Charging Problem: Light Flashes Three (3) Times

Is there a commercial EV charging station that you could plug into in order to troubleshoot?

If vehicle charges normally plugged into a Blink, Chargepoint or other EVSE, then at least you'd know the charger in vehicle is ok.

 

I second crew dog's thoughts about trying a public EVSE. Also - it's worth checking the condition of the EVSE you're using at home (assume it's the Toyota supplied Level 1), and the outlet it plugs into.

There's an urban legend the Toyota supplied EVSE is only good for a certain number of charges … ?

 

Seems mythical. I've been charging my 2012 PIP twice a day (on weekdays) since I got it with the stock charging cord, no problem. Breaking all the "rules", too, using a heavy-duty extension cord and parking outdoors in all kinds of Northeast weather.

 

gallde, Yeah, when the northeast Ice Age finally ends … the charge counters will fly back north and get to work.

 

This idea of a counter was discussed here a while back. As I recall, the counter was some large number, where you you would have to connect it one time a day every day for something like 27 years (10,000 connections) before it expired. The issue is the J1772 connector "wearing out", not the EVSE.

 

Here is last word on the subject of EVSE counter triggers error code and replacement from a long thread;

Link -> Anyone got bored of plugging in everyday? | Page 10 | PriusChat (post #186)

and here is shorter thread with no real conclusion; Disposable charging cable? | PriusChat

I say no counter to trigger error and replacement. PriusChat Input welcome.

 

the good news is that a number of p/c ers have had their evse replaced under warranty. anything in the manual about the three blinks?

 

Found this deep in the user manual page 92 (page 20 of manual segment in link below)
"If a system malfunction occurs during charging or during Remote Air Conditioning System use, the indicator will flash for approximately 10 seconds and then turn off."

Also look at page 101 (29 in link) for trouble shooting tips.

Link to charging chapter of owner's manual; http://www.toyota.com/t3Portal/document/om/OM47818U/pdf/sec_01-02.pdf

Please keep us informed of any news or insights Pveprius

 

Got a problem starting your Prius? Always try restarting, maybe 2-3 times may be necessary. If that does not work, try rebooting, that is disconnect your 12V negative cable for a few seconds and then reconnect. This will reset the computers in the car. This also works with recharging and extending your charging miles.

 

i think you have a problem with your cable.

 

It may also be it's losing contact. Does it have a rubber washer in the J1772 end of the cable? If it does you can pull it out (make sure to unplug it from the wall first).