Small repairs, such as changing or repairing a tire, cleaning and lubricating the chain, or replacing brake pads, can all be done yourself using standard tools.
Maintain your electric bike yourself and save on repairs
Do-it-yourself e-bike maintenance and repairs can save you money and get you back on the road fast. Find out which repairs you can do at home and when it's best to call in a professional.
Electric bikes are very reliable, but they may need repairs. Good maintenance and a few basic skills can save you money. Here are some useful maintenance tips.
DIY maintenance tips for your electric bike
- Invest in a home tool kit: Buy a small basic kit including Allen keys, a puncture-proof kit, screwdrivers and cleaning products. This is enough for most small repairs.
- Use a multimeter to check the battery: The battery is essential. If it stops charging, first check the charger and charging port. Then use a multimeter to measure voltage and identify electrical problems.
- Inspect the motor Check cables and connections. On a rear-wheel motor, you'll need to disconnect it to remove the wheel. Inspect seals for wear or suspicious noise. Restart the system to reset any errors.
- Brake adjustmentBrake adjustment: Brake pads wear out and brakes can go out of adjustment. Listen for squeaking or rubbing noises. Most EABs are equipped with hydraulic disc brakes, which require a little more know-how, but are still accessible.
- Buy good-quality parts, but not high-end ones: Invest in durable components, without aiming for competition equipment. Quality tires and brakes last longer and avoid frequent replacement.
When to call in a professional
If you're not sure, visit a mechanic. Motor and controller failures are complex and often require special tools. What's more, home repairs can void your warranty.
Regular maintenance tips for your VAE
- Routine checks: Check battery, motor and cables regularly.
- Battery care: Keep the battery clean and charged.
- Cleaning and lubrication: Clean and lubricate chains and gears.
- Check tires and brakes : Make sure everything is properly inflated and functional.
Conclusion
Repairing a bike yourself saves money and helps you get to know your bike better. But when in doubt, a professional is the best option. Specialized workshops are here to help.
Your most frequently asked questions
What e-bike repairs can I do myself, without any specialist knowledge?
How to check an e-bike battery with a multimeter?
First fully charge the battery, set the multimeter to DC, then place the red and black probes on the battery's positive and negative poles. Voltage should match your battery's specifications (typically 36V or 48V). If it doesn't, you may have a problem.
When should you call in a professional for your e-bike?
Call in a specialist if you have a problem with the motor, battery or controller, or if there are malfunctions or error messages that you can't solve yourself. Also, when in doubt about your skills, or after an accident, a professional check is a must.
How do you adjust the brakes on your e-bike at home, especially the hydraulic disc brakes?
Use an Allen key (often 5 mm) to loosen the brake caliper slightly, tighten the brake lever to align the caliper with the disc, then retighten the bolts while keeping the lever tight. Then check that the brakes are not rubbing and are operating correctly.
What basic tools are essential for DIY e-bike maintenance?
A set of Allen keys, a tires repair kit, screwdrivers, a bike pump, a multimeter, chain lubricant and cleaning brushes are essential for most minor e-bike repairs.