No Comms
MotorGuide Trolling Motor
Severity: ModerateWhat Does This Error Mean?
'No Comms' on a MotorGuide Xi-series means the Pinpoint GPS receiver or wireless remote can't communicate with the motor's controller.
Either the wireless remote needs a fresh pair, the Pinpoint cable is loose, or the motor controller needs a hard reset.
Re-pair the remote, check connectors, then power-cycle the trolling motor breaker.
Affected Models
- MotorGuide Xi5
- MotorGuide Xi3
- MotorGuide Tour Pro
Common Causes
- Wireless remote out of range or unpaired
- Pinpoint GPS cable disconnected
- Low remote battery
- Motor controller firmware glitch
- Damaged communication wire inside the motor shaft (rare)
How to Fix It
-
Check the remote battery.
MotorGuide remotes use a CR2032 coin cell.
Low battery silently breaks pairing.
Replace it before assuming a deeper fault. -
Re-pair the remote.
On the motor head: hold the pair button until the LED flashes.
On the remote: hold the pair button.
The two find each other within 10-15 seconds.
The motor confirms with a steady LED. -
Inspect the Pinpoint cable.
The Pinpoint GPS lives at the top of the motor head and connects via a black 4-pin cable.
Power off the breaker, unplug, look for green corrosion or bent pins, push back firmly until it clicks. -
Power-cycle the breaker.
Switch off the trolling motor breaker at the boat's panel.
Wait 30 seconds.
Switch back on.
The motor controller boots fresh.
Try a remote command immediately. -
If still failing, check the shaft wiring.
Communication wires run inside the trolling motor shaft.
If the motor took a hit, wires can break internally.
This is dealer service — the motor head must come off for inspection.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use the motor with the foot pedal if remote comms fail?
Yes — most MotorGuide Xi units have a wired foot pedal as backup.
Plug it into the receptacle.
If wired comms also fail, the issue is in the motor controller, not just the wireless link.