iRobot Roomba F12 Fix (Error Code Guide)

Do this in order. This is basically what iRobot support walks you through before they offer a paid repair.

• 1. Confirm it’s really F12.
  Check the iRobot Home app or the spoken message. Make sure it actually says F12, not a different number or a “Charging Error” code.
• 2. Hard reboot the robot.
  • For most one-button Roombas (CLEAN only): hold the CLEAN button for about 20 seconds until you hear a tone or see the ring flash, then release and let it reboot.
  • For three-button models (Home / Spot / Clean): press and hold Home + Spot + Clean together for about 10 seconds until it chimes, then release.
  • Let it fully restart, then try a short cleaning run.
• 3. Kill power, then inspect the underside.
  • Take it off the dock and flip it over on a table.
  • Pull hair and string from both drive wheels and the side brush.
  • Spin each wheel by hand. They should spin freely and spring up and down. If one is stiff or stuck, that can trigger an internal fault.
  • Remove the main brush or brush cartridge and clear any packed dirt or wrapped hair.
• 4. Clean the sensors the way the manual tells you.
  • Use a dry cloth or cotton swab to wipe the cliff sensors (the little windows on the bottom edges).
  • Wipe the front bumper area and any visible IR windows.
  • Clean the charging contacts on the robot and dock so it gets consistent power.
  • Do not use water, sprays, or alcohol directly on the robot.
• 5. Check the bin and filter.
  • Remove the dust bin, empty it, and make sure it seats fully when you reinstall it.
  • Tap out the filter or swap in a fresh one if it’s choked with dust; airflow issues can confuse sensors and overheating protection.
• 6. Update firmware through the iRobot Home app.
  • Put the robot on the dock and make sure it’s on Wi‑Fi.
  • Open the app > Settings > look for any firmware / software update prompt.
  • Let it update fully, then reboot one more time and test a short cleaning run.
• 7. Factory reset (last resort before service).
  • In the app, go to your robot’s Settings and choose Remove / Factory Reset (wording varies by model).
  • Re-add it to the app like it’s new, set it up, and try a clean.
  • This wipes maps and preferences, but clears a lot of firmware weirdness.
• 8. If F12 still comes back fast, the official answer is service.
  At this point, iRobot literature basically says: the robot needs professional repair or replacement. That usually means a failing main board, wheel module, or other internal part that the end user isn’t meant to swap without parts and tools.