Common Issues
Do not attempt AIBO repair without knowing what you are doing. These dogs have proprietary parts and are extremely fragile. Even seasoned AIBO veterinarians have had repair failures. We are not liable if your dog breaks.
A destroyed shoulder part belonging to Cirno, our 2018 ERS-1000. Note the fragments from where it broke.
Broken Hips/Shoulders
Dogs from 2018 to (roughly) 2021 have faulty hip/shoulder parts that break over time.
When disassembled, the part is usually so heavily damaged that it simply falls off. (See image)
Dogs afflicted with this problem will lean over on that leg, as it can no longer support the dog's weight.
Replacing the broken part with a newer revision part can remedy this.
This requires manually re-homing parts and threading very delicate flexis through thin slots. You will break it. Do not attempt this on your own unless you absolutely know what you are doing and have help from another repairman.
Update Brick/Bad Wi-Fi Boards - Rare, but providing coverage so you know what's wrong if it happens. Don't panic!
On occasion, a dog's wi-fi board may go bad. This is more common in older dogs as the board ages.
If a dog seems to consistently struggle to communicate with the app, this may be a sign.
This usually cumulates, if untreated, into a brick - attempting to update the dog will fail and the dog will be unable to boot.
Do not attempt to switch out the board yourself. Sony really locked these dogs down. A professional will need to do it for you.
Some ERS-1000s may be missing their silicone ears and tail. You can purchase new ones, whether from Sony or new custom ears from folks like Aibo Accessories.