# TLDR Review: MotorGuide Xi5 Trolling Motor

*Published: 2024-09-30 | Updated: 2024-12-12 | Source: https://shopsavvy.com/reviews-tldr/motorguide-xi5-trolling-motor*

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## Product: MotorGuide Xi5 Trolling Motor

## Pros
- The motor delivers a powerful performance, effectively maintaining anchor in strong currents and cutting through dense grassbeds.
- Features user-friendly technology like GPS, anchor lock, heading lock, and spot lock, all of which function well when connected.
- Smooth and quiet operation, even after extensive use.
- The 24V system enhances navigation accuracy and extends battery life, providing an edge over 12V systems.
- Durable and reliable, it handles various conditions and obstacles.
- Straightforward installation that doesn't require extensive technical knowledge.
- Positive compatibility with Lowrance devices improves GPS signal performance.

## Cons
- Significant issues with the foot pedal's connectivity and design, making it nearly unusable at times.
- Unreliable GPS connectivity, requiring frequent resets and disconnecting the battery when not in use.
- The handheld remote lacks a display, complicating speed and setting adjustments.
- Customer service has been reported as unsatisfactory, especially regarding foot pedal issues.
- Updates must be done at a dealer, causing inconvenience and additional costs.
- Heading lock feature occasionally fails to maintain proper direction.
- Spot lock can drift significantly, reducing its reliability for precise positioning.
- Wireless foot pedal has battery drainage issues, impacting usability.

## Bottom Line

The MotorGuide 940800230 Xi5 Wireless Bow Mount Trolling Motor boasts impressive power and technology, making it a significant asset on the water—when it works. Its unreliable GPS and foot pedal issues, alongside poor customer service, mar the overall experience. If you're willing to navigate these hurdles for its standout performance capabilities, it might be worth the investment. However, consider the extent of your need for reliable electronics and possibly explore competing brands for steadier alternatives.

## Pros vs Cons at a Glance

| Pros | Cons |
|------|------|
| The motor delivers a powerful performance, effectively maintaining anchor in strong currents and cutting through dense grassbeds. | Significant issues with the foot pedal's connectivity and design, making it nearly unusable at times. |
| Features user-friendly technology like GPS, anchor lock, heading lock, and spot lock, all of which function well when connected. | Unreliable GPS connectivity, requiring frequent resets and disconnecting the battery when not in use. |
| Smooth and quiet operation, even after extensive use. | The handheld remote lacks a display, complicating speed and setting adjustments. |
| The 24V system enhances navigation accuracy and extends battery life, providing an edge over 12V systems. | Customer service has been reported as unsatisfactory, especially regarding foot pedal issues. |
| Durable and reliable, it handles various conditions and obstacles. | Updates must be done at a dealer, causing inconvenience and additional costs. |
| Straightforward installation that doesn't require extensive technical knowledge. | Heading lock feature occasionally fails to maintain proper direction. |
| Positive compatibility with Lowrance devices improves GPS signal performance. | Spot lock can drift significantly, reducing its reliability for precise positioning. |
|  | Wireless foot pedal has battery drainage issues, impacting usability. |

## Current Prices

| Retailer | Price | Availability |
|----------|-------|-------------|
| D&B Marine Supplies | $2049.99  | Check |
| Amazon | $2099.99  | Check |
| True Pacific Outdoors | $2099.99  | Check |
| West Marine | $2099.99  | Check |
| Lakeside Marine & Service | $2205.29  | Check |
| Zoro | $2260.99  | Check |

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*About this review: We pulled together findings from professional and user reviews, and cross-referenced them with ShopSavvy's pricing data from thousands of retailers to give you the short version.*