How to test Automower® docking after wire installation
After installing the boundary and guide wires, it’s important to confirm that your Automower® robotic lawn mower can locate and dock with the charging station. Proper docking ensures your lawn mower can recharge automatically and maintain your lawn on schedule. This guide explains how to test docking via the lawn mower display and Automower® Connect app, and provides troubleshooting steps if docking fails.
How Automower® searches for the charging station
Your Automower® uses a two-step process to find the charging station:
- Signal detection: The lawn mower first attempts to detect the charging station signal directly
- Wire following: If unsuccessful, it follows the boundary wire or guide wire to reach the station
Understanding this process helps you identify where issues may occur during testing.
Testing the boundary and guide wires and docking
Preparation
Place the lawn mower about 3 m (10 ft) from the boundary wire, facing the wire.
Testing via Automower® Connect app
- Connect via Bluetooth
- Navigate to: More > Settings > Installation > Find charging station > Test: Boundary wire setup
- Start the test
Testing via the lawn mower display
(For lawn mowers with a keypad)
- Navigate to: Installation > Find charging station > Overview of search methods > Boundary > More > Test right/Test left
- Press START and close the hatch (if applicable to your model)
What to observe
- Does the lawn mower follow the boundary wire correctly?
- Does it dock successfully on the first attempt?
Testing guide wires
Repeat the above steps but select Guide wire test in the app or display. If your installation uses multiple guide wires, test each one separately.
Troubleshooting docking failures
Important: The test is successful only if the lawn mower follows the wire all the way and docks on the first attempt. If it fails and retries repeatedly, troubleshooting is needed.
Step 1: Verify the wire connections
Inspect the wire connections at the charging station to ensure they’re secure and correct.
See: How to connect the boundary and guide wires to the Automower® charging station
Step 2: Adjust the corridor settings
If the lawn mower struggles to follow the wires consistently, adjust the corridor width settings.
See: How to adjust the corridor width in an Automower® installation
Step 3: Check for interference
Metal objects (e.g. reinforcement bars, metal edging, coils of low-voltage cable), even buried, near the charging station or wire path can interfere with signals.
Check our guide for charging station placement.
Step 4: Verify the slope configuration
For installations on steep slopes, ensure the guide wire is laid at the proper angle.
See: Optimise Automower® installation for slopes
Step 5: Review overall installation
Confirm all installation steps were completed correctly.
Check our detailed step guide for Automower® installation with a physical wire.
If problems persist
If docking still fails after troubleshooting, consider repositioning the charging station or contact a dealer for assistance.
