Electric scooters and rain: IP ratings, real risks, and the need for improved waterproofing

An electric scooter can operate in the rain if its ingress protection rating allows, but no scooter is truly waterproof in the way the term is often understood. The IP rating displayed by the manufacturer describes a test performed in a laboratory on a brand new machine. However, with vibrations, aging seals, and moving cables, water eventually finds its way in. The malfunctions we often see after rain rarely stem from a single downpour, but rather from water that accumulates over seasons. Here's how to understand the IP rating, where water can enter, and what can be done about it.

Read the IP rating

The IP code (for "Ingress Protection") is defined by the international standard IEC 60529. It is written as "IP" followed by two digits.

• The first digit, ranging from 0 to 6, indicates protection against solid objects and dust. A rating of 5 means "protected against dust," while a rating of 6 means "dust-tight."
• The second digit indicates the water resistance rating.

There are two pitfalls to be aware of. First, beyond a rating of 6, the levels do not accumulate: a product tested for immersion (7) does not necessarily pass the jet test (5 or 6). Second, an "X" instead of a number indicates that this point has not been tested: IPX5 says nothing about dust resistance. Finally, pay attention to what the rating applies to: the entire scooter, or only the battery or the controller.

Where does the water actually get in?

• Cable passages: At the exit points of the column, the deck, and the motor. A cable gland that has become loose allows water to enter, which then runs along the cable.
• Connectors: Water can cause slow oxidation of the contacts, leading to poor contact and overheating.
• The motor axle: The motor cables exit through the axle, and the wheel spokes are located right there.
• Deck seals: This can occur when the battery compartment cover is opened and not properly closed, or when the seal is crushed.
• Handlebar controls: throttle, brake contacts, display. A wet brake contact can send a false braking signal and cut power, as we explain in the guide scooter that cuts out while accelerating.
• Condensation: A scooter brought in from a cold environment into a warm room can accumulate moisture inside its housings.

The real risks

Water doesn't cause everything to fry instantly; it primarily acts over time.

• Corrosion of connectors, solder joints, and electronic circuit boards, which can cause intermittent failures that are difficult to diagnose.
• Bearings that rust and start to make noise; see our guide on electric scooter bearings.
• Battery: A lithium battery that has been exposed to water may experience corrosion on its connections or malfunction of its battery management system (BMS). If your battery has been submerged or if water is coming out of it, do not recharge it. Store the scooter outdoors, away from living areas and anything that could ignite, and have it inspected by a professional.
• Grip and Braking: On wet roads, braking distances increase, and road markings can become slippery. Slick tires should be avoided.

Improve protection

• Regularly check the cable guides and replace any that have become loose or damaged.
• Protect exposed connectors with a suitable sleeve and route them downwards, so that water cannot flow into them.
• After opening the deck, it's better to replace a crushed seal rather than reinstalling it.
• Install effective fenders: they significantly reduce spray onto the motor axles and underneath the deck.
• Please be aware that certain modifications can reduce water resistance. For example, our motor ventilation system makes the motor non-waterproof, and we reserve its use for dry conditions or track use only.

The addition of waterproofing to electronic enclosures (seals, protective coatings, cable routing) is handled on a case-by-case basis; we perform this work in our workshop, with labor charges billed in 30-minute increments. Describe your machine to us through the contact page.

After a ride in the rain..

1. Wipe down the scooter, especially around the connectors, the steering column, and the motors.
2. Allow it to dry in a well-ventilated area at room temperature, without applying any heat.
3. Wait until it is dry before recharging it.
4. If it refuses to start or behaves strangely, don't keep trying: our guide "Electric scooter won't work after getting wet" provides the steps to follow.