Do you happen to own an electric scooter? That’s awesome! You’re among the cool folks who’ve chosen a more eco-friendly way to get around by swapping out cars.
If your electric scooter is acting up, no worries! There are some steps you can take to figure out and sort the issue. This guide covers checking the battery, tires, brakes, and motor. It also suggests giving the manual a look and, if needed, getting a pro’s opinion. So, if you’re having a bit of trouble with your electric scooter, this article is here to help you out.
How to fix an electric scooter
Owning an electric scooter is an enjoyable experience, but encountering problems is inevitable. However, before attempting any repairs, it’s essential to prioritize your safety. Some issues may require professional assistance. With that said, let’s explore the most common electric scooter problems and how to fix them.
Dead Battery
One of the most common issues electric scooter owners face is a dead battery. This can occur due to a defective battery, improper charging, extremely cold temperatures, or a battery reaching the end of its lifespan.
To fix a dead battery, start by charging it. However, keep in mind that it may take longer to fully charge. To prevent this issue, ensure that your battery never runs out of charge. Make it a habit to charge your electric scooter battery at the end of each day.
If the battery still doesn’t charge, try plugging it into different sockets to rule out a faulty charger. Using a voltmeter can help determine if your battery is receiving a charge or not. If charging attempts fail, it may be time to replace the battery with a new one.
Overheating Engine
Excessive engine heat can be caused by high temperatures or overloading. If you notice your electric scooter’s engine heating up, it’s crucial to turn off the scooter immediately to prevent damage to the engine and battery.
After turning off the scooter, allow it to cool down before inspecting the wiring, fuse, or electrical controller for any issues. If you discover problems with the wiring or fuse, it’s advisable to contact a technician for repairs. Avoid using the scooter until the issue is resolved.
Blown Fuse
Blown fuses are often the result of overloading the scooter or circuit breaker. When a fuse blows, the electric scooter will not turn on. Repeatedly blowing fuses can eventually lead to damage to the speed controller or motor.
To fix a blown fuse, check if the main ignition fuses are turned on. If not, switch them on and attempt to start the engine again. If the engine still doesn’t start, it’s necessary to replace the blown fuse. For safety reasons, it is recommended to have a technician handle fuse replacements.
Decreased Speed
If your electric scooter is slowing down or stopping during trips, particularly on flat roads, it may be a sign that your batteries are wearing down.
Unfortunately, the only solution for this issue is to replace the worn-down batteries with new ones. As batteries age, their capacity decreases, resulting in decreased speed and range. To prolong battery lifespan, avoid undercharging or overcharging them.
To maximize your electric scooter’s battery life, consider the following tips:
- Avoid exposing the battery to extreme temperatures.
- Charge the battery regularly, even during periods of inactivity.
- Use the appropriate charger for your specific electric scooter model.
Kill Switch
Some electric scooters are equipped with a kill switch, allowing you to conserve energy when the scooter is not in use or while charging. If your scooter fails to start, check if the kill switch is turned on.
If the kill switch is activated, simply switch it off and restart the engine. If the engine still doesn’t start, inspect the battery and engine for other potential issues. If you’re unable to identify the problem, it’s best to consult a technician for assistance.
Faulty Speed Controller
A faulty speed controller is another common problem that electric scooter owners may encounter. The speed controller manages the scooter’s speed and ensures it stays within a predefined range. However, it is prone to damage if not properly maintained.
To troubleshoot a defective speed controller, start by dismantling it. Check for loose or damaged wires and tighten or replace them as necessary. Once the repairs are complete, reassemble the speed controller, ensuring all connections are secure. Test the scooter to ensure smooth acceleration.
Lack of Acceleration
If your electric scooter fails to move or accelerates slowly on flat ground, there may be an issue with the speed controller, fuse, or electrical wiring.
To address this problem, inspect the speed controller, fuse, and wiring for any signs of damage or malfunction. If everything appears to be in working order, it’s advisable to seek professional assistance to diagnose and resolve the issue.
Defective Battery Charger
A defective battery charger can be a significant inconvenience, as it prevents you from using your electric scooter. Chargers can become faulty due to overcharging, using incorrect voltage, or general wear and tear.
If your charger fails to function, first try plugging it into different sockets to ensure the issue is not with the power source. Check for any indicator lights on the charger that indicate it is receiving electricity. If the charger remains unresponsive, it may be necessary to replace it with a new one. Before purchasing a replacement charger, ensure it is compatible with the power voltage in your home.
Scooter Shuts Off While Riding
Experiencing sudden shutdowns while riding your electric scooter can be alarming. This issue is often caused by the circuit breaker tripping due to steep inclines or overloading.
To address this problem, check the fuse or circuit breaker for signs of overheating or loose wires. Tighten any loose wires securely. After the scooter has come to a stop, wait for a few seconds, then attempt to restart it. To prevent future shutdowns, it is advisable to have the scooter inspected by a professional.
Flat Tire
Flat tires are a common problem for electric scooter owners, especially those with pneumatic or air-filled tires. Punctures or leaks can cause a loss of air pressure and hinder the scooter’s performance.
To fix a flat tire, consider applying tire sealant to small punctures. However, if the puncture is significant, it may be necessary to replace the entire tire. Removing and replacing the tire can be challenging depending on your scooter model, so consult specific repair guides or seek professional assistance.
Other minor issues with electric scooters
It’s no secret that electric scooters are all the rage these days. There are a few different companies that make them, but they all have one thing in common: they’re affordable, convenient, and a whole lot of fun. But like any other vehicle, they can have their problems. Here are few tips to fix electric scooter issues.
Check the wiring
One of the most common problems with electric scooters is that the wiring can come loose. This can cause a number of problems, including a loss of power or the electric scooter not working at all.
To fix this, you’ll need to check the wiring and make sure that everything is tight and secure. If you’re not sure how to do this, you can always take it to a professional.
Check the brake lever switch
Another common problem is that the brake lever switch can become stuck or accidentally turned on. When it is turned on, it will deactivate the whole system of the electric scooter. As a result, this will cause the scooter to lose power or even stop working.
To fix this, you’ll need to check the brake lever switch and make sure that it’s not stuck. Also, check for loose wiring and reconnect them. If that doesn’t work, then you may need to ask for professional repair.
Weak acceleration
If your scooter isn’t accelerating as quickly as it should be, it could be due to a number of different problems. One of the most common is an electrical controller or fuse problem.
In such a case, the engine can’t draw power from its battery, and the scooter won’t move. This means you will need to send it to a professional for repair.
Runs for a short period
If your scooter only runs for a short period of time, it could be due to a number of different problems. One of the most common is that the batteries are old. Old batteries do not hold a charge for a long time nor charge quickly. In such cases, replace the batteries to fix the issue.
These are just a few of the most common problems that you might experience with your electric scooter. If you’re having trouble with yours, be sure to check these things first.
Most of the problems are considered common and included in the electric scooter’s manual. Some of them might be a little different. By following these steps, you can get your electric scooter back up and running in no time. Remember to always use caution when working on any vehicle, and if you are unsure about any aspect of the repair process, it is always best to seek professional help.
FAQs|How To Fix An Electric Scooter?
How do I fix my electric scooter not working?
Ensure it’s charged and properly connected.
Look for loose or damaged wires.
Ensure it’s not engaged unintentionally.
Check for any signs of damage or overheating.
How to fix an electric scooter motor?
Ensure all wires are securely connected.
Look for physical damage or debris.
Ensure it’s functioning properly.
Ensure it’s sending signals correctly.
How do I work my electric scooter?
Turn on the scooter using the designated switch.
Use the handlebar controls appropriately.
Obey speed limits and traffic regulations.
Keep the battery charged for optimal performance.
How do I reset my electric scooter?
Turn off the scooter completely.
Check the scooter for a reset button.
Hold down the reset button for a few seconds.
Turn the scooter back on after the reset process.