Operating Xiaomi’s smart appliances requires periodic maintenance, and cleaning the chassis is one of the most common procedures. Over time, hair, animal hair and dust accumulate on the axles and bearings, leading to extraneous noises, creaks and even stops the device. Owners often face a situation where the robot vacuum cleaner begins to wag or get stuck on the doorsteps due to the pecking of one of the modules.
Self-dismantling of wheels allows not only deep cleaning, but also grease rubbing parts or replace worn-out elements. This procedure significantly extends the life of the navigation system and motor-wheels. It is important to understand that the design of different models may differ, but the general principle of attachment remains similar for most devices of the Mi Robot Vacuum line.
Before any manipulations, you need to make sure that the device is completely de-energized. For models with built-in battery, it is a must to disconnect the battery plume from the motherboard before removing the wheels, as this eliminates the risk of short circuits in case of accidental contact of tools with electronics.
Tools and workplace preparation required
The toolkit is not a good fit. Unlike large-rotor home appliances, robotic vacuum cleaners use small-diameter screws, often hidden under decorative pads. The main tool will be a set of precision screwdrivers, including PH0 and PH00 cross-bits. Sometimes, slash screwdrivers may be required to accurately tweak plastic latches.
Organize the workspace so that small parts are not lost. It is recommended to use a magnetic mat or containers with sections to sort the screws. Since the process can take from 30 to 60 minutes, it is important to have good lighting. Also prepare microfiber wipes, isopropyl alcohol for degreasing and lithium-based lubricants, such as LG-2 or Silicon Grease, which are safe for plastic.
Remember to remove the side brush before work starts so that it does not interfere with access to the bottom panel. If the model includes a dust collector and a water container, they should also be removed, which will reduce the weight of the device and prevent accidental debris from scattering inside the case when rolling over.
⚠️ Warning: Never use household oils (sunflower, machine) to lubricate plastic gears and robot vacuum bearings, which thicken over time, turning into an abrasive mass, which will permanently disable the mechanism.
💡
Use a magnetic substrate or stick pieces of paint tape with captions to the table to spread the screws in order of their twisting, which will save time when you build.
Diagnosis of malfunctions of the chassis
Before you start disassembling, you need to pinpoint the source of the problem. Xiaomi robots are equipped with a self-diagnosis system that often indicates a motor-wheel error by voice message or through the Mi Home app. However, the noise can also come from mechanical friction, which sensors do not always recognize as a critical error.
Take the device in your hands and try to spin each wheel manually. The correct module should rotate with a slight magnetic resistance, but without jamming. If you feel jerks, hear a crunch or the wheel turns too easily (free travel), this is a direct sign of malfunction. Often the problem lies in the hair wound on the axis, which blocks the rotation.
Pay attention to the height of the suspension of the wheels. If one of the wheels protrudes smaller than the other or dangles, perhaps the inner spring or plastic holder has broken. In such cases, simple cleaning will not help, you will need to replace the entire assembly. Also check the condition of the rubber tire: deep cuts or erased tread can cause vibration and noise when driving.
The process of dismantling the lower module and wheels
To access the wheels in most models, such as the Xiaomi Vacuum Mop or Roborock S5, you need to remove the bottom cover. Turn the device over and locate the propellers that lock the platform. Their number varies from 4 to 8 pieces depending on the modification. After twisting the screws, carefully disconnect the plume if it goes from the cover to the main board (often there are sensors).
Removing the lid, you get access to the internal structure. The wheels are attached to the body either with screws or powerful plastic latches. Removing the wheel usually requires twisting two screws located on the sides of the module, or gently pressing the locks with a flat screwdriver wrapped in fabric to avoid damaging the plastic. Act without excessive effort to break the ears of the mount.
Once you remove the module from the body, you can start disassembling it, and there's often another row of screws hidden on the back of the wheel, and when you remove the outside clip, you'll see the axle and the bearing, and that's where the dirt accumulates most often. And you'll need to carefully stretch the axle, and try not to lose the little washers or the locking rings if they're designed.
☑️ Preparation for wheel disassembly
Cleaning, lubrication and bearing replacement
Once the wheel module is removed, remove all the wound wool. Use tweezers or a thin sting of a screwdriver to extract hair from the depth of the mechanism. Carefully wipe the axis and interior of the bearing with an alcohol wipe. If the closed bearing is highly contaminated, it is better to replace it with a new 6x12x4 or other one that matches your model.
Lubrication is a critical step. Apply a small amount of specialized lubricant on the axle and inside the bearing. Make sure to remove the excess, as when you spin it can splash on sensors or a rubber tire, which will worsen the grip on the floor. Spread the composition evenly by turning the wheel several times manually.
If you find cracks in the plastic hub or gear teeth (in separate-drive models), you'll need to replace the part. The plastic becomes brittle over time, and trying to glue it together won't have a lasting effect. When you assemble, make sure all the sealing gums fall into place, providing dust protection.
⚠️ Warning: When assembly, keep an eye on the direction of rotation of the gears inside the gearbox. Incorrect installation can lead to engine jamming and combustion of the control board at the first start.
Specifics of disassembly of different models Xiaomi
The chassis design can vary significantly depending on the year of release and the series of the device. For example, in the classic Xiaomi Robot Vacuum (V1/V2), the wheels are removed relatively easily after dismantling the bottom panel. At the same time, in the newer models of the Roborock S7 or Xiaomi X10 series, a modular system is used, where the wheel assembly is a single unit that is easier to replace the whole than repair.
In models with a floor wash function, an additional protective seal around the wheel axis is often found to prevent moisture from entering. When disassembling such devices, it is important not to damage this omentum, otherwise the next wet cleaning will get water inside the mechanism. Some users recommend additionally smearing the joint of the wheel and the body with water resistant lubrication.
Special attention should be paid to models with floating wheels with a long suspension stroke, which often break spring mechanisms. If you notice that the wheel does not return to its original position after pressing, check the integrity of the spring. In some cases, installing a tighter spring from a similar donor device helps.
Where can I find the spare part number?
Table of compatibility and wheel characteristics
When looking for spare parts, it is important to focus not only on the name of the vacuum cleaner model, but also on the article of the wheel itself. Below is a table with indicative data for popular versions. Remember that the manufacturer can make changes to the design without notice, so visual comparison is necessary.
| Model robot. | Type of wheel | Part articulation | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Xiaomi Mi Robot 1S | Modular | XYK40-00 | Removable module with motor |
| Roborock S5 Max | On the bearing. | SKV40-01 | Reinforced rubber tyre |
| Xiaomi Vacuum Mop | Standard. | XYK40-03 | Requires axle lubrication |
| Roborock E4 | Compact. | SKV40-05 | Small diameter of axle |
If the new wheel is even a millimeter different in diameter, the robot will start to miscalculate distance and map the room with errors, so the selection of components should be approached responsibly, checking the geometry of the part before installation.
Assembly and testing of the device
The assembly is done in reverse sequence. Put the wheel modules in place, making sure they sit tightly in the slots and are connected (if there are electrical contacts). Twisted the screws of the mount, but do not drag them, so as not to break the thread in the plastic case. Return the bottom cover and connect the sensor plume before clicking.
Once fully assembled, flip the robot over and turn it on. Give the device a few seconds to self-test. Try to start cleaning or force the wheels to spin with your hand, they should rotate smoothly and silently. If you hear a grinding sound, immediately turn off the device and check that the gears are properly installed.
💡
A properly assembled wheel should have a small vertical backlash (suspension stroke), but should not dangle from side to side.
Run the test through the Mi Home app in "Motors Only" mode or similar if your model supports component diagnostics. Make sure both wheels rotate at the same speed. Successful completion of the test means that maintenance has been successful and the robot is ready to return to base.