Activation of the Xiaomi 1S electric scooter: a full guide from unpacking to the first trip

Xiaomi Electric Scooter 1S is a popular model among urban residents, combining compactness, power and affordable price. However, after buying, many are faced with the question: how to properly activate the device to make it work at full capacity? Unlike conventional scooters, the electric model requires not only mechanical assembly, but also software configuration through an official application.

In this article, we will look at the entire activation process, from unpacking the box to unlocking speed limits (if any), focusing on the typical errors that can occur when you first connect, as well as the nuances of working with the Mi Home or Xiaomi Scooter application. If you bought a used scooter or encountered a message "Device locked", here you will find solutions.

1.Preparation for activation: what to do before activation

Before you press the power button, make sure you follow all the preliminary steps.This will save time and eliminate possible connection problems.

First rule: charge the battery to at least 30% before first turning on. Xiaomi 1S scooter comes with a partially discharged battery, and an attempt to activate at a charge level below 20% can lead to a firmware failure. Use only the original power supply (input voltage 100-240V, output voltage 42V/1.7A).

  • πŸ“¦ Check the configuration: the box should have a scooter, charger, key for folding, 5 screws for mounting the steering wheel, instructions in English / Chinese, warranty card.
  • πŸ”§ Put the steering wheel together, attach it to the base of the scooter with the screws from the kit. Don't pull it over, the optimal timing of the tightening. 4-5 N.
  • πŸ“± Prepare your smartphone: install the Mi Home app (Android/iOS) Or Xiaomi Scooter, upgrade it to the latest version.
  • 🌍 Check the region: if the scooter is bought abroad, you may need to change the region in the application to "Russia" or "Europe" for proper operation.

⚠️ Warning: If the scooter was bought from hand and the previous owner did not untie it from his Mi Account, you will need to reset to factory settings.

πŸ“Š Where did you buy your Xiaomi? 1S?
Official Xiaomi Store
Marketplace (Wildberries, Ozon, etc.)
Private announcement (Avito, Yula)
Abroad (AliExpress, Gearbest)
Another option

2. First on and basic setting

Now, let's get to the activation process itself, and follow the instructions Step-by-step to avoid errors:

  1. Turn on the scooter: press the power button (located on the right steering wheel) on 3 The indicator should be green (charge level) >50%), orange (20-50%) red (<20%). If the indicator flashes red - immediately connect the charger.
  2. Activate Bluetooth: The scooter should flash a blue light, which means that the device is ready to pair. Turn on Bluetooth on your smartphone.
  3. Launch the app: open Mi Home, click Add Device (+ icon in the upper right corner) and select Transport category, then Scooter.
  4. Confirm pairing: When the scooter appears in the list of available devices, click on it. The screen will display a 6-digit code - it must match the code on the scooter display (if there is a display) or sound in a voice message.

Once the app is successfully connected, it will suggest updating the firmware. Don't refuse to upgrade, because in older versions of the software, the scooter can limit speeds to 20 km / h regardless of settings. It will take 5-10 minutes, do not turn off the scooter or close the application.

β˜‘οΈ Checklist before first launch

Done: 0 / 5

3. Unlock speed and adjust parameters

By default, the Xiaomi 1S can be limited to 20 km/h (in some regions) or 25 km/h (European version).To unlock full speed (up to 30 km/h), you need to change the settings in the application.

Open Mi Home, select your scooter and go to Settings.

  • πŸš€ Select "Sport" (maximum speed) or "Standard" (limitation) 25 "Eco" mode limits speed to 15-18 km/h to save charge.
  • πŸ”’ Cruise control: Turn on the option if you want to maintain a constant speed without gas retention.
  • πŸ›‘οΈ Children's Blockage: Install PIN-code to prevent unauthorized use.
  • πŸ”‹ Regenerative braking: select the energy recovery level during braking (weak/medium/strong.

⚠️ Attention: Unlocking speeds above 25 km/h may be prohibited by local law.In Russia, since 2023, scooters are equated to mopeds, and for speed control >25 km/h category M rights are required. Check the current rules in your area.

If the app doesn't have speed unlock, your scooter is locked at the firmware level, and if you do, you can only flash it through DownG or call the service center, and you can learn more about this in the bug section.

What is DownG and should you use it?
DownG is an alternative firmware for Xiaomi electric scooters that allows you to remove speed limits, turn off sound signals and adjust other parameters. However, its installation is unwarranted and can lead to unstable operation of the controller. Use at your own risk!

4.Typical activation errors and their solutions

Even with the correct following of the instructions, there can be problems, and let's look at the most common mistakes and how to fix them:

Mistake.Reason.Decision
Scooter not switched onBattery discharged or controller defectiveCharge the battery for 2-3 hours. If it doesn't work, check the fuse in the battery compartment.
"Device locked" in the annexThe scooter is tied to another accountReset settings via Press the power button + brake for 10 seconds or contact the previous owner
Can't connect to Bluetooth.Outdated firmware or conflict with other devicesUpdate the scooter software and reboot the phone. Turn off the other Bluetooth devices.
Speed limit of 20 km/hRegional settings or firmware from the manufacturerChange the region in Mi Home to Russia or swipe DownG (see spoiler above)
The scooter twitches when movingFailure of the Hall controller or sensorCheck the wires in the steering column, if the problem persists, we need a diagnostic in the service.

If the scooter makes a mistake "E:010" or "E:014", This indicates a problem with the battery or BMS-- In this case, the price is paid:

  1. Turn off the scooter.
  2. Unscrew the battery compartment cover (a cross screwdriver will be required).
  3. Check if the swellings are tight on BMS-pay-off.
  4. If the contacts are oxidized, clean them with alcohol.

πŸ’‘

If the scooter doesn't respond to the power button, try lighting it from another Xiaomi scooter through the charging connector. Sometimes this helps wake the controller up.

5. Activation of used scooter: how to untie from the previous owner

When you buy a Xiaomi 1S, you may be able to get a device that is linked to the previous owner’s account, and you’ll see a message like β€œDevice locked” or β€œThis device is bound to another account.”

Method 1: Reset through a hardware button

Hold it at the same time:

  • Power button
  • Brake button (on the steering wheel)
  • Signal button (if any)

Hold for 10-15 seconds until the indicator flashes red and blue alternately, and then the scooter will reset to the factory settings, and you can link it to your account.

Method 2: Xiaomi Support

If the hardware reset didn't help, contact Xiaomi with proof of purchase (check, sales contract). They can remove the peg remotely.

  1. Take a photo of the serial number of the scooter (under the lid of the battery compartment).
  2. Write to the support chat Mi Home ("Feedback" section) or to support@mi.com.
  3. Attach a photo of the serial number, check and a brief description of the problem.

⚠️ Note: If a seller refuses to provide a check or information about their Mi Account, this may indicate that the scooter is being stolen.

6.Firmware Update: Why It Matters and How to Do It Right

Xiaomi 1S firmware is responsible for controller operation, speed limits and app compatibility.Old software can cause:

  • 🐒 Slow reaction to gas/brake
  • πŸ”‹ Fast battery discharge
  • 🚨 False Controller Errors
  • πŸ“΅ Problems with Bluetooth connection

How to update firmware:

  1. Connect the scooter to the Mi Home app.
  2. Go to the "Device Settings" section β†’ "Firmware Update".
  3. If a new version is available, click "Update".
  4. Wait until the process is complete (do not turn off the scooter!).
  5. After the update, restart the scooter (turn off and turn on).

If the update is hanging:

  • πŸ”„ Reboot the scooter and phone.
  • πŸ“Ά Check the stability of the Internet connection (better use Wi-Fi).
  • πŸ”‹ Make sure the battery is charged >50%.
  • πŸ“± Reinstall the Mi Home app.

πŸ’‘

Update your firmware only through the official app. Using third-party firmware (such as DownG) can lead to loss of warranty and unstable operation.

7.Configure additional features for comfortable driving

In addition to the basic parameters, Xiaomi 1S supports a number of useful features that can be customized to your preferences:

  • πŸ”Š Sound signals: In the application settings, you can turn off the sound of the signal button or adjust the volume of the signal.
  • πŸ’‘ Backlight: Turn on the front light continuously (it only lights when you're driving by default) to increase visibility in the dark.
  • πŸ“Š Travel statistics: the app provides route history, average speed and energy consumption, which will help optimize charging.
  • πŸ” Protection against theft: activate the function "Blocking at a distance" - the scooter will vibrate and make a sound if you move away from it more than 10 meters.

Advanced settings are available to power users through the engineering menu, and to access:

  1. Turn on the scooter.
  2. Press the power button and the signal button simultaneously for 5 seconds.
  3. On the display (if any) or through voice prompts, you will hear "Engineer mode."
  4. Here you can calibrate the sensors, test the motor and reset the controller errors.

⚠️ Warning: Do not change the parameters in the engineering menu unless you are sure of their purpose. Incorrect settings can lead to overheating of the controller or improper brakes.

FAQ: Frequent questions about activation of Xiaomi 1S

Can I activate a scooter without the Mi Home app?
Technically, yes, the scooter will drive without a phone connection, but you won't be able to unlock full speed, update firmware, and use additional features.
Why did the scooter become slower after the firmware update?
In newer versions of the software, Xiaomi often introduces regional speed limits. Check the settings in the application (Speed Mode section). If the option is blocked, try changing the region to Russia or Europe in the Mi Account settings.
How to drop PIN-code, if you forgot?
You can only reset your PIN by completely resetting the scooter to the factory settings (see the section on used scooters). After resetting, you will need to re-associate the device to your Mi Home account.
The scooter squeaks when moving - is that normal?
Yes, Xiaomi 1S is equipped with an audible signal that works when: speed exceeding 25 km / h (if the limit is turned on), cruise control activation, low battery level (<10%). You can turn off the squeak in the application settings, but this may not be safe (for example, you will not hear a discharge warning).
Can I drive a Xiaomi 1S in the rain?
The scooter is IP54, which means water spray protection. However, driving in heavy rain or through puddles >5 cm deep can cause moisture to enter the controller or battery. If the scooter is wet, dry it for 24 hours before your next trip.