A charging cable that won’t release is usually caused by one of a few common things, most of which you can resolve yourself. This article walks you through what to try, and who to contact if you’re still stuck.
✓ Try the Help button first
For most charger-side issues, the fastest fix is to tap Help on the station screen in the Wevolt App and call the charger operator's number shown there. They own and maintain the charger and can usually resolve hardware, cable, and access problems in minutes. Learn how Wevolt and charger operators split support.
Do not force the cable
Never forcefully pull a locked cable. This can damage your vehicle’s charging port, the cable connector, or the charger, and you may be held liable for the damage.
Why does this happen?
Charging cables lock into your vehicle automatically during an active charging session as a safety feature — this is standard EV behaviour and is controlled by your vehicle, not the charger. Common reasons a cable won’t release include:
- The charging session is still active or has not been properly ended.
- Your vehicle is still locked — most EVs keep the cable locked until the car is unlocked.
- The charger or your vehicle needs a moment to complete its shutdown process.
- There is a fault with the charger or its cable locking mechanism.
What to try
- End the session properly. Open the Wevolt App and confirm the charging session has been fully stopped. If the session is still showing as active, stop it through the app. Some chargers also have a stop button on the unit itself.
- Unlock your vehicle. Unlock your car using your key fob, the door handle, or your vehicle’s app. Most EVs automatically release the cable lock once the vehicle is unlocked. If your vehicle has a manual cable release button or lever, use that now.
- Wait a moment. Some chargers and vehicles take a few seconds to complete the unlocking sequence after a session ends. Wait 30–60 seconds before trying to remove the cable again.
- Check your vehicle manual. If the cable still won’t release, consult your vehicle’s owner manual for the emergency cable release procedure. Most EVs have a manual override — often a pull cord or lever located in the boot or under a panel near the charging port.
If none of the above steps work, the issue is likely with the charger itself rather than your vehicle. This is the responsibility of the Charge Point Operator (CPO) — the business or site owner who manages the charger.
✓ Use the Help button in the Wevolt App
Tap the Help button on the charger listing in the Wevolt App. This shows you the direct support contact — phone number and email — for the operator of that specific charger. A stuck cable is a hardware issue, so the CPO is your first point of contact.
If you cannot reach the CPO or need additional assistance, contact Wevolt Support:
What if the charger or my vehicle is damaged?
If you believe the charger has caused damage to your vehicle, or if the charger itself is damaged, please:
- Document the damage with photos before leaving the site.
- Contact the CPO directly using the Help button in the Wevolt App — they are responsible for the physical condition and operation of their charger.
- Contact Wevolt Support at contact@wevolt.com.au to report the incident.
Note on liability
Under the Wevolt CPO Terms and Conditions, the Charge Point Operator is responsible for the safe operation and maintenance of their charging station. Wevolt does not accept liability for damage caused by charger hardware.
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