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Circling usually means the robot is receiving uneven movement or obstacle information. Check the wheels and bumper before assuming that its whole map has failed.
Table of Contents
Start with these checks
- Power off and inspect both drive wheels for thread or uneven travel.
- Press the accessible bumper gently to check it returns freely without forcing it.
- Clean exposed navigation sensors following the manual and retry on a clear floor.
What this looks like at home
A loop that follows the robot into another room points towards the machine; a loop beside one reflective object points towards that location.
Test the machine and the obstacle separately
| Check | What matters |
|---|---|
| One location only | Examine the shape, surface and escape route. |
| Every location | Check accessible wheels, bumper and brush assembly. |
| After maintenance | Recheck the fitted parts before changing the map. |
A mistake to avoid
Do not lubricate wheels or bumper cavities unless the manufacturer explicitly specifies it.
Buy a part only after identifying the cause
Check the exact model and part reference before buying. If cleaning resolves the problem, a replacement may be unnecessary.
Browse Amazon UK results for robot vacuum wheel replacement. These are search results, not a verified recommendation for your particular machine.
What the result tells you
Compare the direction and size of the circle in two open areas. If one wheel visibly lags, stop repeated tests and describe that observation to support rather than continuing to rewrite map boundaries.
Related guidance
- Robot Vacuum Stuck? A Comprehensive Troubleshooting Guide
- Robot Vacuum Maintenance Tips UK: Keep Your Cleaner Running Smoothly
Sources and scope
Checked on 9 September 2026. Manufacturer instructions apply to the models they name; use your own exact manual for button sequences, removable parts and cleaning permissions. Product specifications are advertised claims. Examples illustrate decisions and are not hands-on test results.