How to remove the wheel on the scooter Xiaomi: a step-by-step guide

Xiaomi’s electric vehicles, particularly the Mijia Electric Scooter, have earned their popularity due to their reliability and simplicity. However, even the best rubber is not immune to sharp objects hidden in the asphalt or natural tread wear after thousands of miles. Owners often face situations where they need to quickly replace the camera or remove the wheel altogether to service bearings or eliminate serious puncture.

The dismantling process can be intimidating for a beginner, especially given the tight fit of the tire and the presence of electrical components near the axle. It is important to understand that the correct execution of all stages of dismantling ensures not only successful repair, but also the preservation of tightness of the connections and safety during further operation of the device. Incorrect installation can lead to wheel beat or damage to the wiring.

In this article, we will discuss in detail the algorithm of actions for replacing the front and rear wheels, paying special attention to the nuances of working with electronics and braking system. You will learn what tool you need, how to avoid common errors and what precautions you need to follow. A competent approach to chassis maintenance will prolong the life of your scooter and ensure smooth running.

Necessary tool and workplace preparation

Before any manipulation of the chassis, a specialized tool should be prepared, since a standard set of "out of the box" will not be enough. The main element will be a set of hexagons (usually sizes of 4 mm, 5 mm and 6 mm) and a quality cap key or head for 8 mm to work with axle nuts. It is also highly recommended to use mounting blades to remove the tire, since it is almost impossible to do this with your fingers due to the rigidity of the rubber.

Organize the workspace so that the scooter is in a stable position, preferably upside down or fixed in a special rack, this will provide free access to the bottom of the deck and prevent the heavy device from accidentally falling on the legs or electronic components. Prepare the container for small parts in advance so that you do not lose the screws that tend to roll in the most inappropriate places.

⚠️ Warning: Before starting work, be sure to disconnect the scooter and, if possible, disconnect the battery connector if the design of your Xiaomi model allows quick access to the power module.

For convenience, penetrating lubricant (for example, WD-40) is also useful, which will help to deoxidize sour threaded joints, especially if the scooter was used in winter or in high humidity conditions. Don't forget about the rag to clean dirt from the axle and brake disc, as the entry of abrasive particles into the mechanism can cause creaking or accelerated wear.

πŸ“Š Have you ever had a punctured wheel on a scooter?
Yeah, I've changed my camera.
No, but I'm afraid of it.
While I'm skating, no problem.
I prefer tubeless rubber.

Specifics of removing the front wheel

Disassembling the front wheel on Xiaomi M365 scooters and their modifications (Pro, Pro 2, Essential) is the easiest procedure, since there is no complex drive system. The process begins with unscrewing five screws that lock the engine cover (if installed) or decorative cap, although on many models the front hub is open.

Use the 8mm key to unscrew the axle nut while holding the bolt on the back with a hexagon to avoid turning. Once the nut and washer are removed, the wheel can be gently pulled down from the fork. It is important not to pull sharply here so as not to damage the bearings or rubber residues if the wheel is flattened. In some cases, light swaying from side to side may be required.

Special attention should be paid to the brake disc, which is mounted on the wheel. When installing a new wheel or camera, you should make sure that the disc stands exactly between the pads and does not rub against them. If you completely remove the wheel, check the state of the disc for curvatures that can cause beats when braking.

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When assembling the front wheel, lubricate the axle with a thin layer of graphite lubricant - this will prevent the metal from boiling and facilitate future disassembly.

If you only change the camera, you need to completely deflate the wheel from the fork and use the mounting blades to select the tire, and be careful not to pinch the camera between the tool and the rim, which is a common cause of repeated punctures immediately after repair.

Features of dismantling the rear wheel with the engine

Removing the rear wheel is a more difficult task, because there's an electric motor inside the hub, and a power cable comes to the axis. The main mistake of beginners is to try to remove the wheel without turning off the wiring, which is guaranteed to lead to a break in the veins and expensive repair of the motor-wheel. The first step should always be to carefully disconnect the connector, which is inside the deck, under the protective cover.

To access the connector, you need to remove the bottom plastic lining of the deck by unscrewing the corresponding screws around the perimeter, find a wire harness that goes from the controller to the motor, and gently unplug the connector. Often it is fixed with an additional plastic lock or clamps that you need to cut or snap, and then you can proceed to the mechanical part of the disassembly.

The rear wheel attachment mechanism is similar to the front wheel, but requires more physical strength because of the weight of the motor wheel. Unscrew the axle nut, remove the locking washer and gently lower the wheel down. It is critical to maintain the wheel with the second hand, as it is heavy and can fall, damaging the body or brake disc, and the wire must freely exit the hole in the frame without tension.

⚠️ Warning: Never pull a scooter behind a wire coming out of the motor axis. The inner veins are very thin and easily break when jerked, which will require a complete replacement of the winding or motor wheel.

When you put the wheel back in, make sure that the wire is not twisted and pressed with the axle nut. The cable must go through a special groove in the frame. If you change the camera, the cabin process is similar to the front wheel, but requires more effort due to the larger diameter and stiffness of the rear tire.

β˜‘οΈ Checking before wheel assembly

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β˜‘οΈ Status of components

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Replacement of the camera and elimination of punctures

Once the wheel is successfully dismantled, the rubber phase begins, and the camera must be replaced by completely releasing air, pressing the spool, then using two mounting blades, get one under the tyre and hook it by the spoke, or simply hold it with your hand, and move the second blade along the rim, gradually turning the tyre out.

Remove the old camera, carefully examine the inner surface of the tyre with your fingers (carefully!) for sticking nails, glass or wire that could cause a puncture. If you don't remove the foreign object, the new camera will be punctured instantly after pumping. Also check the rim for sharp edges or burrs.

The new camera should be slightly pumped before installation, so that it takes a round shape and does not fold into an accordion inside the tire. Put the camera inside, evenly spreading it around, and start refueling the sides of the tire back on the rim. Start on the opposite side of the spool, gradually moving towards it.

Type of damageSymptomsMethod of decisionMaterials required
Puncture of a nailRapid descent (minutes/hours)Camera replacement or tourniquetNew camera, shoulder blades.
Cut injury.Instant descent, incision visibleReplacement of tire and cameraNew tire, camera.
Etching the spoolSlow descent (days)Replacement of spool or chamberRemake, soap solution
Wear of rubberFrequent punctures, bald spotsReplacement of tiresNew 8.5-inch tire

After installing the camera, pump the wheel to operating pressure (usually 45-50 PSI or 3.0-3.5 Bar, check on the sidewall of your tire), make sure that the camera does not bulge from under the tire anywhere in a circle.

Can I use a cameraless tire on Xiaomi?
Theoretically, it is possible, but the regular discs have a porous structure, not designed for leakproofness without a camera. It will require special sealant and careful rim preparation, but the reliability of this solution on Chinese scooters is often criticized for the risk of sudden depressurization at speed.

Assembly and final inspection of nodes

When you put the wheel in place, make sure that the axle is in the slots of the fork or frame, and the brake disc is exactly in between the caliper pads. If the disc is skewed, the brakes will work incorrectly, and when driving, you can hear the characteristic metal grinding.

Twisting the axle nut to the arm, then tighten it with a key. Excessive diligence is not required, but a weak puff is unacceptable - the wheel should not dangle. For the rear wheel, first connect the motor connector, making sure that the characteristic snap of the locker, and only then install the wheel in the seat, gently winding the wire.

After installation, be sure to check the brakes and the absence of backlash wheel. twist the wheel with your hand - it should rotate freely, without touching the brake pads or wires. If you hear noise, check the position of the brake disc and adjust the caliper if necessary.

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Quality tightening of the axle nut and correct position of the brake disc are key safety factors after repair of the wheel.

Turn on the scooter and test it at low speed in a safe place. Pay attention to the behavior of the vehicle during acceleration and braking. Lack of vibrations and foreign sounds indicates a job well done.

Frequent errors and operating tips

One of the most common mistakes is to use inappropriate tools, such as screwdrivers instead of mounting blades, which often damages the tire side or even deforms the alloy rim. A soft tool made of plastic or hardened steel with a wide profile is the only right choice for working with rubber.

Many owners forget to check tire pressure regularly. Flowing is a surefire way to get "injury" (a rim rupture of rubber) or damage the camera. Xiaomi scooters are optimal pressure in the 45-50 PSI range, which provides a balance between comfort and puncture protection.

⚠️ Warning: Do not use car sealants to correct punctures in scooters chambers.They may contain aggressive chemicals that destroy the thin rubber of the cameras, and often disrupt wheel balancing.

Regularly inspect the tread for stuck stones or glass chips. timely removal of small objects will prevent deep punctures. Also watch for tread pattern wear: bald rubber drastically reduces traction, especially in wet weather, making driving dangerous.

Should I buy reinforced cameras?
Reinforced cameras (usually labeled 2.0 or thicker) are heavier than normal cameras, but are much less likely to break through. In urban settings with imperfect asphalt, this is a justified investment, although it reduces the range slightly due to increased weight.

Compliance with these simple rules and accuracy in the execution of work will allow you to independently service the vehicle, saving time and money on the services of service centers. Regular maintenance of the chassis is the key to a long and safe service for your Xiaomi.

Questions and Answers (FAQ)

What wheel size is used on Xiaomi M365 and Pro scooters?
Most popular models, including the M365, Pro, Pro 2 and Essential, use 8.5-inch wheels. However, newer models like the Mi Electric Scooter 1S or Pro 2 sometimes feature 10-inch wheels, so be sure to check the sidewall markings on your current tire before buying parts.
Can I remove the back wheel without turning off the electricity?
Absolutely not. The rear wheel is part of the electric motor and connected to the controller by power wires, and trying to remove it without turning off the connector inside the deck will cause the wires to break, short circuit, and possibly the controller or battery to fail.
How often should I change the camera on the scooter?
The life of the camera depends on the operating conditions and quality of roads. On average, when driving actively in the city, it is recommended to change or check the camera every 1-2 years. If you often encounter punctures, it makes sense to switch to thicker "reinforced" cameras or use special sealant gels.
Do I need to lubricate the wheel axis when assembly?
Applying a thin layer of lubricant (lithium or graphite) to the wheel axle prevents corrosion and attachment of the metal nut to the axle, which will greatly facilitate the next repair process when you need to remove the wheel again.
What if the scooter vibrates after the wheel is replaced?
Vibration can be caused by several reasons: uneven distribution of the camera inside the tire, distortion of the brake disc or insufficient tightening of the axle nut. Check that the camera does not bulge from under the tire throughout the diameter, and make sure that the brake disc does not rub against the pads.