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Roomba j7 Spinning in Circles

Use this guide when the j7 repeatedly turns in tight circles, rotates in place, or cannot hold a straight path.

5–8 min No tools first Safe checks only
QUICK ANSWER

Compare both drive wheels before resetting the map.

A robot that continually turns toward one side can be reacting to unequal wheel movement, a stuck caster, or a bumper/sensor condition. Mechanical checks are more useful than deleting maps first.

Robot vacuum spinning in circles with wheels bumper and front sensor area highlighted
Visual check: compare both drive wheels, clean the front caster, and make sure the bumper returns freely after being pressed.
INTERACTIVE DIAGNOSIS

Find what is making it turn

STEP 1 OF 2

Does one drive wheel feel harder to rotate or press than the other?

Also check the small front caster for wrapped hair and free rotation.

Do not force the bumper or wheel modules

If a wheel binds internally or the bumper is physically dislodged, stop before forcing parts. iRobot publishes a j7 bumper procedure, but deeper wheel or navigation faults are better handled by service.

KEEP DIAGNOSING

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