EV chargers, just like many other modern electrical devices or appliances, can encounter problems that impact performance, usability and safety. We hope you never have an issue with your EV charger, but complications may arise, from minor charger cable connectivity issues to potentially far more serious problems such as overheating. By identifying EV charger issues early on, you'll save time and money while eliminating a whole lot of frustration and stress before your next charging session or upcoming journey.
As with most tech-related issues, they have a habit of cropping up at the worst possible time, and when you need solutions right away. From missed appointments to delays in travel and general safety concerns - we never want you to feel that these issues are affecting your day-to-day life - so being proactive in diagnosing and solving common EV charger issues will save you time and money while eliminating a whole lot of stress in the long run.
Troubleshooting your EV charger issues immediately will also help to maximise the lifespan of your charger while ensuring your electric vehicle is always ready for travel.
In this guide, Eco Wizard has compiled a list of the most common, confusing and frequently-asked EV equipment issues with clear, actionable solutions to help you get back on the road. By identifying and resolving these problems early, you can enjoy a hassle-free charging experience while ensuring your EV charger continues to work at its best.
Solution: The first step is to check that the EV charger is properly plugged into a functioning outlet and that the circuit breaker hasn’t been tripped. Next, inspect the EV charging cable and connectors for damage, dirt or debris. If these elements are fine, check your vehicle’s charging port to ensure it's clean and intact. If the problem persists, try a different charging station to rule out a charger-specific issue.
Solution: Charging speed can vary based on several factors. First, check that your EV is connected to a high-capacity charger that matches your vehicle’s charging rate. If you are using a home charger, make sure your power source is sufficient for the charger’s needs. Other factors, such as battery condition, state of charge, and temperature, can also affect charging speeds. Make sure your vehicle’s battery management system is functioning correctly.
Solution: Begin by checking the power supply. Ensure that the EV charger is plugged in securely and that the outlet is working. Inspect the power cord and any visible connections for damage. If the power supply is functioning, try resetting the charger, as some chargers have a reset button or power cycle. If these steps don’t resolve the issue, the charger may need to be serviced by a professional.
Solution: If your EV charger keeps turning off, it might be due to an overheating issue, a loose connection, or a fault in the vehicle’s charging system. Make sure the charger is installed in a well-ventilated space and in the shade to prevent overheating. Also, inspect the wiring and connectors for damage. If the EV charger is continually shutting off, it may be an issue with its internal components, and you should contact either a technician or the EV charger manufacturer.
Solution: If the EV charger stops before the electric car battery is fully charged, check your electric vehicle’s charging settings to ensure they’re properly configured for a full charge. In some cases, the vehicle may have settings to limit charging for battery preservation. If the settings are correct and charging continues to stop early, inspect the charger for hardware problems or software issues and updates, or alternatively, consult the EV manufacturer for further troubleshooting.
Solution: If your EV charging cable is stuck, check that the locking mechanism (if applicable) is disengaged. If the cable still won’t come out, gently wiggle the plug while pressing the release button or switch. Make sure you don't pull too hard to avoid damaging the cable or port. If the problem persists, check for any debris or obstructions in the charging port. In rare cases, the locking mechanism might be malfunctioning, requiring professional assistance.
Solution: Communication problems between the EV charger and the EV can often be resolved by updating the charger’s firmware or by resetting it. Check the manufacturer’s website for any available software updates or troubleshooting guides. If communication issues persist, try restarting both the charger and the vehicle. If the issue still isn’t resolved, professional diagnostics may be needed to check for hardware failures or software conflicts.
Solution: A flashing red light usually indicates an error or malfunction. This could be due to an issue with the power supply, charging cable, or vehicle connection. First, check the connection to ensure everything is plugged in properly. If the EV charger manual provides an error code associated with the flashing red light, follow the recommended steps for troubleshooting. If the issue persists, the charger may require professional inspection or repair.
Solution: If you're experiencing authentication issues with your EV charger, ensure that your RFID card or mobile app login credentials are correct and active. Verify that your account is properly linked to the charger’s system. If necessary, try re-authenticating through your app or resetting your credentials. Contact the service provider if issues persist to resolve any account-related problems.
Solution: If your EV charger is tripping the circuit breaker, it could be due to an overload, ground fault or wiring issue. Check the charging circuit to ensure it’s not overloaded by other devices. Inspect the charger’s wiring for any visible damage. If the problem persists, it’s important to have a licensed electrician check the charger’s installation and wiring to ensure everything is up to code.
Solution: Overheating occurs when an EV charger operates in a confined space, without proper airflow, or is exposed to extreme temperatures. Ensure that your charger is installed in a well-ventilated area and avoid placing it directly in the sun. If overheating persists, try resetting the charger and allow it to cool before using it again. If the problem continues, it could be an internal issue, requiring professional inspection.
Solution: Several factors can reduce charging speed, including using a lower-capacity charger, high ambient temperature, or a full battery that slows down charging as it nears capacity. Ensure that your EV charger is compatible with your vehicle's maximum charging speed. Also, check the electric vehicle’s battery management system for any settings that may limit charging speed. If charging remains slow, consider using a higher-capacity charging point or contact a professional for a detailed inspection.
Solution: It's normal for cold weather to affect the charging speed and efficiency of EVs. When the battery is cold, charging may slow down or stop until the battery reaches an optimal temperature. Some EVs come with thermal management systems to regulate temperature. If your vehicle does not, consider preconditioning the battery by using the car’s internal heater or charging the vehicle indoors when possible. In extreme cold, it may take longer for the battery to charge.
Solution: If the charger plug doesn’t fit properly, inspect both the plug and the vehicle’s charging port for any visible damage, dirt or obstructions. Clean the connectors carefully using a soft cloth or brush. If there is physical damage, replace the charger plug or repair the port. Avoid forcing the plug into the port, as it could cause damage to both the EV charger and the electric vehicle.
Solution: If you're unable to find a charging station, you can try downloading an EV charging app to locate nearby stations. Some apps even allow you to check availability in real-time. Alternatively, consider installing a home charger, which provides the convenience of charging overnight. If you're travelling, research your route ahead of time to plan for available charging locations.
