Why Does My EV Charger Keep Shutting Off Mid-Charge?

Few things are more frustrating than plugging in your electric vehicle (EV), walking away, and later finding out the charger shut off before the battery was full. Not only does this leave you with less range than expected, but it can also be a sign that something isn’t right with your charging setup.

If your EV charger keeps shutting off mid-charge, don’t panic—this problem is fairly common and usually comes down to a handful of issues that are easy to diagnose.

In this post, we’ll explain why EV chargers stop mid-charge and what you can do to fix the problem.

How EV Charging Works (in Simple Terms)

When you plug in your EV, the charger (technically called an EVSE, or Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment) communicates with your car’s onboard charger. The EVSE tells your car how much current is available, and your car draws what it needs. If anything interrupts this process—whether it’s a safety issue, power fluctuation, or equipment fault—the charging session can stop automatically.

Common Reasons EV Chargers Shut Off Mid-Charge

1. Circuit Overload

If your charger isn’t on a dedicated circuit, other appliances on the same line (like dryers or A/C units) may cause the circuit to overload. When this happens, the breaker may trip or the charger may automatically shut off to prevent damage.

Fix: Install your charger on a dedicated 240V circuit with the correct breaker size.

2. Breaker Trips During Charging

Even if you’re on a dedicated circuit, a weak or undersized breaker can trip under continuous EV load, cutting power mid-charge.

Fix: Upgrade to a properly rated breaker and ensure your panel can handle the load.

3. Loose or Faulty Wiring

Poor wiring connections can create resistance, heat, and intermittent power drops—causing the charger to stop mid-session.

Fix: Have an electrician inspect your wiring and connections, especially if your charger is installed in an older home.

4. GFCI/Nuisance Trips

Some chargers are plugged into GFCI outlets or breakers. Minor fluctuations in current can cause these devices to trip, shutting off charging.

Fix: Use a breaker designed for EV charging if allowed by local code. Avoid bypassing GFCI protection without consulting a licensed electrician.

5. Overheating Charger or Cable

If your charger or cable gets too hot during use, it may automatically shut off to prevent damage. Overheating can be caused by poor ventilation, undersized wiring, or a faulty unit.

Fix: Ensure your charger has proper airflow, avoid coiling the cable tightly, and replace damaged equipment.

6. Software or Communication Errors

Sometimes the issue isn’t electrical at all. Software glitches in either the EV or the charging station can cause charging to stop unexpectedly.

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

7. Utility Power Fluctuations

Voltage dips or fluctuations in your local power grid can interrupt charging sessions. Your EVSE is designed to stop charging when incoming power is unstable.

Fix: If this happens often, ask your utility company to check for local issues. Installing a surge protector or power conditioner may help.

8. Faulty Charger or EVSE

If all else fails, the problem may simply be with the charger itself. Worn-out units, low-quality models, or manufacturing defects can all cause mid-charge shutdowns.

Fix: Test with another EVSE if possible. If charging works fine elsewhere, your charger may need repair or replacement.

When to Call an Electrician

You should call a licensed electrician or EV charger installer if:

• Your charger shuts off mid-charge repeatedly, even after troubleshooting.

• Your breaker trips often during charging.

• You notice overheating, burning smells, or discoloration around outlets or panels.

An expert can test the load, inspect wiring, and recommend safe upgrades.

How to Prevent Mid-Charge Shutdowns

• Install a dedicated circuit sized for your EV charger.

• Regularly inspect cables and connections for wear or damage.

• Keep your charger in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area.

• Stay on top of vehicle and charger software updates.

• Invest in a quality Level 2 charger from a trusted brand.

Final Thoughts

If your EV charger keeps shutting off mid-charge, it’s usually a sign of an overloaded circuit, overheating equipment, or a wiring issue. While the problem can be annoying, it’s often an easy fix once the root cause is identified.

At Frisco EV Charger Installation, we specialize in safe, reliable charging setups designed to prevent problems like this. Whether you need a dedicated circuit, a Level 2 upgrade, or a full charger installation, we’ve got you covered.

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