How common is this 12v issue?

Discussion
21

This isn’t just an EV6 problem, it’s common across many EVs. A quick Google search for “EV 12V battery issues” will show you a lot of similar stories, even with Tesla.

22

I never thought it would happen to me. I got my EV6 in May 2022 and never had any issues—drove 44k miles without a problem. But my 12V battery died on Tuesday, and it was a nightmare. They couldn’t use a regular tow truck and had to bring out a wheel lift and dolly.

23

People without issues don’t usually post about it. I’ve had mine since April 2022, just hit 60k miles, and I’ve had no problems at all.

24

According to my Dutch Kia dealer, it’s a rare issue. They’ve sold a lot of EV6s and haven’t seen this problem much.

25

My 12V battery went out at 26 months and 32,000 miles. Luckily, I was in my driveway when it happened.

26

I’ve been ready to buy or lease an EV6, but this issue is holding me back. Sure, people are more likely to post their problems online, but it seems like these battery problems come up constantly. I don’t want to end up stuck on the side of the road when I’m on the way to pick up my kids.

27

Why do EVs even use a 12V battery? They should have designed them differently.

28

Peggy said:
Why do EVs even use a 12V battery? They should have designed them differently.

The traction battery has a large fuse and contactor (relay) that’s normally open, so power can’t flow from the HV battery when the car is off. This is a safety feature. The car needs a way to keep high voltage out of the rest of the vehicle when it’s powered down. The 12V battery handles everything before the car “starts,” including:

  • Unlocking the doors
  • Turning on the display
  • Running interior lights
  • Opening/closing the trunk
  • And more, including closing the main relay to allow HV power to flow to the car

Once the car is on, the HV battery takes over and powers everything.

29

Peggy said:
Why do EVs even use a 12V battery? They should have designed them differently.

It might also be about regulations or safety concerns. The 12V battery keeps everything safe to touch and operate, like climate control or lights.