roomba battery? ›

How Do I Know If My Roomba Needs A New Battery?
  1. #1 The Roomba Or Its Battery Is Old.
  2. #2 Roomba's Running Time Is Reduced.
  3. #3 Overall Poor Performance.
  4. #4 Power Light Stays Off.

What does Roomba look like when charging? ›

Battery and Charging

Indicator lights will turn off after 60 seconds to conserve energy while Roomba is charging. Check status of the battery by pressing the CLEAN button to illuminate the Battery Indicator. Indicator will appear amber while the battery is charging and solid green when fully charged.

Should green light be on when Roomba is charging? ›

Roomba® should charge in the following manner: If you are using a charger, the charger should have a solid green power indicator when it is plugged into an outlet. If you are using a Home Base®, the power indicator should blink approximately once every four (4) seconds when plugged into the charger or outlet.

Can roombas overheat? ›

Short circuits are known to cause several issues, including circuit damage, overheating, fire or even an explosion — which makes this particular Roomba issue a serious one.

Why did my Roomba just stop? ›

Your roomba has a sensor in the dirt bin that tells it to stop when its full. Apparently the sensor is either oversensitive or faulty in cases as its the SOURCE of the issue. Locate for the two metal pins on the side of the dirt collector when its disconnected from the roomba.

What does Roomba error 2 mean? ›

Error 2 means the rubber brushes in your Roomba are clogged and need to be cleaned.

What does Roomba charging error 3 mean? ›

Charging error 3 means the Roomba e,i, or j Series charging system on the robot isn't working properly and your robot may need to be replaced . Please contact iRobot Customer Care for assistance.

What does err 5 Mean on a Roomba? ›

Charging error five (5) means your robot's charging system isn't working correctly. Check that you are using an authentic ​iRobot® battery​. Charging errors can occur with counterfeit batteries.

What does 4 beeps mean on a Roomba? ›

The Uh Oh + 4 beeps indicates the Roomba Mcu detects high motor current in one of the drive wheels.

What is Error 1 on Roomba? ›

Overview. Error one (1) means your robot is on an obstacle or an uneven surface and a side wheel is stuck. If this is the case, lift your robot off the floor, place it in the center of the room, and restart the clean cycle. If this error occurred on a flat surface, check the wheels for obstructions.

How do I clear error 2 on Roomba? ›

Error Two (2) means the multi-surface rubber brushes cannot turn.
...
If yes – Error 2 persists:
  1. Please inspect the brushes and remove any hair or debris, especially under the end caps. ...
  2. Reinstall the brushes and re-test the robot: Turn the robot over, place it on a flat surface, and press the CLEAN button.

What is Roomba charging error 1? ›

Charging error one (1) means the battery is not detected. The robot will not charge. Please check the following: Check that you are using an authentic iRobot® Lithium Ion Battery.

What is charging error 4 on Roomba? ›

Charging Error 4 means the electrical current is not reaching the robot. A Robot reboot will usually resolve this issue. To reboot your Roomba: Press and hold the CLEAN button (single button for j series) for 20 seconds.

How do I fix error 3 on Roomba? ›

Error 3 means your j series robot is on an obstacle or an uneven surface and the right wheel is stuck. If this is the case, lift your Roomba® off the floor, place it in the center of the room, and restart the clean cycle. If this error occurred on a flat surface, check the right wheel for obstructions.

What is iRobot Error 15? ›

If the robot is saying Charging Error Fifteen (15), this means there was a cell failure on the battery during charging and the battery will need to be replaced. Please visit iRobot Store - Parts and Accessories to purchase a new battery, or contact iRobot Customer Care for additional assistance.

What is error 6 on Roomba? ›

Charging Error 6 indicates the battery is not charging. Check that you are using an authentic battery. Charging errors can occur with counterfeit batteries.

What is error 10 on Roomba? ›

Error 10 means a side wheel cannot turn. Please check the following: If Roomba gives this error when it is stuck under an obstacle, move Roomba to a new location and press CLEAN to restart. Use a Virtual Wall® to block off problem areas.

What does 4 long beeps mean on startup? ›

A 4 beep error code is a memory problem. Try re-seating the memory modules on the motherboard and check if that resolves the problem.

How do I fix 5 beep errors? ›

Five short beeps mean there has been a processor error. A damaged expansion card, the CPU, or the motherboard could be prompting this AMI beep code. Start by reseating the CPU. If that doesn't work, try reseating any expansion cards.

How many years does a Roomba battery last? ›

With proper care, your robot's battery should last at least 2-3 years before it needs to be replaced. Here are some battery maintenance tips to extend battery life and keep Roomba® cleaning at peak performance: Only use iRobot® batteries. All s, j, i, e, and 900 Series robots come with Li-Ion batteries.

References

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