EV6 12v battery issues and charging door problems… anyone else?

Seeking Advice Forum
1

We loved the EV9 so much that we decided to get an EV6. Unfortunately, the EV6 has been a disappointment so far. In the short time we’ve owned it, it’s been in the shop for a 12v battery failure and a charging door issue. It’s been nearly a week, and the service team still hasn’t provided any solutions. We’re even considering returning it since it feels like a lemon. This whole experience is making us question Kia’s reliability, even with the EV9 we love so much. Anyone else dealing with this?

2

I dealt with the 12v issue too, and it’s so frustrating. I had a third-party GPS app connected through Kia Connect that was draining my 12v battery. Once I removed the app and disabled the connection, the issue disappeared. I haven’t experienced the charging door issue, though.

3

@Howard
What app were you using? I’ve had no problems so far, but I’m worried I might mess something up by experimenting with apps since I’m not a fan of the built-in navigation.

4

kwame said:
@Howard
What app were you using? I’ve had no problems so far, but I’m worried I might mess something up by experimenting with apps since I’m not a fan of the built-in navigation.

It was ABRP. Great app for planning trips, but I’d be cautious about connecting it to your car. It caused my issues.

5

@Howard
I used ABRP too, but with an OBD2 adapter. I haven’t connected it recently, so maybe I dodged a bullet there.

6

We’re having similar problems with our EV6, and it’s completely stock. No apps or modifications. It’s only two months old, and we’ve already had 12v battery issues. Our confidence in Kia’s system is pretty low right now.

7

Do you keep the main battery above 20%? From what I understand, the 12v only charges when the big battery is over 20%. My EV6 has a little light on the dash that comes on when it’s charging the 12v.

8

The OEM 12v battery is really not great for the demands of modern cars. Here are some things that worked for me:

  1. Minimize demands on the 12v. Disable apps that ping the car for updates, and avoid using features like the power trunk when the car is off. Adjust settings like welcome lights and folding mirrors to only activate when locking the car or turn them off completely.
  2. Keep the main battery above 20%, ideally between 40% and 80% for battery health. This ensures the 12v gets charged.
  3. If you’re fed up with the OEM 12v, consider replacing it with an AGM battery. I swapped mine myself after watching a YouTube video. It’s straightforward, but be careful not to drop any small parts, like the battery terminal nut. Since I replaced mine, I haven’t had a single issue.

I haven’t experienced the charging door issue, so I can’t speak to that, but I completely understand your frustration. Good luck figuring this out!