VanMoof error 21: Charger cable not recognised
VanMoof S3 / X3 (also S5 / A5 where applicable)Fix at homeSafe to keep riding
The bike detects something on the charge port but does not see a valid VanMoof charger handshake. Charging does not start or stops early. It is usually the charger, the cable or a dirty port rather than the battery.
Likely causes
- Third-party or wrong-model charger (S2/S3/X3 and S5/A5 chargers are not interchangeable)
- Dirt, water or corrosion in the frame charge port
- Damaged charger cable or plug, often at the strain relief
- Charger brick failed (no LED, or LED stuck red)
- Charge port on the frame worn or bent pins
How to fix VanMoof error 21
- Unplug, inspect the plug and the port on the frame, and clean the port with a dry brush or compressed air
- Check the charger LED: no LED at all means the brick is dead, try another wall socket first
- Make sure you use the original VanMoof charger for your model; borrow one of the same type to test if you can
- Wiggle-test the cable near the plug while charging; if the LED flickers the cable is broken inside
- If the original charger works on another VanMoof but not yours, the frame port or its wiring is the problem: independent VanMoof-capable shop
Go to a dealer if: Go to a shop if a known-good original charger is not recognised on your bike, because the charge port or its wiring then needs repair.
Warranty: Warranty from the original VanMoof B.V. died with the 2023 bankruptcy; the relaunched VanMoof (LAVOIE/McLaren Applied) only covers bikes sold by them after the relaunch, so most S3/X3 owners pay for repairs.
Typical cost: A replacement S3/X3 charger is roughly EUR 80-150 (original or compatible); a charge port repair about EUR 80-200.
Warranty: Warranty from the original VanMoof B.V. died with the 2023 bankruptcy; the relaunched VanMoof (LAVOIE/McLaren Applied) only covers bikes sold by them after the relaunch, so most S3/X3 owners pay for repairs.
Typical cost: A replacement S3/X3 charger is roughly EUR 80-150 (original or compatible); a charge port repair about EUR 80-200.
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 use a generic charger on a VanMoof?
Not safely. The bike expects a handshake from the original charger; generic bricks either throw error 21 or, worse, bypass the checks. Buy an original or a properly compatible one.
The charger LED stays green but the bike does not charge, is that error 21?
Often yes. Green without a charging state means the handshake failed. Clean the port and check the cable first.
Are S3 and S5 chargers the same?
No. Different voltage and connector. Using the wrong one gives error 21 at best.
Related VanMoof codes
Not an official VanMoof document. Compiled from workshop experience and public service information; details can differ per system version and bike brand.