E-bike reference

42 e-bike error codes, explained in plain language.

What does the code on your display mean? Causes, roadside self-help and sources — for Bosch, Shimano STEPS, Yamaha and more. Free and maintained with love for the detail. Enjoy the ride!

Bosch eBike Systems Sensors

503

Speed sensor fault

The drive unit is not receiving a valid signal from the speed sensor on the rear wheel — the most frequently seen Bosch error code in practice. In most cases the spoke magnet has shifted, sits too far from the sensor or the sensor is dirty or its cable damaged. Without a plausible speed signal the system stops assisting.

Drive system
Bosch eBike Systems
Category
Sensors
Motor behavior
assist off
DIY-friendly?
possible

Roadside self-help

  1. Check that the spoke magnet is aligned with the mark on the sensor and only a few millimetres (about 8-14 mm) away
  2. Clean sensor and magnet and retighten the magnet
  3. Restart the system
  4. If the error persists, have sensor and cable checked by a dealer

Possible causes

  • Spoke magnet shifted or too far from the sensor high
  • Dirty sensor or magnet medium
  • Damaged sensor cable medium
  • Spoke magnet lost low

Symptoms

  • Error 503 on the display, often after wheel removal or transport
  • Motor assistance cuts out
  • No or implausible speed reading

Inspection / repair

  • Difficulty: easy
  • DIY: possible
  • no dealer tool needed
  • Estimated cost: 5–80 €
  • Estimated time: 0.1–1 h
  • Component: speed sensor
  • Component: spoke magnet
  • Component: sensor cable

Applies to

Sources

How to read e-bike error codes

Unlike cars (OBD-II), e-bike codes are manufacturer-specific: the same number means something different on a Bosch than on a Shimano system. What matters is always the combination of drive system and code.