What to check, in order
- Check the bumper
Make sure it hasn't come loose from the robot.
- Start on a flat floor
Move Roomba to a flat surface and press CLEAN. Don't move the robot while you press the button.
- Hard reset
iRobot's Error 16 page: hold CLEAN for 10 seconds until all the lights come on, then let go and wait for the tones. Press and release CLEAN, wait 5 seconds, then press CLEAN to start a new job.
- Check your schedule
If you use scheduling, open the iRobot HOME app afterwards and check your schedules are still set.
When to call an engineer
If the message persists, contact iRobot Customer Care.
Good to know
- On the newer Roomba 100/1000, 200/2000, Plus 400 to 600 and Max 700 and 800 series, iRobot's chart gives Error 16 a different meaning: Roomba failed to navigate properly.
Checked against
- iRobot: Roomba Error 16
- iRobot: Roomba i series error messages chart
- iRobot: error chart for Roomba 100/1000 to Max 800 series
Last reviewed September 2026. Manufacturers update their pages, and your manual is the final word.