Defects that occur in electric scooters can manifest through various signals that users can easily identify.
Important components of electric scooters include the electric motor, controller, and battery. Additionally, there are controls that connect both mechanically and electrically to the entire vehicle assembly: throttle lever, brake levers with sensors, key switch, alarm, kickstand with sensors, etc.
To understand the electric system, it’s important to know that the dedicated controller takes energy from the battery and sends it to the electric motor based on the commands given through the throttle. When the brakes are applied, it can turn the motor into a generator, transferring energy back to the battery, also known as „regenerative braking.”
In this article, we will describe a situation where the electric scooter is no longer moving and has distinct symptoms of malfunction. Normally, if we were to push the scooter, it should roll very easily, considering it has an electric motor on the rear axle and a freewheel on the front. This design allows it to move smoothly, as it lacks complex gears.
If our electric scooter is not functioning, the user should check if the traction system, specifically the electric motor wheel, rotates smoothly or if there is an issue with the power system, particularly the controller.
To assess this, the user should lift the scooter onto a solid support, ensuring that the motor wheel is suspended. At this point, we can manually spin the wheel and observe if the rotation is smooth or difficult.
Ensure that the braking system does not impede rotation. If you cannot determine this, it is advisable to detach the caliper from the scooter’s frame.
Based on the findings from the first step, we can draw the following conclusions:
- Step 1 – If the motor wheel rotates easily: The winding and power system are likely functioning correctly. Check the Hall sensors, brake sensors, connections between the motor and controller, and other safety components on the electric vehicle.
- Step 1 – If the motor wheel rotates with difficulty: In this case, we need to analyze why the rotation is impeded. This may involve removing the scooter’s casing to reach the controller.
Important: Ensure the battery is disconnected from the electrical system before proceeding.
We need to identify the wires connected from the motor to the controller. Typically, there will be three thicker wires, usually in yellow, blue, and green. Additionally, there are five thinner wires that come from Hall sensors.
In Step 2, disconnect the three thicker wires from the electric motor to the wires coming from the controller. These may be connected either via contact grids with screws or through special power connectors. After disconnecting, make sure they do not touch each other.
Now, spin the motor wheel and observe if the rotation is smooth or difficult.
Step 2 Conclusion – If the motor spins with difficulty: This may indicate a burnt winding or a shorts issue with the motor wires. It may be necessary to replace the motor or carefully check the continuity of the wires.
Step 2 Conclusion – If the motor spins smoothly: The controller may be hindering movement due to an electrical fault. The MOSFETs controlling power to the motor may have burnt out due to various electrical reasons.
In conclusion, using your electric scooter within normal parameters is recommended to avoid pushing limits during uphill climbs or excessive braking on declines.