BMW I4 Not Charging At Home – 6 Troubleshooting Steps

Experiencing BMW i4 not charging at home? Don’t worry, you’re not alone.

Many BMW i4 owners have experienced issues with their electric vehicle (EV) not charging properly at home.

But before you panic and take your car to a dealership, there are some steps you can take to troubleshoot and fix the problem yourself.

In this article, we’ll guide you through several solutions that can help resolve your BMW i4’s charging issues.

 

Troubleshooting  BMW I4 Not Charging at Home Issues

Here are the 6 troubleshooting steps that you can take to identify and resolve the BMW i4 not charging at home issue.

Let’s delve into the troubleshooting process.

1. Checking Your Power Source

Before delving into complex troubleshooting, it’s crucial to start with the basics by examining your power source.

Follow these steps to ensure that your BMW i4’s charging issue is not related to the power supply:

• Verify Power Supply: Ensure the outlet or charging station you’re using has a functioning power supply.
• Inspect Power Cable: Check the charging cable for damage or wear. Replace it if necessary.
• Test Alternative Outlet: Try charging from a different electrical outlet or charging station.
• Consider Power Load: Avoid concurrent high-power device usage on the same circuit during charging.

2. Examining the Charging Cable

After checking the power source the next step in troubleshooting a BMW i3 not charging issue is to thoroughly inspect the charging cable for any signs of damage or wear.

The charging cable is a crucial component in the charging process, and any damage can hinder proper power transmission.

To inspect the charging cable:

• Inspect the charging cable for visible damage such as frays, cracks, or bends.
• Do not use a cable with any visible damage and replace it promptly.
• Check both ends of the cable for loose parts or damaged connectors.
• Inspect the pins inside each connector to ensure they are not broken or corroded.

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However, for the protection of the charging cable, it’s important that you:

• Keep the charging cable clean and dry to maintain its integrity.
• Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials when cleaning the cable.
• Store the charging cable in a dry place when not in use.

By following these steps and ensuring the charging cable is in good condition, you can address any potential issues and maximize the charging efficiency of your BMW i4.

3. Cleaning the Charging Port

Keeping your BMW i4’s charging port clean is essential for ensuring efficient and uninterrupted charging of your electric vehicle.

Over time, dirt, debris, and even moisture can accumulate in the charging port, causing it to malfunction or stop working altogether.

To prevent this from happening, it’s important to regularly clean your charging port.

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• Turn off the power supply to the EV charger.
• Inspect the port for any visible debris or dirt blockage.
• Gently remove dirt particles using a soft-bristled brush or compressed air canister.
• Use a moist cloth to wipe down the area.
• Allow the charging port to dry completely before reattaching your charger.
• Avoid using harsh chemicals that could damage the charging port’s surface.

By following these simple steps regularly, you can ensure that your BMW i4 will charge efficiently and reliably every time you need it.

4. Resetting the BMW i4 Charging System

To ensure that your BMW i4 is charging properly, you can reset the charging system by following these steps.

• Disconnect the Charging Cable: Unplug the charging cable from the vehicle and the power source.
• Turn off the Vehicle: Ensure that the BMW i4 is completely powered off.
• Wait for a Few Minutes: Allow a few minutes for the charging system to fully power down.
• Reconnect the Charging Cable: Plug the charging cable securely back into the vehicle and the power source.
• Turn on the Vehicle: Start the BMW i4 and activate the charging mode.
• Monitor the Charging Process: Observe the charging process to see if the issue has been resolved.

5. Updating the BMW i4 Software

Keeping your BMW i4’s software up to date is essential for optimal charging performance. Follow these steps to update the software:

• Check for Updates: Visit the official BMW website or use the BMW ConnectedDrive app to check for software updates specifically related to the charging system.
• Download and Install Updates: If updates are available, follow the instructions provided to download and install them onto your BMW i4.
• Follow the Firmware Update Process: Connect your BMW i4 to a stable Wi-Fi network and ensure it has a sufficient battery charge. Follow the on-screen prompts or refer to the user manual for the specific firmware update process.
• Allow the Update to Complete: Depending on the size of the update, the process may take some time. Be patient and let the update complete without interruption.
• Verify Successful Update: After the update is complete, confirm that the software has been successfully installed by checking the system settings or the BMW ConnectedDrive app.
• Test Charging Functionality: Reconnect the charging cable and initiate a charging session to ensure that the update has resolved any software-related charging issues.

6. Seeking Professional Help

If you have tried the troubleshooting steps mentioned above and are still unable to resolve the charging issues with your BMW i4, it may be time to seek professional help.

Certified BMW service centers or electric vehicle (EV) specialists are equipped with the expertise and diagnostic tools to diagnose and address more complex charging system problems.

They can perform in-depth inspections, run diagnostics, and provide professional guidance to identify and resolve the underlying issue.

BMW i4 Not Charging At Home- Preventative Measures

To prevent charging issues with your BMW i4 at home, consider implementing the following preventative measures:

1. Check Power Supply: Ensure a stable power supply from the electrical outlet or charging station.
2. Use Quality Charging Equipment: Invest in compatible, high-quality charging cables and stations.
3. Follow Charging Guidelines: Adhere to manufacturer recommendations for voltage, current, and charging duration.
4. Maintain Charging Cable: Regularly inspect and replace damaged charging cables.
5. Keep Charging Port Clean: Remove debris and corrosion from the charging port.
6. Monitor Temperature: Avoid extreme temperatures during charging.
7. Install Surge Protection: Use surge protectors to safeguard against power fluctuations.
8. Regular Software Updates: Keep your BMW i4’s software up to date for optimal charging performance.

FAQs

1. Why is my BMW i4 not charging when connected to the home charger?

There could be various reasons, such as a faulty charging cable, charging port issue, or electrical supply problem. Troubleshoot by checking the connections and power source.

2. What should I do if my BMW i4 shows a charging error message at home?

Restart the charging process and ensure that the charging cable is securely connected. If the error persists, consult the owner’s manual or contact a BMW service center.

3. Why is the charging process for my BMW i4 taking longer than usual at home?

Factors like a low power supply or a high state of charge in the battery can lengthen the charging time. Additionally, using a lower amperage charger can slow down the process.

4. Can I use a regular household electrical outlet to charge my BMW i4 at home?

It is possible to charge using a regular household outlet, but it may result in slower charging speeds. It is recommended to install a dedicated Level 2 charger for faster and more efficient charging.

5. What should I check if my BMW i4 charging cable is not securely connected to the charging port?

Ensure that the charging cable is properly inserted into both the charging port on the vehicle and the power source. Check for any obstructions or debris that may be hindering the connection.

6. Why is my BMW i4 charging slowly at home?

Slow charging can be due to a lower amperage charger, inadequate power supply, or charging cable issues. Consider upgrading to a higher amperage charger and check the power source.

7. How can I troubleshoot a charging cable that is not working properly with my BMW i4?

Inspect the charging cable for any visible damage or wear. Try using a different charging cable or test the cable with another compatible vehicle to determine if the issue lies with the cable.

8. What could be causing charging interruptions or frequent charging failures with my BMW i4 at home?

Possible causes include faulty charging equipment, electrical supply fluctuations, or software glitches. Check connections, consider a software update, and consult a BMW service center if the issue persists.

9. Are there any specific power supply requirements or voltage limitations for charging the BMW i4 at home?

BMW i4 typically requires a Level 2 charging station with a voltage of 240V and a current rating suitable for the vehicle. Refer to the owner’s manual or contact BMW for specific requirements.

10. Can extreme weather conditions affect the charging performance of my BMW i4 at home?

Extreme temperatures, especially very high or low, can impact the charging performance and battery efficiency. It is advisable to charge in moderate temperature conditions whenever possible.

11. What should I do if my BMW i4’s charging port is damaged or not functioning correctly?

Contact a BMW service center to inspect and repair the charging port. Attempting to fix it yourself may cause further damage.

12. Where can I find professional help if I’m unable to resolve charging issues with my BMW i4 at home?

Contact your nearest BMW dealership or authorized service center for expert assistance in diagnosing and resolving charging issues with your BMW i4.

Official References & Resources

Our research for providing accurate information about BMW involved a thorough analysis of official resources, including the official BMW website owner’s manuals, technical specifications, and relevant support forums.

Our research and data gathering involved thorough analysis of the official websites, including:

• BMW.com
• BMW USA
• BMW UK
• BMW Group
• BMW – Wikipedia
• BMW i4