Why Does My EV Charger Keep Resetting Itself?

If your EV charger keeps resetting during a charging session, it’s more than just annoying — it can keep your car from charging properly and may even point to an electrical issue. In this post, we’ll cover the most common reasons an EV charger resets itself, how to troubleshoot the problem, and when to call in a professional.

Common Reasons EV Chargers Reset

1. Circuit Overload

Your EV charger may be drawing more current than the circuit can handle. When that happens, the built-in protection system kicks in and resets the unit. This is common if:

• The charger is on the same circuit as other heavy appliances.

• The wiring isn’t sized properly for the amperage of your EVSE.

2. Ground Fault Interrupt (GFI) Triggering

Most Level 2 EV chargers include ground fault protection. If the system detects a leakage of current, even a small one, it will reset or shut down as a safety measure. This can be caused by:

• Damaged charging cables.

• Moisture in the connector.

• A faulty outlet (for plug-in chargers).

3. Overheating

If the charger or the plug overheats, the safety mechanism may trigger a reset. Overheating can result from:

• Loose electrical connections.

• Using an outlet not rated for continuous high loads.

• Ventilation issues around the charger.

4. Faulty Charger Hardware

Sometimes the problem lies within the EVSE itself. A worn-out relay, software glitch, or faulty internal component may cause the charger to reset repeatedly.

5. Vehicle Communication Error

EV charging depends on constant “handshakes” between your car and the charger. If communication fails, the charger may reset itself in an attempt to re-establish the connection.

Troubleshooting Steps

1.    Check your circuit breaker – Ensure your EV charger is on a dedicated circuit rated for its amperage.

2.    Inspect the plug and outlet – For plug-in chargers, look for signs of heat damage or loose connections.

3.    Check for moisture or debris – Wipe down the connector and charging port before plugging in.

4.    Try a different EVSE – If possible, plug into a different charger to confirm whether the issue is with your charger or the car.

5.    Update charger firmware – Some smart chargers release updates to fix reset issues.

When to Call a Professional

If your charger keeps resetting after basic troubleshooting, it’s time to call an electrician. Persistent resets could indicate:

• Undersized wiring.

• A failing breaker.

• Internal charger defects that require replacement.

Pro tip: If your breaker has been tripping along with resets, that’s a red flag for a deeper electrical issue — don’t ignore it.

Final Thoughts

An EV charger that constantly resets is frustrating, but it’s also a useful warning sign. Chargers are designed with built-in protection features that trip or reset to prevent damage to your vehicle and home. The key is identifying whether the problem is as simple as a loose plug or as serious as a wiring issue.

If in doubt, contact a licensed electrician to make sure your charging setup is safe, reliable, and ready for long-term use. 👉 If you need help with EV charger installation in Dallas, Plano or the surrounding area, contact us today to schedule service or installation.