Shimano STEPS error E033: Firmware not supported by system
The drive unit has detected a firmware version on one of the connected components that the rest of the system cannot validate. As a result the controller disables motor assist entirely, walk assist is unavailable, and the bike behaves like an unpowered bicycle until the mismatch is resolved. The display will continue to show E033 each time the system is switched on until the firmware is brought into a supported state.
| Drive system | Shimano STEPS (E5000, E6100, E7000, E8000, EP6, EP801) |
| Severity | Dealer needed |
| Keep riding? | Do not keep riding |
| Typical cost | A dealer firmware update typically costs €0 to €40 in labour if no parts are needed; if a battery, display, or drive unit must be replaced to resolve the mismatch, expect €150 to €600 depending on which unit is at fault. |
Likely causes
- A component (battery, display, or drive unit) was replaced without updating firmware on the other units to match.
- An E-TUBE PROJECT update was started but interrupted before completing on every unit.
- A non-genuine or aftermarket part has been installed that does not carry Shimano STEPS firmware.
- The battery firmware is a different revision than the drive unit firmware after a dealer service.
- Internal flash memory corruption on one unit causing it to report an unreadable firmware version.
- Two bikes have had parts swapped between them without re-flashing to a common firmware set.
How to fix Shimano STEPS error E033
- Switch the system off and back on; if E033 returns immediately, the firmware flag is still active and must be cleared through software.
- Install E-TUBE PROJECT on a Windows PC and connect the bike using the SM-PCE1 link device or a Shimano-compatible wireless adapter.
- Open the diagnostic connection and let E-TUBE PROJECT read every unit on the bike (drive unit, battery, display, switch, Di2 components if fitted).
- Update each unit to the latest firmware recommended for your drive system generation; do not skip units.
- After all updates complete, disconnect, perform a full power cycle, and confirm E033 no longer appears on the display.
- Ride the bike briefly in a low-traffic area to verify assist returns across all support modes.
- If E033 remains after a complete update, the bike must go to an authorised Shimano dealer for compatibility diagnosis and possible component replacement.
Warranty: A genuine firmware compatibility fault on a Shimano component within the two-year warranty window is normally covered, while damage from water ingress, crash impact, or non-approved modifications is excluded.
Typical cost: A dealer firmware update typically costs €0 to €40 in labour if no parts are needed; if a battery, display, or drive unit must be replaced to resolve the mismatch, expect €150 to €600 depending on which unit is at fault.
Frequently asked
Can I reset shimano error E033?
A power cycle will not clear E033 because it is a firmware-compatibility flag, not a transient sensor fault. The code is only cleared once E-TUBE PROJECT reports matching firmware on every connected unit. If the update fails, the dealer must repeat the procedure with Shimano diagnostic tools.
Is it safe to keep riding with E033?
No - the system cuts motor assist completely, so you can pedal but without power, which is unsafe on climbs or in traffic where you relied on assist. The error also means the bike is not in a validated operating state, so it should not be ridden until cleared.
What does E033 cost to fix and is it under warranty?
If a firmware update resolves it, the cost is usually just dealer labour at €0 to €40, and it is typically covered under Shimano's two-year warranty on genuine components. If a part has to be replaced, the bill rises to roughly €150 to €600 depending on whether the battery, display, or drive unit is the source.
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.