iRobot · Robot Vacuum Minor
Error 16 — Bumped at startup
Robot's accelerometer detected motion or impact when the cleaning cycle started.
- Keep using it?
- Yes — fix when convenient
- DIY difficulty
- Easy
- Verified against
- homesupport.irobot.com ↗
How to fix it
- Place robot on a flat, hard floor away from walls and furniture.
- Wait for it to fully settle, then press CLEAN.
- If error repeats, clean the cliff sensors on the underside with a dry cloth or Magic Eraser.
- Ensure no objects are touching the bumper at startup.
Why it happens
Typical signs: 'Error 16, place Roomba on a flat surface' · Error happens immediately after pressing CLEAN · Common after being picked up
- Robot moved/bumped at start It was bumped, tilted, or picked up just as CLEAN was pressed.
- Not on level surface Started on uneven flooring or stuck against an object.
- Dirty cliff sensors Cliff sensors falsely triggering at startup.
More iRobot robot vacuum codes
Charging Error 2 Charging Error 2 — Battery not detected Charging Error 3 Charging Error 3 — Battery won't charge Charging Error 5 Charging Error 5 — Charging system fault Error 1 Error 1 — Side wheel stuck / off ground Error 10 Error 10 — Drive wheel not turning Error 11 Error 11 — Bin full or airflow blocked
Always unplug an appliance before servicing it. This guide is for informational purposes and is not a substitute for a qualified technician. Verified against manufacturer documentation: homesupport.irobot.com.