Garmin has launched a new battery door cover for its Vector 3 power meter pedals.
This is the second time Garmin has updated the cover, after a previous redesign in June 2018.
Garmin emailed Vector 3 users in March 2020, offering them a free set of covers (or a single cover for Vector 3S users) with a discount code. The cover costs £25.99.
Garmin said: “We found that some Vector 3 units had issues with the battery contacts. The batteries can swell over time and compress the contacts, causing power drops and spikes. The cycling shock and vibration can also deform the contacts and lead to disconnects. The battery swelling is not a safety risk.
“We have redesigned the battery contacts and doors to make the Vector 3 system more reliable and functional. All Vector 3 owners can get free redesigned battery doors by using the discount code below at Garmin.com.”
The background
The Garmin Vector 3 pedals were welcomed by cyclists because they removed the ‘power pod’ that was on the previous versions. Garmin made its own pedal, with the strain gauge inside. This made it easier to fit the pedals and protected the strain gauge from damage.
Cycling Weekly gave the Vector 3s a 10/10 in the print magazine, but later noticed problems like power spikes, battery draining and lost connectivity. We then lowered the online review to 5/10.
In June 2018, Garmin released a new cover that was supposed to “optimise performance and improve robustness.”
Garmin sent a free cover or set of covers to each owner, and told them to use them “even if you are not currently observing sensor or battery cover issues.”
Some users reported that the new covers were better, but Cycling Weekly has not tested a pair of pedals with the new or new-new battery door cover.
