Modern cleaning devices like the Xiaomi Mi Robot Vacuum are complex engineering systems where mechanics are closely intertwined with electronics. Sooner or later, even the most reliable machine requires attention: hair is wound into the turbobrush, dust enters the sensors, and the side villi are erased. Understanding how to properly perform dismantling will save the owner from expensive repairs in the service center.
The challenge is that the manufacturer strives for maximum tightness and aesthetics by hiding all fasteners under decorative linings. Incorrect disassembly can damage plastic latches or plumes, so it is important to act consistently and without excessive force. In this article, we will discuss in detail the process of opening the case of popular models of the Mi Robot line.
Before you start, you need to prepare the workplace, you need a flat surface with good lighting and a set of tools, usually enough cross screwdriver Phillips, plastic shovel (spooger) to open the latches and tweezers to extract small debris, and it will not be superfluous to have a soft brush and a can of compressed air at hand for subsequent cleaning of internal components.
Deconstruction preparations and security measures
The first step before any manipulation of the technique is to completely shut down the power. In the case of a robot vacuum cleaner, this means not just putting the device into standby mode, but physically turning off the battery or discharging the battery to a minimum if the design does not allow for a quick shutdown. The robot's electronics are sensitive to static electricity, so it is recommended to touch the grounded metal object before touching the internal boards.
Look at the device from all sides. On the bottom panel are the main maintenance components: the wheels, the side brush and the main roller. The top cover usually hides the dust collector and the power button. Make sure all removable elements, such as the dust container and HEPA filter, are already removed. This will reduce the weight of the structure and prevent debris from spreading inside the case when rolling over.
⚠️ Warning: Never attempt to disassemble a device while it is connected to a charging station or a power cable is inserted into a power outlet.A short circuit can disable the motherboard instantly.
To fix small screws, use a magnetic mat or simply spread them out in the order of removal, grouping them by disassembly stages. The screws in different parts can differ in length and threading, and confusing them means risking the integrity of the threaded plastic joints. Accuracy and accuracy at this stage ensure successful assembly in reverse order.
☑️ Preparation for disassembly
Removal of the lower panel and access to the running gear
Most models, including the Xiaomi Vacuum Mop and the classic Mi Robot versions, have the bulk of the mount on the bottom. Turn the robot upside down, putting soft cloth under the top lid to avoid scratching the glossy surface. You'll see several screws hidden in the recesses, and perhaps rubber plugs that need to be carefully tampered with.
After you unscrew all the visible screws, don't pull the lid abruptly. It can hold onto plastic latches around the perimeter. Use a plastic card or a special tool to walk along the junction of the upper and lower parts of the body. A characteristic click will mark the release of the lock. Act evenly in a circle so as not to break the fragile plastic.
Inside, you'll see the main nodes: the wheel motors, the turbobrush and the sensors. Often this is where the bulk of the dust and wool accumulates, causing sensor errors or jamming mechanisms. Careful cleaning of this compartment often solves 90% of the navigation and patency problems. Notice the charging contacts located on the bottom - their oxidation can interfere with normal operation.
- 🔧 Unscrew all the screws on the bottom panel, paying attention to their different lengths.
- 🛑 Carefully click the plastic fixtures around the perimeter of the body.
- 🧹 Remove the wound wool from the wheel axles and turbobrush.
- 👀 Check the condition of rubber tires for wear.
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Before removing the bottom cover, take a picture of the screws’ location – some models have screws of different lengths at different points, and entanglement can cause damage to the internal components.
Dismantling of the lidar module and upper cover
The most difficult and critical part of disassembly is access to the top laser rangefinder (Lidar), which is responsible for building a room map and navigation. On many Xiaomi Roborock models, it is mounted with several screws under the top decorative panel, and to get to them, sometimes you need to remove the lidar "turret" itself, which is often fixed by a plume.
When removing the top cover, be extremely careful with the coupling plumes. They lead to the control buttons, the indicators and the laser module itself. The plumes are very thin and burst from an indiscreet jerk. If the lid does not remove easily, check again if all the screws are twisted, and if there are hidden locks under the stickers.
Inside the lidar module is a rotating mirror and a laser head, and over time, dust gets stuffed into it, causing the Lidar blocked error or the robot's chaotic motion. It is often enough to gently blow the mechanism with compressed air or wipe the mirror with a wiltless napkin dipped in isopropyl alcohol. The mechanical effect on the lidar motor shaft should be minimal.
⚠️ Attention: The lidar laser module is a device, so don't force your hands to rotate it, and don't wipe the laser emitter with dry, rough materials to avoid scratching it.
If you're planning to replace a battery, it's most often when you remove the top cover or the main board, and it's usually locked with screws or a dense plastic pad. When you remove the old battery, keep an eye out for the polarity of the connector.
Why is lidar creaking?
Disassembly of turbobrush and suction system
The main roller (turbobrush) is the heart of the cleaning system, and it's attached to a removable unit that can be easily removed after the latching legs are snapped, but deep cleaning or replacement of bearings requires disassembling the brush mechanism itself, with the motor on one side and the bearing on the other.
To remove the turbobrush cover, you have to unscrew the screws hidden under the end plugs. Inside you'll see a belt transmission or direct force transfer to the brush. It often winds long hair that blocks rotation. Removing windings restores suction performance and reduces engine load.
The suction system includes a channel from the brush to the dust collector, which often forms plugs of fine dust and wool lumps, can be cleaned with a long brush or flexible wire, make sure that the automatic emptying valve (if any) is free and does not get stained by dirt.
| Component | Type of pollution | Cleaning tool | Frequency of service |
|---|---|---|---|
| Turbobrush | Hair, threads | Scissors, tweezers | Once a week. |
| Wheels. | Dust, wool. | Toothpick, brush. | Once a month |
| Sensors. | Dust plaque | Dry napkin. | Once every 2 weeks |
| HEPA filter | Fine dust | Water washing | Every 2-3 weeks |
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Regular cleaning of the turbobrush from wound hair prolongs the life of the vacuum motor by 30-40% and retains the suction force.
Side brush and wheel maintenance
The side brush is often ignored by users, although it is the one that sweeps debris from under the boards, it is attached with a single screw or latch, it is rarely necessary to remove it completely for cleaning, but it is necessary to check the axis for windings. If the brush is deformed or the pile is worn, it is easier to replace than repair it.
The wheels of the robot are equipped with a spring-loaded mechanism to overcome the rapids. The gap between the wheel and the body is constantly stuffed with garbage. To clean the wheel, you can turn slightly to open access, and clean the dirt with tweezers or a toothpick. A jammed wheel is a common cause of "Wheel stuck" errors on the app screen.
The contact charging sites on the bottom and on the base also require attention. The oxidation of the contacts causes the robot to fail to see the base or to be charged with jerks. Wipe them with an alcohol napkin or a wiper. Don't use aggressive chemicals that can eat up plastic.
- ✂️ Cut the hair wound on the axis of the side brush with scissors.
- 🔄 Check the free rotation of the main wheels with your hand.
- 🧼 Wipe charging contacts with dry cloth or alcohol.
- 👂 Listen to the sounds of the wheels (squeaking).
Assembly and initial launch
The assembly is done in reverse order. The main rule is not to use excessive force. If the part does not fall into place, then you missed something: you did not fully insert the plume, skewed the lid or forgot the screw. Check all the connections before the final fixation of the case.
Pay special attention to the plumes. They need to be inserted to the point and, if any, fixed with downstrips. A loosely connected plume of the floor sensor can cause the robot to think that it is hanging in the air, and stop.
After assembly, turn on the device. The robot can calibrate the sensors and the lidar for the first few minutes. Start building the map and see if there are any bugs in the application. If it went well, you not only saved money, you also extended the life of your smart assistant.