How to replace the camera on the scooter Xiaomi: a detailed guide with photos and nuances

Xiaomi scooters have long ceased to be just a means of transportation – they have become full-fledged gadgets with cameras, GPS But what if the camera stopped working after the fall, started to "glutch" or just became obsolete, M365 or 1S β€” This is a task that can be performed even at home, if you know the key nuances.

In this article, we'll go through the whole process from choosing a compatible camera to software settings after installation, learn what tools you'll need, how to avoid typical disassembly errors, and what to do if the scooter doesn't "see" the new camera, and where to buy original parts and how to distinguish them from fakes.

Importantly, the replacement procedure for different models of Xiaomi scooters may differ, and we will focus on the most popular versions with cameras (for example, Pro 2 and Xiaomi scooters). 1S), But the principles of disassembly and connection are universal for most devices of the brand.

What cameras are installed on Xiaomi scooters?

Not all Xiaomi scooters are out of the box cameras, and the feature has been introduced in mid-range and premium models since the Mi Electric Scooter Pro 2 (2020).

  • πŸ“· 5 MP main camera is the standard for most models (Pro 2, 1S). The resolution is sufficient for shooting in the daytime, but in the dark requires backlighting.
  • πŸ” Wide-angle camera - found in modifications for the European market (for example, Mi Electric Scooter 3). ~120Β°, but the image quality is lower.
  • πŸŽ₯ Double camera (5 MP) + 2 MP) β€” a rarity, installed on limited batches of Pro 2 for test markets.

Key point: Xiaomi scooters are not interchangeable with modules from other brands (Ninebot, Segway, Okai), even if the connectors look similar. Using non-original parts can lead to firmware errors or complete system failure.

Model scooterType of cameraPermissionCompatible analogues
Mi Electric Scooter Pro 2Basic5 MPM365 Camera Module (original)
Mi Electric Scooter 1SBasic5 MPPro 2 Camera (Full Compatibility)
Mi Electric Scooter 3Wide-angle5 MP (120)Β°)Original only (no analogues)
Mi Electric Scooter 4 ProDouble.5 MP + 2 MPsNo compatible modules

If you are not sure which camera is installed in your scooter, check the marking on the module itself (usually on the back) or use the Mi Home app, where the device specifies the type of camera.

πŸ“Š What model of scooter Xiaomi you have?
Mi Electric Scooter Pro 2
Mi Electric Scooter 1S
Mi Electric Scooter 3
Mi Electric Scooter 4 Pro
Another model

Signs of Camera Failure: When Should a Replacement Be Needed?

Sometimes it's enough to reboot the scooter or update the firmware, and here are the exact symptoms that indicate a hardware failure of the module:

  • 🚫 Black screen in the Mi Home app when you try to turn on the camera (the scooter works normally).
  • πŸ”„ Artifacts in the image: stripes, β€œsnow”, blurring, which does not disappear after cleaning the lens.
  • πŸ”Œ Code connection error CAMERA_ERROR_102 or HARDWARE_FAIL log-in.
  • πŸ’₯ Physical damage: cracks in the lens glass, traces of impact or moisture inside the module.

⚠️ Attention: If the camera stopped working after the scooter fell, first check the connection of the plume to the motherboard. In 30% of cases, the problem is solved by simply reconnecting the connector, without changing the module.

It is also worth considering that the cameras on Xiaomi scooters often fail due to:

  • 🌧️ Moisture intrusion (even if the scooter has a degree of protection) IP54, camera is the most vulnerable place).
  • πŸ”‹ The voltage drops when charging with unoriginal RMS.
  • πŸ› οΈ Incorrect assembly after previous repair (e.g., compressed plume).
How to check the camera without disassembling the scooter?
Open the Mi Home app, go to your scooter section and select the Camera tab. If the image is missing but the scooter responds to other commands (like turning on the headlight), the problem is the camera module, and if the scooter doesn't respond at all, it's the motherboard or the battery.

Preparing for replacement: tools and safety

Before you start disassembling, make sure you have everything you need. Here's the minimum toolkit:

  • πŸ”§ Screwdriver kit: cross-haired (PH2) and flat (3 mm) for the screws of the body, and TORX T5 For some models (e.g. Pro 2).
  • 🧲 Magnetic mat or screw tray – ontiny and easily lost.
  • πŸ” Lupa or flashlight - useful for inspection of plumes and connectors.
  • 🧴 Isopropyl alcohol (90%+) and cotton swabs to clean contacts.
  • πŸ”Œ Plastic mediator (or guitar mediator) for neat body tweaking.

You can also get a new camera module, and you can buy original parts.

  • πŸ›’ On AliExpress (sellers rated 98%+ Compatibility with your model).
  • 🏬 Xiaomi service centers (but often overpriced).
  • πŸ”§ In electronics stores (e.g. Chip and Deep, Amperka) if they specialize in spare parts for gyroscooters.

⚠️ Note: Before buying a camera, check its article in the description. For example, for the Pro 2, the original module is marked with a marking. M365-CAM-V2.1. Fakes are often sold under the guise of β€œuniversal” cameras, but don’t work with Xiaomi’s firmware.

Don't forget about safety:

  • πŸ”‹ Turn off the battery before disassembling (otherwise you risk short circuit).
  • 🧀 Work in gloves - this will protect your hands and the internal parts of the scooter from fat and toast marks.
  • πŸ“Έ Take a photo of each step – it will help to properly assemble the scooter back.

β˜‘οΈ Preparation for camera replacement

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Step-by-step: how to disassemble the scooter and replace the camera

The process of replacing the camera can be divided into 4 stages: disassembling the body, disconnecting the old module, installing a new one and reassembling. We will analyze each step in detail using the example of the Mi Electric Scooter Pro 2 (for other models, nuances are indicated in spoilers).

Step 1: Remove the top cover and access to the camera

1. Turn the scooter up with your wheels and place it on a soft surface (such as a towel) so as not to scratch the steering wheel.

2 Unscrew 4 screws on the bottom of the steering wheel (they are hidden under rubber plugs - put them under the mediator).

3. Carefully put the plastic cover on the back of the steering wheel (there are latches) and remove it. Under the cover you will see the motherboard and the camera plume.

Features of disassembly for Mi Electric Scooter 1S
Nana 1S The screws are hidden under a sticker with QR-It's coded (it's on the steering column). Carefully tuck the sticker in so you don't break it, it can be glued back. Also, this model has a shorter camera plume, so don't pull it too hard when you disconnect it.

Step 2: Unconnecting the old camera

1. Find the camera connector on the motherboard - it is usually white and signed as CAM or U12.

2. Carefully press the connector lock (a small plastic latch on the side) and pull out the plume. Don't pull the wires!

3. Unscrew 2 screws, which the camera is attached to the steering wheel body (they can be under the rubber seal).

4. Remove the old module. If it's glued, use a plastic pickup to keep the case from being damaged.

Step 3: Installation of a new camera

1. Check if the new module connector matches the old one. If it doesn't, you've bought an incompatible camera.

2. Set the camera in reverse order: first, lock it with screws, then plug the plume into the motherboard, make sure that the lock connector is snapped.

3. lay the plume so that it does not bend and does not touch moving parts (for example, brake cable).

Step 4: Assembly and inspection

1. Place the plastic steering wheel cover, snap it and twist the screws.

2. Connect the battery and turn on the scooter.

3. Open the Mi Home app and check the camera. If the image is missing, turn off the scooter and check the density of the plume connection.

πŸ’‘

If the camera is upside down after the replacement, but the image is upside down, don't panic! In some models (e.g. the Pro 2), the camera is physically upside down and the firmware automatically rotates the picture. If that doesn't happen, upgrade the Mi Home app to the latest version.

Frequent Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Even experienced craftsmen sometimes make mistakes when replacing a camera. TOP-5 problems and ways of solving them:

Mistake.Reason.Decision
The camera's not turning on.The plume is not fully inserted or damagedCheck the fixator of the connector, if necessary, clean the contacts with alcohol.
Artifact imagePoor contact or damage to the camera during installationReconnect the plume if it doesn’t help – check the camera on another device
The scooter does not turn on after assemblyShort circuit when connecting the batteryDisconnect the battery, check all connectors on the motherboard
The camera works, but does not record videoLack of space on the built-in memory or firmware failureUpdate the firmware through Mi Home or reset the scooter settings
The app doesn't see the cameraIncompatible firmware or camera modelCheck the compatibility of the module, update the Mi Home to the latest version

If the scooter starts to turn off or overheat arbitrarily after changing the camera, you may have damaged the motherboard or power plume, in which case you should contact the service center.

⚠️ Note: On the Mi Electric Scooter models 4 Dual camera Pro Replacing a single module can lead to an error DUAL_CAM_MISMATCH. In this case, you need to firmware both modules at the same time (it is impossible to do this on your own - you need Xiaomi service utilities).

πŸ’‘

If after the camera is replaced, the scooter makes an error HARDWARE_ID_MISMATCH, It means that the new module is not compatible with your model, and the only solution is to return the old camera or buy the original part.

Software configuration after replacement

In most cases, the new camera starts working immediately after you connect, but sometimes you need to adjust it further.

  1. Update the scooter firmware: Open Mi Home, go to your scooter section β†’ Settings of the device β†’ Update the firmware. If a new version is available, install it.
  2. Reset the camera settings: In the same app, find the Camera section β†’ Resetting settings. This will help if the image is displayed incorrectly (e.g., in green or with stripes).
  3. Lens calibration (Wide-angle Cameras Only): Select Calibration from the camera menu β†’ Autofocus and follow the instructions on the screen, which will improve the clarity of the image.

If the camera is working but does not save photos/video, check:

  • πŸ“± The resolution settings in Mi Home (may be standing by default) 640x480, too little).
  • πŸ’Ύ Free space on the built-in memory of the scooter (if it is filled, files will not be saved).
  • πŸ”„ Power saving mode in the scooter settings (when activated this mode, the camera can turn off).

On voice-enabled models (e.g., Pro 2), the commands may need to be retrained after the camera is replaced.

  1. Open Mi Home and go to Settings β†’ Voice Control.
  2. Choose Team Training and repeat the phrases ("Start", "Stop", "Stop the headlights").

Where to buy spare parts and how much does it cost?

The cost of the new camera for the Xiaomi scooter depends on the model and place of purchase. Here are the current prices for 2026:

Camera modelOriginal (AliExpress)Original (service centre)Analogue (non-original)
Mi Electric Scooter Pro 2 (5MP)1 800–2 500 β‚½3 000–4 000 β‚½1 200–1 500 β‚½ (risk)
Mi Electric Scooter 1S (5 MP)1 500–2 200 β‚½2 800–3 500 β‚½1 000–1 300 β‚½
Mi Electric Scooter 3 (wide-angle)2 500–3 200 β‚½4 000–5 000 β‚½No reliable analogues.

It is recommended to buy parts from trusted sellers, here are some proven options:

  • πŸ›’ AliExpress: Sellers: Xiaomi Original Store, Scooter Parts Pro, E-Scooter DIY. Look for products marked β€œ100% Original” and reviews from the installation photo.
  • 🏬 Official service centers: Address list can be found on Xiaomi support website, minus the high price and long delivery times (if spare parts are not available).
  • πŸ”§ Electronics stores: in Moscow and St. Petersburg: Chip and Deep, Amperka, RadioShack. Before buying, check the compatibility of the article.

⚠️ AliExpress often sells β€œuniversal” cameras for scooters at a price of 800-1000 β‚½. These modules are not compatible with Xiaomi firmware and can disable the motherboard.Buy only spare parts with the exact model of your scooter.

If you are not sure about the choice, ask the seller the following questions:

  • πŸ“‹ Β«Is this camera suitable for Mi Electric Scooter Pro 2 with 1.5.6 firmware? (specify your model and software version).
  • πŸ”„ Β«Is there a guarantee of a return if the camera does not work?Β»
  • πŸ“¦ Β«Is the package a plume and fasteners? (often sell only a module without accessories).

FAQ: Answers to Frequent Questions

Can I put a camera with a higher resolution (for example, 8 MP instead of 5 MP)?
Technically, yes, but the scooter firmware doesn't support a resolution above 5 MP. The camera will work, but the image will automatically shrink to 5 MP, and the extra pixels will simply be cut. In addition, non-original high-resolution modules can overheat due to incompatibility with the power system of the scooter.
After the camera is replaced, the scooter says, "Camera not found." What do you do?
This error occurs in three cases: The camera plume is not fully inserted into the connector on the motherboard. Try reconnecting it. The new camera is not compatible with your scooter model. Check the module article. The firmware failure. Try updating the software through Mi Home or resetting the scooter to the factory. If nothing works, return the old camera and check if it works. If so, the problem is in the new module.
Should I calibrate the gyroscope after changing the camera?
No, changing the camera does not affect the operation of the gyroscope or accelerometer. Calibration may only be required if you have turned off the battery for a long time (more than 10 minutes) or accidentally touched the sensors during disassembly. β†’ Sensor calibration.
Can I use the camera from the Xiaomi scooter for other purposes (for example, connect to a phone)?
Technically, it's possible, but it's not practical. The scooter camera has: No standard connector, USB-C Or Micro-USB. Narrow specialization (optimized for motion photography, but not statically), Low quality in the dark (no IR or night mode), You can connect it to the Raspberry Pi through an adapter for experiments, but it's easier to buy a regular webcam.
How long does it take to replace the camera?
With tools and experience, 20 to 40 minutes. If you're doing it for the first time, stock up on 1 to 1.5 hours (including photographing processes and checks); the longest steps are: Careful disassembly of the hull (to keep the latches intact); post-assembly health checks (sometimes several reboots are required).