iRobot Roomba Error 2 — What It Means & How to Fix It
Roomba Error 2 on a j Series means the two multi-surface rubber brushes cannot spin, almost always because hair or debris is wrapped around them.
What this code means
The robot announces "Clear the brushes, then press the button." iRobot lists the cause as the multi-surface rubber brushes being unable to spin. Hair works its way to the ends of the brushes and into the bearings until the motor can no longer turn them.
This matches iRobot's error chart for the Roomba j Series and Roomba Combo 10 Max. iRobot publishes a separate chart for each Roomba series (600, 800, 900, e, i, s), and the same number can carry a different meaning there, so use the chart for your robot.
Most likely causes
| Cause | How likely | DIY-fixable? |
|---|---|---|
| Hair and thread wound around the brush ends and bearings | Very common | Yes — no tools |
| A sock, cable or toy pulled into the brushes | Common | Yes — no tools |
| Brushes not seated properly after cleaning | Occasional | Yes — refit them |
What you can try yourself
- Turn the robot over and open the brush frame.
- Lift out both rubber brushes and pull off the end caps.
- Remove hair from the brush ends, the pegs and the square sockets in the cleaning head.
- Refit the caps and brushes, matching each brush's shape to its slot, and close the frame.
- Press the button to restart.
When to call a technician
- The brushes are clean and correctly fitted but Error 2 keeps appearing.
- A brush is torn or its peg is rounded off.
Typical professional repair cost: Free to clear. Worn brushes are an inexpensive replacement part from iRobot.
Frequently asked questions
Why does my Roomba keep saying clear the brushes?
The brushes cannot turn. Hair packed under the end caps is the usual culprit, and it is easy to miss unless the caps are pulled off.
How often should Roomba brushes be cleaned?
iRobot's error chart does not give an interval. In homes with pets or long hair, checking the brush ends regularly keeps Error 2 away.
Sources checked
Error meanings can vary by model. This guide was checked against the documentation above; use the manual for the model number on your own appliance when it differs.
Related iRobot codes
- iRobot Roomba Error 1 Roomba Error 1 on a j Series means the left wheel is hanging down or the robot is stuck — put it on a flat surface and press the button.
- iRobot Roomba Error 5 Roomba Error 5 on a j Series means the right drive wheel has stalled because something is jamming it.
- iRobot Roomba Error 6 Roomba Error 6 on a j Series means the cliff sensors are constantly reporting a drop-off, either because the robot is at an edge or the sensors are dirty.
- iRobot Roomba Error 9 Roomba Error 9 on a j Series means the bumper is registering a constant bump because it is jammed with debris or has been knocked out of place.
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