Symptoms
- Charging behaves oddly in a way that matches a known issue online or from the manufacturer
- Car prompts about an available software update
- Problem started after noticing you're behind on updates
- Manufacturer has issued a service bulletin or update note mentioning charging
Likely causes
- CommonKnown software bug affecting charging logicManufacturers regularly refine charging algorithms and fix bugs discovered after vehicles are on the road.
- CommonOutdated software missing recent improvementsCharging speed, scheduling, and error handling often improve over time through updates.
- PossibleUpdate failed to fully install previouslyA partially completed update can leave the car in an inconsistent state affecting charging behavior.
What to do
- Check your car's settings menu or app for available software updates and install them when the car is parked with good power.
- Search the manufacturer's release notes or support site for your car's software version to see if a charging-related fix is mentioned.
- If an update failed previously, try reinstalling it, following the manufacturer's guidance on staying plugged in and stationary during the process.
- Contact your dealer if the app or car doesn't show an available update but you believe one exists based on manufacturer communications.
- After updating, monitor the specific charging issue over a few sessions to confirm it's resolved.
- Keep the car's software reasonably current going forward to benefit from ongoing charging improvements.
When to call a pro
If no update is available or the issue persists after updating, have a dealer diagnose the underlying charging hardware or software issue.
Safety
Generally low risk
Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.