Electric vehicles (EVs) are becoming an everyday sight on UK roads. In fact, their numbers have skyrocketed from just 98,000 in 2019 to over 1.2 million today (The Times). But as EV adoption grows, so do the headaches that come with charging. Whether it’s a stubborn charger that won’t start, a connection that keeps dropping, or frustratingly slow charging speeds, these issues can disrupt your routine and leave you stranded. For those dealing with larger electric fleets, such as eHGV charging, ensuring a reliable charging setup is even more critical.
Most EV charging problems happen with AC chargers—the standard choice for home and workplace charging. While generally reliable, they can be affected by power supply issues, software glitches, and even weather conditions. Sometimes, switching to a DC charger can provide a quicker fix. But before you call in an electrician, here are three key things to check first.
1. Start with the Basics: Power Supply and Connections
It might sound obvious, but the simplest problems are often the easiest to overlook. If your EV isn’t charging, run through these quick checks:
Is the charger securely plugged in? A loose connection could be the culprit. Double-check that everything is firmly in place.
Has a fuse tripped? EV chargers draw a lot of power, and this can sometimes trip a circuit breaker. If you’ve lost power unexpectedly, check your fuse box.
Are the cables in good condition? Frayed wires, worn-out insulation, or loose connections could be causing the problem. Inspect your charging cable carefully for any visible damage.
A driver in Manchester kept experiencing random charging cut-outs. The culprit? A worn-out cable that wasn’t maintaining a stable connection. Swapping it out for a new one solved the problem instantly (Cita EV).
2. Check for Software or Compatibility Issues
Surprisingly, many EV charging problems stem from software glitches or compatibility mismatches. Modern EVs and chargers communicate via firmware, and when they’re out of sync, charging can fail.
Here’s what to look for:
Firmware updates – If your EV or charger hasn’t been updated in a while, check if a new version is available. Manufacturers often release updates to fix bugs and improve performance.
Charging station compatibility – Not all chargers work smoothly with every EV model. If a public charger isn’t working, try another one nearby to rule out an issue with that specific station.
Soft reset – Some EVs and chargers have a reset function that can clear minor software glitches and restore proper operation.
A Birmingham EV owner was struggling with sluggish charging speeds at home. After updating the charger’s firmware, the issue disappeared completely (Cita EV).
3. Consider Environmental Factors: Temperature and Usage
Extreme temperatures can have a bigger impact on EV charging than many people realise. Heat and cold can slow charging speeds, interrupt the process, or even damage components.
Heat-Related Charging Issues:
Overheating chargers – If your home charger is exposed to direct sunlight all day, it could overheat and shut down. Moving it to a shaded, well-ventilated spot can help.
Thermal protection mode – Some EVs automatically slow charging speeds to prevent battery overheating, especially during hot summer months.
Cold Weather Charging Issues:
Longer charging times – Cold batteries charge more slowly. If your EV has a pre-conditioning feature, use it to warm the battery before plugging in.
Public chargers struggling in freezing temperatures – Some charging stations become unreliable in extreme cold. If one isn’t working, try another nearby.
A London driver found his charger kept shutting off during a heatwave. The fix? Simply moving it to a cooler, shaded location (Cita EV).
When to Call a Professional
If you’ve gone through the basic troubleshooting steps and your EV still isn’t charging properly, it might be time to seek expert help. Here are some red flags that indicate you need a professional:
Burning smells or sparks – If you notice any signs of electrical burning or sparking near the charger or plug, stop using it immediately.
The charger frequently cuts out or overheats – If this happens regularly, a professional inspection is a good idea.
Your home’s wiring may be outdated – Older wiring systems can struggle to handle the high power demand of EV chargers. An electrician can assess whether upgrades are needed.
Final Thoughts
EV charging problems can be frustrating, but in most cases, the solution is simple—checking connections, updating software, or adjusting for weather conditions. Running through these basic troubleshooting steps can save you time, money, and unnecessary stress.
Still having trouble? It might be time to call in a qualified electrician or charger technician. Keeping your charger in good condition and staying on top of software updates will help you avoid the most common EV charging headaches.
