Xiaomi Mi Electric Scooter electric scooters have become real urban mobility hits — reliable, compact and powerful. But even the best equipment sometimes needs to be serviced, whether it's replacing a punctured tire, cleaning bearings or diagnosing the engine. And the first step in any repair is to properly dismantle the wheel. At first glance, the task is simple, but it's a pitfall, from bolts to rims damaged when you're not properly removed.
In this article, we will analyze the process of removing the wheel on all popular Xiaomi models - from the budget Mi. M365 You will learn what tools will be required (and how to replace brand keys), how to avoid typical errors when working with quick-removal axles and nuts, and what to do if the wheel is “stuck” to the frame. Separately, we will focus on the nuances of the front and rear wheels - they are removed differently due to the integrated motor in the rear hub.
Important: the instruction is suitable for scooters Xiaomi of all generations, but there are critical differences in the mounting of wheels in models with disc brakes (for example, Pro). 2/3) drummable (1S, We will note these points in the relevant sections.
What tools you will need: full list
Before you start dismantling, prepare everything you need, and even missing a single key can result in bolts or damaged threads, and here is the minimum toolkit for removing a wheel from a Xiaomi scooter:
- 🔧 Hexagonal key 5 mm - the main tool for unscrewing axial nuts (suitable for most models).
- 🔧 End key 13 mm or cap-on for nuts on models with disc brakes (Pro) 2/3/4).
- 🔧 Screwdriver with a flat sting - will help to fit the bearing covers or carefully remove the boiling wheel.
- 🔧 Flat-bottles or a movable key - in case the nuts "grab" corrosion.
- 🧴 WD-40 or similar lubrication - if the wheel has not been removed for a long time, the thread can "sour».
- 🛠️ Hammer (rubber or ordinary) - for careful tapping of the axis during dismantling.
- 🧤 Gloves – protection of hands from dirt and sharp edges of metal.
For Xiaomi Mi Scooter models 1S And Essential with drum brakes may also require a special bearing detacher (if you plan to clean or replace them). KERS (regenerative braking will have to be especially careful - improper handling of the axle can damage the sensors.
If you don’t have Xiaomi branded keys, no problem: the 5mm hexagon is easy to find in any bike store, and the 13mm end key is often included in standard car tool kits. The main thing is to avoid using carob keys on nuts with disc brakes: they can “lick” the edges.
Scooter Preparation: What to Do Before Removing the Wheel
Take your time to grab the keys! Incorrect preparation can lead to damage to the braking system, the engine wires break, or even the scooter fall.
Turn off the scooter with a long press on the power button (5 seconds)
Disconnect the battery (if the model allows) or make sure the charge is < 20%
Turn the scooter upside down with wheels, resting on the steering wheel and footrest
Check the integrity of the brake cables (for models with disc brakes)
Take a picture of the location of the motor wires (if you remove the rear wheel)-->
Pay special attention to rolling the scooter. Don't lean it on brake discs or levers, it can bend them. Better put it on a soft surface (mat, cardboard) or use a special stand. If the scooter is equipped with an electronic lock (as in the Pro 2), make sure that it is unlocked, otherwise the wheel will not be removed even with the nuts unscrewed.
For models with rear motor-wheel (Mi) M365, Pro, 1S) Before dismantling, be sure to turn off the power! Otherwise, when scrolling the axle, you may experience a short circuit in the windings of the engine, which will cause the controller to fail. If the battery is not removable (as in Pro 3), you just need to remove the fuse or turn off the motor connector.
⚠️ Note: Xiaomi Mi Scooter 4 Pro and Electric Scooter 3 Lite Scooter Scooter use the system E-ABS (When removing the rear wheel, do not pull the brake cable, this may damage the speed sensor!
Step-by-step: 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. However, there are some nuances here - especially if your model is equipped with a disc brake or a cushioning system. Let's take a look at the process with the example of Mi Electric Scooter Pro 2:
- Unscrew the brake caliper mount bolts (if any). Use the end key 13mm. Don't lose the spring washers!
- Remove the caliper and hang it on the frame of the scooter without disconnecting the brake hose. If the caliper interferes, carefully pull it aside.
- Unscrew the axial nut with a 5 mm hexagon. On some models, it can be closed with a plastic plug - put it with a screwdriver.
- Remove the locking ring (if any) and pull out the axle. You may have to tap the hammer slightly through the soft slot.
- Carefully remove the wheel from the fork. If it's jammed, don't pull force, treat the axle. WD-40 and wait 5-10 minutes.
On models without disc brakes (for example, Mi) M365) It's even easier, you just unscrew the axial nut and take the wheel off, but be careful with bearings, because if they fall out of the hub, they'll have to be re-installed with a removable.
If you're taking the wheel off for the first time, you might see the axle sticking to the bushing, which is normal for scooters that were used in the rain or stored in a wet room.
- 🔨 Put it on. WD-40 on the axis and wait 10-15 minutes.
- 🔧 Try to swipe the wheel back and forth, slightly tapping the hammer on the axis.
- 🚫 Do not apply excessive force - it is better to repeat the treatment with lubrication.
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If the nut does not unscrew, try to heat it with a building hair dryer (not higher than 100).°C. The thermal expansion of the metal often helps to “break” the thread.
Removal of the rear wheel: working with the motor-wheel
The rear wheel on Xiaomi scooters is not just a wheel, but a motor-wheel connected to the controller by wires. Here it is important not only to carefully remove the mechanical part, but also not to damage the electrician. M365, Pro, 1S, Essential:
- Turn off the power (take out the battery or turn off the motor connector). On the Pro 3, the connector is under the lid on the steering column.
- Unscrew the axle nuts with a hexagon. 5 Mmm. On the Pro. 2/3 There may be additional motor mount bolts – use the end key 10 mm.
- Disconnect the motor connector. It's usually located next to the axle and it's secured with a plastic lock. Don't pull the wires!
- Remove the locking ring (if any) and pull the axle. on drum brake models (1S) force-axis.
- Carefully remove the wheel, holding the motor wires. If the wheel is jammed, treat the axle with lubrication.
On scooters Xiaomi Pro 4 and Electric Scooter 4 process is complicated by the presence of regenerative brake (KERS). So here, the axis is connected to the speed sensor, so:
- 🛠️ Do not drop the wheel after removal - the impact can damage the sensor.
- 🔌 Disconnect the connector only behind the plastic case, do not pull the wires.
- 📸 Take a picture of the location of the wires before disconnecting.
If you take off the wheel, you notice that the bearings are squeaking or creaking, you'll have to replace them. 6004-2RS (For most of the Xiaomi models).
⚠️ Note: Mi Electric Scooter 3 and later uses a brushless motor with Hall sensors. If you damage the sensor wires when you remove the wheel, the motor will stop working correctly (you will jerk or stop completely).
Frequent Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Even experienced scooters sometimes make mistakes when removing wheels that turn out to be expensive repairs.-5 The most common mistakes and how to prevent them:
| Mistake. | Effects of consequences | How to avoid |
|---|---|---|
| Use of a carob key instead of a face key | The torn edges on the nuts, the inability to unscrew without the Bulgarian | Use only the end or cap keys. |
| Removing the wheel without power outage | Short circuit in the engine, the controller out of action | Always remove the battery or turn off the motor connector. |
| Loss of locking rings or washers | Luft wheels, uneven wear of bearings | Put all the details in a separate box. |
| Hammer strike on bearings | Separator break, wheel jamming | Only hit the axis through a soft spacer |
| Confused wires during reverse assembly | Failure of the motor, controller errors | Take a photo of the location of the wires before disconnecting |
Another common problem is the tug-of-nuts on reassembly, which causes premature wear on bearings and increased rolling resistance. Optimal tightening moment for axial nuts on Xiaomi scooters — 40–50 If you do not have a dynamometer key, twist the nut to the end, and then pull on the 1/4 turnover.
On models with disc brakes (Pro) 2/3/4) Often forget to pump the brakes after the wheel is installed, this leads to "coat" braking. To avoid problems, several times press the brake lever after assembly, the caliper will automatically adjust to the disc.
What to do if the nut breaks when unscrewed?
Reverse assembly: how to install the wheel correctly
Putting the wheel back in place is as important as removing it, and it's important to follow the sequence and check each step, and let's take a look at the rear motor wheel.
- Clean the axle and the seat of dirt and old lubricant. Use rags and alcohol.
- Set the lock ring (if there was one). On some models (Pro 3), the ring has a direction - look at the tags.
- Put the wheel on the axle, aligning the holes, make sure the motor wires are not twisted.
- Connect the motor connector. It should click with the characteristic sound.
- You can manually tighten the nuts to the end, then pull the key.
- Check the back of the wheel. It should be missing, but the wheel should rotate freely.
For the front wheel, the process is similar, but without wires attached. If your model is equipped with a disc brake, after the wheel is installed:
- 🔧 Make sure the brake disc is not rubbing against the pads.
- 🔧 Adjust the position of the caliper, if necessary.
- 🔧Press the brake lever several times to make the pads fall into place.
After assembly, be sure to check the work of the scooter:
- Turn on the power and make sure there are no errors on the display (e.g. Error 21 is a motor problem).
- Scroll the wheel manually - it should rotate smoothly, without creaking.
- Drive a few meters at low speed, checking the brakes and acceleration.
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If the scooter is not driving or makes unusual sounds after assembly, turn it off immediately and check if the motor wires are correctly connected. A common error is confused phases, which leads to the wheel turning back.
When to contact the service: signs of serious problems
Not all breakdowns can be repaired by yourself, and if you find one of these symptoms when removing the wheel, you should contact the service center:
- 🔥 Burning smell from motor or controller - a sign of short circuit.
- 🔊 Scream or crunch when the wheel is rotated that does not disappear after lubricating the bearings.
- ⚡ Sparking in the motor or battery area.
- 🛑 Display errors (Error 15, 21, 30) that are not reset by rebooting.
- 🔄 Spontaneous rotation of the wheel with the scooter on.
It is also worth contacting professionals if:
- You broke your axle or ripped off the carving in the frame.
- After replacing the wheel, the scooter does not gain speed or “twitches”.
- The brakes work unevenly (for example, a scooter pulls to the side).
The cost of diagnostics in official service centers Xiaomi usually does not exceed 500-1000 rubles, and repairs are cheaper than replacing a burned-out controller or motor. If your scooter is warranty, do not try to repair it yourself - this will void warranty obligations.
For residents of Moscow, St. Petersburg and other major cities, you can recommend services:
- Mi Service (official centers of Xiaomi).
- ScooterMan - specializes in electric transport.
- GyroScooter repairs scooters of all brands.