E-bikes are cost-effective, but they also have their downtime. How do you resolve this issue when it arises? An e-bike repair shop is a perfect place to get it fixed. But if you keep taking your bike to the repair shop at every sign of distress, you might one day realize that you’re financially overextended.
And, your bike could break down in the most random place with no help in sight. What do you do then?
Do you want your e-bike in top shape, running smoothly, save some cash, and ride stress-free? Here are some DIY tips to help you handle common e-bike issues you may come across now and then.
Simple DIY Quick Fixes for Common E-bike Issues
We’re not promising you a toolbox or the time it will take to repair your e-bike, but we can definitely guide you on how to fix common e-bike issues, DIY. All you need is a toolbox, time, and a step-by-step guide.
- E-bike Battery Problems
Battery problems can come in different forms. Below are some possible battery issues you might encounter, along with quick solutions.
Significant reduction in range (ie, shorter battery life)
Quick fix:
Your battery is either wearing out or running low on voltage. Run a quick wellness check with a battery tester to discover the root cause of the issue. Always keep the battery in a fully charged state. This reduces the significant cause of the enhanced drop in power holding capacity.
Losing battery power immediately after charging
Quick fix:
Power down your bike and other battery-powered features. Allow the battery to cool off if it is too hot. Then give it a thorough wipe down; do not forget to pay extra attention to the terminals.
When it’s dry, clean, and cool, double-check the connections to be sure they are snug and secure. Now, go ahead and charge it to full capacity.
Takes too long to charge to full capacity
Quick fix:
If the charger output is lower than your e-bike battery, then it will take too long to charge. This is why it is important to charge with a compatible e-bike battery charger. Furthermore, charging in a cool and conducive environment prevents slow charging.
Overheats while riding or charging
Quick fix:
Overheating of the e-bike battery is a common phenomenon and can be caused by different events. The first one is a lack of ventilation, steep hills, heavy loads, or friction from wheels. If you can avoid these factors while riding, you might have solved the overheating problem.
Don’t forget that extreme environmental temperatures can cause your e-bike battery to overheat, so be careful where you charge your bike. Once you notice that your battery is too hot, stop riding/charging and let it cool off in a well-ventilated area. Then you can get back to riding/charging.
Obvious damage or corrosion
Quick fix:
There is no quick fix for a physically damaged e-bike battery. The best option is to take it to a professional outlet for repair or replacement.
Corrosion affects internal circuits, reduces performance, and increases risk. Cracks, burns, swelling, and other forms of physical damage can pose serious safety risks, like fire and electric shock.
E-bike Battery not charging.
Quick fix:
If your battery is not charging, start by checking your power source to make sure it’s working properly. Confirm your charger is in good condition, then connect it to the charging port. Reset the battery control and wait for the battery to cool off. Proceed with the cleaning of the connectors. No changes or improvements, visit an e-bike repair shop.
- Motor Issues
For e-bikes with motor problems, you’ll likely notice issues like no engagement, power cuts, strange noises, overheating, and reduced range.
E-bike Refuses to Engage Motor
Quick fix:
If your motor doesn’t engage when you start your e-bike, check to see if the battery is in order and properly charged. It might also be a case of the controller not working properly or loose connections.
If the no-engagement problem persists, check the gearing system. Check to see that you’ve selected the proper gear before your bike can start.
Power Cut
Quick fix:
If your e-bike’s power keeps fluctuating, do not panic. You can resolve this issue by checking the connectors. To see that they are in place. Check the battery power level to confirm it is fully charged and properly seated; also, ensure the battery terminals are not loose or dirty. Not solved yet? You can check the wires, the fuse, and possibly the circuit for possible damage. After this checkout, visit a professional if no changes are in sight.
Strange noises
Quick fix:
Your e-bike should sound smooth and even endearing. If you notice any weird sounds, then something is definitely wrong.
If it’s clicking or creaking, you need to check the pedals, chain, or crank arms. If it’s squealing, it may be the brakes. For grinding sound, you need to check your gears. This is a sign that the gear needs lubrication. You may need to check the bolts, fenders, and battery mount if there is a rattling noise.
All of these can cause your e-bike motors not to function efficiently. Redjust, tighten, and lubricate these parts as required.
3. Chain problem
A chain problem, no matter how small, can cause you to lose control while riding. It is even worse if you’re riding at high speed or in an uphill direction.
Slipped chain
Quick fix:
First, power off your e-bike, set the bike stand in place, locate the chain, and gently guide the chain back onto the correct gear using a tool or your hand. Once the chain is on the right gear, pedal forward by hand until it runs smoothly.
Skipped chain
Quick fix:
Look around for a stiff link, signs of wear, or dirt buildup. Clean out the area and lubricate appropriately. Confirm any loose chains. For loose chains, tighten them to strengthen the tension.
If there is a worn-out part, replace it immediately. When you’re done, shift through gears to ensure smooth operation.
Note that when a chain skips, it jumps over gear teeth, usually due to a worn chain or misaligned derailleur. When a chain slips, it falls off the chainring due to a loose chain, misalignment, or shifting under load.
4. Flat Tire
Some e-bike issues are either a flat tire or just low air pressure. Whatever the case, here is a quick DIY fix for it.
Low air
Quick fix:
Inflate the tire to the recommended PSI using the bike pump. Once it is fully inflated to the recommended pressure, remove the bike pump and quickly close the valve by screwing the cap back on.
Inspect the tire thoroughly. If you notice any hissing sounds or punctures, remove the wheel and patch the puncture using a patch kit. Replace the entire inner tube if the puncture is too big to be patched.
Worn-out tire
Quick fix:
A worn tyre could be a result of cracks, low tread, or bald spots. Whatever the case, swap it out to avoid flats, skidding, or even accidents.
When replacing your tyres, consider your wheel size as rated for speed and weight. Don’t forget to check on the rest of your tyres.
Conclusion
Create the best memories with your e-bike with a little know-how and routine maintenance checks. Take the time to build a relationship with your bike; this will help you notice small signs and fix them before they escalate. Pay attention to your e-bike for a longer and smoother ride.
Need help keeping your e-bike functional and efficient without stress? Furybikers has you covered with reliable e-bike news, reviews, and expert support.
