Home › VanMoof › Error 45

VanMoof error 45: Motor communication error

VanMoof S3 / X3 (also S5 / A5 where applicable)Dealer neededDo not keep riding

The main controller in the cartridge has lost the data link to the front hub motor. Power cables may still be fine, but without communication the bike will not give assist. On S3/X3 the motor cable runs through the fork and steerer, a known wear point.

Likely causes

Motor cable chafed or broken inside the fork or at the fork crown from years of steering
Corroded motor connector at the hub or behind the head tube
Water in the motor connector
Motor controller board failed
Cartridge output fault

How to fix VanMoof error 45

Power cycle and do a hard reset (10 to 15 seconds on the power button)
Turn the handlebars fully left and right with the bike on; if the error appears or clears with steering, the cable in the steerer is damaged
Inspect the cable where it enters the fork and the connector at the hub axle for damage or green corrosion
Install any pending firmware update
If the error persists, an independent VanMoof-capable shop can test the motor cable, replace the harness or the motor; do not ride far unassisted on a fault that could be a short

Go to a dealer if: Go to a shop if the error stays after a reset, or if it changes with steering, because the fork has to come out to replace the motor cable.
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: Motor cable or connector repair is around EUR 100-250; a replacement or refurbished front motor EUR 300-600.

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

Why does error 45 come and go when I steer?

Because the motor cable passes through the steerer tube and flexes with every turn. After years it breaks a conductor, and the link drops as the cable moves.

Can I keep riding with error 45?

No assist, so only to get home. A broken motor cable can also short, so do not ignore it.

Is the VanMoof motor repairable?

Often yes. The hub motor itself is robust; most faults are the cable or the controller board, and independent shops can replace those.

Related VanMoof codes

44 · E-shifter fault 47 · Motor driver fault 49 · Motor fault (controller error)

Not an official VanMoof document. Compiled from workshop experience and public service information; details can differ per system version and bike brand.