What is the brand and model of your cleaner?

I believe it is a Polaris 3900. Thank you for your help. We were wondering if we needed to add a small ledge midway down the wall to force the cleaner to turn around and continue cleaning the bottom. The problem is we just finished the pool and now we realized the problem.

it should do it itself by going up and turning to go down again, or something. We also have a 1.5 year old Polaris something and it worked great last summer but this year I noticed it gets stuck in the same spot at a step every time. I swear it runs the same route, towards the deep end a few minutes and then straight to the step and stuck.

I'm hoping @Mystic Pools, LLC can give us both answers. :)

We have been using the Polaris 280 for years now. It's based on the original model 180 from the 70's. It's the only cleaner we install on all new builds or reno projects.

The 3900 is essentially the same except for a chain drive system.

The pool filter must be clean and allowed to deliver the proper flow to the booster pump for proper operation.

I would check is the ball float attached at the top-looks like a tiny football.

Often the ball cracks and water gets in which affects the cleaner's operation.

Disconnect the cleaner and put in on the deck. Try manually turning the left front wheel to see if the opposite wheel is engaged. If not, an adjustment to engage the wheel may be necessary.

Make sure the wall fitting screen is clear of any debris. Clogged screens impede water flow and affect operation.

Make sure the bottom of the cleaner is not jammed up with kids toys, swim goggles, etc...

There's a jet at the back bottom to allow the cleaner to climb the walls or keep it on the pool floor. Generally is set around the 11 o'clock position.

Attached is the link to Polaris's site on the 3900. You can view the owner's manual. It's more descriptive and shows illustrations. There's also a troubleshooting section.

If you're really in a jam, the support tech hot line is available to homeowners too.

https://www.polarispool.com/en/products/pressure/polaris-3900

Good info, Mystic, thank you!

Found out I have a Pentair racer instead of a polaris. :) But I'll still check all those options.