Chevy Bolt Charger Blinking Red Light (SOLVED)

Just imagine that one fine day, you are rushing to charge your new Chevy Bolt EV before a planned trip from New York to New Jersey , only to be greeted by Chevy Bolt Charger blinking red light on your charger. 

It’s a frustrating thing when you’re in a hurry, leaving you wondering if you’ll be stuck with a depleted battery of your electric car. 

The “Chevy Bolt Car Charger Blinking Red Light” is a common issue that is faced by Chevy owners, but understanding its causes and solutions can help you juiced up on the road with confidence. 

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Why is My Bolt Charger Blinking Red?

The red blinking light on your Chevy bolt home charger doesn’t appear often but when it appears it demands serious concerns, ranging from minor to severe. 

Understanding these can help you diagnose and fix the problem effectively.

Common Causes: Chevy Bolt Charger blinking red light

Cause	Description	Frequency
Loose Connection	Ensure all connections are secure. A loose plug can cause the red light to blink.	40%
Faulty Charger	Damage or malfunction in the charger itself can trigger the red blinking light.	30%
Power Supply Issues	Fluctuations or interruptions in the power supply can lead to this issue.	20%
Software Issues	Sometimes, software glitches within the vehicle or charger can cause the red light to blink.	10%

What Does the Flashing Red Fault Light Mean?

A flashing red fault light typically indicates an interruption in the charging session due to a fault within the charging system of your Chevy Bolt. This requires immediate attention.

Potential Issues:

Internal Charger Fault: An internal fault in the EV charger itself could trigger the fault light.

Overheating: The charger may be overheating, posing a safety risk.

Ground Fault: A ground fault within the charging system could be causing the issue.

Steps to Diagnose and Fix Chevy Charger Red Light

1. Check the Power Source

First thing’s first, I make sure the outlet is delivering the right voltage. For the Bolt, it should be 110V. If it’s less, that could be causing the issue. I also use a multimeter to test for continuity and ensure the power supply is stable. Sometimes, it’s a simple issue with the outlet.

2. Inspect the Charger

Next, I inspect the charger for any visible damage. I check the cable for any cuts, frays, or exposed wires—anything that might have happened over time or during use. I also check the fuse inside the charger to make sure it hasn’t blown. If I notice anything out of place, I’ll replace the damaged parts or call a pro to check it out.

3. Reset the Charger

Sometimes, the chevy charger just needs a reset. If it has a reset button (some do), I press it and wait a minute before trying again. This often helps clear any minor system glitches.

4. Try a Different Outlet

If it’s still blinking red, I plug the charger into a different outlet, just to rule out the possibility that the outlet itself is the issue. If it works fine in another outlet, the problem is likely with the original one, and I’ll need to check the wiring.

5. Check for Error Codes

Some chargers show error codes on a display. If that’s the case, I refer to the chevy charging station manual to see what the code means. Error codes like TC1001 (communication issue) or TC1002 (overheating) can point me in the right direction for troubleshooting your home charger.

6. Consult a Professional

If none of the above steps work, I know it’s time to get some professional help. I’ll take the charger or my Bolt to a certified technician to check for any deeper issues with the car’s charging system, like an internal fault or ground issue. It’s better to get it checked out by a pro before it leads to bigger problems.

So, that’s pretty much the process I follow when I’m dealing with a blinking red light on my Chevy Bolt charger. It’s usually something simple, but if not, getting help from a professional ev technician saves time and hassle.

Can Charge Limit Feature Cause Flashing Red Fault Light on Chevy Charger?

No, the charge limit feature itself is unlikely to directly cause a flashing red fault light on your Chevy Charger.

Chevy Charge Limit Feature and Fault Lights

• Charge Limit Feature allows you to set a maximum charge level (suppose 85%) for your Chevy Volt’s battery. It’s a safety and battery health measure, preventing the battery from reaching 100% charge, which can degrade it over time.

• Flashing Red Fault Light is typically an indicator of a more serious issue with the vehicle’s charging system. It could signal a communication error, temperature problem, electrical fault, or other system malfunction.

Why the Two Are Unrelated

• Different Systems: 

The charge limit feature is a software-based setting, while the fault light is usually triggered by hardware or electrical issues.

• Independent Functions: 

The charge limit simply stops charging at a predetermined level. A fault light indicates a problem preventing charging altogether.

“Can’t Charge” Message on Chevy Charger and Charger Shows Only Red Light – Fix

A “Can’t Charge” message on your Chevy Volt accompanied by a solid red light on the charger indicates a disruption in the charging process. 

This could originate from the vehicle, the charger, or the electrical system.

Common Chevy Volt Charging Error Codes

While specific error codes can vary, here are some common ones associated with charging issues:

Error Code	Description
TC1001	Communication error between the vehicle and the charger.
TC1002	Charging system overheated.
TC1003	Ground fault detected.
TC1004	Internal charger control module error.
TC1005	AC voltage out of range.

Note: The specific error codes on your Chevy Volt may differ. Refer to your owner’s manual for detailed explanations.

Chevy Bolt Charger Blinking Green – Is It Good?

For the most part, a blinking green light on the Chevy Bolt charger simply means that the vehicle is charging properly. It’s a good sign! It typically happens when the charger is working to fill up the battery, and the system is operating normally.

However, if irregular, it could indicate an issue.

Indicator Lights

Indicator Light	Status
Blinking Green	Normal charging process
Irregular Blinking Green	Possible charging issue
Solid Green	Fully charged
Blinking Red	Charging fault

FAQs

1. Why does my Chevy Bolt charger stop working in cold weather?

Cold weather can affect the performance of your charger. Ensure the charger and the vehicle are in a warmer environment to see if the problem persists.

2. Why does my Chevy Bolt charger show a red fault light after 50% charge?

The circuit may not handle the demand; upgrading to a 50-amp circuit can solve this.

3. Can I use a different brand of charger for my Chevy Bolt?

While it’s possible to use third-party chargers, it’s best to use chargers recommended by Chevrolet to ensure compatibility and safety.

4. How often should I inspect my Chevy Bolt charger?

Regularly inspect your charger for any signs of damage or wear. A monthly check can help you catch potential issues early.

5. What should I do if my Chevy Bolt charger keeps showing the red fault light?

If the red fault light persists, contact a professional technician or your Chevrolet dealer for further diagnosis and repair.

Final Thoughts

Understanding and addressing the Chevy Bolt Charger blinking red light is crucial for maintaining the efficiency and longevity of your EV. With the detailed steps and data provided, you can confidently troubleshoot and resolve any issues that arise.