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What to do if the connector is locked to the charging station?

Updated over a year ago

If the charger cable doesn’t release from your vehicle, try the following:

1. Ensure that the charging session has ended

Terminate the session using the charging station screen or on your vehicle.

2. Press the release button

Most charging cables have a release button on the connector. Press and hold this button while gently pulling the cable to release it. Wiggling or adjusting the angle of the cable while pressing the release button can help.

3. Unlock the car

Some vehicles will lock the cable if it is not removed within 30 seconds. Press unlock on the key fob 3-5 times then quickly remove the cable.

4. Check for obstructions

Inspect the area around the charging port and the cable connector for objects or debris.

5. Emergency release

Some electric vehicles have an emergency release. This can be a cable, lever, or a button. Read further for specific help with these vehicles:

  • Chevrolet Bolt

  • Kia Niro EV

  • Kia EV6

  • Polestar 2

  • Subaru Solterra

Contact customer support

If none of the above work, the charging station might need to be restarted. Please call the customer helpline of the station owner. They will be able to restart the station.

  • EVgo: 877-494-3833

  • ChargePoint: 888-758-4389

  • EVCS: 866-300-3827

Vehicle specific instructions that may help:

Chevrolet Bolt

There is a small silver latch at the top of the vehicle charging receptacle. Push the latch while pressing the release button on the charging cable.

Kia Niro EV

The emergency release is located under the hood of the vehicle, near the charging port. Lightly pull the release 2-3 times to manually unlock the charger from the vehicle.

Kia EV6

The emergency release is located in the tailgate area. Twist to unlock the cover, exposing the emergency release cable. Lightly pull the cable to release the charger.

Polestar 2

Unlock the vehicle with the key fob. Press the round button located inside the charging port.

Subaru Solterra

Open the hood. Pull the emergency release wire. The charger cable is unlocked and can now be removed.

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