Why you might need to disassemble Xiaomi electric scooter?
Xiaomi scooters are some of the most popular vehicles in the city, but even they require maintenance. Disassembly can be necessary in a variety of situations, from trivial cleaning of mechanisms to repair electronics or replacing worn-out parts. For example, if the scooter begins to twitch when moving, makes extraneous sounds or quickly discharges, the cause can often be found only after partial or complete disassembly.
Xiaomi models M365, Pro, 1S, The 3s and 4s are similar in design, but there are nuances, especially in battery mounting and steering. In this article, we'll look at the generic steps that are suitable for most versions, and also point out key differences. If you've never done a repair job, don't worry: With the right approach, disassemble the scooter under the power of even a beginner.
It is important to understand that improper disassembly can lead to loss of warranty (if it is still valid) or damage to the control board. So before starting work, be sure to prepare tools, study the mounting schemes and follow the instructions without haste.
What tools will you need to disassemble?
Without the right tool, it is almost impossible to disassemble a Xiaomi electric scooter - many bolts have custom heads, and plastic elements are easy to damage.
- π§ Set of screwdrivers (cross-crosses) PH2, PH1, flat and also Torx T15 and T20 for some).
- π¨ Hexagons (dimensions 2.5 mm, 3 mm and 4 mm - most often used for fastening the steering wheel).
- π Plastic blades or mediators to disconnect latches (so as not to scratch the body).
- π Multimeter (to check battery voltage before shutdown).
- πΈ Smartphone (to photograph the process of disassembly β this will help to collect everything back).
- π§² Magnetic pallet or tape for fastening small screws (so as not to lose them).
Xiaomi Pro 2 and newer models may additionally require a special key for the steering lock (sold in service centers). BMS-Pay, also prepare a soldering iron with a thin sting and solder.
β οΈ Warning: Never use metal blades or knives to separate plastic parts of the case - it's almost guaranteed to cause chipped or cracked. Xiaomi's plastic is fragile, especially in Lite and Essential models.
Preparation for the disassembly: what should be done in advance?
Before you take on the screwdriver, follow a few mandatory steps, which will save time and save the scooter from accidental damage.
- Turn off the power. Turn off the scooter with a button, then press and hold it for 5 seconds to discharge the capacitors. This will prevent short circuits when working with the wires.
- Check the battery power if the battery is less than empty. 30%, Better charge it before. 50-60% β It is safer for electronics when disconnecting contacts.
- Clean the scooter. Dust and dirt can get inside the body when disassembled, so wipe all surfaces with a wet wipe.
- Prepare the workspace. Disassemble the scooter on a flat surface covered with soft cloth (such as a towel) so as not to scratch the parts.
If you are disassembling a scooter for wheel repair or bearing replacement, buy a bearing lubricant in advance (e.g. Liqui Moly). LM47) And a degreasing agent, or isopropyl alcohol, and for battery work, make dielectric gloves to protect you from accidental shock.
βοΈ Preparation for disassembly
Step-by-step disassembly: remove wheels and body
Starting with the simplest, removing the wheels and top cover, is the same for most Xiaomi models, except for the Pro 2 and 4 Pro, where the steering wheel mounts are different.
Removal of the front wheel
The front wheel is mounted on the quick-removal axle (in models). M365, 1S) Or bolts (in Pro, 3, 4) to remove it:
- Turn the scooter upside down (operating on the steering wheel and footrest).
- If the axle is quick-removable, pull the arm of the locker and pull the axle out. If the wheel is bolted, unscrew them with a 4 mm hexagon.
- Carefully remove the wheel while holding the brake disc (if any).
Removal of the rear wheel
The rear wheel is more complex, it's connected to a gear motor.
- Unscrew 4 bolts of the motor cover mount (Torx screwdriver) T20).
- Remove the lid and disconnect the motor power connector (it is usually black).
- Unscrew 2 bolts that fix the motor to the frame (hexagon 3 mm).
- Carefully pull the wheel with the motor without pulling the wires.
In Xiaomi 3 and 4 models, the motor can be integrated into the wheel (direct drive), so you do not need to disassemble it separately - just remove the entire wheel.
Dismantling of the upper hull cover
The top cover is attached to the 6-8 latch 2-4 - The screws (depending on the model) to remove it:
- Unscrew the screws under rubber plugs (use a screwdriver). PH2).
- With a plastic blade, gently apply the lid to the side, starting from the steering wheel.
- Gradually click off all the fixtures, moving around the perimeter.
β οΈ Note: In the models Xiaomi Pro 2 and 4 Pro under the lid can be an additional screw near the battery β do not miss it, otherwise the case will not be removed!
What to do if the latches do not lend themselves?
How to remove the battery: step-by-step instructions
The battery is the most expensive and vulnerable part of the scooter, and it requires special care to disassemble it, because improper handling can lead to fire or loss of capacity. Xiaomi models use lithium-ion batteries with voltage. 36V or 48V (pro-version).
1. disconnecting the battery from the board
Before touches wires, make sure the scooter is off and the capacitors are discharged.
- Find the battery power connector (usually red or orange).
- Carefully disconnect it by pulling the plastic case (not by the wires!).
- Check the voltage on the contacts with a multimeter - it should be 0V.
Dismantling of the battery pack
The battery is attached to the frame on 4-6 screws and additional plastic fixtures:
- Unscrew all the screws of the fastening (screwdriver). PH2 orthorx T20).
- Weaken the plastic screeds that hold the wire harness.
- Carefully lift the battery, starting from the side opposite the connector.
In Xiaomi 3 and 4 models, the battery can be soldered into the body - in this case, it will have to be removed along with the bottom of the frame. If you need to replace only the battery cells, it is better to contact the service - self-soldier without experience is fraught with overheating. BMS-pay-off.
| Model scooter | Type of battery | Voltage (V) | Capacity (Ah) | Features of attachment |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Xiaomi M365 | Lithium-ion | 36 | 7.8 | 4 screws + plastic-latch |
| Xiaomi Pro/Pro 2 | Lithium-ion | 48 | 12.8 | 6 screws + metal frame |
| Xiaomi 1S | Lithium-ion | 36 | 8.5 | 5 screws + duct tape |
| Xiaomi 3/3 Lite | Lithium-ion | 36 | 7.6 | Snug in the case, removal only with a frame |
| Xiaomi 4 Pro | Lithium-ion | 48 | 15.2 | 8 screws + aluminum protection |
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If after removing the battery you plan to store it separately, seal the contacts with tape to avoid short circuit.
Disassembly of the steering column and folding mechanism
The steering column is one of the most heavily loaded parts of the scooter, and it often wears out bearings, shock absorbers, or folding machinery, and it takes patience to disassemble this part, because there are a lot of small parts.
1.Remove the steering wheel
In most models, the steering wheel is mounted on one central bolt (hexagon 4 mm) and fixed with a locking ring to remove it:
- Unscrew the steering wheel lock bolt (it is under a rubber plug).
- Remove the locking ring with a flat screwdriver or a special remover.
- Carefully pull the steering wheel upwards, swaying from side to side.
Disassembly of the folding mechanism
The folding mechanism consists of a spring, a hold and a lever to disassemble it:
- Remove plastic plugs from the sides of the steering column.
- Unscrew 2 screws holding the mechanism (Torx screwdriver) T15).
- Remove the spring and the lock, remembering their original position.
In models Xiaomi Pro 2 and 4 Pro folding mechanism can have an additional lock β to remove it will require a special key (it comes with a scooter or sold separately).
β οΈ Warning: When assembling the folding mechanism, make sure the spring is in place correctly - if it is skewed, the steering wheel will not be fixed, which is dangerous when driving!
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If after disassembly the steering wheel is luftite or does not fold, check the integrity of the locking ring and springs - their wear most often causes problems.
Frequent Disassembly Problems and How to Avoid Them
Even with a careful disassembly, you can face unexpected difficulties, and here are the most common ones and ways to solve them:
- π§ If the screws don't unscrew, moisten them. WD-40 and wait 10-15 Don't use too much force, use a screwdriver.
- π Sticky connectors. If the connector doesn't detach, gently put a plastic blade on it, swaying from side to side. Don't pull the wires!
- π If the battery is swollen, don't try to disassemble it yourself, it's dangerous! Take the scooter to service or dispose of the battery according to local regulations.
- π οΈ Broken latches of the case: If the plastic lock breaks, it can be replaced with a similar one from another scooter or fasten the case to screws (but this will reduce the tightness).
Another common problem is losing screws or springs when disassembling. To avoid this, use a magnetic pallet or paste a double-sided tape on the table to attach small parts to it. If you do lose the screw, do not replace it with the first one you find - Xiaomi scooters use bolts with a specific length and thread.
Assembly of an electric scooter after disassembly: inspection and testing
Getting the scooter back together is often harder than disassembling it β especially if you're doing it for the first time. Here's a step-by-step plan to help avoid mistakes:
- Check all the connectors. Make sure they are tightly connected and not tangled (for example, the motor connector should go to the controller, not to the battery).
- Twirl all the screws. Start with the big mounts (frame, steering wheel), then move to the small ones (body, covers). Don't pull the bolts over, it can break the thread.
- Check the performance. Lift the scooter and scroll the wheels -- they should rotate freely, without creaking.
- If it doesn't turn on, check the connection between the battery and the fuse (it can burn if you short it).
- Test the brakes and gas. Make sure the gas handle is applied smoothly and the brakes are triggered without delay.
After assembly, make sure to make a test run at a low speed.
- Are there any other sounds (squeaking, knocking).
- Is the lighting and display working properly (if any).
- Does the battery or motor heat up after 5-10 minute.
If the scooter behaves unusually (for example, twitches when accelerating or slows down with jerks), most likely, you have not connected the connectors of the motor or controller incorrectly, in which case, repeat the disassembly and check all connections.
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If the scooter doesn't go after assembly, but the display is working, the problem is probably the motor or controller connector. If it doesn't turn on at all, check the battery and fuse.