Shimano STEPS error E010: Drive unit internal fault detected
The motor controller inside the drive unit has flagged an internal abnormality and shut motor assist down. With E010 active the bike runs on human power only, walk assist is disabled, and any automatic shifting behaviour driven by the system may be lost. The display still powers up and the speed reading remains valid, so the bike is rideable but heavy.
| Drive system | Shimano STEPS (E5000, E6100, E7000, E8000, EP6, EP801) |
| Severity | Dealer needed |
| Keep riding? | Do not keep riding |
| Typical cost | Out of warranty the drive unit alone runs €450-900 depending on model (E5000 lowest, EP801 highest), plus €60-120 for diagnostic and fitting labour at a dealer workshop. |
Likely causes
- Internal failure of the motor control board or torque sensor inside the drive unit
- Moisture or water ingress into the motor housing after washing, rain or pressure-jet cleaning
- Crash or impact damage to the motor casing
- Corroded or loose connector between the drive unit and the battery or display
- Failed or interrupted firmware update via E-Tube Project
- Repeated overheating from sustained high-load climbing on a hot day
How to fix Shimano STEPS error E010
- Switch the system off, then press and hold the battery power button for at least five seconds to fully power down, wait one minute, and switch back on.
- If the code clears, ride gently on a flat road for five to ten minutes to confirm it does not return.
- Remove the battery and inspect the motor and battery connectors for moisture, green corrosion or bent pins; clean with contact spray and reseat firmly.
- Look over the motor housing for cracks, impact marks or water staining and note anything you find for the dealer.
- Do not attempt a firmware flash yourself; the dealer diagnostic tool and a known-good battery state are required.
- If E010 reappears after the power cycle, the drive unit needs dealer-level diagnostics to read the internal fault log and test the unit on the bench.
- Book the bike in with an authorised Shimano STEPS dealer.
Warranty: A genuine internal drive unit fault inside the standard two-year Shimano warranty is normally repaired or replaced at no cost; water ingress, crash damage, unauthorised modification and firmware errors caused by interrupted updates are excluded.
Typical cost: Out of warranty the drive unit alone runs €450-900 depending on model (E5000 lowest, EP801 highest), plus €60-120 for diagnostic and fitting labour at a dealer workshop.
Frequently asked
Can I reset Shimano error E010?
Yes, start with a full power cycle using the battery power button, not just the display on/off, then wait one minute before switching back on. If the code clears, ride gently for a few minutes to confirm it does not return. If it reappears during or after the ride, the fault is real and the unit needs dealer diagnostics.
Is it safe to keep riding with E010?
No, not on a route that needs assist. With E010 active the motor is fully cut and walk assist is gone, so hills and traffic become dangerous on a heavy e-bike. Continued use will not clear the fault and can mask an underlying motor problem that gets worse.
How much does it cost to fix E010 and is it under warranty?
Within the two-year Shimano warranty a confirmed internal drive unit fault is repaired or replaced free of charge. Out of warranty budget €450-900 for the drive unit plus €60-120 dealer labour, depending on whether the bike runs an E5000, E6100, E7000, E8000, EP6 or EP801 unit.
Related Shimano STEPS codes
Manuals and video
Official source: si.shimano.com
Not an official Shimano STEPS document. Compiled from workshop experience and public service information; details can differ per system version and bike brand.