Xiaomi scooters have long been a symbol of convenient urban mobility, but even experienced owners sometimes face difficulties in folding the device. It would seem that it could be easier to press a button, fold and go. However, improper folding leads to failure of the locking mechanism (in 30% of cases of calls to service centers according to 2023), jamming the steering wheel or even damage to the battery. This is especially true for models with a reinforced mechanism – Xiaomi Pro 2 and Xiaomi 4 Pro, where the design is more complex than the classic M365.
In this article, we will not only discuss basic instructions, but also nuances for different models, common mistakes (for example, why the scooter is not fixed in the folded state) and give tips on safe transportation. If you just bought a scooter or plan to take it on a trip, save this article to bookmark so as not to look for answers at the last minute.
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1. Preparation of the scooter for folding: what to check before starting
Before you start folding, make sure the scooter is off and not in driving mode. Even if you just hit the brake, the inertial wheel blocker can interfere with the process, especially for models with electronic brakes (such as the Xiaomi 1S), where the E-ABS system remains active for several seconds after stopping.
Also check:
- 🔋 Battery level: If the scooter is discharged below 10%, the folding mechanism may work tight due to insufficient voltage in the servo drive (relevant to the Xiaomi Pro 2 and newer).
- 🧹 Clean mechanism. Sand, dirt or moisture in the hinges is the main reason for jamming. Wash the folding area with a dry cloth if the scooter was used in the rain.
- 🔧 Status of the locking lever. M365 And the Pro lever must move freely without backlash. If it dangles, a screw lift is required (instruction below).
Don't ignore these points: according to service centers, 40 percent of folding failures are due to forced folding without first checking, for example, if a small pebble is stuck in the hinge, and you continue to push the lever, this leads to deformation of metal parts.
⚠️ Note: If the scooter has recently fallen or been impacted (for example, when transported in the trunk), do not fold it without first examining the frame.
2. Step-by-step instruction: how to fold the Xiaomi electric scooter (universal method)
This guide is suitable for most Xiaomi models, including the M365, Pro, 1S, Essential and 4 Pro. We will discuss the differences for specific versions in the next section.
Step 1. Unlock the steering wheel.
Press the red lock button (under the steering wheel, closer to the base) and simultaneously pull the steering wheel up. The effort should be moderate - if the steering wheel fails, do not pull it. Perhaps the scooter is not completely stopped (check the display - should burn 0 km / h).
Step 2. Fold the steering wheel.
Once unlocked, gently lower the steering wheel down until it rests at the base. Make sure it is flat - skewing can damage the cables inside the rack. On models with cushioning (such as the Xiaomi 4 Pro), the steering wheel should descend smoothly, without jerking.
Step 3. Set the mechanism.
Press the black folding lever (on the side of the frame) and pull it on you until you hear a click. In some models, you need not only to pull the lever, but also slightly raise it, which is normal. If there is no click, check if something interferes with the mechanism (such as clothes or a belt).
Step 4. Check the reliability of the fixation.
Lift the scooter behind the wheel - it should not unfold under its own weight. If the mechanism "plays", repeat step 3 or check the wear of the locking pin (more on this below).
Whether the scooter is off?|Whether the folding mechanism is pure?|The steering wheel unlocked?|The lever of fixation moves freely?|Are there any foreign objects in the folding zone?-->
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3. Features of folding for different Xiaomi models
While the folding principle of most Xiaomi scooters is similar, there are nuances that depend on the design, and the key differences for popular models are below.
| Model | Features of the mechanism | Typical problems | Decision |
|---|---|---|---|
| Xiaomi M365 | A classic mechanism with a metal lock, a folding lever that's plastic, but it's strong. | Over time, the lever attachment is loosened, the scooter unfolds spontaneously. | Pull screws on the lever (needs a hexagon of 4 mm). |
| Xiaomi Pro / Pro 2 | A reinforced mechanism with an extra spring, a metal folding lever. | Tight folding due to corrosion of the spring (if operated in the rain). | Treat the spring with silicone lubricant (not WD-40!). |
| Xiaomi 1S | The mechanism is similar to the M365, but with improved steering fixation. | The steering wheel can jam when folding due to dirt getting into the depreciation bushings. | Clean the bushings with compressed air or wash with alcohol. |
| Xiaomi 4 Pro | Two-level folding mechanism with additional lock. | If you do not press the lever to the end, the scooter can open in the bag. | Always check the fixation with a click and visually. |
For Xiaomi Air and Xiaomi Lite models, the folding process is simplified – they do not have a lock lever, and the steering wheel folds in one click. However, these scooters are less stable when folded, so they are recommended to be transported only in a horizontal position (for example, in the trunk of a car).
Xiaomi M365|Xiaomi Pro / Pro 2|Xiaomi 1S|Xiaomi 4 Pro|Xiaomi Essential / Lite|Another model-->
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4 Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Even experienced users sometimes make mistakes that lead to breakdowns, and here are the most common ones:
- 🚫 If the scooter is not fully stopped, the steering lock mechanism remains active, which can lead to deformation of the locking pin (cost of replacement - from 1500 rubles).
- 🚫 If you don't give in to the lever, don't push it with all your weight. First, check if the brake cable or the display is clamped. 90 percent of the time, that's the problem.
- 🚫 Ignoring the snap of the lock. Many users think that it's enough to just lower the lever, but without clicking the scooter can open in transport.
- 🚫 Storage in the folded state under load. If you leave the scooter folded for a long time (for example, on a balcony under the snow), the springs of the mechanism may lose elasticity.
Another common problem is spontaneous unfolding in the bag.
- 🔧 Wear of the fixing pin (replacement required).
- 🔧 Weakening of the spring in the mechanism (can be tightened or replaced).
- 🔧 Getting dirt into the slots of the fixator (cleaning and lubrication solve the problem).
⚠️ Note: If the scooter began to fold "unevenly" (the steering wheel shifts to the side), this is a sign of a skewed frame. It is dangerous to operate it in this state - contact the service for geometry diagnostics.
What to do if the folding lever is broken?
5. How to transport a folded electric scooter: tips and life hacks
Folding a scooter is only half the battle, and it's equally important to transport it properly to avoid damage. Here are some proven ways to do this.
- 🚌 On public transport: Keep the scooter upright, steer up. Don't put it on the seat - this is prohibited by the subway/bus regulations. On long-distance trains, the scooter is usually carried as hand luggage (but check the standards with the carrier).
- 🚗 In the car: If the trunk is small, place the scooter horizontally, pre-wrap the steering wheel and display with a soft cloth. Do not put heavy objects on the scooter - this can deform the frame.
- ✈️ By plane: Most airlines allow scooters in their luggage, but only with the battery removed (you need to take it to the cabin), pack the scooter in a case or wrap it in bubble wrap.
For ease of transportation, you can use:
- 🎒 Special backpacks (e.g. Xiaomi Mi Electric Scooter Bag) – they have a hard back and pockets for accessories.
- 🧳 Covers on wheels - protect against dirt and scratches when carrying.
- 🔗 Straps - prevent spontaneous unfolding (relevant to worn-out mechanisms).
If you often take a scooter in the subway, look for compact models such as the Xiaomi Air or Xiaomi Lite. They are lighter by 2-3 kg and take up less space, but have a lower range.
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Before traveling on public transport, remove all removable accessories (lights, mirrors, phone holders) from the scooter, which can catch on doors or seats, causing the device to fall.
Care for the folding mechanism: how to extend the service life
To make the folding mechanism last longer, it is enough to follow a few simple rules:
- Regular cleaning. Once a month, wipe the hinges and lever with a dry cloth. If the scooter was used in the rain, dry the mechanism and apply silicone lubrication (do not use oil-based oils - they attract dirt).
- Check fasteners. Every 3-6 months, tighten the screws on the lever and the lock (use a dynamometer key with a force of 4-5 Nm, so as not to break the thread).
- Avoid overloading. Don't put bags or backpacks on the steering wheel, it deforms the mechanism. The maximum load on the steering wheel when folded is 5 kg.
- Storage in the correct position. If the scooter is not used for a long time, store it in the decomposed state - this takes the load off the springs.
For models with hydraulic cushioning (such as Xiaomi 4 Pro), additionally check the level of oil in the racks once a year.
If the mechanism began to creak or fold tightly, do not postpone repairs. The cost of preventive maintenance (cleaning + lubrication) is about 800 rubles, while replacing a broken lever or frame will cost 3-5 times more.
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The folding mechanism needs only to be lubricated with silicone lubrication (e.g. Liqui Moly Silicon-Spray). Other types of lubricants (litol, solidol, WD-40) attract dust and accelerate the wear of parts.
7.What to do if the scooter does not fold or is not fixed
If the mechanism is jammed or the scooter is not fixed in the folded state, act on the following algorithm:
Problem 1: The lever is not pressed or moving tightly.
- Check if the brake or display cable is clamped (relevant to Xiaomi 1S and Pro 2).
- Clean the mechanism of dirt and lubricate with silicone lubrication.
- If the lever is broken, replace it (instructions in the spoiler above).
Problem 2: The scooter is not fixed in the folded state.
- Check if the lever is fully latched (the click should be heard).
- Examine the locking pin for wear or deformation.
- If you are sliding, then you should be able to replace it with a slack.
Problem 3: The steering wheel does not lock after unfolding.
- Press the red fixation button and simultaneously pull the steering wheel up until you hear a click.
- If the button is recessed and not pressed, the spring inside may have broken (disassembly is required).
If none of these methods worked, don’t try to repair the scooter yourself, go to an authorized Xiaomi service center. Attempts to repair without experience often lead to even more serious breakdowns (for example, a break in the wires inside the rack).