EV charging

EV cable locked in charger

Warning Do not attempt any electrical or gas work yourself. Always use a qualified, MCS-certified, or Gas Safe registered professional for repairs.

What you’re seeing (symptoms)

The charging session has ended, but the locking pin hasn’t retracted. You cannot pull the Type 2 cable out of the charger socket or the vehicle inlet, even when the car is unlocked.

What’s normal vs not normal

Normal:

  • The cable locking automatically when charging starts.
  • The cable remaining locked until the car is unlocked or the session is stopped via an app.
  • A slight delay (1-2 seconds) for the solenoid to click after unlocking.

Not normal:

  • Cable remains stuck after unlocking the car multiple times.
  • The charger app shows “Locked” but the car is disconnected.
  • A loud grinding noise from the charger when it tries to lock/unlock.

Likely causes (ranked)

  1. Vehicle locking logic: Some EVs require the “Unlock” button on the key fob to be pressed twice, or a specific “Release Cable” button in the infotainment system.
  2. Cable weight/tension: The weight of the cable is pulling down on the locking pin, causing it to bind.
  3. Communication lag: The charger hasn’t received the “Stop” command from the vehicle or server.
  4. Solenoid failure: The mechanical pin inside the charger is faulty or dirty.
  5. Emergency stop pressed: An e-stop button has been bumped, locking the system for safety.

Quick checks you can do safely

  • Check the car: Ensure the car is fully unlocked. Try locking and unlocking it again.
  • Remove tension: Push the cable inward toward the charger while pressing the unlock button, then pull it out.
  • Check the app: Manually stop the session in your charging app.
  • Emergency release: Check your car’s manual for an internal manual release (usually a small pull-cord in the boot or under the bonnet).

When to call an installer

  • If the charger’s mechanical locking pin is visibly snapped or bent.
  • If the cable is permanently stuck in the charger side (home unit) and no software resets work.
  • If you see an “Internal Fault” or “Hardware Failure” red light on the charger.

Questions to ask your installer

  • “Does my charger have a manual override for the locking solenoid?”
  • “Is the locking pin covered under the 3-year OZEV warranty?”
  • “Can you update the firmware to prevent communication timeouts?”

Related NetZeroNow tools & guides

FAQs

Can I use force to pull it out? No. You risk damaging the vehicle inlet or the charger’s locking pin, which is an expensive repair. Does cold weather affect it? Yes, ice can sometimes freeze the locking pin in place. Gently warming the area (not with boiling water!) can help. Why does it lock at the charger end? This prevents “cable theft” if you leave your own cable plugged into a socketed (untethered) charger. Is there a manual release on the charger? Some models have a small hole for a manual release key; check your specific charger’s manual. What if I’m at a public charger? Call the network’s support number (usually on a sticker on the unit). They can often send a remote “Unlock” command.

Written by NetZeroNow | Last updated on 2026-03-02