Electric scooters are an inexpensive and convenient mode of transportation, but like any vehicle, they require repairs from time to time. If you're considering repairing your electric scooter yourself, it's important to weigh the pros and cons before diving in.
Seeking professional help (like our Service department) may be the best option for a safe and effective repair. Keep reading to find out if you should bring your device to the professionals or DIY.
Assess the extent of the damage
Before deciding whether to attempt a DIY repair or seek professional help - assess the extent of the damage to your electric scooter. If the issue is minor, like a loose bolt or stuck power button (watch our video below), all you need is the right tool.
However, if the damage is more extensive, such as a broken motor or electrical wiring issue, we recommend bringing your device to a electric scooter service centre. If you're unsure, give our service department a call and we can help you decide and figure out a potential repair cost.
Do you have technical experience?
When deciding whether to attempt a DIY repair or seek professional help for your electric scooter, it's important to consider your own skills and experience.
If you have experience repairing electronic or mechanical equipment - you should be able to repair some components by yourself. It's also important to consider the tools you have on hand - some of the tools we use at Segway of Ontario are specialized and make repairing an electric scooter much easier.
However, if you have little to no experience with e-scooter repair, don't risk it. It's surprisingly easy to fry your electric scooter's motherboard or wiring if you're unsure of what the technical details. If you're uncertain, we recommend paying for a professional.
Weigh the cost of DIY repairs versus professional help.
While DIY repairs may seem like a cost-effective option, it's important to consider the potential costs of making a mistake. If you accidentally damage your electric scooter further, you may end up spending more money on repairs in the long run.
On the other hand, seeking professional help may come with a higher upfront cost, but it can save you money and hassle in the long run by ensuring that the repair is done correctly and safely.
Avoid Poor Quality Non-OEM Parts
Another way to save money on repairs is avoiding cheap, low-quality parts from Amazon or other similar sites. We specifically recommend avoiding:
- Third-party (non-Ninebot) brand tires
- Rear fenders
- Control Boards
- Motor
- Throttles
Unless it's OEM, avoid buying parts online. Many companies on Amazon claim their product is just as good as the real thing - only for you to find out it doesn't fit or work. These aftermarket products often don't fit properly, are poor quality, and in some cases we will refuse to install them because they can be dangerous.
Our Service team at Segway of Ontario has seen many customers bring in after-market products that don't fit - only to be charged a second time for the proper product. Certified parts are more expensive but you know they quality is backed up - and if a part fails because of a factory defect, we'll fix it.
Research and Choose a Quality Electric Scooter Repair Service
If you decide to seek professional help for your electric scooter repair, it's important to do your research and choose the right electric scooter repair centre. Look for reviews and recommendations from other electric scooter owners, and make sure the repair service has experience working with your specific brand and model of scooter.
At Segway of Ontario, we only service Segway-Ninebot devices - we keep ourselves dedicated to a single brand to ensure high quality repairs. Another reason is that we know we can source the parts and guarantee your warranty.
Can You Get the Parts?
If you're considering an e-scooter purchase - make sure you ask the company if they have parts. Many lower priced scooter brands don't supply parts - meaning the first time you need a repair it can (and probably) will be months before you can get a part from China.
You may also want to ask about their pricing and turnaround time for repairs. By choosing a service with a steady flow of parts, you can be sure that your electric scooter repair will be done quickly and properly.
Take preventative measures to avoid future e-scooter repairs
While it may be tempting to wait until your electric scooter needs repair before taking action, taking preventative measures can save you time and money in the long run.
Our top 3 preventative maintenance measures for your electric scooter:
- Pump your tires to the recommended PSI at least every two weeks.
- Check your handlebar bolts every couple of weeks - if they're loose, tighten them to a snug fit. Make sure you don't over-tighten the bolts.
- Clean your device. Dirt and debris can add up and over time and can cause issues. Use a clean cloth with water or light-duty spray cleaner to wipe down your device from top to bottom monthly.
Regularly inspect your scooter for any signs of wear and tear, and address any issues as soon as they arise. This could include replacing worn-out tires, tightening loose bolts, and keeping the battery charged and maintained.
By taking these preventative measures, you can avoid more costly repairs down the line. If you need electric scooter service or repairs, consider booking with Segway of Ontario's experienced service department.
