Roomba 500–900 series
Roomba 500–900 series Charging error 5: Charging current is not reaching the robot
Quick answer
The charging fault can involve the robot, battery, base or power cable; it is not proof that the battery needs replacement.
Editor: Feroz Sheikh · Updated · How we verify
Check your model first
These instructions cover Roomba 500–900 series. Match the full model and complete error message before continuing.
Manufacturer checks in order
- Check the cable connections at the base and wall socket. For a Clean Base, the source also says to check for its red light with the lid lifted.
- Clean the charging contacts using the instructions for that robot and dock. Inspect for discoloration or contacts stuck down; damaged contacts require support.
- If charging still fails, follow the exact model procedure to remove and reinstall its genuine iRobot battery, then retry.
Safety notes
Use the instructions for your exact robot and dock. Stop if the unit is wet, unusually hot, damaged or has a swollen battery. Contact the manufacturer; do not bypass sensors or open sealed electrical assemblies.
- Before cleaning contacts, unplug the dock and wait 60 seconds.
- For the standard contacts procedure, use a lightly dampened cloth or melamine foam. Do not use abrasive material.
- Do not transfer this cleaning method to every dock; the source has separate dry-cloth instructions for newer Auto-Wash/Auto-Fill docks.
- Do not apply battery removal to Essential models; the source recommends sleep/ship mode for those.
When to contact support
Contact iRobot Customer Care if the fault remains.
Before buying a part
No. An error code does not prove a part has failed or that a seller's replacement fits. Check the exact manufacturer identifier separately.
- Roomba 614 parts
- Roomba 671 parts
- Roomba 675 parts
- Roomba 690 parts
- Roomba 692 parts
- Roomba 694 parts
- Roomba 890 parts
- Roomba 960 parts
- Roomba 980 parts
Questions about this error
Which models does this guide cover?
These instructions cover Roomba 500–900 series. Match the full model and complete error message before continuing.
Does this error prove I need to buy a replacement part?
No. An error code does not prove a part has failed or that a seller's replacement fits. Check the exact manufacturer identifier separately.
Is charging error 5 the same as ordinary error 5?
No. This page concerns a charging warning. Match the word 'charging' and use the manufacturer's guide for your exact message.
Official sources
- Charging Error 4 and 5: All Roomba and Braava Models
- How to Clean the Charging Contacts
- How to remove the battery
This guide summarizes published manufacturer instructions. It does not claim a hands-on repair or physical fit test.