Stuck with a Roomba Error: "Unable to Connect (BF0B12)"

I encountered an error with my Roomba j7+ that couldn't be solved by conventional methods, so I wanted to share my experience.
The error code was "Unable to Connect (BF0B12)," and the issue was that the app and Roomba could barely communicate.
I eventually called the support center, but even after 30 minutes, they couldn't find a solution—it was quite a tough problem...

What You'll Learn from This Article

You might learn how to resolve the Roomba error code "Unable to Connect (BF0B12)."
Additionally, I'll introduce a good order to follow when looking up solutions for other issues.
(Please note that this guide may not apply to other Roomba models or the Braava.)

Conclusion

Key Point

Resetting from the initial setup and connecting to the 5GHz Wi-Fi instead of the 2.4GHz one solved the issue.

（´-`）.｡oO（ Why does that make it able to communicate...? ）

The support person also didn't know why, but it might be due to interference from other Wi-Fi signals in my apartment building.
I was initially worried since 5GHz Wi-Fi can be easily blocked by walls, but it has worked perfectly for the past three months.

Procedure

I intended to write it accurately, but I lost the notes I took during my call with the support center! Sorry about that.
Here's the procedure as I remember it. With the Roomba fully charged:

  • Restart the Wi-Fi router
  • Uninstall the app from your smartphone
  • Reset the Roomba to factory settings (I'm a bit unsure here, so I've listed the method from the Roomba j7+ manual)
    • To reset the robot to factory settings, remove the dust container and hold the CLEAN button for 7 seconds
    • The reset is complete when you hear a sound
    • Press the CLEAN button again to confirm After returning everything to the initial state, connect to the 5GHz Wi-Fi during the initial setup.
      For precise instructions, I recommend contacting the support center. I’ve included a link a bit further down this page.
      If you try the above method, please do so at your own risk!

How to Look Up Solutions for Other Issues

It's probably best to follow these steps. You might skip step 2.

  1. iRobot Official FAQ Page

    • Common issues are listed, so try these solutions first if applicable
    • It seems to mainly cover hardware-related issues

  2. Roomba Consultation Room (iRobot Official YouTube)

    • iRobot Japan publishes videos on various Roomba issues
    • This also mainly covers hardware-related issues
    • Recommended for those who find video explanations easier to understand

  3. Search the error code on Google

    • If the issue has an error code, you'll likely find solutions by Googling it
    • If you find almost nothing, proceed to the next step!

  4. iRobot Official Inquiry Page

    • Contact information is listed for each store
    • If it's not urgent, I recommend using the inquiry form instead of calling

  5. iRobot Service Center

    • Contact phone numbers are listed
    • Phone lines are often busy
    • Prepare product numbers and other necessary information before calling (details are on the page)

Bonus

The iRobot Official FAQ Page has a method for resetting to factory settings using the app.
This might be useful for various unidentifiable issues, so I’ve included it as a reference.
The page also contains Roomba Consultation Room videos that are not in the playlist, so there might be other useful videos.
(However, this doesn’t seem to work for the BF0B12 error since it involves the app not communicating with the Roomba.)

Summary

I shared a potential solution for the Roomba j7+ error code "Unable to Connect (BF0B12)."
I also introduced a good order to follow when looking up solutions for other issues.
I hope this helps anyone who encounters the same error.