Problem with Roomba 577 - Right motor not running forwards, but does run backwards

Help & Support Domestic Robots
1

Problem with Roomba 577 - Right motor not running forwards, but does run backwards.

Hi all. I need some help with an odd problem with my Roomba 577.
When I start the Roomba it turns in circles centred on the right wheel; i.e the right wheel remains stationary, and the Roomba rotates about it.
Eventually, it gives an ‘Error 10’.

Very occasionally, it will run correctly for a while, usually after I have dissassembled and reassembled the Roomba to clean it.
But it soon goes back to its old ways!

I replaced the right wheel unit, but this did not fix the problem.

When I run the diagnositics test, it:

  • Passes test 12, Left Wheel - the left wheel turns forward correctly
  • Fails test 13, Right Wheel - the reft wheel doesn’t turn forward at all
  • Passes test 14 Wheel Encoders - both wheels turn backwards.

Does anyone have any idea what might be causing this problem, and how to fix it?

I wonder if it might be a problem with the right wheel’s H bridge, failing when driving the motor forwards, but working when driving it backwards?

Thanks
Jim

2

Yes, the replacement wheel was new.
I have disassembled him, and put him back together.
Usually he works for a while, then starts working again.
Perhaps this suggests a loose connection, or a bad solder joint?
Any idea which bits might be susceptible to becoming loose or damaged?
Thanks
Jim

3

update!
Replaced the whole mainboard.
It works now!

Thanks to everyone who helped

Jim

4

I had problem one time with Roomba. Got it replaced and it works good now. Probably the best vacuum cleaner I have ever bought considering it is an AFK style vacuum :slight_smile:

5

Hi Jim,

At first glance, it does sounds like your robots wheel is defective. Can you feel the same resistance while turning the right wheel as you do with the left wheel? You mentioned that you purchased a replacement wheel, was this wheel new?

If both your right wheels have an OK resistance when turning and that they turn backwards and not forward, the problem would be with the connections on the robots motherboard.

It would be a good idea to take your Roomba apart and clean the motherboard with compressed air. Especially the connection sockets to the robots wheels.

We do have a manual on how to take your Roomba apart.

6

Glad to hear that your robot is back to life Jim! It was a pleasure to help.

7

Hi Jim,

It seems you’re having problems with your motherboard.

As Julie suggested, it would be a good idea to take your Roomba apart and clean the motherboard with compressed air, especially the right wheel connection socket.

You can also verify if the socket doesn’t have a loose connection or bad solder joint. Verify if the pins inside the socket are intact.