Yamaha PW error 13: Display communication data fault
The drive unit cannot establish proper data communication with the display, most often because the fitted display is not on the released combination list for that drive unit. Motor assist cuts out completely and walk assist is unavailable until the mismatch is resolved. The display may still show battery state, but no speed, cadence, or assist level reaches the screen.
| Drive system | Yamaha PW series (PW-X3, PW-S2, PW-ST, PWseries CE - also Giant SyncDrive) |
| Severity | Dealer needed |
| Keep riding? | Do not keep riding |
| Typical cost | Dealer diagnostic and pairing confirmation typically runs 40 to 90 EUR, with a replacement OEM display adding 120 to 350 EUR fitted depending on the model. |
Likely causes
- Display unit swapped for an aftermarket or wrong-version unit not approved for the fitted drive unit
- Software version on the display does not match the drive unit firmware
- Damaged or corroded connector between the display cable and the drive unit
- Aftermarket tuning chip or speed dongle fitted to the drive unit bus
- Loose or partially seated display cable at the handlebar or motor port
How to fix Yamaha PW error 13
- Power the bike off, remove the battery, then refit it after 30 seconds to force a fresh handshake
- Inspect the display cable along the frame for kinks, cuts, or pinched sections near the head tube
- Unplug and reseat the display connector at both ends, checking for bent pins or green corrosion
- Confirm the display model and firmware shown in the system menu match a released pairing for the drive unit
- Remove any non-OEM dongles, tuning modules, or third-party displays and re-test
- Take the bike to an authorised Yamaha dealer for a diagnostic and pairing confirmation if the code persists
Warranty: A genuine communication fault between matched OEM components is normally covered for two years, but damage caused by aftermarket modules, water ingress, or crash impact is not.
Typical cost: Dealer diagnostic and pairing confirmation typically runs 40 to 90 EUR, with a replacement OEM display adding 120 to 350 EUR fitted depending on the model.
Frequently asked
Can I reset yamaha error 13?
A power cycle clears the code only if the pairing is correct and the connectors are clean. If the display and drive unit truly do not match, the fault returns on the next start. A dealer diagnostic is the only reliable way to confirm and clear it.
Is it safe to keep riding with error 13?
No. Motor assist is unavailable and walk assist is disabled, so the bike behaves like a heavy unpowered bicycle. Riding on offers no benefit and risks leaving you stranded if the system misbehaves again.
How much does it cost to fix error 13?
Diagnostic and pairing at a dealer is around 40 to 90 EUR, and a replacement OEM display runs 120 to 350 EUR fitted. If a non-approved module triggered the fault, the owner usually pays the labour even under warranty.
Related Yamaha PW codes
Manuals and video
Official source: cdn2.yamaha-motor.eu
Not an official Yamaha PW document. Compiled from workshop experience and public service information; details can differ per system version and bike brand.