How to change propellers on a DJI drone (and how often)

To change a DJI propeller, power the drone off, match the new prop to the motor by its marks (marked prop on marked motor, unmarked on unmarked), and either press down and twist to lock it (quick-release props on Air and Mavic models) or tighten the screws with the screwdriver from the box (Mini, Flip and Avata models). Inspect props before every flight and replace any that are chipped, cracked, bent or worn. There's no fixed hour count; damage decides.

Why the marks matter

Every DJI drone uses two propeller types that spin in opposite directions. DJI marks one type, usually with a grey or colored ring, a raised mark or a letter (A and B on the packaging). The matching motors carry the same mark. Put a prop on the wrong motor and the drone won't fly correctly. Never mix types or brands, and use only official DJI props.

Quick-release props: Air 3, Air 3S, Mavic 3 Classic

To remove: hold the motor with one hand, press the propeller down onto the motor, and rotate it in the unlock direction printed on the hub.

To install:

1. Find the marked prop and the marked motor. On the Air 3 and Air 3S, the marked props have grey circle marks and go on motors with grey marks.
2. Press the propeller down onto the motor.
3. Rotate in the lock direction until it pops up and locks.
4. Unfold the blades and give each one a gentle tug to confirm it's seated.

The Air 3 Series Low-Noise Propellers fit both the Air 3 and Air 3S. For the Mavic 4 Pro, DJI's manual says to install the Mavic 4 Pro propellers by the color marks on the props and motors; follow the diagram in the manual.

Screw-on props: Mini series, Flip, Avata 2

1. Power off the drone and use only the screwdriver that came with it. Other drivers can strip the small screws. The Avata 2 uses a 1.5 mm driver.
2. Remove the screws and the old propeller.
3. Place the new prop on the matching motor (marked to marked).
4. Tighten the screws straight down, not at an angle, until they sit flush.
5. Spin the prop by hand to check it turns freely without rubbing.

On the Flip, DJI says to replace both blades and screws on the affected motor and to use two props from the same package. Don't mix props from different packs.

How often should you change drone propellers?

DJI doesn't set a replacement interval. Its rules are:

• Check before every flight. Look for chips, cracks, bends, warping and corrosion.
• Never fly aged, chipped or broken props. Replace them right away.
• Clean with a soft, dry cloth if anything is stuck to them.
• Screw-on props: DJI says to check that screws are tight every 30 hours of flying (about 60 flights).

A small nick can cause vibration, jello in your video, louder flight and shorter battery life. Props are cheap, so carry a spare set. Most crashes, even small tip-overs on landing, damage at least one blade.

Storage and transport

Don't squeeze or bend the blades when packing. On the Air 3 and Air 3S, DJI notes that the front-arm props should rest in the two dents on the sides of the aircraft's back, not pushed against the body, or they can deform.

When it's not the prop

If new props don't fix shaking, a motor that grinds or won't spin freely, or a "motor/propeller" error, land and stop flying. Read DJI motor or propeller error and contact our repair team.

Find the right replacement set for your drone in our accessories collection.

Related guides

• DJI Air 3 propellers: replacement, low-noise props and how to change them
• DJI Air 3S propellers: replacement, quiet props and installation
• DJI Avata 2 propellers: replacement, upgrades and quiet props
• DJI Mavic 4 Pro propellers: replacement, quiet props and installation
• DJI motor or propeller error: check propellers warning
• How to change and install a DJI drone battery

All how-to guides →