Why is my car not charging from an EV charger: Troubleshooting Tips and Insights
Believe me, I understand the frustrations that come from using public EV chargers. I have had problems in the past with ChargePoint, EVGo, and others. It is also interesting to note that the chargers that seem to be working properly are often the ones that are no longer free. So if you’re trying to get a charge from a free EV charger and it fails, don’t be surprised.
A Public Charger Issue?
Have you put your credit card in the charger, or do you need a membership card instead? Or do you even have an EV? Your question might imply that you’re a vehicle from the internal combustion engine (ICE) era. I charge my EV in my garage once a week overnight for under $6, adding about $20 a month to my home electric bill, at a rate of 10 cents per kilowatt hour (kWh). My EV battery holds 62 kWh of energy, which is enough to drive 220 miles on a single charge. My 10-mile work commute each way used to cost me $60 a month for gasoline. I only ever refuel at a public charger if I go on a trip further than a 220-mile round trip from home.
Public chargers typically bill at rates of 40 to 50 cents per kWh, which is 4 to 5 times the rate of my home. Therefore, you should focus on getting comfortable refueling your daily driver in your garage.
Troubleshooting Tips for Your Car Not Charging
If you find that your car is not charging from an EV charger, here are a few troubleshooting tips to help you verify the issue:
Check the Connection**: Ensure that the charging cable is securely connected to both the charger and the EV. Sometimes the connection may come loose, leading to charging issues. Ensure Your EV is Plugged In**: It is crucial to ensure that the charging port is properly engaged and that the vehicle is plugged in correctly. Inspect the Charger**: Check if the charger is functioning correctly by trying it on another EV or a different charging station. Test Your EV’s Battery Management System (BMS)**: This system manages the charging process and can sometimes cause issues if it’s not working correctly. Refer to your EV manufacturer’s manual or customer support.Additionally, certain issues can be software-related, which require a technical solution. If you are still faced with the problem, consult the manual of your EV or reach out to the vehicle’s manufacturer for further assistance. They may be able to provide remote diagnostics or physical repair services.
What to Do If It's a Free EV Charger Problem
If the problem persists and the charger is a free one, consider the following steps:
Seek Help from the Charger Provider**: ChargePoint, for example, is known to have a support team that can assist with issues. You can call their customer service or check their website for troubleshooting tips. Familiarize Yourself with the Charger Technology**: Each type of charging technology (Level 1, Level 2, or DC Fast Charging) has specific requirements and quirks. Understanding your charger and your EV’s compatibility can help in diagnosing the issue. Contact Your EV Manufacturer**: Sometimes the issue might lie in the compatibility between the charger and your vehicle’s inbuilt systems. The manufacturer can provide insights into what might be causing the problem.Lastly, if the charger consistently fails, it might be worth checking the reviews and feedback from other users to ensure it is a common issue or if it simply needs maintenance or repair.
By following these troubleshooting tips, you can resolve most charging issues and continue using your EV with confidence.