Bafang DP E170.CAN / E180.CAN / E181.CAN code list · Bafang DP E170 / E180 / E181 Display

Error 33 on Bafang DP E170 / E180 / E181 Display

What it means + how to fix it From the manual

Quick answer

Error 33 on the Bafang E170 / E180 / E181 means “Brake signal has an error (if brake sensors are fitted).” Most likely cause: a brake lever that's pulled or sticking, or a brake sensor that has moved. Try this first: restart the system first.

Try this first

Free, and each takes under 5 minutes.

Restart the system first
Switch on without touching the brakes
Check the brake levers spring back

In plain English

Most e-bikes have sensors on the brake levers that cut motor power when you brake. This code means the controller is seeing a brake signal. If it only shows while you hold a brake, that's expected. If it stays on after you let go, a lever isn't returning, a sensor has slipped, or a sensor cable is damaged.

Step-by-step checklist

Work from the top. Steps go from free and easy to shop jobs. Switch the bike off before touching any connector. Tick each step as you go. Your progress is saved on this device.

1Restart the system firstFree Bafang's manual says to restart first whenever an error code appears: switch the system off, wait a few seconds, then switch it back on. If the code doesn't go away, carry on with the steps below.
2Switch on without touching the brakesFree Switch the bike off. Make sure your hands are off both brake levers, then switch it back on. Holding a brake while powering on can trigger this code.
3Check the brake levers spring backFree Squeeze and release each brake lever. Both should snap all the way back. A lever that stays slightly pulled keeps the motor switched off.
4Check the sensor on each leverEasy Some levers use a tiny magnet and sensor stuck to the lever. If it has slipped, the sensor thinks the brake is on. Line it back up so the magnet sits right next to the sensor when the lever is released.
5Find a faulty brake sensorEasy Switch off. Follow the thin cable from each brake lever to its plug. Unplug one, switch on and test, then try the other. If the problem goes away with one unplugged, that sensor is faulty. Plug it back in and replace it, because the brake cutoff is a safety feature.
6Check the cables where the handlebars turnEasy Turn the bars fully left and right while watching the cables at the front of the bike. Look for pinched, stretched or flattened spots.
7Have the sensor replacedShop job If the sensor is damaged or still faulty after these checks, a shop can test and replace it.

Parts you might need

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. These links go straight to Amazon.

Only buy a part if the free steps didn't fix it. Always match the voltage and connector type to your bike.

Brake cutoff sensors
Replaces a faulty brake sensor that keeps cutting motor power.
Link coming soon
Electrical contact cleaner spray
Cleans dirt and corrosion from connector pins and battery contacts.
Link coming soon

Still not fixed?

Pages to try next:

When it's time for a shop: if you've worked through every step and the problem is still there, take the bike to an e-bike shop. Bring your notes on when it happens, plus the code.

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