Shimano STEPS error E229: Drive unit CAN port communication fault
The drive unit has detected an abnormal signal at its CAN terminal, which is the data link that lets the motor, battery and display talk to each other. When this fault is raised the system disables motor assist, so the bike behaves like an unpowered bicycle. Walk assist and torque-related readings may also stop working until the fault is resolved.
| Drive system | Shimano STEPS (E5000, E6100, E7000, E8000, EP6, EP801) |
| Severity | Dealer needed |
| Keep riding? | Ride with caution |
| Typical cost | Expect roughly €60 to €120 for dealer diagnostics and CAN harness repair, rising to €250 to €600 if the drive unit itself must be replaced. |
Likely causes
- CAN cable unplugged or not fully seated at the drive unit port
- Moisture, mud or corrosion inside the CAN connector
- Damaged CAN cable from frame rub, cable tie pinch or crash impact
- Aftermarket accessory (GPS tracker, light module, tuning dongle) interfering with the CAN bus
- Bent or pushed-back pins inside the drive unit CAN socket
- Internal drive unit PCB fault on the CAN interface stage
How to fix Shimano STEPS error E229
- Switch the system off and remove the battery before any inspection.
- Locate the CAN port on the drive unit, typically behind a small rubber plug on the motor housing.
- Unplug the CAN cable and inspect both ends for dirt, bent pins, green corrosion or crushed insulation.
- Clean the contacts with contact cleaner, let them dry, and plug the connector back in until the lock tab clicks.
- Refit the battery, switch the system on and check whether E229 has cleared after a short ride cycle.
- If the code returns, note exactly what is plugged into the CAN port (display, lights, GPS) before visiting a dealer.
- Take the bike to an authorised Shimano dealer for E-Tube Project diagnosis and component-level repair.
Warranty: A genuine Shimano component failure on the CAN interface inside the two-year warranty period is normally covered, whereas water ingress, crash damage, and faults caused by non-OEM accessories on the CAN bus are usually excluded.
Typical cost: Expect roughly €60 to €120 for dealer diagnostics and CAN harness repair, rising to €250 to €600 if the drive unit itself must be replaced.
Frequently asked
Can I reset Shimano error E229?
Power cycling the system may clear it temporarily, but if the CAN terminal really is abnormal the code will come back. The underlying cause needs to be found and fixed rather than just cleared.
Is it safe to keep riding with E229?
Motor assist is cut, so the bike is heavy and unresponsive, particularly on hills. Ride cautiously to the workshop or home, avoiding busy traffic and steep climbs until the fault is repaired.
Will Shimano cover E229 under warranty?
If a genuine Shimano CAN component fails inside the warranty window, repair or replacement is normally covered. Damage from water, crashes, or aftermarket devices plugged into the CAN port is generally not covered.
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.