Shimano STEPS error codes: what they mean and what to do

What it means

The drive unit has detected a problem and may disable assistance. E010 covers different possible causes. On modern systems, E-TUBE PROJECT Professional may display an extended code, such as E01030, which is much more useful for diagnosis.

Why it may appear

• If you have changed the drive settings: incorrect configuration of the gearing, chainring or other components can trigger E010.
• If you have not changed anything: check the torque sensor, especially if W013 also appears and the fault continues when switching on without pressure on the pedals.
• There may also be other causes: power supply, wiring, connectors, moisture or internal electronics. E010 alone does not confirm which part is faulty.

What to check first

1. Switch the system off using the battery button.
2. Wait a few seconds and switch it on without putting weight on the pedals.
3. If the battery is removable, check that it is properly seated and locked.
4. Check only the accessible external connections for moisture, dirt, damage or loose cables.
5. Make a note of any recent changes to the drive system, settings or firmware.

Shimano manual

Extended codes and diagnosis with E-TUBE PROJECT.

What it means

E011 is a general error documented on older systems, particularly DU-E8000. Assistance is disabled, but the code does not identify a faulty battery, sensor or motor by itself.

What to check

1. Switch the bike off and back on once.
2. Check that the display is properly seated in its mount.
3. With the system switched off, check only the visible cables and accessible connectors.

Shimano manual

Shimano STEPS error table.

What it means

When starting, the motor checks the sensor that measures the force applied to the pedals. E012 appears when this initialisation fails. Unlike W013, which can reduce assistance, E012 can disable it completely.

What to check first

1. Switch the bike off.
2. Leave both pedals clear, without your foot, the bike or any object resting on them.
3. Switch on using the battery button and wait for the system to finish starting before touching the pedals.

Shimano manual

Description of E012 and starting procedure.

What it means

The drive unit has detected an anomaly in its firmware. This may occur after an interrupted update or when installing a version that does not accept the saved configuration. The bike may switch on without providing assistance.

What to do

1. Switch it off and on once to rule out a temporary fault.
2. Connect the bike to E-TUBE PROJECT and use the firmware recovery option.
3. If E-TUBE does not recognise the motor or recovery fails, do not keep trying: E-TUBE PROJECT Professional with SM-PCE02, or a service with this tool, is required.

This code is not fixed by moving the speed-sensor magnet or changing assistance settings.

Shimano manual

E034 (E013) and recovery with E-TUBE PROJECT.

What it means

The motor is not receiving a valid signal from the speed sensor. It often appears after moving the sensor, removing the rear wheel, changing the disc, losing the magnet or damaging the sensor or its cable. It does not by itself prove that the bike has been modified.

What to check

1. Check that the sensor and magnet are the correct ones and are firmly secured.
2. Check that the wheel, axle and disc are fully seated.
3. Return the sensor and magnet to the intended position for that bike. Do not move the magnet closer at random: an excessive signal can also cause problems.
4. Check the visible cable and, after correcting the installation, switch on and ride a short distance.

Shimano manual

Description and solution for E014.

What it means

The battery and drive unit are not exchanging the information required for assistance correctly. The code does not identify by itself whether the cause is the battery, mount, contacts, wiring or motor.

Useful clues

If the bike switches off or loses assistance over bumps, after getting wet or when the motor demands more power, pay particular attention to the battery mounting and connections. This is a clue, not confirmation.

What to check first

1. Switch the bike off. If the battery is removable, remove it and refit it, making sure it cannot move and is locked.
2. With the charger disconnected, check the accessible contacts for dirt, moisture, wear, corrosion or signs of overheating.
3. Recall whether it started after working on the fork, seatpost, display, battery or any cable.
4. Visually check that no cables are trapped or external connectors are loose.

Shimano manual

Description of E02000.

What it means

The battery responds as part of a Shimano STEPS system, but is not compatible with the particular combination of motor, mount and generation. It usually appears after replacing the battery or one of these components.

What to check

1. Confirm the exact model of the battery, mount and motor; having the same voltage or a similar connector is not enough.
2. If you still have the original battery, try it to narrow down the problem.
3. Check the combination in the official compatibility table. An update only helps when Shimano expressly states that the version enables the combination.

First-generation systems and Gen.2 are not interchangeable except for the exceptions documented by Shimano.

Shimano manual

Description of E021.

What it means

The motor does not recognise the battery as valid for that system. It may be an incompatible battery or BMS, a mix of generations or an unsupported combination. It does not automatically mean that every third-party battery is invalid: some are explicitly compatible with particular systems.

What to check

1. Check the exact model and generation of the battery, mount and motor.
2. If it is removable, switch the system off and refit it correctly.
3. If it appeared after replacing the battery, mount or motor, check the official compatibility of the complete combination.
4. Try the original battery if it is still available.

Shimano manual

Description of E022.

What it means

E023 comes from the battery and indicates an electrical anomaly inside it. It is not related to the speed sensor or motor settings.

What to do

1. Disconnect the charger and switch the battery off.
2. Check that it is not unusually hot, deformed, wet or damaged, and that it does not smell. If you notice any of these signs, stop using and charging it.
3. If it appears normal and the manual allows its removal, refit it and try switching on once.

Do not open the casing, handle the cells or bridge the terminals. If E023 appears again, the battery needs professional inspection.

Shimano manual

Battery safety instructions and errors.

What it means

E024 does not have one definition for every system. In older manuals it indicates a communication problem with the bike; in newer batteries it may indicate that over-current protection has been activated.

What to check

1. Note the exact battery model and where the code appears: display, battery lights or E-TUBE.
2. Switch off and on once.
3. If the battery is removable, check that it is properly seated and inspect the accessible contacts and power cable.
4. If the error reappears at start-up or when demanding power, stop using assistance until you identify which definition applies to your battery.

Do not identify the cause solely from the number of flashes: the sequences vary between models.

Shimano manual

Shimano battery errors and protection functions.

What it means

The battery does not recognise the motor correctly. Shimano links this to an incompatible drive unit or a disconnected main cable. Unlike E020, the central problem here is motor recognition, not communication that cuts out during use.

What to check

1. If the battery or motor has been replaced, confirm that they form a compatible combination.
2. Switch the bike off and check only the accessible external cables and connectors.
3. Look for moisture, a trapped cable or a connection that was not fully inserted after a repair.

Shimano manual

Description and checks for E025.

What it means

On systems that describe it in detail, E030 means that the installed shift unit does not match the unit or configuration recognised by the system. Depending on the bike, this may refer to mechanical gearing, electronic gearing, an internal Di2 hub or another drive configuration.

When it may appear

For example, if you install electronic Di2 gearing while the motor is still configured for mechanical gearing. The bike may switch on but fail to recognise the gearing correctly or provide assistance. Check the configuration if a derailleur or electronic hub has been replaced. It does not automatically mean that the motor is broken.

What to check first

1. Note the exact code and check that it is not E031, E035 or an extended variant.
2. Identify the motor, display and type of gearing installed.
3. Recall whether any component was replaced, firmware updated or wiring altered.
4. Check only the external cables and clearly accessible connectors, without forcing or removing covers.
5. Switch the bike off and on using the battery button.

Do not adjust the drive system or replace the battery or motor as a test. The configuration must match the bike’s actual components.

Official reference

Shimano STEPS technical manual. In some older generations, the description appears more generally as a configuration error.

What it means

On certain older drive systems, the system detects incorrect chain tension or an incorrectly installed crank. Assistance is disabled, although electronic shifting may continue to work.

What to check

1. If work has recently been carried out on the drive system, check the chain tension according to the bike’s manual.
2. Check the orientation and installation of both cranks.
3. Do not adjust the chain at random: the procedure depends on the type of drive system and hub installed.

Shimano manual

Description of E031.

What it means

One or more bike units have firmware versions that cannot work together. It may appear after updating only part of the system, replacing a component or interrupting an update.

How to fix it

1. Connect the bike to E-TUBE PROJECT.
2. Check every detected component, not just the motor.
3. Update the units to a compatible set of versions and allow the process to finish before switching off or disconnecting the bike.

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Description and solution for E033.

What it means

E035 indicates an anomaly in the bike configuration. It does not by itself mean that the motor is broken: the installed firmware may not support certain settings or components.

If it appeared immediately after a downgrade

The older firmware may not accept a configuration that worked with the newer version. For example, saved values for the number of chainring teeth or the smallest sprocket.

In this case, complete the intended parameter changes and then update the motor firmware with E-TUBE PROJECT.

1. Make the intended adjustments with eTuning, such as region or wheel circumference, following the procedure compatible with your motor. In this documented case, E035 may remain visible while these changes are made.
2. Then update the motor with E-TUBE PROJECT to the current official version compatible with your system. Do not leave the process half-complete with the old firmware causing the error.
3. If you temporarily changed the chainring or sprocket values so that the old firmware would accept them, restore the actual values after updating.
4. When the update is complete, switch the bike off and on again and check that E035 has disappeared before using it.

If you carried out the downgrade manually from a PC by copying renamed files into E-TUBE’s FW folder, remove those added files before updating. Otherwise, they may prevent E-TUBE from installing the latest version correctly. This step does not apply if you did not copy files manually.

Official reference

Official Shimano error search tool.

What it means

On older systems, E043 indicates that part of the cycle computer firmware is damaged. In newer documentation it may refer to the product that records the error, so identify in E-TUBE which unit is generating it.

What to do

1. Switch the system off and on once.
2. If it appeared during an update, do not change other parameters.
3. Connect the bike to E-TUBE PROJECT Professional, identify the unit recording E043 and recover its firmware.

Shimano manual

Historical description of E043.

What it means

The system has detected a configuration that depends on data defined by the bike manufacturer. This code cannot be resolved by choosing values at random.

What to do

1. Note the exact bike model, motor and complete code.
2. If it appeared after replacing the motor or updating components, mention this during diagnosis.
3. Ask the bike manufacturer or its authorised service to check and restore the configuration corresponding to that model.

Shimano manual

Description of E044.

What it means

The motor receives a signal from the speed sensor but considers it inconsistent. This differs from W011/W101, where the signal is missing. It may appear after moving the sensor or magnet, changing the wheel or disc, fitting the wrong magnet or altering the speed pulses.

What to check

1. Return the sensor and magnet to the original installation intended for the bike.
2. Check that there are not two magnets, an excessively strong magnet or a gap different from the specification for that sensor.
3. Check that the wheel, axle and disc are correctly fitted.
4. After correcting it, switch on and ride a short distance to see whether it disappears.

Do not keep moving the magnet by trial and error. An excessively long or irregular signal may keep the problem active.

Shimano manual

Description of E05000.

What it means

E201 is a family of modern errors, not the diagnosis of one specific part. Its extended variants may refer to internal communications or different motor-sensor signals.

What to do

1. Switch off and on once.
2. Open the E-TUBE PROJECT Professional service report and keep the complete code, including every digit.
3. If it appears together with E914 on the same date and time, the communication and wiring between the battery and motor must also be checked.

Official reference

Official Shimano error search tool.

What it means

E203 may appear as an active drive-unit fault, but it has also been recorded on EP801 and EP600 motors during an update that completed correctly.

How to interpret it

• It appears only in the history, matches the time of an update and the bike works: keep the report and check whether it appears again; by itself, it does not prove an active fault.
• It is active, cuts assistance or appears again: check and update the firmware with E-TUBE. If it continues, stop using assistance and request a diagnosis.

Do not clear the history before recording the date, time and complete code.

Shimano information

Official firmware update history.

What it means

Shimano displays E295 when it detects a configuration or behaviour that does not match the intended specifications. It may be caused by a modification, but also by a displaced magnet, faulty sensor or cable, a changed wheel or disc, or drive-system data that does not match the actual parts.

What to check immediately

1. Do not keep switching off, switching on and testing repeatedly.
2. Check the magnet, speed sensor and its wiring, especially after changing the wheel or disc.
3. If the chainring, cassette, number of gears or type of gearing was changed, compare these components with the saved configuration.
4. Read the diagnosis with E-TUBE PROJECT Professional and keep the code and its date.

Switching off and on may hide E295 temporarily, but does not fix the cause. Shimano states that E299 appears after an allowed number of warnings has been exceeded, but does not publish how many.

Shimano manual

E295 and E299 safe mode.

What it means

E299 appears when the system has exceeded the permitted number of E295 detections. In safe mode, the motor stops providing assistance.

What to do

1. Do not keep restarting, changing parameters or reinstalling firmware.
2. Note E295 and E299 and any changes made before the first warning.
3. Visit a Shimano office or authorised dealer with the specific device required to deactivate safe mode.

A normal shutdown, E-TUBE on a phone or a standard update will not remove E299. Shimano also warns that, in certain situations, it may not be possible to deactivate safe mode.

Shimano manual

E299 safe mode and authorised procedure.

What it means

E914 indicates an anomaly between the battery and drive unit. It may be caused by a poorly seated battery, moisture or corrosion on the contacts, loose connectors or damage to the main cable. It is not in itself evidence of a modification.

What to check

1. Switch the bike off. If the battery is removable, remove it and refit it correctly.
2. Check only the accessible contacts and connectors for moisture, dirt or damage.
3. If it appeared after washing the bike or carrying out a repair, allow the area to dry and mention this when requesting a diagnosis.

Official reference

Official Shimano error search tool.

What it means

The connected second-generation battery is not compatible with the drive unit. It usually appears after replacing the battery, mount or motor with a model from a different combination.

What to check

1. Stop using assistance and note the exact part numbers for the battery, mount and motor.
2. Check the combination in Shimano’s official compatibility table.
3. If you still have the original components, do not mix parts for testing without checking compatibility first.

An update does not automatically make a combination compatible if Shimano does not support it.

Shimano manual

Gen.2 battery compatibility and codes.

What it means

The connected battery does not support that charger or charging combination. The code does not necessarily mean that the battery is faulty.

What to do

1. Disconnect the charger.
2. Check the exact part number of the battery, charger and, where applicable, adapter.
3. Use only a combination supported by Shimano for that battery.

Do not try chargers simply because they have a similar connector, and do not modify cables or adapters.

Shimano manual

Charging compatibility and codes.

What it means

E934 indicates a communication problem between the cycle computer and drive unit.

What to check

1. If it appears only as an old record and the bike works, keep the date and check whether it coincides with an update or disconnection.
2. If it is active, switch the bike off and check only that the display is properly seated and its accessible connectors have no visible damage.
3. Do not pull hidden cables or dismantle the motor.

Official reference

Official Shimano error search tool.

What it means

The motor’s internal temperature is above normal. This may happen on a long climb, in hot weather, with a heavy load or during prolonged use of a high assistance level.

What to do

1. Stop using assistance and stop somewhere safe.
2. Wait for the drive unit to cool naturally.
3. Note whether it appeared under heavy load or during easy riding as well.

Do not cool the motor with water or dismantle its casing. Touching the outside does not reveal its internal temperature.

Shimano manual

Description of W010.

What it means

The system is not receiving the speed-sensor signal. The speedometer may remain at zero or jump intermittently, and assistance may be limited.

What to check

1. Check that the magnet is still fitted and is the correct one for the sensor. If you changed the rear disc, check that the new one also includes it.
2. Check that the sensor and magnet are secure and in the position specified for the installation.
3. Check that the wheel is properly seated and that the visible cable is not damaged, trapped or loose.
4. See whether the display shows a speed when the wheel is turned.

Do not move the magnet as close as possible by trial and error: an excessively strong or prolonged signal can cause E050.

Shimano manual

Description of W10100 (W011).

What it means

The system detects that a crank’s position does not match the expected position. This does not refer to having a pedal resting on something when switching on; that case corresponds to W013.

What to check

1. If the cranks were recently removed, check that the left and right cranks are on the correct sides and opposite each other by 180 degrees.
2. Check that they are installed according to the procedure and tightening torque for the model.
3. After correcting the installation, switch the bike on again without putting weight on the pedals.

Shimano manual

Description and solution for W012.

What it means

When switching on, the motor needs to establish the starting point for its sensors. With W013, a very common cause is starting with pressure on a pedal or crank.

This can happen if you switch on with one foot on the pedal or if the bike is leaning against a wall, stand or lock that is pressing on a crank.

What to do

1. Switch the bike off completely.
2. Move it away from anything touching a pedal or crank.
3. Leave both pedals clear and switch on without touching them.
4. If the exact code is W103, Shimano says to turn the cranks backwards two or three revolutions. Do not apply this instruction automatically to other variants.

Shimano information

Changes in the W013, W103 and W106 designations.

What it means

The battery’s internal temperature is outside the permitted range for delivering energy. This can happen because of heat or cold. For batteries that publish these limits, Shimano indicates approximately -10 to 50 °C for discharge and 0 to 40 °C for charging.

What to do

1. Switch the bike off and stop using the battery.
2. If it is hot, move it to a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight.
3. If it is very cold, allow it to reach room temperature indoors in a dry place.
4. Wait for the temperature to stabilise before switching it on or charging it.

Do not use hairdryers, radiators, water or ice. Do not charge the battery outside the range stated in its own manual.

Shimano manual

Battery operating and charging temperature.

What it means

The system has identified two or more controls as assistance selectors. This may happen after replacing a control and assigning it to the wrong side or function. While it appears, electronic shifting may stop working.

What to do

1. Check the control part numbers and the function assigned to each one.
2. Use E-TUBE PROJECT to configure one as a shift selector, or leave only one assistance control connected.
3. Restart the system after correcting the assignment.

It does not indicate a motor fault.

Shimano manual

Description of W030.

What it means

The system detects that chain tension may be incorrect or that a crank is incorrectly installed. Assistance may be disabled even though electronic shifting continues to work.

What to do

1. If work has recently been carried out on the drive system, check the chain tension according to the manual for that installation.
2. Check the orientation and attachment of both cranks.
3. Do not dismantle or tension components without knowing the procedure for the installed drive system.

Shimano manual

Description of W031.

What it means

The bike finds electronic Di2 gearing when it is configured for mechanical gearing, or a different shift unit from the one saved. It may appear after a conversion, replacing the motor or changing the configuration without changing the parts.

What to check

1. Identify the motor and exact model of the installed gearing.
2. Use E-TUBE PROJECT to check which drive type is configured.
3. Match the configuration to the hardware, but first check that the motor, gearing and generation are compatible.

The fact that E-TUBE detects and updates Di2 gearing does not necessarily mean that the main configuration now matches.

Shimano manual

Description of W30200 (W032).

What it means

The system has detected an unexpected power cut. This may be caused by movement of a removable battery, a disconnected or damaged power cable, or an intermittent connection.

What to check

1. Switch the bike off and, if the battery is removable, check that it is firmly locked with no play.
2. Check the accessible external contacts and wiring for dirt, moisture or damage.
3. Note whether the warning appears over bumps or when moving the battery.

Shimano manual

Description of W10500.

What it means

On modern systems, W292 appears when the sensor does not detect speed correctly. Common causes are a missing, loose, dirty or misaligned magnet; an incorrect gap; a damaged cable; or a recently replaced wheel or disc.

What to check

1. Check that the speedometer is not showing zero or erratic values.
2. Check that the magnet is still fitted, aligned and the correct one for the sensor.
3. Check that the sensor and visible cable have no impact damage or other damage.
4. Consult the sensor manual for the correct gap. For EW-SS301 Shimano specifies 3 to 17 mm, but this range does not apply to all sensors.

Shimano manual

EW-SS301 sensor installation and distance.