If you are having trouble disconnecting the EV Charger connector (often referred to as the charger "gun") from your vehicle's charging port, please follow these troubleshooting steps to help resolve the issue. Steps outlined in order of ease and success rate.
Be careful when examining the EV Charger connector - even if the EV Charger is de-energized, it is possible for power to be present from the vehicle battery.
Step 1: Check Your Vehicle Settings
Unlock the Vehicle: Some vehicles require that the car is unlocked before releasing the connector. Use your key fob, vehicle app, or unlock button inside the car to try and release the charger.
Check Vehicle Settings: In some models, settings may prevent the connector from being released while charging. Please refer to your vehicle's user manual for specific instructions or settings related to unlocking the charger.
Note: There are no settings within the Emporia app or on the EV Charger itself that control the vehicle's locking mechanism.
Step 2: Verify Charger Status in the Emporia App
Check the Charging Status: Open the Emporia app and verify if the EV Charger is in a "Paused" state. If it is paused, toggle it to "Ready" and try disconnecting the charger again.
Step 3: De-Energize the EV Charger
Turn Off the Charger: Flip the breaker to turn off the EV Charger completely and attempt connector removal from charging port.
IMPORTANT SAFETY WARNING: Even after de-energizing the EV Charger, the connector can still hold power from the vehicle's battery. Handle the connector with care.
Step 4: Manually Operate the Charger Connector Latch
Inspect the Latch: Carefully inspect the latch on the connector (the "trigger" part you press to release it). Make sure the latch moves freely without obstruction and shows no signs of damage.
Attempt Removal: While holding the latch, try to wiggle the connector gently to see if it can be released from the charging port.
Step 5: Use Vehicle Manual Release Mechanism
Locate the Manual Release Mechanism: Electric vehicles will have a manual release mechanism for the charging connector, often located near the charging port or in the trunk compartment. Refer to your vehicle's user manual for the exact location and instructions on how to use it. Utilizing the release mechanism should almost certainly unlock the connector from the vehicle port. If this method does not work, it suggests that perhaps there's an underlying issue at the vehicle charging port.
Step 6: Remove the Charger Connector Latch (If Necessary)
Unscrew the Latch: If the connector is still stuck, you can try removing the latch from the connector:
Power Off the Charger: Ensure the EV Charger is powered off at the breaker.
Use a T-10 Screwdriver: Use a T-10 (Torx) screwdriver to remove the screw that secures the connector latch. This can sometimes help free the connector from the charging port.
IMPORTANT: Please proceed with caution while removing any parts. If unsure, it is always best to reach out to a professional for assistance.
Step 7: Contact Emporia Customer Support
If none of the above steps work, please contact Emporia Customer Support for additional help. Keep in mind that all electric vehicles are required to have a manual release mechanism, and issues preventing the connector from being released may indicate a vehicle-specific problem.
Avoid Dangerous Actions
Do Not Cut the Connector Cable: Cutting the connector cable can be extremely dangerous.
Avoid Forcing or Damaging the Port: Avoid any drastic measures that could lead to damage to either the connector or your vehicle.
In extreme cases, if the connector cannot be removed, towing the vehicle with the connector still attached may be necessary, but this should only be considered after consulting with support professionals.
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