Shimano error codes indicate that the bike is not functioning as intended and serve as a warning that it needs attention.
Shimano E-Bike Error Codes List and Guide
Written by: Robbie Ferri | January 30, 2026 | Time to read 6 min
Your quick guide to understanding and solving Shimano e-Bike error codes like a pro.
More about the Author: Robbie Ferri
Robbie is a UK-based ultra cyclist, former bike shop worker, and qualified bike fitter. Deeply passionate about e-Bikes and adventure cycling, he combines hands-on experience with real-world riding to help others go further on two wheels.
There’s no denying that Shimano makes an amazing electric bike motor. With advanced technology comes protection systems, and one of these is Shimano error codes. Error codes exist to ensure the bike is well-maintained and to protect it when a problem occurs.
Error codes provide the information you need to fix the bike or have it seen to by a specialist. They are not all scary, and you would be surprised how many can be fixed at home by yourself. In this article, we discuss error codes and how to fix them.
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Table of Contents
What Are Shimano E-Bike Motors?
Complete List of Shimano E-Bike Error Codes
Error code E010 - General System
Error code E011 - Torque Sensor
Error code E013 - Crank Sensor Rotation
Error code E014 - Drive Internal Failure
Error code E017 - Gear Position Sensor
Error code E020 - Display Communication
Error code E021 - Speed Sensor
Error code E022 - Battery Communication
Error code E023 - Power Supply
Error code E024 - Motor Control Failure
Error code W011 - Low Assistance
Error code W013 - High Temperature
Error code E030 - Battery System
Error code E035 - Software Mismatch
Error code E042 - Internal Memory
Error code E050 - Calibration Required
Error code E051 - Firmware Incompatible
When to Visit a Shimano Certified Dealer or a Bike Mechanic
Preventing Shimano Electric Bike Error Codes
What Are Shimano E-Bike Motors?
Shimano was initially founded in 1921 by Shozaburo Shimano. They surprisingly started by selling small fishing tackle before then going into bicycle components much later. To this day, they are one of the biggest brands in cycling components.
They supply a wide range of motors and systems for electric bikes and are known for high standards of quality control and highly reliable products. The most popular being the Shimano Steps E8000, Shimano Steps e5000, or the Shimano EP8 system. Even the E6000 series and the E8000 series overall are excellent.
- E5000 / E5100 – Lightweight urban motor with ~40–50 Nm torque, designed for smooth, efficient city riding.
- E6100 / EP5 – Mid-range all-round motor delivering ~60 Nm torque, ideal for commuting, trekking, and light hills.
- E7000 – Entry-level eMTB motor with ~60 Nm torque, offering trail capability without excess weight.
- EP6 – Powerful mid-tier motor producing up to ~85 Nm torque, suited to demanding eMTB and cargo use.
- EP8 / EP801 – Shimano’s flagship motor with ~85 Nm torque, lighter weight, and advanced tuning for high-performance trail riding.
Complete List of Shimano E-Bike Error Codes
Error code E010 - General System
Loose or damaged connectors, faulty motor or sensors, or even just a temporary glitch.
Turn the bike on and off for a reset. If you still get the error, check the wires and connections for damage. Still no luck getting a Shimano service center to diagnose the issue.
Error code E011 - Torque Sensor
The torque sensor is damaged or misaligned.
Verify that the sensor is in the correct position and that the wiring is secure, not loose, or broken. Recalibrate if required. If it still doesn’t work, then replace the sensor.
Error code E012 - Drive Unit
Generally, either internal motor faults, such as worn brushes or a controller malfunction.
Check for damage or water ingress in the drive unit and on the connections. If that doesn’t resolve the issue, take it to a Shimano service center.
Error code E013 - Crank Sensor Rotation
The crank sensor is misaligned or damaged.
Check that the crank sensor is in the correct place if external. Check the wires and cables, then recalibrate.
Error code E014 - Drive Internal Failure
Drive Internal Failure means the internal motor is damaged or there’s an electronics failure somewhere. It could be caused by physical damage or corrosion.
Likely a new drive unit. It's best to take it to a Shimano service center for a complete diagnosis.
Error code E017 - Gear Position Sensor
The gear sensor is misaligned or broken, typically due to wire damage.
Check the cabling and connections for damage. If there is none, you will need to replace the gear sensor.
Error code E020 - Display Communication
Due to loose or damaged cables or cable connectors to the display unit, or a faulty display unit.
Check the connections and wiring, then perform a hard reset. If the error code still appears, consider a screen replacement.
Error code E021 - Speed Sensor
This means the speed sensor is not communicating with the other components. A misaligned or dirty sensor is often the cause. Or even a spoke magnet being in the wrong place.
Ensure the sensor is aligned with the magnet on the wheel. Check the cables and connections to ensure they are working. Worst case, you can change the sensor.
Error code E022 - Battery Communication
The battery is not communicating correctly with other components. Often, it's from a firmware issue, a wiring fault, or the battery not being inserted correctly.
Ensure the battery pack is connected correctly. Check the wiring around the battery if you are still seeing the error code. Check and update the bike's firmware.
Error code E023 - Power Supply
Voltage drop from weak or poor connections.
Check the battery connections, wiring, and connectors. If the problem persists, try another battery in case yours has failed.
Error code E024 - Motor Control Failure
The electronics control has malfunctioned. This can happen for many reasons, often water ingress or corrosion.
Check for moisture ingress before anything else. Either repair the unit or replace it, then do a firmware update.
Error code W011 - Low Assistance
This fault code means the battery is too low, or the temperature is too high.
Let the system cool before riding again, and fully charge the battery using the proper Shimano battery charger.
Error code W013 - High Temperature
The bike has detected elevated temperatures in the battery, motor, or controller, and is at risk of overheating.
Let the bike cool down first, then avoid using heavy assistance for prolonged periods in the future.
Error code E030 - Battery System
This is a communication error. The battery is not communicating properly or has an internal fault.
Reseat the battery on the battery mount and check the connections for any dirt ingress or corrosion. If the error code persists, replace the battery, as it may be a battery output issue.
Error code E031 - Locking
This means an immobilizer or lock error has occurred. This could be a simple sensor failure.
Reset the system first. Then check the fob and other locking components are not damaged. If that all fails, go to a Shimano service center.
Error code E035 - Software Mismatch
The component software cannot communicate with each other due to a firmware issue. This is caused by not all having the same software.
Just need a firmware update. It can often be done via an application or at a Shimano service center for motor support.
Error code E042 - Internal Memory
This is due to internal memory damage caused by a failure in the control unit.
Start by resetting the unit and updating the firmware. If the problem persists, then see a Shimano service center.
Error code E050 - Calibration Required
Often happens when the battery is replaced. The bike requires calibration of the components.
Either perform the on-screen calibration or use the Shimano application. A calibration issue is very easy to fix.
Error code E051 - Firmware Incompatible
The firmware is conflicting between the components. This is when components do not match up on the software side.
Firmware updates for all components should bring them up to date and ensure they work together.
When to Visit a Shimano Certified Dealer or a Bike Mechanic
As mentioned earlier, many error codes can be resolved at home. The bike itself might have a loose connection, or the battery might not be clipped in properly, which could be causing many of them. We would even say that fixing a speed sensor isn’t too tricky.
We recommend taking it to a Shimano-certified dealer or service center if the problem persists, or if it becomes very technical or dangerous to repair. It’s always important to remember that you're working with electricity and high-end electronics.
Preventing Shimano Electric Bike Error Codes
Many e-Bike error codes are preventable in the first place. Here’s what we recommend to minimize the risk of getting any.
- Keep It Clean - Regular cleaning of the bike goes a long way toward preventing error codes. Clean connections and avoid leaving dirt on the bike while in storage to keep you riding smoothly.
- Regular Servicing - It goes without saying that regular servicing ensures the bike runs smoothly. This isn’t just a new chain. It also includes cleaning the connections, a thorough check for damage, and more, which will significantly reduce the risk of error codes.
- Ride It As It Should Be Ridden - e-Bikes work best when ridden properly. Avoid going into the high gears and grinding away with a super low cadence. Try not to have the power on full every mile you ride. Like a car, you wouldn’t want to be on the redline constantly while riding.
- Update Software - Software is how the bike's components communicate with each other. Updating the software offers significant advantages, such as newer features that deliver better battery life, higher performance, and improved responsiveness. It also stops bugs that can cause error codes.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does a Shimano e-Bike error code mean?
Can I still ride my e-Bike with an error code?
Many Shimano motors will allow limited functionality, but in general, it’s not advisable to ride them until they are fixed to prevent damage.
Do Shimano e-Bike errors always mean a major fault?
Not always, quite often it’s just a dirty sensor or a loose wire. You would be surprised how much can be fixed at home. The serious errors do need to be reviewed by an expert and are often covered under warranty claims.
Key Takeaways
- Shimano error codes don’t always mean a significant problem and can often be fixed at home.
- A clean, regularly serviced bike will generally produce many fewer error codes.
- Keeping on top of not just the bike and drivetrain, but the bike's software is essential.
