Shimano STEPS error E015: Internal drive unit fault detected

Shimano STEPS (E5000, E6100, E7000, E8000, EP6, EP801)Dealer neededDo not keep riding

The drive unit has reported an internal abnormality to the system controller. As a result, motor assistance is cut off, walk assist is unavailable, and the speed reading may drop to zero on the display. The bike can still be pedalled unpowered, but it will behave like a much heavier unassisted bicycle.

Drive system	Shimano STEPS (E5000, E6100, E7000, E8000, EP6, EP801)
Severity	Dealer needed
Keep riding?	Do not keep riding
Typical cost	Dealer diagnostic typically runs €40–80; drive unit replacement for E5000/E6100 around €450–650 and for E7000/E8000/EP6/EP801 around €700–950, plus 1–2 hours labour.

Likely causes

Internal electronic fault inside the drive unit itself.
Loose, dirty, or corroded connector at the drive unit cradle.
Moisture ingress after pressure washing or deep water crossings.
Overheating from sustained high load, steep climbs, or towing.
Firmware mismatch following an incomplete E-Tube update.

How to fix Shimano STEPS error E015

1. Stop riding and switch the system off using the display power button.
2. Remove the battery, wait 30 seconds, refit it firmly, then power on again using the battery power button.
3. With the battery removed, inspect the drive unit cradle connector for dirt, bent pins, or corrosion and clean if accessible.
4. Visually check the wiring harness between the drive unit and battery for chafing, pinching, or signs of water entry.
5. Connect the bike to Shimano E-Tube Project and run a system check; apply any pending firmware update.
6. If E015 reappears after a clean restart, do not ride and arrange a dealer diagnostic with a Shimano diagnostic tool.

Go to a dealer if: A dealer is needed as soon as E015 returns after a full power cycle, because the drive unit requires a Shimano diagnostic tool to read internal logs and confirm whether the unit itself must be replaced.
Warranty: A genuine internal drive unit fault inside the two-year Shimano warranty window is normally replaced at no cost, but water ingress, crash damage, and modification are excluded.
Typical cost: Dealer diagnostic typically runs €40–80; drive unit replacement for E5000/E6100 around €450–650 and for E7000/E8000/EP6/EP801 around €700–950, plus 1–2 hours labour.

Still stuck? Take a photo of the display and show it to a local e-bike workshop. Bring the bike's system name (e.g. Bosch Performance Line CX) and the exact code; that saves diagnostic time and money.

Frequently asked

Can I reset Shimano error E015?

Yes, by switching the system off, removing the battery for around 30 seconds, refitting it, and powering on with the battery button. If E015 returns straight away, the fault is real and the unit needs dealer attention.

Is it safe to keep riding with E015 showing?

No. Motor assistance and walk assist are switched off, so the bike becomes hard to pedal on hills and you cannot use walk mode to push it up ramps. Riding also risks further damage if the cause is a short or moisture.

How much does fixing E015 cost and is it under warranty?

If the drive unit fails inside the two-year Shimano warranty period and there is no sign of water, crash, or tampering, the replacement unit and labour are covered. Outside warranty, expect €450–950 for the drive unit plus diagnostic and fitting fees.

Related Shimano STEPS codes

E010 · Drive unit internal fault detected E013 · Drive unit firmware fault detected E014 · Speed sensor signal abnormal E020 · Communication fault between battery and drive unit

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.