Seeing Error Code 24 on your electric bike display is frustrating, but it almost always points to one thing: a motor hall sensor fault. This means the controller, your e-bike's brain, isn't getting the correct signal from the motor about its position. This can be caused by a loose wire, a damaged connector, or a faulty sensor inside the motor hub. Don't worry—it's often an easy fix you can check yourself.
This guide will walk you through every step to diagnose and clear your Error 24 and get your bicycle moving again.
What Does Error Code 24 Mean on an E-Bike?
At its core, Error Code 24 is a communication breakdown. Think of it this way:
- You twist the throttle or pedal.
- The controller (the brain) needs to send power to the motor.
- To do this smoothly, it must know the motor's exact position.
- The hall sensors (located inside the motor hub) report this position.
When the controller doesn't get this signal, or the signal is scrambled, it stops. It throws Error 24 to protect the motor and controller from damage. On most displays, this will cut all motor power, leaving you to pedal your e-bike home without assistance.
Common Causes of Error 24
While it sounds technical, the problem is usually simple. Here are the most common culprits, starting with the easiest to fix.
A Loose or Corroded Connector: This is the #1 cause. The main motor cable, a thick wire running from the motor hub, has a large connector. If this connection is even slightly loose, or if water and dirt get inside, it can interrupt the hall sensor signal.
Damaged Motor Cable: The cable itself might be pinched, frayed, or cut. Common spots for damage are near the rear axle (from a drop or crash) or where the cable is zip-tied to the frame.
Failed Internal Hall Sensor: The sensors inside the motor hub can fail from overheating or moisture. This is less common but is the most difficult to fix.
A Faulty Controller: In rare cases, the controller itself is the problem. The port where the motor plugs in might be damaged. This is the last thing you should suspect.
This is the most common problem on all types of e-bikes, from simple commuters to a heavy-duty electric cargo bike.
How to Fix Error Code 24 on Electric Bike: A Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these steps in order. You won't need any special tools for the first three steps.
Step 1: Power Cycle Your Electric Bicycle
It sounds basic, but always try this first.
- Turn your electric bicycle completely off.
- Wait for 30 seconds to let the controller fully discharge.
- Turn it back on.
Sometimes, a temporary glitch can cause the error, and a simple "reboot" will clear it. If the error comes back, move to Step 2.
Step 2: Inspect the Main Motor Connector
This is the most likely fix.
1. Locate the connector: Find the thick, black cable coming from your motor hub (usually on the rear wheel). Trace it about 6-12 inches away from the wheel. You'll find a large, round, waterproof connector.
2. Disconnect it: Carefully pull the two halves apart. You may need to twist slightly. Do not force it. Look for small alignment arrows on the outside of the connector—these will help you line it up later.
3. Inspect the pins: Look inside both ends of the connector. You should see 5-9 small pins.
- Are any pins bent or pushed in?
- Is there any dirt, mud, or debris inside?
- Do you see any green or white crusty corrosion? (This is a sign of water damage).
4. Clean and reconnect: If it's dirty, clean it with a dry cloth or a puff of compressed air. If it's corroded, you can carefully clean the pins with a small brush and some isopropyl alcohol.
5. Reconnect firmly: Line up the alignment arrows perfectly and push the connector halves together until they are fully seated. You should feel a "click" or see that the seam is tight.
Now, turn your e bike on. For 8 out of 10 riders, this solves Error 24.
Step 3: Trace the Motor Cable for Damage
If the error persists, visually inspect the entire length of the motor cable.
- Start at the motor axle. Is the cable pinched where it enters the frame?
- Follow it along the chainstay. Is it rubbing against the tire?
- Check all zip-ties. Is one too tight, cutting into the cable's outer casing?
- Look for any deep scuffs, cuts, or areas where the inner wires are exposed.
If you find damage, the cable (or the whole motor) will likely need to be replaced.
Step 4: Check the Controller Connections (Advanced User Tip)
If the first three steps fail, the problem may be at the other end of the cable.
- Safely remove your battery.
- Locate your e-bike's controller (often inside the frame's down tube or in a box behind the seat).
- Open the housing and find the bundle of wires coming from the motor.
- Check that the multi-pin connector (the one with the 5-6 small hall sensor wires) is firmly plugged into the controller board.
Step 5: When to See a Bike Shop
If you've checked all connections and the cable looks fine, the problem is internal. A hall sensor inside the motor hub has likely failed.
Replacing an internal hall sensor is a complex job that requires disassembling the motor hub. This is not a recommended DIY task. At this point, your best bet is to take your electric bicycle to a qualified e-bike mechanic.
How to Prevent Motor Hall Sensor Errors on Your E-Bike
An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.
Secure Your Cables: Use zip-ties to keep the motor cable snug against the frame. Make sure it has enough slack for the suspension (if you have one) but not so much that it can snag on branches.
Keep Connectors Clean & Dry: After a very wet or muddy ride, it's good practice to disconnect the motor connector, check for moisture, and dry it out.
Use Dielectric Grease: For the advanced user, adding a tiny dab of dielectric grease to the connector pins can create an excellent waterproof seal.
Avoid Pressure Washers: Never spray a pressure washer directly at the motor hub, connectors, or controller housing. This forces water past the seals and is a leading cause of electrical failures.
Why Error 24 Isn't Universal: A Guide to Different E-Bike Systems
It's crucial to understand that Error Code 24 is not a universal fault code across the entire electric bike industry. The e-bike world is generally split into two types of electronic systems, which determines the error codes you'll see.
Common Component Systems (Where Error 24 Lives)
Many e-bike brands build their bikes using "off-the-shelf" components from major manufacturers. The most common are:
- Bafang
- KT (Kunteng)
- Lishui
These systems are popular because they are reliable and versatile. Hundreds of different e-bike brands use these motors, controllers, and displays. Because they share a similar design philosophy, they also share a common "language" for fault codes.
In this world, Error 24 is the widely accepted standard code for a motor hall sensor fault. If your e-bike is not from a major brand like Bosch or Shimano, it most likely uses one of these systems, and this guide is directly for you.
Proprietary "Closed" Systems (Bosch, Shimano, Yamaha)
Major brands like Bosch, Shimano (STEPS), Yamaha, and Brose design their motor, battery, controller, and display as a single, "closed" ecosystem.
- They use unique software.
- They have their own proprietary list of error codes.
This means a hall sensor failure on a Bosch-equipped electric cargo bike will not show "Error 24." Instead, you might see a code like "Error 503" (Bosch) or "W011" (Shimano). The root problem is the same—a sensor communication failure—but the name is different. For these systems, you must consult your specific user manual to interpret the code.
How This Affects Troubleshooting: Hub Motors vs. Mid-Drives
The troubleshooting steps in this guide (especially Step 2: Check the Connector) are most effective for hub-drive motors.
- Hub Motors: The motor is in the center of the wheel (front or rear). This is the most common motor type found on commuter e-bikes and many long-tail cargo ebike models. These motors have a long cable running from the axle to the controller, which includes the large, external connector that is the most common failure point.
- Mid-Drives: The motor is located in the middle of the bike frame, where the pedals are (common for Bosch, Shimano, etc.). On these systems, the hall sensors are deep inside the sealed motor unit. There is no large, external motor connector you can easily unplug and clean.
What this means for you: If you have a mid-drive e-bike showing a sensor-related error, you can (and should) still check all visible wires for damage. However, the problem is almost certainly internal and will require a visit to a certified bike shop for diagnosis.
If you have a hub-drive electric bike showing Error 24, checking that main motor cable is your best, easiest, and most likely path to a quick fix.
Choosing a Reliable Electric Cargo Bike
Fixing any electric bike error can be stressful, especially when you rely on your ride for daily tasks. Reliable wiring and high-quality components are key to preventing issues like Error 24 in the first place. When you're hauling groceries or kids, you need a bike you can trust. That's why models built with durability in mind, like the Letrigo Minivan SE, are a great choice. This compact long-tail cargo ebike is designed for dependability, featuring a robust motor system and wiring that's built to handle the demands of daily use, minimizing your chances of being stranded.
Note: Valid as of Nov. 22 , 2025. Prices may change at any time. Click to see the latest price.
Final Thought
Don't let a simple Error Code 24 ruin your ride. In most cases, this motor hall sensor alert is not a catastrophe, but simply a call to check your connections. By patiently working through the steps, from rebooting your system to inspecting the motor cable for damage, you can often solve the problem in minutes without a trip to the shop. Regular maintenance and careful cable management are your best defense. Keep this guide handy, and you'll have the confidence to tackle this common e bike issue like a pro.
