Brose error 41: Motor drawing excessive current
The motor controller has measured a current draw above its safe operating limit. As a protective response, the drive unit cuts or sharply reduces assist until the load drops back into range. The display remains active so you can see the warning and clear it once conditions are normal.
| Drive system | Brose Drive (S, T, C - also used by Bulls, Rotwild, Fantic, BH, Trek Allant) |
| Severity | Warning |
| Keep riding? | Ride with caution |
| Typical cost | Dealer diagnostics typically run €30 to €60; if the motor itself is faulty, a replacement drive unit commonly costs €400 to €700 plus one to two hours of labour. |
Likely causes
- Riding in a high assist level up a steep climb with heavy pedalling force.
- Low battery state of charge forcing the controller to pull more amps to deliver the same power.
- Seized or rough rear hub or bottom bracket bearings adding mechanical load to the motor.
- Chain, derailleur or gearbox binding that drags the drivetrain.
- Wet or corroded motor cable connector increasing resistance and current draw.
- Internal short or failing winding inside the motor unit itself.
- Faulty torque or cadence sensor sending incorrect load signals to the controller.
How to fix Brose error 41
- Stop pedalling hard immediately and let the motor coast down on its own.
- Reduce the assist level to Eco or Off and select an easier gear.
- Shift down one or two gears so cadence stays high and force per stroke stays low.
- Check the battery charge level and finish the ride in a lower assist if it is below roughly 20 percent.
- Inspect the chain, derailleur and wheels for obvious binding or rubbing.
- Switch the system off, wait 30 seconds, then power back on to clear the code.
- If the warning returns at low load, stop riding the motor and book the bike in at a Brose-authorised dealer for diagnostics.
Warranty: A genuine motor or controller fault causing overcurrent inside the standard two-year warranty period is normally covered as a manufacturing defect; damage from water ingress, crashes, or sustained overload is treated as wear and excluded.
Typical cost: Dealer diagnostics typically run €30 to €60; if the motor itself is faulty, a replacement drive unit commonly costs €400 to €700 plus one to two hours of labour.
Frequently asked
Can I reset Brose error 41?
Yes. Switch the system off, wait about 30 seconds, then switch it back on. The code clears if the trigger, usually high pedalling force or a low battery, has been removed.
Is it safe to keep riding with error 41?
Only briefly and in a low assist level with light pedalling so the motor does not keep tripping the limit. If the warning returns as soon as you put load through the motor, stop using assist and ride home without it.
Will warranty cover error 41 and what does it cost if it does not?
An internal motor or controller fault inside the two-year warranty window is usually covered at no charge. Out of warranty, expect €400 to €700 for a motor replacement plus around €80 to €160 for labour.
Related Brose codes
Manuals and video
Official source: Brose error code table, Pedego dealer service guide
Not an official Brose document. Compiled from workshop experience and public service information; details can differ per system version and bike brand.