iRobot Roomba · updated 2026-07-06
Error 18: Failed to dock
What it means
The robot cannot return to its dock or starting position.
The fix
Confirm the dock has power and was not moved mid-job; clear 4 ft (1.2 m) in front and 1.5 ft (0.5 m) each side; clean the charging contacts and the IR window / visual docking target with a dry cloth. Note the robot must start from the dock, or find it during the job, to navigate back.
Applies to
Most series. Does NOT occur on 100/1000, 200/2000, Plus 400, Plus 500 or Max 700 — those LiDAR models report Error 1010 instead.
Source
Official iRobot support article: https://homesupport.irobot.com/s/article/31099