How to fold the scooter Xiaomi: step-by-step instructions

Xiaomi’s electric vehicle has gained popularity for its compactness and convenience, but many owners have difficulty putting the device in the trunk of a car or carrying it into the subway. Proper folding is not just a matter of saving space, but also a way to extend the life of the steering rack locking mechanism. Misunderstanding the latch’s operation often leads to breakdowns or accidental disclosure of the structure while driving, which can be dangerous.

In this article, we will take a look at the algorithm for different models, including the Mi Electric Scooter 1S, Pro 2 and the newer versions of the 4 Series. You will learn about the nuances of working with the lock lever, the features of steering and precautions that will help to avoid damage to the cables or screen.

Before you start manipulating the device, make sure it is on a flat surface.Sharp movements or attempts to fold the scooter on weight can cause the front fork to fall and damage.

Preparation for folding and safety measures

The first step before any design manipulation is to stop the device completely, the engine must be turned off and the scooter must be in a static position, and if you have just completed the trip, let the brake discs cool down so that they do not accidentally get burned when you touch the frame during the tilt.

Carefully inspect the area where the steering rack and deck are connected, there should be no foreign objects, dirt or sand that can jam the mechanism, especially after driving over rough terrain or in bad weather, and mud in the hinge is one of the main causes of tight latching.

⚠️ Warning: Never try to fold the scooter while driving or without taking your foot off the pedal.This can lead to loss of balance and injury.

For disc brake models, it is recommended to move the caliper or make sure that when folding it does not affect other parts of the structure. Although Xiaomi design provides gaps, it is better to be safe. Also check whether all visible bolts are tightened reliably, since vibration when folding can aggravate the existing backlash.

Algorithm of folding models of the series 1S, Pro and Pro 2

The most common group of devices includes the M365, 1S, Essential and Pro 2 models, which have the same pattern as the lock at the bottom of the steering column, and first, you need to bend the plastic protective casing if it blocks access to the lever.

Take the lock lever and press it down with your thumb while you push it aside. This action unlocks the top of the mechanism. Don't be afraid to apply a moderate force -- the spring inside is quite tight to prevent accidental opening on the move. Once unlocked, raise the lever up to a characteristic click or stop.

Now, with one hand holding the steering wheel and the other holding the bottom of the rack, gently tilt it forward. The steering column should go down parallel to the deck. On the rear wing, you'll see a special hook bracket, and that's where you need to insert a protruding pin on the bottom of the steering tube.

• 🔹 Press the lock and pull the lever aside to unlock.
• 🔹 Raise the lever up to the point, releasing the clamp.
• 🔹 Smoothly tilt the steering wheel forward to the rear wing.
• 🔹 Snatch a pin by a plastic brace on the wing.

Once the pin has entered the engagement, the structure is considered folded. However, for complete reliability, it is recommended to make sure that the steering wheel does not dangle from side to side. If there is a strong backlash, you may need to adjust the tension of the cable or replace worn-out elements.

Features of folding new models (Series 4 and newer)

More modern models like the Xiaomi Electric Scooter 4 and 4 Pro have an updated dual lock mechanism, which is designed to improve security, but requires a slightly different approach. It uses a two-stage system: first unlock the top lock, then the bottom lock.

Press the unlock button on the lock body and pull the lever away at the same time. Unlike the older versions, it's not just about lifting the lever, it's about making sure the inner rod is completely out of the grip. Often users don't press the button, causing the steering wheel to either go down or fall too sharply.

When folding the new model, pay attention to the position of the cables. In Series 4, they are laid differently, and if you do not handle them carefully, you can damage the insulation against the edges of the metal elements.

The position is also fixed through a hook on the wing, but the shape of the hook itself has been changed to fit tightly, which reduces vibration when carried, but requires a more accurate pin to hit the groove.

Typical errors and problems with the fixation mechanism

One of the most common problems is that the lever is not fully closed, and users often leave it in an intermediate position, believing that this is enough, and this is a critical error: an unfixed lever can open at any moment, which will lead to the scooter folding at full speed.

Another common mistake is to ignore foreign sounds, and if you screech, crunch, or knock when you fold, you signal a lack of lubrication or abrasive particles, and if you keep using the device in this state, you can drain the metal surfaces of the latch.

Some users try to force the lever to close if it doesn't close, but you can't do that. If the lever doesn't fit, it means the pin doesn't fit in the groove or a foreign object gets in the way, and if you force it to close, it will deform the metal.

⚠️ Warning: If you notice that the lock lever spontaneously descends while driving, immediately stop using the scooter.

Care of folding mechanism and lubrication

Folding unit requires regular maintenance for long-term operation, and frequency depends on operating conditions: when driving in dry weather, it is enough to check the mechanism once a season, and when operating actively in winter or in rain - monthly.

Use only lubricants that don't attract dust and dirt. Silicone lubricants or WD-40 Specialist Silicone sprays are ideal. Ordinary machine oil or lithole will quickly pick up abrasives, turning into grinding paste that will accelerate wear.

The maintenance process is simple: clean the mechanism of old dirt with dry rags, then apply a thin layer of lubricant to rubbing surfaces and fold the steering wheel several times to distribute the composition.

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Use compressed air to blow the mechanism before lubricating, which will help to wash the sand from hard-to-reach places where the cloth will not get.

And you can look at the condition of the rubber seals, if you have them in your model, and they protect the interiors from moisture, and when you dry out, the rubber cracks, so you can also treat it with silicone to maintain elasticity.

Transportation and storage in folded form

When the scooter is folded, it becomes compact, but still weighs a lot. When carrying it on public transport, keep the device so that the wheels do not touch the clothes of other passengers. Dirt from the wheels can spoil other people's belongings, which can lead to conflicts.

While IP54 or IP65 is protected, long-term storage in a wet garage or balcony without additional protection can lead to corrosion of metal parts, especially in the folding area where the paintwork is broken when friction occurs.

If you plan to carry a scooter in the trunk of a car, lock it with your belts or simply put it so it doesn't roll over the trunk.The dangling device can hit the deck against the inner walls, damaging plastic or paint.

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Proper storage in folded form prevents deformation of the frame and saves the battery life, protecting the device from temperature and moisture changes.

In winter, when you put a scooter from the cold into a warm room, don't try to fold it or decompose it right away. Let the device warm up for 20-30 minutes. Plastic in the cold becomes brittle, and a sharp movement can break the brace or the lever itself.