Xiaomi scooters are some of the most popular vehicles in the city, but even they require periodic maintenance. One of the most common procedures is to remove the wheel: whether it is replacing a tire, repairing a camera, cleaning bearings or diagnosing the engine. However, many owners face problems already at the dismantling stage - jammed nuts, damaged cables or improperly removed the lid of the motor wheel can turn a simple operation into an hour-long torture.
In this article, we’ll take a look at the step-by-step wheel removal algorithm on all of Xiaomi’s current models (including the M365, Pro 2, 1S, Essential, and 4 Pro), what tools you’ll need, where the pitfalls are hidden, and how to avoid typical mistakes. And why disc brake scooters remove the wheel differently from drum models, a nuance that even some service centers miss.
What tools are needed to remove the wheel
Before you start, prepare a full set of tools, without which you risk breaking the thread, damaging the cables or even failing to cope with the task.
- 🔧 End key 14 mm (for axle nuts) - better with a long handle, as the stiff nuts require effort.
- 🔧 Hexagon by 5 mm (for fixing the brake disc on models with disc brakes).
- 🔧 Flat screwdriver (for slashing the engine-wheel cover or disconnecting the connectors).
- 🔧 Passengers or circ-cutters (for cables and lock rings).
- 🧴 WD-40 or similar penetrating lubricant (if nuts do not respond).
- 🛠️ Hammer (rubber or regular) – sometimes neatly tapping the axle is required.
- 🧤 Gloves are protection against dirt and sharp edges of metal.
For models with drum brakes (such as the Xiaomi M365), you may need a special bearing detacher if you plan to clean or replace them, but Pro 2 or 1S owners with disc brakes will have to be careful with the cables – they are easy to damage if you remove them sloppy.
If you're taking the wheel off for the first time, we recommend you buy a scooter repair kit in advance, which usually includes spare nuts, washers and locking rings, and believe me, they come in handy: when disassembling small parts are easily lost or deformed.
Scooter Preparation: What to Do Before Removing the Wheel
Take your time to grab the wrench right away! Incorrect preparation can damage electronics or mechanical parts.
☑️ Preparation of the scooter for repair
Pay special attention to the battery. On the Xiaomi M365 and Pro 2, it can be removed by pressing the latch at the bottom of the deck. On the 1S and Essential, you will need to unscrew several screws. It is dangerous to work with the wheel when the battery is connected, because an accidental circuit can disable the controller.
⚠️ Warning: If you've recently driven, let the motor cool for 15 to 20 minutes. Overheating can deform the plastic parts of the motor-wheel cover, and you can't close it back.
Also check if there are visible damage to the axle or mounts. If you notice cracks or deformation, it is better to contact the service - self-repair in this case can break the fork.
Step-by-step: how to remove the front wheel
The front wheel on Xiaomi scooters is easier to remove than the rear, as it is not connected to the engine, but there are nuances here, especially if you have a model with disc brakes.
Step 1: Release the brake cable
On the drum brake models (M365, Essential), the cable is attached to the lever on the fork. Carefully remove it from the groove, remembering the position. On disc brake scooters (Pro 2, 1S, 4 Pro), the cable can be fixed with a bolt - it must be unscrewed by a hexagon by 5 mm.
Step 2: Unscrew the axis nuts
Use the 14mm end key to loosen the nuts on either side of the axle. Don't rush them off completely -- spin them off a few times first, then align the wheel, and then remove the nuts to the end. If the nuts don't lend themselves, apply the WD-40 and wait 10 minutes.
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If the nut is stuck and doesn't unscrew, try to slightly tap it with a hammer through a wooden gasket, which will help break the corrosion plaque.
Step 3: Remove the wheel from the fork
Once the nuts are unscrewed, carefully pull the axle out of the fork slots. If the wheel is tight, you can slightly wobble it from side to side. On models with disc brakes, make sure that the brake disc does not hit the fork - this can bend it.
Now the wheel is free. If you need to replace your tire or your camera, move on to the next section. If the goal was just to remove the wheel (for example, for transportation), make sure that all the parts are folded in one place so that nothing is lost.
How to remove the rear wheel with the engine: features and difficulties
The rear wheel on Xiaomi scooters is not just a wheel, but a motor-wheel, so the process of removing it is more difficult, and it is important not to damage the electrical connections and properly handle the engine cover.
Step 1: Disconnect the power connectors
Under the plastic motor-wheel cover are the connectors that connect the motor to the controller. Carefully tuck the lid with a flat screwdriver (it holds on the latches) and disconnect the connectors. Remember or photograph their location - when you build it back, it's important not to confuse polarity!
⚠️ Warning: On some models (Xiaomi Pro 2), the connectors can be fixed with plastic stoppers. Don't pull them by force, press the stopper first!
Step 2: Release the brake mechanism
On disc brake scooters, the rear wheel is connected to the brake caliper.
- Unscrew the cable mount bolt (hexagon by 5 mm).
- Reduce the tension of the cable by moving the adjustment nut.
- Carefully remove the cable from the guides.
On models with drum brake (M365) it is enough to remove the cable from the lever, as on the front wheel.
Step 3: Unscrew the nuts and remove the motor wheel
The process is similar to the front wheel, but there are two key differences:
- The motor-wheel axis is longer, so the nuts may require more force when unscrewing.
- The weight of the wheel is larger (due to the motor), so remove it carefully with your hand.
After removing the wheel, check the bearings and brush parts of the engine. If you hear extraneous noise or see wear, you may need additional repairs.
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On scooters Xiaomi 4 Pro motor-wheel is attached not only nuts, but also an additional locking ring. Without a filmer to remove it is almost impossible!
Frequent Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Even experienced scooter owners sometimes make mistakes when removing wheels, and here are the most common ones and ways to prevent them:
| Mistake. | Effects of consequences | How to avoid |
|---|---|---|
| Unscrewing the nuts without WD-40 | Thread failure, axle damage | Always treat nuts with penetrating lubricant in advance |
| Mixed motor connectors | Short circuit, the controller is out of order | Take photos of the location of the connectors before disconnecting |
| Removing the wheel without support | Falling of the scooter, damage to the fork or motor | Use a stand or assistant to fix the scooter |
| Ignoring the bearing condition | Accelerated wheel wear, backlash | Always check the bearings when the wheel is removed. |
Another common problem is that the brake cable is damaged when it is not removed carefully, and if the cable bends or rubs, the brakes will not work properly, which is dangerous when driving, and always check the integrity of the cable after you have reassembled it.
What to do if the nut is broken?
How to Replace a Tire or Camera After Removing the Wheel
If the purpose of removing the wheel is to replace the rubber, follow this algorithm:
- Get the air out of the chamber (if it is still intact).
- Put the tyre on the mounting blades or flat screwdrivers. Start on the opposite side of the nipple.
- Remove the camera by gently pulling the nipple out of the rim.
- Check the rim for burrs or rust - they can pierce a new chamber.
- Install a new camera, slightly pumping it for ease of installation.
- Tuck the tire back into the rim, starting on the side opposite the nipple.
- Inflate the wheel to the recommended pressure (usually 35-50 PSI, see the model instruction).
For scooters Xiaomi suitable tire size 8.5" (for most models) or 10" (for 4 Pro).When choosing a camera, pay attention to the type of nipple - it should match the rim (usually Presta or Schrader).
If you're installing a tubeless tire, it's more complicated: you'll need a special sealant and compressor to fit evenly, and without experience, you'd better leave it to the professionals.
Reverse assembly: how to set the wheel back
Assembly is as important as dismantling. Here are the key points:
- Check the condition of nuts and washers - if they are deformed, replace them.
- Set the wheel on the axle, aligning it in the center of the fork.
- Tighten the nuts cross-cross to avoid skewing. The moment of tightening is 40-50 Nm (don't pull!).
- Connect the motor connectors (for the rear wheel), observing the polarity.
- Adjust the brakes - the cable should walk freely, without hooks.
- Check the wheel by manually scrolling it. There should be no backlash or extraneous sounds.
After assembly, be sure to drive a few meters at low speed to make sure there are no vibrations or malfunctions. If the scooter starts to "lead" to the side, check the wheel balance or tire pressure.
⚠️ Warning: On Xiaomi 1S and Pro 2 scooters, the regeneration system may be calibrated after the wheel has been replaced. To restore it, press the power button for 10 seconds, then turn on the scooter and drive 100-200 meters.