🔧 Troubleshooting Guide

Because even the best robots need a bit of help sometimes.
Find quick solutions to common issues when building or programming Pedro.

1. 🖨️ 3D Printing Issues

Common problems and fixes when printing Pedro’s parts:


  1. Poor print quality or layer shifting 
    Make sure your bed is leveled and the extruder temperature is optimal (200–210°C for PLA). 
  2. Parts don't fit together 
    Check your printer's scaling settings (should be 100%) and calibrate X/Y axes. 
  3. Parts are too fragile 
    Increase infill (recommended: 50–60%) and consider printing with 3+ perimeters.

🛠 Tip: Use PLA+ or PETG for stronger parts with less warping.

2. 🧩 Assembly Issues

If Pedro doesn’t snap or move as expected during assembly:

  1. Parts won’t fit together 
    Lightly sand the contact points or reprint the faulty part. 
  2. Gears not turning smoothly 
    Apply a small amount of lubricant or check alignment with the planetary gear guide. 
  3. OLED screen or battery won’t fit 
    Double-check orientation and cable positioning. Refer to the build guide.

🛠 Make sure to assemble Pedro without forcing — remember, no screws or tools required!

3. ⚙️ Motor Malfunctions After Programming

Pedro is alive but… not quite moving right? Let’s fix that.

  1. Motors twitch or rotate uncontrollably at startup
    Add a short delay in your Arduino sketch before sending position commands.
  2. No motor movement at all
    Check motor power wiring (6V regulated from LiPo) and verify servo pins in code.
  3. Inconsistent or jerky movement
    Use external power for servos, not from the Arduino. Check for overheating.
  4. One motor draws too much current
    Replace the servo or inspect for gear blockage or mechanical resistance.

🛠 Use the Serial Monitor to debug communication and use simple test sketches to isolate the issue.

Want more help?

Check our GitHub Discussions or join the community for support!