If your Roomba shows an error code, alert, voice message, or app notification, it is usually trying to tell you where the problem is: charging, bin, brushes, wheels, cliff sensors, docking, battery, or navigation. The exact wording can vary by Roomba model, but most alerts point to a small group of common issues you can check at home.
Quick answer: Most Roomba error codes are maintenance alerts, not signs that the robot is completely broken. Start by reading the message in the iRobot app, then check the part mentioned: clean the brushes if it mentions brushes, wipe the cliff sensors if it mentions a drop-off or sensor issue, inspect the wheels if it says the robot is stuck, check the bin and filter if it says bin full, and clean the charging contacts if it has a charging error.
Safety note: Turn the Roomba off if your model allows it before removing brushes, rollers, wheels, bin, filter, or debris from underneath. Unplug the Home Base or Clean Base before inspecting power, contacts, or debris paths. Stop using the robot if you smell burning, see damaged wiring, hear grinding, or notice melted plastic.
Why Roomba Error Codes Happen
Roomba error codes are designed to help you find the problem faster. Instead of guessing why the robot stopped, the alert usually points toward the area that needs attention.
Some alerts are simple, like an empty bin reminder. Others may involve movement, charging, docking, or sensors. The important thing is not to panic when an error appears. Many common Roomba alerts are caused by dust, hair, debris, a loose bin, dirty charging contacts, or an obstacle in the room.
Most Roomba alerts fall into these categories
- Bin and filter alerts
- Brush and roller alerts
- Side brush alerts
- Wheel and movement alerts
- Cliff sensor alerts
- Bumper alerts
- Charging alerts
- Battery alerts
- Docking or Clean Base alerts
- Navigation and mapping alerts
The app message is usually more helpful than the number alone, so check the iRobot app whenever possible.
Before Troubleshooting: Do These Basic Checks
Before focusing on a specific error code, do a quick general inspection. Many Roomba problems are connected. For example, a brush error may also affect pickup, bin filling, and self-emptying.
Quick first steps
- Move the Roomba to a clear, flat floor.
- Check the app for the full error message.
- Remove any cords, socks, toys, or rug fringe nearby.
- Empty the bin.
- Check the filter.
- Inspect the rollers and side brush.
- Clean the charging contacts.
- Wipe the cliff sensors.
- Restart the Roomba after cleaning.
If the same alert returns after these checks, then focus on the specific category below.
Common Roomba Error Types at a Glance
| Error Type | What It Usually Means | First Thing to Check |
|---|---|---|
| Bin full or empty bin alert | The bin is full, dirty, loose, or sensors are dusty | Empty bin and clean sensor area |
| Brush error | Main rollers are tangled, blocked, or worn | Remove and clean rollers |
| Side brush error | Side brush is tangled, loose, or jammed | Remove brush and clean underneath |
| Wheel error | Wheel is stuck, blocked, or not moving evenly | Check drive wheels and caster wheel |
| Cliff sensor error | Sensors are dirty or misreading the floor | Wipe cliff sensors with a dry cloth |
| Charging error | Contacts, dock, battery, or power issue | Clean contacts and check base power |
| Docking error | Roomba cannot find or align with the base | Clear dock area and clean contacts |
| Clean Base error | Bag, debris path, bin flap, or base suction issue | Check bag and clogs |
| Navigation error | Robot cannot map, locate itself, or move normally | Clean sensors and check room layout |
Bin Full or Empty Bin Alerts
A bin alert usually means the Roomba thinks the dustbin needs attention. Sometimes the bin is actually full. Other times, dust on the sensor area or a clogged filter makes the robot believe the bin is full even after you empty it.
Common causes
- The bin is full.
- The bin is packed with pet hair.
- The filter is clogged.
- The bin sensor area is dusty.
- The bin is not seated correctly.
- The bin flap is blocked.
- The Clean Base did not empty the bin fully.
What to do
- Remove the bin.
- Empty it manually.
- Tap loose dust into the trash.
- Wipe the bin sensor area with a dry cloth.
- Check the filter and replace it if needed.
- Clean the bin flap or evacuation port.
- Reinstall the bin firmly.
If the alert returns immediately after cleaning, the filter, bin sensors, or bin seating are the most likely issues.
Brush or Roller Error
A brush error usually points to the main rollers underneath the Roomba. These rollers pull dirt, hair, crumbs, and debris into the bin. If they are tangled or blocked, the robot may stop cleaning and show an alert.
Common causes
- Hair wrapped around the roller ends
- String, thread, or carpet fibers stuck in the rollers
- Debris inside the brush compartment
- Rollers installed incorrectly
- Worn or torn rollers
- Brush frame not closed properly
What to do
- Turn the Roomba over on a soft surface.
- Open the brush frame.
- Remove both main rollers.
- Clean the middle and ends of each roller.
- Remove debris from the brush compartment.
- Check the brush frame and latch.
- Reinstall the rollers correctly.
If the alert keeps returning and the rollers are clean, inspect the rollers for wear. Damaged rollers may need replacement.
Side Brush Error
A side brush alert usually means the small spinning brush near the edge of the Roomba is jammed, loose, or not turning correctly. This brush helps sweep debris from walls and corners into the main cleaning path.
Common causes
- Hair wrapped under the side brush
- Loose or missing screw
- Debris trapped under the brush hub
- Bent or broken brush arms
- Brush installed incorrectly
- Side brush module issue
What to do
- Turn the Roomba over.
- Remove the side brush if your model allows it.
- Clean hair and debris from underneath.
- Inspect the screw and brush hub.
- Replace the brush if it is bent or cracked.
- Reinstall it securely and test again.
If a new side brush does not spin and the area is clean, the side brush module may need repair or replacement.
Wheel or Movement Error
A wheel error usually means the Roomba cannot move normally. It may be stuck, one wheel may be blocked, or the robot may be trapped by furniture, rugs, cords, or thresholds.
Common causes
- Hair wrapped around a drive wheel
- Front caster wheel clogged with debris
- One wheel not springing back
- Roomba stuck on a rug edge
- Roomba trapped under furniture
- Threshold too tall
- Wheel module worn or damaged
What to do
- Move the Roomba to a clear hard floor.
- Turn it over and inspect both drive wheels.
- Press each wheel up and down gently.
- Remove hair or debris around the wheel edges.
- Remove and clean the front caster wheel if possible.
- Check the room for cords, rugs, or low furniture.
- Restart the robot and test again.
If the Roomba always turns to one side or one wheel feels different from the other, a wheel module may be the problem.
Cliff Sensor Error
Cliff sensors help the Roomba avoid stairs and drop-offs. If they are dirty or misread the floor, the robot may stop, turn away, spin, or report that it needs help.
Common causes
- Dust on cliff sensor windows
- Pet hair blocking the sensors
- Dark rugs or black flooring
- Glossy surfaces or reflections
- Debris stuck underneath the robot
- Robot operating near stairs or ledges
What to do
- Turn the Roomba over.
- Find the cliff sensor windows on the underside.
- Wipe them gently with a clean, dry microfiber cloth.
- Check for debris blocking the sensors.
- Test the Roomba on a clear hard floor.
If the error happens only on dark rugs or glossy floors, the surface may be confusing the sensors. Try testing the robot in a different room.
Bumper Error
The bumper helps the Roomba detect walls, furniture, and obstacles. If the bumper is stuck, the robot may think it is constantly hitting something and stop or turn repeatedly.
Common causes
- Debris stuck in the bumper gap
- Dust or pet hair around the bumper
- One side of the bumper stuck inward
- Furniture impact knocked the bumper out of position
- Sticky residue around the bumper edge
What to do
- Press the bumper on the left, center, and right sides.
- Make sure it moves in and springs back out.
- Clean around the bumper gap with a dry cloth or soft brush.
- Remove visible debris.
- Restart the Roomba and test it on an open floor.
If one side of the bumper does not move normally, the robot may keep reacting as if an obstacle is in front of it.
Charging Error
A charging error usually means the Roomba is not receiving power correctly from the Home Base or Clean Base. It can also point to battery age, dirty contacts, dock placement, or a power connection issue.
Common causes
- Dirty charging contacts
- Roomba not aligned on the base
- Loose power cord
- Bad outlet or power strip
- Dust or debris under the robot
- Battery is old or deeply discharged
- Base is placed on an uneven surface
What to do
- Remove the Roomba from the base.
- Unplug the base for about one minute.
- Clean the charging contacts on the robot and base with a dry cloth.
- Check the power cord and outlet.
- Move the base to a hard, flat floor.
- Place the Roomba on the base and check for charging.
If the Roomba still will not charge after cleaning the contacts and checking power, the battery, base, or charging system may need further diagnosis.
Battery Error
A battery error can appear when the battery is too low, not detected correctly, aging, or unable to hold a charge. Battery-related issues are more common on older Roombas.
Common signs of battery trouble
- Roomba dies quickly after leaving the dock.
- Battery drains much faster than before.
- Robot will not start unless it is on the base.
- Charging takes unusually long.
- Battery error appears repeatedly.
- The robot stops mid-cleaning with low battery.
What to do
- Clean the charging contacts.
- Make sure the base has power.
- Let the Roomba charge fully.
- Restart the robot.
- Check whether the battery runtime improves.
- Consider battery replacement if the robot is older and runtime remains poor.
Use a battery that is compatible with your exact Roomba model. A poor-quality or wrong battery can cause charging and performance problems.
Docking Error
A docking error means the Roomba could not find, reach, or align with the Home Base or Clean Base. This may happen at the end of a cleaning job or when the robot tries to recharge mid-run.
Common causes
- Dock area is blocked by clutter
- Base is on thick carpet or uneven flooring
- Base moved during cleaning
- Power cord is loose
- Charging contacts are dirty
- Roomba started from a different location
- Mapping confusion if your model supports maps
What to do
- Place the base against a wall.
- Use a hard, flat floor if possible.
- Clear clutter around the dock.
- Remove cords near the base.
- Clean the charging contacts.
- Send the Roomba home and watch how it docks.
If the robot reaches the base but stops crooked, the base may need to be repositioned.
Clean Base Error
If your Roomba has a Clean Base, you may see alerts related to the bag, bin, emptying cycle, suction, or base connection. These errors usually involve airflow or docking alignment.
Common causes
- Full Clean Base bag
- Bag not seated correctly
- Clean Base lid not closed
- Blocked base inlet
- Clogged debris path
- Roomba bin flap blocked
- Dirty charging contacts
- Robot not aligned on the base
What to do
- Open the Clean Base and check the bag.
- Replace the bag if it is full or packed.
- Make sure the bag is seated correctly.
- Check the base inlet for debris.
- Clean the Roomba bin flap and evacuation port.
- Clean charging contacts.
- Run a manual empty cycle if your model supports it.
If the Clean Base motor runs but the bin stays full, the issue is probably a clog or blocked bin flap.
Navigation or Mapping Error
Navigation errors usually happen when the Roomba cannot understand where it is, cannot complete a mapped job, or cannot move normally through the room.
Common causes
- The dock was moved.
- Furniture layout changed.
- The robot was carried to another room.
- Lighting is too low for some models.
- Sensors or camera area are dirty.
- The robot is trapped by clutter.
- The map is outdated or inaccurate.
What to do
- Clean the sensors and camera area if your model has one.
- Start the robot from the dock.
- Clear clutter from the floor.
- Check the map in the app.
- Adjust keep-out zones if needed.
- Try a simple clean-all job before a room-specific job.
If the error happens only in one room or one mapped routine, the map or room layout may be the issue.
“Move Roomba to a New Location” Alert
This alert usually means the Roomba cannot free itself or cannot continue from its current position. It may be stuck physically, blocked by sensors, or confused by the surface.
Common causes
- Roomba is trapped under furniture.
- It is stuck on a rug or threshold.
- One wheel has lost contact with the floor.
- Cliff sensors are dirty or confused.
- Brushes or wheels are tangled.
- Dark flooring is triggering sensor confusion.
What to do
- Pick up the Roomba and place it on a clear hard floor.
- Check underneath for cords, hair, or debris.
- Clean the wheels, caster wheel, and cliff sensors.
- Inspect the brushes.
- Restart the robot if the alert repeats.
If this happens in the same spot every time, inspect that area for low furniture, cords, rug edges, or dark flooring.
“Check the Wheels” Alert
A wheel alert means the Roomba cannot move properly. This may be due to hair around a wheel, a stuck caster, a threshold, or a failing wheel module.
What to check
- Both drive wheels
- Front caster wheel
- Hair wrapped around wheel edges
- Debris stuck under the robot
- Rug fringe or cords
- One wheel feeling stiff or loose
Press both drive wheels up and down. They should spring back similarly. If one wheel feels different after cleaning, that side may need further inspection.
“Check the Brushes” Alert
This alert usually means the main rollers or side brush are blocked. Hair, string, and rug fibers are the most common causes.
What to check
- Main rollers
- Roller ends
- Brush compartment
- Brush frame latch
- Side brush
- Intake opening
Remove both rollers and clean the ends carefully. Then remove or inspect the side brush. A quick surface cleaning may not be enough if hair is wrapped under the roller caps or brush hub.
“Empty the Bin” Alert
This alert may appear when the bin is full, but it can also appear when the filter is clogged or the bin sensors are dusty.
What to check
- Dustbin
- Filter
- Bin sensor area
- Bin flap
- Clean Base bag if applicable
- Evacuation port if applicable
Empty the bin manually, clean the sensor area with a dry cloth, and replace the filter if it looks packed with dust.
“Charging Error” Alert
A charging alert may happen if the contacts are dirty, the Roomba is not seated correctly, the base has no power, or the battery is struggling.
What to check
- Charging contacts on the Roomba
- Charging contacts on the base
- Power cord
- Wall outlet
- Dock placement
- Battery age
Clean the contacts first. Charging issues are often caused by dust, pet hair, or floor grime on the metal contact points.
“Clean the Sensors” Alert
If your Roomba asks you to clean sensors, do not ignore it. Dirty sensors can affect movement, docking, mapping, cliff detection, and obstacle behavior.
Sensor areas to clean
- Cliff sensors underneath
- Bin sensor area
- Charging contacts
- Bumper area
- Camera or navigation window if your model has one
- Docking sensor area depending on model
Use a dry microfiber cloth. Avoid spraying liquid directly onto the robot.
When an Error Comes Back Immediately
If the same error returns right after you clear it, the problem was probably not fully fixed. This usually means there is still debris in the part mentioned, a sensor is still dirty, or a part is worn or not installed correctly.
Examples
- Brush error returns: roller ends may still have hair.
- Bin full returns: sensor area or filter may still be dirty.
- Charging error returns: contacts may need deeper cleaning or base alignment is off.
- Wheel error returns: one wheel may be damaged or blocked internally.
- Docking error returns: base location may need to change.
Repeat the cleaning carefully, then restart the robot before testing again.
When an Error Happens Only in One Room
If the Roomba works in most rooms but shows an error in one room, the environment is likely part of the problem.
Room-specific causes
- Dark rugs or flooring
- Loose cords under a desk
- Low furniture
- Thick rug edges
- Pet bowls or mats
- Door thresholds
- Too much clutter
- Very dusty floors
Watch the robot in that room for a few minutes. You may see it catch a rug, bump a cable, wedge under furniture, or stop near a dark mat.
When an Error Happens After Cleaning Pet Hair
Pet hair can trigger several Roomba alerts. It can block the bin, wrap around rollers, jam the side brush, clog the filter, or stop the Clean Base from emptying.
After heavy pet hair runs, check:
- Main roller ends
- Side brush hub
- Filter
- Dustbin flap
- Clean Base bag
- Evacuation port
- Drive wheels
If you have pets, frequent maintenance is more important. Pet hair can make a Roomba show multiple alerts even when no single part is broken.
When to Restart the Roomba
A restart can help after cleaning, after a jam, or when an error seems stuck. It should not replace physical maintenance, but it is a useful final step after you clear the problem.
Restart after:
- Removing a brush jam
- Cleaning the wheels
- Clearing a bin full alert
- Cleaning charging contacts
- Unplugging and replugging the base
- Fixing a docking problem
- Moving the base to a new location
Restarting may clear temporary behavior, but if the same error comes back repeatedly, continue troubleshooting the part mentioned in the alert.
When to Replace Parts
Some errors keep returning because a maintenance part is worn out. Replacing the right part can be better than cleaning the same issue over and over.
| Repeated Alert | Part to Inspect | Replacement May Help If |
|---|---|---|
| Bin full | Filter or dustbin | Filter is packed or bin is cracked |
| Brush error | Main rollers | Rollers are torn, worn, or loose |
| Side brush error | Side brush | Brush is bent, cracked, or missing arms |
| Wheel error | Wheel module | One wheel is stiff, noisy, or weak |
| Charging error | Battery or base | Contacts are clean but charging still fails |
| Clean Base error | Bag or debris path | Bag is full, blocked, or base suction is weak |
Always choose parts that match your exact Roomba model or series.
When to Contact iRobot Support
Many Roomba errors can be fixed at home, but some repeated alerts may need support. This is especially true if the robot is under warranty or the issue involves power, battery, motors, or internal electronics.
Contact support if:
- The same error returns after careful cleaning.
- The Roomba will not charge after cleaning contacts and checking the base.
- One wheel does not move normally.
- The brush motor does not run after removing all debris.
- The Clean Base motor never runs.
- You smell burning or hear grinding.
- The battery error keeps returning.
- The app shows a repeated internal or hardware-related alert.
Before contacting support, write down the Roomba model, the exact error message, when it appears, and the troubleshooting steps you already tried.
Quick Roomba Error Troubleshooting Checklist
Use this checklist when you are not sure where to start.
- Read the full error message in the app.
- Move the Roomba to a clear hard floor.
- Empty the bin.
- Check or replace the filter.
- Clean the bin sensor area.
- Remove and clean the main rollers.
- Clean the side brush area.
- Check both drive wheels and the front caster wheel.
- Wipe the cliff sensors.
- Press and clean the bumper.
- Clean charging contacts on the robot and base.
- Check dock placement and power.
- Inspect the Clean Base bag and inlet if applicable.
- Restart the Roomba.
- Run a short test cleaning cycle.
How to Prevent Roomba Error Codes
You cannot prevent every alert, but regular maintenance reduces the most common ones. Most Roomba errors come from dirt, hair, blocked airflow, poor charging contact, or room obstacles.
Weekly maintenance
- Empty the bin.
- Tap dust from the filter.
- Remove hair from the rollers.
- Clean the side brush area.
- Wipe cliff sensors.
- Check drive wheels and caster wheel.
- Pick up cords and small objects before cleaning.
Monthly maintenance
- Replace the filter if needed.
- Inspect rollers for wear.
- Check the side brush for damage.
- Clean charging contacts thoroughly.
- Review repeated app alerts.
- Check dock placement.
- Inspect the Clean Base bag and debris path if your model has one.
Homes with pets, rugs, long hair, or heavy dust may need maintenance more often.
Related Guides
- Roomba Keeps Saying Bin Full? Common Causes and Fixes
- Roomba Brush Not Spinning? What Usually Causes It
- Roomba Side Brush Not Spinning? Easy Fixes to Try
- Roomba Keeps Going in Circles? Common Causes and Fixes
- Roomba Clean Base Not Working? What to Check First
FAQ
What do Roomba error codes mean?
Roomba error codes usually point to a problem with the bin, brushes, wheels, sensors, battery, charging system, docking, Clean Base, or navigation. The app message usually gives the most useful clue.
How do I clear a Roomba error?
Fix the issue mentioned in the alert, such as cleaning the brushes, emptying the bin, wiping sensors, checking wheels, or cleaning charging contacts. After that, restart the Roomba and run a short test.
Why does my Roomba keep showing the same error?
The issue may not be fully fixed. Hair may still be hidden around roller ends, the filter may still be clogged, a sensor may still be dirty, or a part may be worn or damaged.
Why does my Roomba say the bin is full when it is empty?
The bin sensor area may be dusty, the filter may be clogged, the bin may not be seated correctly, or the Clean Base may not have emptied the bin fully.
Why does my Roomba show a charging error?
Charging errors are often caused by dirty charging contacts, poor dock alignment, a loose power cord, a bad outlet, or an aging battery. Clean the contacts and check base power first.
Why does my Roomba say to check the brushes?
The main rollers or side brush may be tangled with hair, string, carpet fibers, or debris. Remove the rollers and side brush, clean them carefully, and reinstall them correctly.
Why does my Roomba say to move it to a new location?
The Roomba may be stuck, trapped by a rug or furniture, confused by a surface, or unable to move because of dirty wheels, cliff sensors, or brushes. Move it to a clear floor and inspect underneath.
When should I contact iRobot support about an error?
Contact support if the same error returns after cleaning and restarting, if the robot will not charge, if a wheel or motor does not work, or if you notice burning smells, grinding noises, or damaged parts.
Final Verdict
Roomba error codes are usually clues, not disasters. Most alerts point to common maintenance issues like a full bin, clogged filter, tangled rollers, dirty cliff sensors, blocked wheels, poor dock alignment, or dirty charging contacts.
Start with the message in the app, then inspect the part it mentions. Clean the bin, filter, brushes, wheels, sensors, and charging contacts before replacing anything. If your model uses a Clean Base, also check the bag, base inlet, evacuation port, and docking alignment.
If the same error keeps coming back after careful cleaning and a restart, the issue may involve a worn part, battery problem, wheel module, brush motor, charging system, or Clean Base fault. At that point, replacement parts or iRobot support may be the next step.