When Charging Doesn't Work
There's nothing more frustrating than plugging in your EV and... nothing happens. Or it starts charging but stops unexpectedly. Or it's charging much slower than normal.
This guide helps you diagnose and fix common EV charging problems.
Quick Troubleshooting Checklist
Before diving deep, try these quick fixes:
- ☐ Check that the charger is powered (indicator lights on)
- ☐ Ensure connector is fully seated (click into place)
- ☐ Verify your car is unlocked or in charging mode
- ☐ Check if scheduled charging is preventing immediate start
- ☐ Try unplugging and reconnecting
- ☐ Restart the charging session in your app
80% of charging issues are resolved by these basic steps.
Problem: Charging Won't Start
Symptom: Plug in, nothing happens
Possible Causes & Solutions:
1. Connector Not Fully Inserted
- Remove and firmly reinsert connector
- Listen for click/lock engagement
- Check for debris in charge port
2. Charge Port Door Issue
- Ensure door is fully open
- Check for ice/debris preventing full opening
- Try manual release (check owner's manual)
3. Scheduled Charging Active
- Your car may be waiting for scheduled time
- Check settings: start charging immediately
- Disable scheduled charging temporarily
4. Charger Fault
- Try different connector at same station
- Try different charger entirely
- Check charger screen for error messages
5. Car in Wrong Mode
- Some EVs need to be in Park
- Check if car is "awake" (not deep sleep mode)
- Try opening the app to wake the car
Station-Specific Issues
Public Charger Won't Start:
- Payment not authenticated (use app)
- Credit card declined
- Station out of service
- Your connector type not compatible
Home Charger Won't Start:
- Breaker tripped
- GFCI outlet tripped
- Charger fault (check indicator lights)
- Power outage
Problem: Charging Stops Unexpectedly
Symptom: Starts charging but stops partway through
Possible Causes & Solutions:
1. Target Charge Level Reached
- Check your charge limit setting
- Increase if needed
2. Temperature Issues
- Battery too hot: let it cool
- Battery too cold: wait for warming
- Pre-condition for next session
3. Ground Fault Detection
- GFCI tripping (home installation issue)
- Station detecting fault (try different charger)
4. Loose Connection
- Connector may have been bumped
- Check and reseat
5. Station Sharing Power
- Another EV started, reducing your power
- Normal at some stations (V2 Tesla, etc.)
6. Time or Energy Limit
- Some stations have session limits
- Check station rules
Problem: Charging Is Slow
Symptom: Charging much slower than expected
Possible Causes & Solutions:
1. Battery Temperature
| Condition | Effect | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Cold battery | 50%+ slower | Pre-condition before charging |
| Hot battery | May throttle | Let cool before charging |
| Optimal temp | Full speed | Normal operation |
Charging slows dramatically above 80%:
- 10-80%: Fast charging
- 80-90%: Much slower
- 90-100%: Very slow
This is normal—not a problem.
3. Station Power Limitations
- Station may be lower power than you thought
- Check station kW rating
- May be sharing power with other vehicles
4. Your Car's Limitations
| Possible Limit | Check |
|---|---|
| Onboard charger (L2) | Your car's max AC rate |
| DC charging max | Your car's max DC rate |
| Battery/software limit | Any active restrictions |
Some stations reduce power during peak times.
6. Damaged Cable
Worn or damaged cables may not deliver full power.
Problem: Error Messages
Common Error Codes and Meanings
"Communication Error" / "Connection Fault"
- Handshake between car and charger failed
- Solution: Unplug, wait 30 seconds, retry
- Try different charger if persistent
"Ground Fault Detected"
- Charger detected potential electrical issue
- Solution: Try different charger/outlet
- May indicate installation issue (home)
"Over Temperature"
- Battery or charger too hot
- Solution: Wait to cool down
- Avoid immediate re-attempt
"Unable to Charge"
- Generic error—many possible causes
- Solution: Restart car, try different charger
- Contact support if persistent
"Payment Error"
- Credit card issue at public station
- Solution: Update payment method in app
- Try different card
"Session Ended by User"
- Someone stopped your session (app, fob, etc.)
- Check your app/account
- May be station glitch—restart session
Home Charging Troubleshooting
GFCI Tripping
Symptoms: Breaker trips when charging starts
Causes:
- Moisture in charge port
- Faulty EVSE
- Wiring issue in installation
- Actual ground fault (serious)
Solutions:
- Check charge port for moisture/debris
- Try different outlet (if using mobile charger)
- Reset GFCI and retry
- Call electrician if persistent
Slow Home Charging
Check Your Setup:
| Issue | Solution |
|---|---|
| Using 120V outlet | Normal—L1 is slow (3-5 mph) |
| 240V but slow | Check amperage setting on EVSE |
| Recently got slower | Check circuit breaker sizing |
| Car charges faster elsewhere | Your home charger may be limited |
EVSE Won't Power On
- Check breaker hasn't tripped
- Verify outlet has power (test with other device)
- Check EVSE indicator lights for fault codes
- Contact manufacturer support
Public Charging Troubleshooting
Station Appears Online But Won't Work
Steps:
- Check station screen for error messages
- Try different connector on same unit
- Try adjacent charger
- Report issue via network app
- Find alternative station
Payment Won't Process
Solutions:
- Use app instead of credit card swipe
- Try tap-to-pay if available
- Update payment method in app
- Try different card
- Call number on charger
Connector Won't Detach
Don't Force It!
- Try unlocking via car (door handle, app, etc.)
- Start charging then stop (may release)
- Check for manual release on station
- Call station support number
When to Seek Professional Help
Call a Mechanic/Dealer If:
- Charging problems persist across multiple chargers
- Error messages appear in your car's system
- Charging port appears damaged
- Battery isn't holding charge as expected
- Unusual noises during charging
Call an Electrician If:
- Home charger installation is causing breaker trips
- New installation isn't working properly
- You smell burning or see sparks
- GFCI keeps tripping with your EVSE
Call Network Support If:
- Multiple stations on same network don't work
- Your account appears compromised
- Billing issues
Preventive Maintenance
Avoid problems before they start:
Charge Port:
- Keep clean and dry
- Check for debris before plugging in
- Use charge port cover when not charging
Home Charger:
- Inspect cable for damage periodically
- Keep connections tight
- Clean connector if dirty
Software:
- Keep car's software updated
- Update EVSE firmware (smart chargers)
- Keep charging apps current
Emergency: What If You're Stranded?
If you run out of charge:
- Pull over safely
- Call roadside assistance (many cover EVs now)
- Some services can deliver portable charge
- May need flatbed tow to nearest charger
Prevention:
- Don't push range too close
- Know backup charger locations
- Keep roadside assistance number handy
Conclusion
Most EV charging problems are solved by:
- Reconnecting - Unplug, wait, reconnect
- Restarting - Restart session in app
- Trying another charger - Rules out your car as issue
- Checking settings - Scheduled charging, charge limits
For persistent issues, your car's manufacturer support or a qualified EV mechanic can diagnose deeper problems.
Use ChargeFind to locate alternative charging stations when your planned stop isn't working—and report issues to help other drivers.