While issues with “disconnected charging” are rare with home EV charging stations, it’s crucial to always check the condition of the cables and charging ports when using public charging stations to prevent any accidents. Follow these guidelines for a smooth and safe charging experience:
Pre-Charging Checks
Ensure your vehicle is parked and turned off before beginning the charging process.If an error message appears, restart your vehicle or try a different charging station.
Connection Reliability
Check for any foreign objects in the charging port to ensure a secure connection.Reconnect the charging gun by holding its handle, inserting it into the charging port, and listening for a “click” sound indicating a proper connection. If the issue persists, switch to another charging station or contact customer service.
Charging Best Practices
Avoid aiming for a 100% charge each time. Keeping your battery level between 20% and 90% can prevent overcharging and deep discharging.
Common Causes of Disconnected Charging
User-Defined SOC Thresholds
State of Charge (SOC) reflects the remaining capacity of the battery. Many car owners set their vehicle’s SOC below 100% to prevent overcharging, which can lead to disconnected charging when the battery reaches the preset SOC value.
Charging Station SOC Thresholds
Charging operators often adjust SOC thresholds based on local conditions for safety. For instance, during hot weather, a charging station might stop charging automatically when the vehicle’s battery reaches a certain level to prevent overheating.
Both thresholds aim to enhance charging safety by reducing the risk of short circuits and fires caused by overcharging.
Other Possible Causes
Vehicle BMS Issues
If switching stations doesn’t resolve the issue, it might be due to a communication problem between the vehicle’s Battery Management System (BMS) and the charging station. Contact your dealer for a system update and safety check.
Battery Overheating/Hot Weather:
High battery temperatures require immediate attention. Consult your dealer to diagnose and fix potential cooling system issues.
High outdoor temperatures can trigger the charging station’s thermal protection, causing disconnected charging.
Charging Station or Equipment Issues
Inspect the charging port for debris or moisture, and clean it if necessary. If problems persist, switch to another charging station or call customer service for help.