diff --git a/src/Controller/CAPI/RiderAppController.php b/src/Controller/CAPI/RiderAppController.php
index f5c2a558..3bd5e4e8 100644
--- a/src/Controller/CAPI/RiderAppController.php
+++ b/src/Controller/CAPI/RiderAppController.php
@@ -834,7 +834,8 @@ class RiderAppController extends ApiController
         if ($jo->getServiceType() == ServiceType::BATTERY_REPLACEMENT_NEW)
         {
             if (empty($serial))
-                return new APIResponse(false, 'Missing parameter(s): serial');
+                // TODO: serial is required but disabling for now so old rider app works
+                //return new APIResponse(false, 'Missing parameter(s): serial');
         }
 
         // set invoice to paid