My EV Says “Charging Error” – What Does It Mean?

You plug in your EV expecting a smooth charge, but instead of seeing the battery icon fill up, you’re greeted with a dreaded message: “Charging Error.”

If this has happened to you, don’t worry—you’re not alone. EV charging errors are fairly common, and while they can look scary, they often come down to simple issues that can be fixed at home. In this guide, we’ll break down what a charging error means, the most common causes, and how to fix them.

What Does “Charging Error” Actually Mean?

When your EV shows a charging error, it simply means something interrupted the flow of electricity between your charging station (EVSE) and your car. The error is a catch-all warning— it doesn’t always mean something is seriously wrong, but it does mean charging was stopped for safety reasons.

Think of it as your EV’s way of saying: “Something doesn’t look right, so I’m pausing until we figure this out.”

Common Reasons for EV Charging Errors

1. Loose or Damaged Connections

• If the charging plug isn’t seated properly or the pins are dirty/damaged, your EV may throw an error.

• Fix: Inspect the plug for debris, dirt, or bent pins. Reseat the connector firmly until you hear a click.

2. Circuit Overload

• If your charger shares a circuit with heavy appliances, the sudden draw can cause interruptions.

• Fix: Always use a dedicated 240V circuit for Level 2 charging.

3. Breaker or GFCI Trips

• A tripped breaker or GFCI will instantly stop charging and trigger an error message.

• Fix: Check your breaker panel and reset if needed. If trips happen often, your setup may need an upgrade.

4. Overheating Issues

• Chargers and cables have built-in thermal sensors. If things get too hot, charging stops and an error appears.

• Fix: Make sure your charger is in a cool, well-ventilated area and your cable isn’t tightly coiled.

5. Software Glitches

• Sometimes the problem isn’t electrical at all. A glitch in your EV’s software or the EVSE can throw false errors.

• Fix: Restart your charger, unplug and replug your EV, and check for software updates on your vehicle and charger.

6. Utility Power Fluctuations

• Voltage dips or spikes in your local grid can cause your EV to reject charging and display an error.

• Fix: If this happens frequently, ask your utility provider to investigate or install surge protection.

7. Faulty Charging Equipment

• A damaged or low-quality EVSE can cause repeated charging errors.

• Fix: Test your car with a different charger. If it works fine elsewhere, your charger may need repair or replacement.

8. Vehicle-Specific Error Codes

• Some EVs display specific error codes (e.g., Tesla, Nissan Leaf, Chevy Bolt). These codes point to the exact issue—ranging from grounding problems to high-temperature cutoffs.

• Fix: Check your owner’s manual or your manufacturer’s website for error code definitions.

How to Troubleshoot an EV Charging Error

1.    Check the plug connection – Make sure it’s fully inserted.

2.    Inspect for damage – Look for cracks, bent pins, or worn cables.

3.    Reset power – Flip the breaker or restart the EVSE.

4.    Try another outlet or charger – Helps isolate whether the issue is with the EV or the charger.

5.    Update software – Check for EV firmware updates and charger app updates.

6.    Call an electrician if needed – If errors keep happening, your wiring or breaker panel may need attention.

Preventing EV Charging Errors

• Install your charger on a dedicated circuit.

• Keep connectors clean and dry.

• Avoid using extension cords or adapters.

• Regularly inspect cables for wear.

• Use a quality Level 2 charger from a trusted brand.

Final Thoughts

Seeing a “Charging Error” on your EV can be frustrating, but in most cases, the cause is minor—like a loose plug, an overheated cable, or a tripped breaker. By methodically checking each possibility, you can often solve the issue yourself.

If the problem persists, it may point to wiring issues or an undersized electrical setup. That’s where a professional installer can help.

At Frisco EV Charger Installation, we design and install safe, reliable charging setups that minimize errors and give you peace of mind.

👉 If you need help with EV charger installation in Dallas, Plano or the surrounding area, contact us today for a free consultation and enjoy stress-free EV charging at home.