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While riding your electric bike is fun and exciting, the feeling can turn sour if you keep having reoccurring electric bike error codes and you do not know what it is. Some codes can be ignored, while some demand swift attention.
What then are the electric bike error codes, and what do they even mean? How can you fix the error codes and keep up running? You will find all answers to those here.
If you see an error code, it means your ebike is experiencing an issue and isn’t able to continue running. Your electric bike is equipped with a sophisticated diagnostic system. This system will help you understand what is going on when problems arise. But first, you need to know how your electric bike communicates with you.
In the event of a problem, your electric bike will display an error code. You can find this code on the information screen on your handlebars or the lighted display on the back of your e-bike, just above the rear wheel.
Key Takeaways:
- Ignoring the error code on your electric bike will cause more havoc than good.
- The error code is always telling you of something wrong with the electric bike.
- Getting familiar with the error codes can make you do the right thing by fixing anyone that comes up
Electric Bike Error Codes: What Is It?
Electric bike error codes are displayed on the LCD. This can be an error code or an error message. The error code or message indicates that there is a problem with the electrical system of your electric bike.
You probably already know that most errors can be fixed with some simple troubleshooting if you have an electric bike. So there are only a few cases where you will need to send your bike in for service. But if you are looking for more information on those cases, or if you just like to be informed about what your bike may be telling you, this is the place to be.
The chart below shows the common electric bike error codes that you should know, the causes and the way to fix if you ever experience one.
Error code | Causes | Solution |
Code 4 | Open throttle fault | Inspect the throttle lever and adjust the position. Also, you can just turn off the throttle and turn it in again. If none doesn’t work, then you need to get the electric bike to your mechanic |
Code 5 | Throttle gets damaged | The best solution is to inspect the throttle cable to see if it is damaged or not. If it is, you should consider changing it for a new one. An experienced person will find it easy to do for you. |
Code 6 | Low voltage protection – It means the battery charge or power is too low to operate the bike. | It is an indication you need to charge the electric bike. The functionality depends on the charge the battery has or can hold. Charging the electric bike will make the difference. |
Code 7 | Over voltage protection – It means the charge or power of the battery has exceeded the required for the bike to operate optimally. | You need to check to see that you have the right battery. If not, remove and replace with the right battery. |
Code 8 | Motor hall sensor fault – it could be as a result of a disconnected or damaged sensor | You need to check the motor hall wire and ensure it is not damaged or disconnected. If disconnected, you can just fix back. But if damaged, you will have to replace it with a new one. |
Code 10 | High temperature fault | You need to stay off the bike for a while and allow the controller to cool down. You can take a break of 5 to 10 minutes before riding again. |
Code 12 and 21 | Current sensor fault | The best way to solve this is to check the sensor and ensure it is not disconnected or damaged. You should replace it if damaged and fix it if disconnected. |
Code 25 | Brake anomaly | You just need to unplug the brake and do some inspection. Check the brakes and fix if you find any abnormalities. If not, and the error code persists, you can consult your mechanic. |
Code 29 | Battery voltage sensor fault | You should restart the bike if you see this code. If after restarting the error remains, the chance the sensor is damaged is high and you should contact your mechanic. |
Code 30 | Communication error | You should check for all cable connections as one is likely to be the cause of the code. If you notice one, you should fix it or replace it if it is damaged. |
Code 34 | ACC voltage error | Check the power supply of the bike and ensure all is in good condition. Any code of such means the power source is malfunctioning. |
Code 35 | Sensor 4V3 error | The power sensor is faulty and you might have to fix it or replace it with a new one. |
Code 36 | Lights V error | Power output failure and it is caused by faulty wiring. The best way to fix it is to allow your mechanic to check the bike. |
Why Is My Electric Bike Battery Not Working?
A few things can cause your electric bike battery to stop working.
Poor Wiring
The first thing you should check is the wiring. If the wiring is correct, then it could mean that your motor isn’t functioning properly. It could also mean that you need to recharge the battery.
You Overcharge the Battery
Another common reason for your electric bike battery not working is overcharging. This happens when you leave it plugged in too long, and it begins to use up the charge. The best way to avoid this is by keeping your charger unplugged from any outlet when not in use or when not charging.
The Battery Is Dead and Can’t Hold Charges
The most obvious reason your battery may not be working is that it is dead. Your electric bike has a limited range, and if you are going too far on a single charge or if you have been using other non-battery-related functions on your bike that are eating up energy, your battery may run out on a trip.
If this happens, all you need to do is charge your battery. First, plug the charger into an outlet and connect it to the bike; then let the bike sit for 4-6 hours, or use the booster button on the charger for a quick charge in about 1-2 hours (depending on how depleted the battery was).
Electric Bike Error Codes List
There are a variety of error codes that can show up when you are riding an electric bike. While some of these codes only require a quick fix and will get out of the way when you are ready, others need to be addressed by a professional for safety reasons.
Below are the different error codes and what they mean:
Open Throttle Fault
If you get an error code of four messages or symbols, the most common cause is the throttle sensor. This part is at the front of your bicycle and usually has a little wire running to your controller. If this wire is damaged or the sensor itself gets wet, it may not be able to tell that you are applying power to the motor. To solve this, just do the followings:
- Inspect the throttle lever and adjust its position.
- Turn the throttle off, then on again, or try a different throttle.
- If the problem persists, contact support for assistance.
For further assistance, check the chart below.
Electric bike brands | Error code | Solution |
Any model | Code 5 | It is caused by the throttle and you can solve by inspecting the throttle case and wiring for lose wiring or bad connection. Either of those could be the problem and you can fix with relacing the damaged device or contact your mechanic. |
Any Model | Code 4 | To solve the issue, you just need to unplug and plug in the throttle again. |
MAHLE ebikemotion | The throttle didn’t go back | Release the throttle, switch off the bike and leave for minutes before you turn on. It should work and if not, always call for support. |
MAHLE ebikemotion | Throttle issue | It is likely the throttle is damaged and you need to call a mechanic. |
MAHLE ebikemotion | Torque fault | Reaching out to your mechanic will help solve the issue. |
Speed or Torque Sensor Error
A few different things can cause the speed sensor error with code 2, but a loose wire connection is most common. A wire can come loose from both the control box and the magnet on the wheel sensor. Simply re-tightening these connections should fix the problem.
These are common speed or torque sensor errors you can come across based on different electric bike models.
Electric bike brands | Electric bike error code | Solution |
Yamaha/Haibike | Code 38 | The torque sensor or drive shaft is likely to be damaged and you need to replace it. |
Yamaha/Haibike | Code 31/32 | You need to replace the cable that is connecting the controller and the torque sensor. If the error code persists, then you need to get a new controller. |
Yamaha/Haibike | Code 39 | Replacing the drive shaft or controller will solve the issue. |
Yamaha/Haibike | CHK MAGNET | Inspect the speed sensor to know if it is properly in the right place. If it is and the error still shows, then you might have to change the speed sensor. |
Yamaha/Haibike | SPD SNSR | Inspect the speed sensor to know if it is properly in the right place. If it is and the error still shows, then you might have to change the speed sensor. |
Yamaha/Giant | A5 | Inspect the speed sensor to know if it is properly in the right place. If it is and the error still shows, then you might have to change the speed sensor. |
Haibike FLYON | 74 | The code error is common to the torque sensor and you can get it fixed by taking your feet off the pedal the moment you are restarting the system. |
Shimano | W011 | If the sensor is not properly installed, you need to check it and reinstall it properly. It will solve the issue. |
Shimano | W013 | You should take your feet off the pedals and press the power button to restart. It should solve the issue. |
BOSCH | 503 | Restarting the electric bike will solve the issue |
Panasonic | C-3A | Taking your feet off when switching the motor on will solve the issue. |
Panasonic | 6B-39 | Restarting the system will solve the issue |
Hall Brake Sensor Error
Faulty electric brake sensors with error code three can cause electric bikes to emit error codes. The electric bike will not operate when this error occurs. You must either engage the brake lever or deactivate the sensor before the bike works again.
Temperature Error
When you see error code 4, your battery is too hot and needs to cool down. It can be caused by riding in the direct hot sun for extended periods or because the battery is defective. To cool the battery down, make sure to ride at a lower power level until the temperature stabilizes.
If you see any of the code and you use any of the electric models on the chart below, you can check the solution on how to solve it.
Electric bike model | Electric bike error code | Solution |
MAHLE ebikemotion | Driver error over-temperature | You need the machine to cool down. |
MAHLE ebikemotion | Temperature sensor fault | The best solution is to contact your dealer |
MAHLE ebikemotion | Over-temperature protection | You need to allow the bike to cool down. Just shut the bike off and leave it for minutes to cool down before restarting. |
Shimano | W1010 | The code shows that the temperature is too high and taking a break will solve the issue to put the code off |
Panasonic | 6A-38 | Taking a break from the use of the electric bike will solve the problem |
Controller Error
The controller of an electric bike acts as the main information center or brain of the machine. If a controller error occurs, the lights on your bike will either flash a few times or stay completely on.
However, before checking for controller errors, make sure your power is on and charged up. Next, check if you have any loose connections or are running into issues between your battery pack and the controller.
Electric bike brand | Electric bike code error | Solution |
MAHLE ebikemotion | 11 – COMMUNICATION FAULT LOST FRAME JOB | Inspecting the remote connector will expose the issue and if you don’t know what to do, you should get the bike to your dealer. |
Yamaha/Giant | A3 | It is a Bluetooth error and you can solve it by replacing the ride control unit. |
MAHLE ebikemotion | 32 – COMM FATAL ERROR | Restarting the electric bike will solve the issue and if it doesn’t, you should revert to your dealer. |
Yamaha/Giant | A2 | You can check the plug connection for any disconnection and you can fix the issue. |
Battery Voltage Sensor Error
If the battery voltage sensor indicates low voltage, the controller will cut off electricity to the electric motor. So if your bike experiences a steep decline in electric power while riding, check your battery and battery connections. The error code you are likely to see is error code 29.
Low Voltage Error
Your low voltage error code 6 means that the battery is too low to allow you to power up your motor. This could be for several reasons, but typically it is because the battery has been left on charge for too long or the battery’s power level is just below the recommended minimum voltage.
High Voltage Error
A high voltage error code 7 is when the electric bike battery or controller detects that the voltage goes above the recommended voltage. The reason that this error occurs could be because of a problem with your bike’s battery or with the controller.
Brake Abnormality Error
The brake abnormality is a generic electric bike status error with code 25. Brake Abnormality errors occur when the electric bike’s brake is not working properly. This can be due to several reasons.
For example, a small mechanical switch under the handlebar can break or be held down by an object. The next step would be to remove the handlebar, turn it over, and look for broken or disconnected wires.
How Do I Fix the Error Code on My Electric Bike?
If your electric bike is displaying an error code, there are a few things you can try to fix. We have written this step-by-step guide to walk you through the process.
- Step 1: Confirm that all components are properly connected and in working order. Check the wires and battery.
- Step 2: Check the wheel sensors. Make sure there is no oil or dirt on them to work properly. Also, make sure they are not damaged from wear and tear (i.e., if they have been bent or torn). If damaged, you will have to repair as that might be the cause of the error code.
- Step 3: Reset your bike by turning off the power button and removing any batteries for at least five seconds before replacing them in place on their charging station(s). Resetting the bike will erase all code if there is no advanced issue going on with the electric bike.
- Step 4: You can restart the bike and enjoy your ride. Use a key fob method for starting the bike without key.
Conclusion
If you ride your electric bike often and notice some code on the LCD for the first time, you do not need to fret and worry. Those error codes can be resolved and most error codes are fairly easy to resolve.
All you have to do is match it up with the codes described above and take the right step ahead to resolve it. Now that you know how you can identify the electric bike error codes and how to fix them, the process should become a ton easier.
A mechanical engineer became an active blogger, and it’s James Miller. Well, the journey of his blogging started more than a decade ago. As a mechanical engineer, he started his professional career as a technical assistant in a renowned automotive industry and later joined an e-bike manufacturing company as a quality in charge. James created this site “Bikerreview” to share his decade of experience with e-bikes. He wants to help the people who are newly looking for an e-bike and doesn’t have any prior knowledge about that.
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