📄 Warranty vs Wear & Tear – What’s Covered and What’s Not

Electric Bikes Brisbane – Customer Support & Consumer Law Guide

At Electric Bikes Brisbane, we stand by the quality of every e-bike we sell. We're proud to partner with trusted brands and support our customers with genuine manufacturer warranties and expert local service.

However, it's important to understand the difference between what is covered under warranty and what falls under normal wear and tear or misuse—as outlined by both manufacturers and Australian Consumer Law (ACL).

✅ What Is Covered Under Warranty?

E-bike warranties cover faults in materials or workmanship that appear under normal, intended use within the warranty period.

This can include:

• Motor or battery failures not caused by damage or water ingress

• Frame cracks due to manufacturing defects

• Faulty displays, electronics, or controller components

Warranties vary by brand and component, but most reputable manufacturers (e.g. Bosch, Shimano, Orbea, Focus, Kalkhoff) offer 2 to 5 years depending on the part.

⚙️ What Is Not Covered: Wear, Tear & Misuse

Warranties do not cover issues caused by:

• Normal wear and tear from regular riding

• Improper use, abuse, or neglect

• Unauthorised modifications or poor maintenance

This includes components that naturally degrade over time—just like tyres, chains, and brake pads on a car.

🔍 Examples of Wear & Tear (Not Warranty)

Here are a few common situations that are not covered under warranty:

🔧 Example 1: Worn Brake Pads After 2,000km

Not a fault—this is expected. Brake pads wear down gradually, especially on heavier e-bikes or when riding hills or trails regularly.

✅ Solution: Book in for a safety check or brake service.

⚙️ Example 2: A Broken Spoke on a Wheel After 5,000km

Wheel components fatigue over time, particularly if carrying loads or riding off-road. If the rim is undamaged, this is considered normal wear.

✅ Solution: Replace spoke or consider a new wheel if multiple spokes are affected.

💦 Example 3: Motor Failure Due to Water Damage from High-Pressure Washing

This is considered misuse. Most e-bike systems (including Bosch and Shimano) are water-resistant—but not waterproof. High-pressure washing or submersion voids the warranty.

✅ Solution: Avoid pressure washers and keep electronics dry.

⚖️ How Australian Consumer Law Applies

Under Australian Consumer Law, you're entitled to a repair, replacement, or refund if a product is faulty due to a manufacturing issue—not misuse or wear and tear.

At Electric Bikes Brisbane, we always act in accordance with ACL and advocate on your behalf with the manufacturer if a fault appears that’s truly unreasonable for the product’s age or use.

🛠️ Our Commitment

We’ll always:

• Professionally assess your claim

• Liaise with manufacturers on your behalf

• Be honest if a repair is maintenance-related (not warranty)

• Offer the best value fix to get you riding again safely

📅 Need Help or Not Sure?

We're happy to assess your issue. Please start by submitting a warranty or service enquiry using the form below:

👉 Book a Service or Warranty Assessment