EV Charger Repair Service: What to Do First
By Mike Torres, EV / Electrical Specialist. Reviewed by Level 2 Charger Guide editorial team. Last reviewed: May 14, 2026.
EV charger not working? Start with the circuit breaker. Most charger failures come from a tripped breaker, not a broken unit. Reset the breaker, unplug the charger for 30 seconds, plug back in. If the charger still does not work, check for app error codes. Tesla, ChargePoint, and Wallbox apps report fault codes that point to the exact issue. If your unit is under warranty (most are for 3 years), contact the manufacturer before paying for repair.
Quick Troubleshooting Checklist
Check the circuit breaker
Go to your main panel. If the breaker serving the charger is tripped, reset it. If it trips again immediately, stop: call an electrician.
Restart the charger
Unplug from the outlet (plug-in) or cycle the breaker off/on (hardwired). Wait 30 seconds. Reconnect. Many faults clear on restart.
Check app error codes
If your charger has an app, check for error messages. Most apps show specific fault codes that the manufacturer's support team can diagnose remotely.
Try a different vehicle cable
Occasionally the J1772 connector on the charger cable fails. If you have a portable charger to test with, try it on the same outlet.
Check manufacturer warranty status
Most Level 2 chargers have a 3-4 year warranty. If yours is under warranty, contact the manufacturer before spending on repairs.
Need an electrician to diagnose your charger?
Licensed electricians can diagnose wiring issues, tripped GFCI faults, and panel problems that cause charger failures. Get free quotes from local pros.
Affiliate disclosure: we may earn a commission if you hire through these links, at no extra cost to you.
Related Reads
Frequently Asked Questions
Who do I call to repair an EV charger?
Contact the EVSE manufacturer first: most have a dedicated support line and warranty claims process. If the issue is electrical (tripped breaker, wiring problem), a licensed electrician can diagnose and repair it. EVITP-certified electricians have specific EV charger training.
Why does my EV charger keep stopping before my car is fully charged?
This is often caused by communication errors between the EVSE and your vehicle. Try unplugging and re-plugging. Check for firmware updates on the charger app. If the problem persists, contact the manufacturer's support line.
My EV charger power light is off. What should I check first?
Check the circuit breaker in your main panel. A tripped breaker is the most common cause of a dead charger. Reset the breaker and try again. If the breaker trips repeatedly, call an electrician: this indicates an overload or wiring issue.
Is it cheaper to repair or replace an EV charger?
If your charger is under warranty, repair or replacement is free. Out of warranty, a Level 2 charger can be replaced for $299-649 (Grizzl-E to ChargePoint). Compare the repair quote against replacement cost. Often a new charger is the better value.
Does homeowner's insurance cover EV charger damage?
Most homeowner's insurance policies cover EVSE damage from covered perils (lightning, fire, vandalism). Check your policy or call your agent. Damage from normal wear and tear or electrical faults is typically not covered.
What is the most common EV charger fault code?
Ground fault interruption is the most common code across ChargePoint, Wallbox, and Tesla units. It triggers when the unit detects an imbalance between hot and neutral current of more than 5 milliamps. Usually caused by moisture in the connector or a degraded J1772 plug. Wipe the connector dry and try again.
Can I swap a broken EV charger for a different brand?
Yes if the new unit matches the existing circuit. A 40-amp charger replaces a 40-amp charger on the same 50-amp breaker. A 48-amp charger needs a 60-amp breaker. If the breaker matches, an electrician can swap the unit in 1 to 2 hours. Total cost: $150 to $400 plus the new charger.
When should I call an electrician versus the manufacturer?
Call the manufacturer if the issue is software (app errors, scheduling failures, firmware) or if the unit is under warranty. Call an electrician if the breaker keeps tripping, you smell burning, or the outlet shows visible damage. EVITP-certified electricians handle hardware issues. Manufacturer support handles software.