Vibration and jello

Overview

Jello in video or gimbal shake.

Betaflight/INAV, BLHeli32/Bluejay ESC, DJI consumer (closed stack).

Symptoms

Typical "Vibration and jello" signs in flight, app or OSD:

• Horizontal waves in FPV/consumer video
• Gimbal micro-vibrations
• Buzzing in hover
• Motor test without props — all spin evenly.

Common causes

Before replacing parts, rule out software, mechanical and environmental causes:

• Unbalanced or damaged props
• Loose motor screws
• Worn gimbal dampeners (DJI)
• Camera mount too rigid on FPV

Tools needed

Prepare before diagnostics — saves time in the field:

• Prop removal tool
• Multimeter
• Blackbox log reader

Step-by-step fix

Work safely: battery off when working on ESC/motors; props removed; after repair — VLOS test flight.

• Replace all props — in pairs.
• Tighten motor screws with threadlocker.
• DJI: replace gimbal rubber dampeners.
• FPV: soft mount camera; ND filter may help.

Additional diagnostics

Motor test without props — all spin evenly.

Blackbox: desync, gyro noise, ESC temperature.

Prop balance — balance or replace in pairs.

When to contact service

If any of the following apply — do not fly and contact authorised service:

• Bent motor shaft or rough bearing — replace motor.
• ESC smells of burnt plastic — do not fly.
• After prop strike — gimbal/IMU error persists.

Prevention

Prevention reduces failure risk and supports EASA Open / VLOS compliance:

• Prop inspection after crash

Frequently asked questions

Is it safe to fly with "Vibration and jello"?

No if the fault affects navigation, power, ESC or link. Fix on the ground first, then conduct a VLOS test flight in open area.

How long does diagnosis take?

Most “Vibration and jello” cases — 15–45 min on the ground. Complex ones (firmware, hardware) may need 1–2 h and service.

Must I register repair with the NAA?

No mandatory repair registration, but a maintenance log is recommended for commercial operations.