How to Spot Water Damage in Your Electric Scooter

    Electric scooters provide a fun and environmentally friendly form of urban transportation. However, exposure to moisture can cause severe damage if water seeps into the sensitive electrical components. Here’s how to identify water damage in your e-scooter and steps you can take to fix it.

Inspecting the Battery

    Lithium-ion batteries power electric scooters and are very susceptible to water damage. If exposed to moisture, the battery may short circuit or corrode, presenting a fire risk. Carefully remove the battery to inspect it for the following signs of water intrusion:

• White powdery deposits around battery terminals - this likely indicates corrosion
• Discolored or warped casing
• Visible moisture inside when shaking gently or a “sloshing” sound
• Strong musty odor coming from vents
• Torn or missing protective heat shrink wrap around battery

    A battery with any of these symptoms should be properly disposed of and replaced immediately. Do NOT attempt to recharge or use a battery with water damage. The internal cells are likely already compromised.

Opening Up the Deck

    Gaining access to the scooter's internals reveals more areas to check. Unscrew and remove the baseboard or kick plate to inspect inside the deck. Signs of water exposure here include:

• Corrosion on metal components like fasteners and the steering column
• Brittle, cracked or flaking insulation around internal wires
• Burnt smell from electrical shorts
• Visibly wet areas, drips or pooling
• Mud, dirt or debris accumulated internally

    Any corrosion should be cleaned off with rubbing alcohol or white vinegar. Replace damaged wires, connectors or control units as needed. Thoroughly dry all components before reassembly.

Checking Connections

    With the scooter turned off, check all visible plugs, ports and electrical connections for moisture or corrosion buildup. This includes connectors between the battery, controller, motor, throttle, brakes, lights and any folding joints.

    If moisture is evident, unplug and immediately dry connections with compressed air to displace water. Let sit for 24 hours before reconnecting. Corroded terminals will need abrasive cleaning or replacement to ensure conductivity.

Road Testing Performance

    Moisture causing intermittent issues may not be visually apparent. Road test your scooter for the following subtle symptoms of water damage:

• Reduced top speed or acceleration
• Loss of power uphill
• Brakes or throttle responding slowly
• Dimming headlight at high speeds
• Occasional controller shutdowns

    Such performance issues point to degraded electrical connections. Thoroughly inspect wires, solder joints and circuit boards for hidden moisture intrusion. Repair or replace parts as needed.

Protecting Against Future Damage

    Once any water damage is addressed, prevent recurring issues by:

• Applying dielectric grease to weatherproof connectors
• Using silicone sealant on openings prone to splashing
• Avoiding puddle riding or using water streams to clean
• Storing indoors instead of outside
• Allowing scooter to fully dry before charging if wet

    While moisture can sneak into electric scooters through small gaps, prompt inspection and repair can get your ride rolling again safely. Take steps to keep your e-scooter’s electronics watertight.