Xiaomi electric 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 the tire, repairing the camera, cleaning the bearings or diagnosing the engine. However, many owners face difficulties in the first dismantling - the wheel can "steep", the mounts rust, and ignorance of the design leads to damage to parts.
In this article, we will analyze the process of removing the wheel on scooters Xiaomi M365, Pro 2, 1S, Essential and other models, with their design features in mind, will learn what tools you will need, how to avoid typical errors (such as damage to the brake disc or a break in the wires of the engine), and what to do if the wheel is not removed despite all the efforts. We will also provide maintenance recommendations after dismantling so that your scooter lasts longer.
If you've never done a repair job, don't worry, our guide is designed for beginners, with step-by-step photos and video recommendations, and for experienced users, we've created unique life hacks to speed up the process and diagnose malfunctions right when the wheel is removed.
What tools are needed to remove the wheel
Before you start, prepare the right set of tools, without which dismantling can become anguish or even damage the scooter.
- π§ The 5mm hex key is the main tool for unscrewing wheel mount bolts. Most Xiaomi models use such bolts.
- π¨ End key or head 14 mm - you will need to unscrew the axis nut (if it is in your model).
- π§ Hexagon 2.5 mm - can be useful for removing the brake disc or other small fasteners.
- π§ Flat and cross screwdrivers - for dismantling plastic covers or forging sealing rings.
- π οΈ Hammer (rubber or regular) β sometimes required to gently knock out the axle if the wheel is βstammered".
- π§² Magnet or tweezers β so as not to lose small details (pucks, locking rings).
- π§΄ WD-40 or similar lubrication β if the bolts are rusted or the wheel is not removed.
- π§€ Gloves β protection of hands from dirt and sharp edges of metal parts.
For models with disc brakes (for example, Xiaomi Pro 2), you may additionally need an 8 mm end key to remove the brake caliper. If you plan not only to remove, but also to disassemble the wheel (for example, to replace bearings), prepare also a bearing removable or a flat screwdriver with a wide sting.
β οΈ Warning: Never use a gas key or a passatage to unscrew bolts on a Xiaomi scooter! They can lick the hexagonal face, and then unscrew the mount will be extremely difficult. If the bolt does not respond, treat it. WD-40 And wait 10-15 minutes.
Preparation of the scooter for the dismantling of the wheel
Before you can get your tools, you need to prepare the scooter properly, and this will save you from injury and damage to the equipment.
- Turn off the scooter. Press and hold the power button for 3-5 seconds until the indicator goes out, which will prevent the motor from accidentally turning on while running.
- Fold the pen. If your model has a folding mechanism (like the one in the car). M365), fix the handle in the folded position - it is more convenient to work with the rear wheel.
- Put the scooter on a flat surface. You'd better use a table or a workbench. If you're working on the floor, put a soft cloth under the body so you don't scratch the plastic.
- Clean the wheel and the mounts of dirt. Use a wet cloth or brush. This will help avoid sand getting into the bearings or bolt threads.
If you remove the rear wheel (where the motor is), be sure to disconnect the battery.
- Remove the lower cover of the body (unscrew 4 bolts with a hexagon 2.5 mm).
- Carefully disconnect the battery connector from the controller (usually black with an orange latch).
- Insulate the bare contacts with tape or a plastic cap.
β οΈ Warning: If you don't turn off the battery before working with the rear wheel, accidental closure of the contacts can cause the controller or motor to fail!
βοΈ Preparation for the removal of the wheel
Step-by-step: how to remove the front wheel
The front wheel on Xiaomi scooters is easier to remove than the rear wheel, since there is no motor and wiring, but there are some nuances, especially if you have a model with disc brakes.
Step 1: Remove the brake caliper (if any)
On models of Xiaomi Pro 2, 1S The front wheel is equipped with a disc brake, and to remove the wheel, you must first remove the caliper:
- Unscrew two bolts of the caliper attachment with an end key for 8 mm.
- Carefully remove the caliper and hang it on a wire or put it on a clean surface without pulling the brake hose.
- If the brake pads interfere - dilute them with a flat screwdriver (but do not damage the surface of the disk!).
Step 2: Untwisting the wheel axis
Now we move on to the main mount:
- On one side of the axis you will see a bolt under a hexagon of 5 mm, on the other - a nut by 14 mm (or a second bolt, depending on the model).
- Holding the nut with the end key, unscrew the bolt with a hexagon counterclockwise. If the bolt fails, splash it. WD-40 and wait 5-10 minutes.
- After unscrewing the bolt, remove the washers and locking rings (if any). Remember their order - when you assemble them, you will need to install them back in the same sequence!
Step 3: Removing the wheel from the fork
Once the axle is unscrewed, the wheel should easily exit the slots of the fork, but sometimes it will get stuck due to corrosion or dirt.
- Carefully tap the rubber hammer on the axis on both sides.
- If the wheel does not move - use a wooden bar as a lever, holding it to the edge of the axis.
- Do not apply excessive force - you can bend the fork or damage the bearings!
After removing the wheel, examine the axle and slots of the fork for rust or wear. If there are signs of corrosion, clean them with sandpaper and apply a thin layer of lubrication (for example, Litol).-24).
π‘
If you remove the tire to replace the tire, check the pressure in the chamber before installing the new rubber - it should be 35-45. PSI (A poorly pumped wheel wears out quickly, and a pumped one will make the ride stiff.
How to remove the rear wheel with the engine
Xiaomi's scooters' rear wheel is more difficult to dismantle because of the integrated motor and wiring, and it's important not only to remove the wheel carefully, but also to not damage the cables that go to the controller. Let's take the process Step-by-step.
Step 1: Disconnect the motor wires
Before unscrewing the axle, you need to disconnect the motor from the scooter's electrical system:
- Remove the lower cover of the body (4 bolts hexagon 2.5 mm).
- Find the motor connector β usually a white or black plastic connector with 3-5 wires (yellow, green, blue).
- Carefully disconnect it by pulling the plastic latch (don't pull the wires!).
If the connector is "stiffened" and does not separate, do not apply force - drops WD-40 Or alcohol can help loosen it, and in extreme cases, you can gently fit the latch with a flat screwdriver.
Step 2: Dismount brake caliper (for models with rear brake)
On some versions (for example, Xiaomi Pro 2) the rear wheel is also equipped with a disc brake.
- Unscrew two mounting bolts with a key by 8 mm.
- Remove the caliper without pulling the brake hose.
- If the shoes interfere, dilute them with a screwdriver.
Step 3: Unscrewing the axle and removing the wheel
Now we move on to the main mount:
- On one side of the axis is a bolt under a hexagon of 5 mm, on the other - a nut by 14 mm. Holding the nut with a key, unscrew the bolt.
- Remove the washers and locking rings, remembering their order.
- Take the axle out carefully. If the wheel is not removed, tap the axis with a rubber hammer or use a filmmaker.
Once the wheel is removed, check the motor wires for damage. If the insulation is worn, wrap it with a tape or shrink tube. Also check the bearings: they must rotate smoothly, without backlash or creaking. If there is backlash, the bearings must be replaced.
What if the wheel axis is scrolling along with the bolt?
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Even experienced craftsmen sometimes make mistakes when removing the wheel from the Xiaomi scooter, and here are the most common ones and ways to prevent them:
| Mistake. | Effects of consequences | How to avoid |
|---|---|---|
| Unscrewing bolts without fixing the nut | It breaks the thread on the axle or bolt, after which the wheel will not be able to fix back. | Always hold the nut with the end key while you unscrew the bolt. |
| Ignoring the order of washers and rings | Incorrect assembly leads to backlash of the wheel or damage to bearings. | Photograph the order of the parts before disassembling or fold them in order of removal. |
| Use of excessive force when removing the "stammered" wheel | A bent fork, damaged bearings or a broken axle. | Use it. WD-40, rubber hammer and wooden gaskets as a lever. |
| Working with the rear wheel without turning off the battery | Short circuit, failure of the controller or motor. | Always disconnect the battery before working with the electric part! |
| Damage to the brake hose when removing the caliper | Leakage of brake fluid, loss of braking efficiency. | Hang the caliper on the wire without pulling the hose. |
Another common problem is that the threads on the axle or the bolts are damaged, and if you notice that the bolt is hard to screw or scroll, don't continue building. M365 β M365-016) orx (M365-015). Saving on small parts often leads to expensive repairs.
β οΈ Warning: If you find that the bearings are "crumbling" or have a backlash, you need to replace them urgently. Riding worn-out bearings leads to vibrations that destroy the motor and controller. M365 bearings are fine 6004-2RS (front wheel) and 6902-2RS (posterior).
Service after removing the wheel: what to check and lubricate
Removing the wheel is a good reason to do preventive maintenance of the scooter, and here's what to do while the wheel is dismantled:
- π§ Bearing check: Turn the inner ring of the bearing, it should rotate smoothly, without backlash and creaking. If there is backlash or jamming, replace the bearing.
- π’οΈ Axle and bearing lubricant: Clean the axle and inside of the bearings of old lubricant (use alcohol or carburetor cleaner). Apply new lubricant (Litol)-24 bearing-specific).
- π Motor check (rear wheel): Check the windings for burns or damage. Check the brushes (if the engine is brushed) - they must be intact and not worn out.
- π² Inspection of tires and cameras: Check the tire for cuts or tread wear. Pump the camera and check it in water for bubbles (air leakage).
- β‘ Wiring check: Make sure all wires are intact and the connectors are not oxidized. If necessary, clean the contacts and treat them with contact lubrication.
If you removed the wheel due to a puncture of the camera, before installing a new rubber, it is recommended:
- Check the inside of the tire for sharp objects (glass, nails) that could puncture the new camera.
- Apply a thin layer of talc to the camera before installation β this will prevent it from bonding with the tire.
- Pump the wheel gradually, checking if the camera is coming out from under the tire.
π‘
Regular maintenance of the wheels (cleaning, lubricating, checking pressure) increases the life of the scooter by 30-50%, especially for the rear wheel with the motor, where the load is higher.
What to do if the wheel is not removed: emergency measures
Sometimes the wheel "sticks" to the axle so strongly that standard methods (WD-40, The hammer doesn't help, and in this case, you can use more radical methods, but with caution:
Method 1: Heating of the axle
If the wheel is not removed due to corrosion, heating will help expand the metal and weaken the "structural":
- Use a building hair dryer or blowtorch (keep 10-15 cm away so you donβt melt the plastic!).
- Heat the axle for 1-2 minutes, then try to remove the wheel.
- If it does not help, repeat the heating and at the same time knock on the axis with a hammer.
Method 2: Remover or lever
For stubborn wheels, you can use a homemade filmmaker:
- Take two carob keys or mounting blades.
- Put them on both sides of the wheel in a fork and gently press like a lever.
- If the wheel has moved, continue to pull until it comes off the axle.
Method 3: Axis cutting (extreme case)
If the axle is bent or the thread is torn off, and the wheel must be removed at any cost, you can cut the axle with a hacksaw on the metal:
- Press the wheel in the vise so that the axle is accessible for the saw.
- Carefully saw the axle in the middle without touching the fork.
- After removing the wheel, replace the axle with a new one (article for the M365 β M365-015).
β οΈ Attention: If you have used heating or sawing, after installing the new wheel, be sure to check the alignment of the fork. If the fork is bent, the wheel will beat when driving, which will lead to vibrations and wear of the bearings. In this case, the fork must be straightened or replaced.