Why does my Electric Scooter Turn on but not Move?

If you find yourself in a tight spot and asking the question why does my electric scooter turn on but not move, then let us help you get an answer as quickly as possible.

The number one reason your electric scooter powers up but doesn’t move is going to be it has insufficient charge to operate. It may have a dead battery or it might just have very low power. This could of course mean that your charger is damaged or operating poorly if you have left the scooter charging for adequate amounts of time. It could also mean that the battery itself is not charging properly.

When an electric scooter refuses to charge properly, the reasons can be multifaceted, spanning from simple issues like a defective charger to more complex problems such as a worn-out battery or water damage. Starting with the most common culprit, a defective charger can often be the root of charging issues. Chargers can fail due to internal damage, faulty wiring, or even just normal wear and tear.

To diagnose a charger issue, one option is to test the charger with another scooter of the same model. If this isn’t possible use a voltmeter to check its output voltage (these cost less than £10 for the most part). If the charger is not delivering the correct voltage, it’s a clear sign that it needs to be replaced – this is a very likely explanation for your question why does my scooter turn on but not move.

If your scooter is still within warranty (usually this is for around 1 year) you can get it replaced for free, otherwise you will have to buy a new electric scooter charger and this will need to be one that is compatible with your scooter’s battery.

Other Articles on Electric Scooter Maintenance

• Top 10 Tips for Electric Scooter Maintenance
• How to Charge an Electric Scooter When you don’t have a Charger
• How to Charge an Electric Scooter Properly

Why won’t my Electric Scooter Turn On?

If your electric scooter won’t turn on and it has been fully charged, then it likely has charging problems that need to be diagnosed. These can come in a few different forms.

Inspecting the scooter for any physical signs of damage can reveal potential charging problems. This includes checking for any unusual smells, such as burning rubber, which can indicate overheating or electrical faults, as well as visually inspecting for loose or disconnected wires, frayed wires, or swollen batteries. These physical symptoms suggest that the scooter’s electrical system may have been compromised, either through excessive use, overcharging, or impact damage.

Temperature also plays a crucial role in the charging efficiency of lithium batteries. If the ambient temperature is too low, below 20 degrees Celsius, the battery’s chemical processes slow down, hindering its ability to charge properly. This is a critical consideration in colder climates where electric scooters might not charge as efficiently during winter months.

Another area to investigate is the charger port itself. A defective charger port can prevent a good connection between the charger and the battery, leading to charging failures. Using a voltmeter to check the battery’s voltage can help determine if the battery is holding a charge or if the port is at fault.

Battery issues are also a common cause of charging problems. Lithium batteries, which power most electric scooters, typically have a lifespan of around 500 charging cycles. Factors such as riding style, impact damage, or exposure to external forces can shorten this lifespan, leading to a battery that no longer holds a charge effectively. In such cases, professional assessment and replacement are advisable.

Finally, water damage is a significant risk for electric scooters, particularly for models with batteries integrated into the deck. Water exposure can cause short circuits and damage to the battery and electrical components. If a scooter comes into contact with water, it’s crucial to turn off the power immediately, dry the scooter thoroughly, and allow the battery to dry in a cool, ventilated place before attempting to charge it again.