How to remove sensors from the vacuum cleaner Xiaomi: instructions with photos and tips

Dismantling sensors on Xiaomi robot vacuum cleaners is a challenge that owners face when cleaning, repairing or upgrading the device. Mistakes can damage sensitive sensors, disrupt navigation, or even completely fail. In this article we will analyze the step-by-step algorithm for removing all types of sensors (infrared, laser, bumper, gyroscopes), relevant for popular models: Mi Robot Vacuum-Mop 2 Pro, Dreame D9, Viomi V3 others.

We will focus on the tools you need to work with, as well as the common mistakes that users break mounts or break plumes, and if you plan to clean the sensors from dust, replace them or test them after a vacuum cleaner falls, this guide will help you avoid costly breakdowns.

Warning: Some sensors (such as lidar in laser-navigated models) require precision, so that the optical elements cannot be touched with fingers or solid objects. For others (such as collision sensors), the main thing is not to confuse the order of disconnection of the connectors.

1.What sensors are in the vacuum cleaners Xiaomi and why remove them

Xiaomi’s robot vacuum cleaners are equipped with a set of sensors responsible for navigation, obstacle detection and cleaning control. Here are the main types of sensors that may require dismantling:

• 🔦 lidar (LDS) — laser sensor for building a map of the room (there are in models with laser navigation).
• 👁️ Infrared (IR) sensors – determine the distance to walls and furniture (usually located around the perimeter of the case).
• 🚪 Collision sensors (bumper) – triggered when hitting an obstacle.
• 🌀 Gyroscope and accelerometer - responsible for orientation in space (built into the main board).
• 📏 Height sensors (cliff sensors) – prevent falling from stairs.
• 🔋 Battery charge sensors – monitor the level of charge (less often require dismantling).

Reasons for removing sensors:

• 🧹 Cleaning of dust and dirt – over time, sensors become contaminated, leading to navigational disruptions.
• 🔧 Replace a faulty sensor – for example, after a vacuum cleaner falls or mechanical damage.
• 🔄 Upgrades to firmware or iron – some users upgrade sensors to improve accuracy.
• 🔍 Error Diagnostics – if the vacuum cleaner issues error codes associated with the sensors (e.g. Error 10 – lidar problem).

⚠️ Note: Xiaomi sensors are often attached to latches or glue, and their plumes are fragile. If you have never understood the technique, practice on an unnecessary device or watch video disassembly of a particular model.

2.Preparation: security tools and measures

Before you start dismantling, prepare the workspace and tools.

• 🔧 Set of screwdrivers (cross-cross-haul) PH00, PH0 and flat 1.5 mm – most screws in Xiaomi vacuum cleaners are sized PH0).
• 🧲 Magnetic substrate or bowl – so as not to lose small screws.
• 📸 Smartphone for photography – fix the location of connectors and wires before disconnecting.
• 🧴 Isopropyl alcohol (70%+) — purifier.
• 🧊 Plastic mediators or shoulder blades – to gently pull the latches (metal tools can scratch the body).
• 🔌 Multimeter (optional) – to check the performance of sensors after removal.

Also prepare:

• 📦 Container for sorting parts (for example, a tray with cells).
• 🧻 Soft fabric without pile - for wiping the optical elements of lidar.
• 🔋 Charger – some sensors are only tested when the vacuum cleaner is on.

⚠️ Warning: Never use metal tweezers to work with plumes - they can penetrate the insulation. If the sensor is attached to double-sided tape, warm it up with a hair dryer (temperature not higher than 60).°C) to soften the glue.

Disconnected the vacuum cleaner from the charging station and took out the battery|

I photographed the location of all the connectors and screws|

Prepared tools and a workplace with good lighting|

Checked that there are spare screws on hand (in case of loss)|

I made sure the model of the vacuum cleaner matches the instructions.-->

3. Step-by-step instruction: how to remove lidar (LDS) Xiaomi

Lidar is the most important and expensive sensor in vacuum cleaners with laser navigation (Mi Robot Vacuum-Mop 2 Pro, Dreame) D9 Its dismantling requires special care.

Step 1 Removing the top cover

1. Turn over the vacuum cleaner and unscrew the 4 screws on the bottom panel (usually under rubber legs).
2. Carefully tuck the cover with a plastic mediator, starting at the back (where the buttons are located).
3. Disconnect the plumes leading to the power buttons and Reset.

Step 2: Dismantling lidar

1. Lidar is mounted on 2-3 screws (depending on the model) and connected to the motherboard with a plume.
2. Unscrew the screws and gently lift the sensor.
3. The plume connector is usually fixed with a latch - push it up with a flat screwdriver.

Step 3: Cleaning and inspection

• Wipe the lidar glass with a soft cloth soaked in isopropyl alcohol.
• Check the rotation of the lidar motor - it should be smooth, without jamming.
• If the sensor is defective, replace it with the original part (the article is indicated on the lidar body).

⚠️ Warning: If after assembly the vacuum cleaner gives an error Error 10 (problem with lidar), check:

• The density of the plume to the connector.
• No dust on the optical glass.
• Integrity of wires (sometimes they are rubbed against the body).

Dismantling infrared (IR) sensors and collision sensors

IR sensors and bumper sensors are located around the perimeter of the body, which are easier to remove than lidar, but also require attention.

Removal of IR sensors:

1. Sensors are mounted on latches or small screws under a decorative lining.
2. Tap the lining with a plastic spatula (usually it is held on 2-3 clips).
3. Disconnect the sensor power connector. In some models (Dreame) D10) IR sensors are combined into a single unit.

Removal of collision sensors (bumper):

1. The bumper is mounted on 4-6 screws and is connected to the board with a flexible plume.
2. Unscrew the screws and carefully remove the bumper, do not pull the wires!
3. Collision sensors are often micro-switches – check their performance with a multimeter (resistance should change when pressed).

⚠️ Attention: In Viomi models V3 and Mi Robot Vacuum-Mop P bumper sensors integrated with IR sensors into a single module.

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If the vacuum cleaner doesn't see any obstacles after assembly, check the polarity of the IR sensor connection "+" And the "-" can disable the sensor.

5. Removal of cliff sensors (height sensors) and gyroscope

Cliff sensors prevent vacuum cleaners from falling from stairs or high rapids, and they are located on the bottom of the case and often become contaminated.

Dismantling cliff sensors:

1. Turn the vacuum cleaner over and find sensors (usually 4 pieces in the corners).
2. Clean them from dust with a brush or compressed air before removal - this can solve the problem without disassembling.
3. If cleaning doesn’t help, unscrew the screws of the mounting (usually). PH0) and unplug the connector.

Gyroscope and accelerometer:

These sensors are soldered into the main board and cannot be dismantled separately. If the vacuum cleaner produces errors related to orientation in space (for example, Error 14), the problem may be:

• Poor contact with the board (check the mounts).
• Falling vacuum cleaner (gyroscope could get mechanical damage).
• Failure of firmware (try to reset the settings to factory).

Critical information: In Xiaomi models 2023-2026, the gyroscope is calibrated automatically when first turned on. If you replace the motherboard, give the vacuum cleaner 5-10 minutes to calibrate without interrupting the process.

6. Common mistakes and how to avoid them

Even experienced users make mistakes when working with Xiaomi sensors.

• 🔌 Breaking plumes - never pull the wires, always hold on to the connector.
• 🔧 Loss of screws – use a magnetic mat or container with cells.
• 🧴 Getting alcohol on the board - clean only contacts, avoid liquid on chips.
• 🔄 Mixed connectors – take photos of the original connection.
• 💥 Static electricity – touch a grounded object before work.

If the vacuum cleaner does not turn on after assembly or gives errors:

1. Check all the connectors for the density of the fit.
2. Make sure no screws are left inside the enclosure (they can short the charge).
3. Reset the settings via the Reset button (hold 10 seconds).

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If the vacuum cleaner is moving around after disassembly or does not respond to obstacles, the gyroscope or IR sensors are likely damaged, and 80% of the time the problem is solved by reassembling and checking all contacts.

7.How to check sensors after removal

Before the reverse assembly, it is recommended to test the sensors for performance.

Lidar check:

• Connect the lidar to the board and turn on the vacuum cleaner.
• Start cleaning - if the lidar works, the vacuum cleaner will start scanning the room (hear the characteristic sound of rotation).
• In the Mi Home app, check if the map is being built.

Checking of IR sensors and bumper:

• Put your hand in the sensors – the vacuum cleaner should slow down or stop.
• With a light press on the bumper, check the operation of the micro-switches (should be a click).

Checking the cliff sensors:

• Hold the vacuum cleaner to the edge of the table (don't drop it!) A working sensor will cause the robot to pull back.
• Close the sensor with opaque tape - the vacuum cleaner should behave as if there is a chasm under it.

If the sensor is not responding:

1. Check the multimeter voltage on its contacts (should be 3.3V or 5V model-wise).
2. Clear the contacts with alcohol.
3. Try to connect a knowingly working sensor (for example, from another vacuum cleaner).

FAQ: Frequent questions about removing sensors