When should you replace your e-bike battery?

After a number of years the capacity of an e-bike battery drops. You can no longer cover the distances you always used to. If you want to start making long rides, a capacity that was once enough may now fall short. The capacity the bike came with as standard can be a disappointment in that case too. On many models we can raise the capacity with an e-bike battery cell replacement (re-celling), in which we replace all the cells with new ones.

If the battery has stopped working altogether, you will want to replace it. That is not always necessary. The battery may only need a small repair, or it may have to be brought back from deep discharge. When you have your battery inspected by us, we find out what is causing the problem and try to solve it at the lowest possible cost. It may also turn out that your battery does not need replacing at all.

Now and then a battery stops charging all the way. There can be several causes, such as an imbalance between the cells or a problem with the electronics. Sometimes it is the charger that no longer works properly.

Sometimes replacing your e-bike battery is the better choice. Say your old battery still has more than enough capacity and you want a second one: then go for a replacement battery. For a range of models we sell new batteries as well. Is your old battery worn out, or has it stopped working altogether? Then a cell replacement can work out a good deal cheaper. We replace the cells in the battery with higher-quality lithium-ion cells that last longer. With a cell replacement you can also choose a higher capacity, which gives you more range.

Thinking of replacing your old e-bike battery? A cell replacement usually costs a good deal less than a new battery, and it can give you more than the battery ever did. Have us re-cell your battery, or have it inspected first. Solving these battery problems is what we do at KWS Seuren: e-bike batteries are our specialism. As well as costing less, a cell replacement gives you the option of a higher capacity. Every cell replacement comes with a 2-year warranty as standard. Want to know whether your battery can be re-celled? Look through the overview of all the e-bike batteries we have re-celled so far.

Replacing the battery is part of maintaining an e-bike. Here is how to do it, step by step:

1. Check whether the battery needs replacing: The life of an e-bike battery varies, but it is usually 5 to 8 years, depending on use and maintenance. If the battery's performance has dropped noticeably, it is time to replace it.

2. Buy a new battery: Before you start, you need a replacement battery that is compatible with your e-bike. You can also have your old battery re-celled. Check the capacity (Ah) and the voltage (V) of the new battery against the specifications of your old one.

3. Switch the e-bike off: Make sure the electric bike is switched off before you start replacing the battery.

4. Remove the old battery: How you take the battery out differs from one e-bike model to the next. Usually you release the battery with a catch or a key and then slide it carefully out of its holder.

5. Fit the new battery: Slide the new battery into the holder the same way the old one sat, and make sure it is firmly in place.

6. Connect the battery: Make sure the new battery is properly connected to the electrical contacts of the e-bike.

7. Check that it works: Switch the e-bike on and test whether the new battery works properly.

Take care when you replace the battery of your electric bike, and consult the manufacturer's instructions where necessary.

The life of an e-bike battery varies, but in general a well-maintained battery is due for replacement after about 5 to 8 years. There are a few signs that tell you your battery is ready to be replaced:

1. Reduced range: If the distance you can cover on a full charge has dropped considerably, that can be a sign that the battery has less capacity.

2. Fast discharge: If the battery runs down quickly even in normal use, that can point to a worn battery.

3. Longer charging time: If the battery takes longer to charge fully, that can indicate a problem with the battery.

4. Physical damage: Visible damage to the battery, such as dents or cracks, or a leak, can mean it needs replacing. Stop charging and using a damaged battery and have it inspected first.

5. Unreliable performance: If the battery behaves unpredictably, switching off unexpectedly for instance, that can point to a worn battery.