The Xiaomi Electric Scooter Pro 2 is one of the most popular vehicles in the city, combining compactness and power. However, even experienced owners sometimes have difficulty folding it for transport or storage. Incorrect folding can lead to damage to the locking mechanism, jamming the steering wheel or even falling of the scooter while carrying.
In this article, we will analyze the step-by-step folding algorithm with the nuances of the Pro 2 design, talk about common errors (for example, why the scooter does not lock in the folded state), and give recommendations for caring for the mechanism, and you will find unique tips for preventing backlash of the steering column after repeated folding - a problem that owners face after 6-12 months of operation.
Xiaomi Pro 2 design: What you need to know before folding
Before you start folding, it is important to understand the structure of the key nodes of the scooter. Xiaomi Pro 2 is equipped with a two-level fixation system:
- 🔧 The main lock is a metal latch on the steering column, which blocks folding in the unfolded state.
- 🔒 Additional fixator - plastic tongue on the rear wing, preventing spontaneous unfolding.
- ⚙️ Amortization spring - helps to fold the steering wheel smoothly, but requires careful handling.
The Pro 2 features a reinforced frame compared to the base model M365, but the folding mechanism remained almost identical, which means that the instruction will also be suitable for other scooters in the Xiaomi 1S/Pro/Essential series, but the force when pressing the lever may differ.
The manufacturer claims that the mechanism is designed for ≥10 000 folding cycles, but in practice this indicator depends on:
- 💦 Pollution level (sand and dust fall into the lattices of the fixator).
- 🖐️ Pressing forces (excessive force deforms plastic parts).
- 🌡️ Operating temperatures (in the cold, plastic becomes fragile).
Step-by-step: how to fold Xiaomi Pro 2
Follow this algorithm to avoid jamming or breaking:
- Step 1. Stop the scooter and make sure it's standing on a flat surface. Pro 2 weighs 14.2 kg, so when folded on a slope, it can tip over.
- Step 2. Press the arm of the locker (located on the steering column on the right). It should be drowned before the click is a signal to unlock the mechanism. If the lever does not press: What to do if the lever is jammed?Try to swing the steering wheel left-right (amplitude 5-10 °) and simultaneously press the lever. If it does not help, remove the plastic cover and clean the mechanism of dirt (see section "Care for the mechanism").
- Step 3: Fold the steering wheel down smoothly, holding the scooter behind the rear wing. Don't throw the steering wheel - this can damage the shock spring.
- Step 4: Lock the folded scooter with a plastic tongue on the rear wing, it should snap with the characteristic sound, and check the reliability of the fixation by slightly pulling the steering wheel up.
☑️ Pre-shipment checks
Visual clue: there's a red mark on the steering column -- it should match the mark on the frame when folded. If the tags don't match, the mechanism isn't locked!
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Even experienced users sometimes make mistakes that shorten the life of the machine, and here are the most common ones:
| Mistake. | Effects of consequences | How to avoid |
|---|---|---|
| Folding on the go | Fall, damage to the steering wheel or display | Always stop the scooter and put on the bandwagon |
| Excessive force when pressing the lever | Deformation of the plastic shell of the retainer | Press smoothly, no jerks |
| Ignoring the snap of fixation | Spontaneous unfolding during carrying | Always check the latch of the back tongue |
| Storage in folded condition under heavy load | Slack steering, backlash in the column | Place the scooter if you do not use >24 hours |
Critical error: Many owners try to fold the scooter by pulling the wheel up instead of pressing the lever, which causes the spring mechanism to break down and requires expensive repairs (replacing the scooter costs 1,500-2,500 units). ₽).
💡
If the scooter stood for a long time in the cold, before folding, bring it into a warm room for 10-15 minutes. The plastic will become more elastic, and the risk of cracks will decrease.
Care for the folding mechanism: extending the service life
To make the mechanism last longer, it is enough to follow simple rules:
- 🧹 Clean: once a month, wipe the lock and groove lever with a wet wipe. Use compressed air to remove sand (for example, a canister to clean the keyboard).
- 🛢️ Lubrication: 1-2 times a year apply silicone lubricant (not WD-40!) Avoid getting on plastic, which can cause it to soften.
- 🔧 Adjustment: if there is a backlash in the steering column, tighten the mounting bolts (key 5 mm.
For deep cleaning of the mechanism:
- Remove the plastic cover on the steering column (screwdriver T20).
- Remove the dirt with a brush and isopropyl alcohol.
- Lubricate the rubbing parts with lithium lubricant (e.g. LIQUI MOLY LM 47).
💡
Never use oils based on petroleum products (such as motor oil) – they attract dust and accelerate wear of the mechanism.
If the lever is still tightly pressed after cleaning, check:
- 🔩 Are the steering column mounts tightened.
- 🧲 Is there magnetic resistance (sometimes metal shavings stick to the magnets of the motor).
What to do if the scooter does not fold or is not fixed
If the mechanism is jammed, don't try to apply force, it can make the problem worse.
⚠️ Warning: If the scooter falls when you try to fold, immediately stop the manipulation and check the integrity of the frame.
| Problem. | Possible cause | Decision |
|---|---|---|
| Lever not pressed | Contamination of the mechanism or deformation of the spring | Cleaning and lubrication (see section above) |
| The steering wheel is not fixed in the folded state | Wear of the plastic tongue or weakening of the spring | Replacement of the tongue (article M365-007) or spring lift |
| The scooter spontaneously unfolds | Rear retainer failure | Installation of a metal lock (for example, Kryptonite) |
To replace the plastic fixation tongue:
- Buy the original part (cost) ~300 ₽).
- Remove the rear wing (screwdriver T15).
- Remove the old tongue and install a new one by fixing it with a screw.
If the problem is in the spring, it can be temporarily stretched with pliers, but it is better to replace it with a new one (Article M365-012).
Comparison with other Xiaomi models: what has changed
The folding mechanism has evolved with the release of new models, and for clarity, compare the Pro 2 to other popular scooters of the brand:
| Model | Type of fixator | Folding force | Frequent problems |
|---|---|---|---|
| Xiaomi M365 | Metal lever + plastic tongue | Average. | Wear of plastic tongue |
| Xiaomi Pro 2 | Reinforced metal lever + spring | High (because of the spring) | Lever jamming in case of contamination |
| Xiaomi 1S | Aluminum lever with rubber seal | Low. | Luft steering after 1000+ folding |
| Xiaomi 4 Pro | Magnetic locker + automatic lock | Very low. | Problems with magnets at low temperatures |
The Pro 2 inherited the movement from the M365, but with a reinforced spring, making it more reliable, but also more demanding to care. New models (such as the Xiaomi 4 Pro) use magnetic locks that are less prone to wear, but sensitive to frost.
If you’re planning an upgrade, look for Xiaomi Electric Scooter 4 Lite – it’s a one-handed folding system that solves most of the Pro 2’s problems.
Video Instructions and Additional Resources
For a visual understanding of the process, we recommend the official video from Xiaomi:
YouTube: "Xiaomi Pro 2 Folding Tutorial" (Xiaomi Global Channel)
Also useful materials:
- 📄 Official manual Xiaomi Pro 2 (section "Folding", pp. 12–14).
- 🛠️ ScooterHacking Forum – section on repair of folding mechanisms.
- 📦 Spare parts on AliExpress (look for sellers with a rating) >98%).
Professional advice: if you travel frequently with a scooter, buy a transport case (for example, Xiaomi Mi Electric Scooter Bag), which protects the mechanism from dust and impact, and also facilitates carrying with backpack straps.