Bafang error codes: DP C18 and C961 display codes
Last checked Oct 23, 2026 ยท By EbikePost editors
Bafang makes the motor and the display, and many bike brands use them, so codes depend on your display model. Bafang's DP C18.UART and C961 display manuals list two-digit codes such as 04, 05, 07, 08, 09, 21 and 30. The C961 manual says the motor stops working when an error shows, and that powering down, unplugging the display for two minutes and reconnecting it sometimes clears the error. If a code stays, contact your service technician.
Check which Bafang display you have
Bafang sells several displays (DP C18, C961, 500C and others), and lists differ. This page covers the two we could read as Bafang's own PDFs. Both PDFs were found on resellers' file servers, not on a Bafang page, so confirm against the manual your bike maker supplies. Other lists on the web, including forum posts, disagree on some codes (30 and 24 are often argued about). We do not use them.
DP C18.UART display codes
The C18 manual says the display shows a fault icon and then one of these codes. It also keeps the last ten codes in an "Error Code" screen, where "00" means no error.
| Code | Meaning (Bafang C18 manual) | What you can safely check | When to contact |
|---|---|---|---|
| 04 | Throttle has not returned home | Make sure the throttle is released, then restart | If it persists |
| 05 | Throttle fault | Check the throttle for damage or a loose visible plug | If it persists |
| 07 | Overvoltage protection | Manual says "check battery voltage": confirm you use the right battery and charger | Always: voltage checks need tools |
| 08 | Motor hall signal cable fault | None | Manual says check the motor module |
| 09 | Motor phase cable fault | None | Manual says check the motor module |
| 11, 12 | Controller temperature sensor (11) or current sensor (12) fault | None | Manual says check the controller |
| 13 | Battery temperature fault | Let the battery come to room temperature | Manual says check the battery |
| 14 | Motor temperature fault | Stop, switch off and let the bike cool | Manual says check the motor |
| 21 | Speed sensor fault | Look at the speed sensor and magnet position from outside | Manual says check the installation position |
| 22 | BMS (battery management) communication fault | None | Manual says replace the battery: contact the maker |
| 30 | Communication fault | Check the visible display connector is seated | Manual says check the controller connection |
C961 display codes
The C961 manual lists these definitions in its attached table.
| Code | Meaning (Bafang C961 manual) | What you can safely check | When to contact |
|---|---|---|---|
| 04 | Throttle not returning to zero | Release the throttle, restart | If it persists |
| 05 | Throttle abnormality | Check the throttle for damage | If it persists |
| 06 | Low voltage protection | Charge the battery fully | If it returns after a full charge |
| 07 | Over voltage protection | None | Contact the maker |
| 08 | Hall sensor abnormality | None | Contact the maker |
| 09 | Phase line abnormality | None | Contact the maker |
| 10 | Controller overheat | Stop and let the bike cool | If it persists |
| 11, 12 | Temperature sensor (11) or current sensor (12) in controller abnormal | None | Contact the maker |
| 21 | Speed sensor abnormality | Look at the sensor and magnet from outside | If it persists |
| 22 | Communication abnormality in BMS | None | Contact the maker |
The two manuals do not match line for line: C961 includes 06 and 10, and C18 includes 13, 14 and 30. Use the list for your own display.
Safe steps for any Bafang code
- Stop riding and switch the system off.
- Confirm the battery is seated and charged. See e-bike battery not charging.
- Let a hot bike cool and a cold battery warm, for temperature codes.
- The C961 manual's own reset: power down, unplug the display, wait two minutes, plug it back in and switch on. Use this only if your bike's maker says the display is designed to be unplugged.
- Check the throttle is released and that visible connectors are seated, with the bike off.
- If the code returns, contact your bike maker or a qualified e-bike shop.
Codes 08, 09, 11, 12, 22 and any code pointing to the motor, controller or battery module involve internal parts. Stop here. Don't open the battery, motor, controller or wiring, and don't swap parts. Contact the maker or a qualified e-bike shop. Do not tamper with settings that change assist or speed limits.
Why Bafang codes confuse owners
A Bafang motor can sit on bikes from many brands, each with its own display and software. The manuals above describe the display, not your whole bike. The bike maker's manual and support team decide which steps apply.
Battery safety: use the maker's charger and follow your manual. See UL 2849 and the CPSC Micromobility Information Center.
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