2022 Polestar 2 12V Battery Warning: DIY Replacement Guide?

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Mike T. · rep 0 · May 24, 4:24 PM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2022 Polestar 2 Long Range Single Motor

Hey everyone, I've got a 2022 Polestar 2 Long Range Single Motor, and lately I've been getting '12V system service required' warnings on the dash. Sometimes the car won't even wake up from sleep mode, which is super frustrating.

I'm pretty sure it's the 12V battery failing, as I've heard this can be a common issue with EVs. It's not the main drive battery, but the smaller auxiliary one that powers all the car's electronics and initial startup sequence.

Has anyone here replaced their Polestar 2's 12V battery themselves? Is it a straightforward DIY job, or am I better off taking it to a service center? I'm fairly handy with basic car maintenance.

What specific type or size of battery do I need to look for if I do it myself? Any tips or tricks for accessing it and ensuring I don't mess up any other systems would be greatly appreciated!

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

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ClearTheCode admin answer:

It sounds like you're experiencing a common issue with the 12V auxiliary battery in your 2022 Polestar 2. While the main high-voltage battery powers the drivetrain, the 12V battery is crucial for starting up the car's computers, activating contactors for the high-voltage system, and powering all the vehicle's accessories, lights, and infotainment system. When it weakens, you'll see exactly the kind of warnings and 'no wake-up' issues you've described.

Common Causes of 12V Battery Failure in EVs:

  1. Parasitic Drain: Even when off, EVs draw power for various systems. If the car sits for extended periods, this can drain the 12V battery.
  2. Age and Cycles: Like any battery, the 12V unit has a finite lifespan and can degrade over time or with frequent deep discharge cycles.
  3. Software Glitches: Occasionally, software issues can cause excessive drain or improper charging of the 12V battery.

DIY Replacement Steps (Polestar 2):

  1. Safety First: Always wear gloves and eye protection. Ensure the vehicle is off and parked on a level surface.
  2. Locate the Battery: The 12V battery in the Polestar 2 is typically located in the 'frunk' (front trunk) under a plastic cover. You may need to remove a few fasteners to access it.
  3. Disconnect the Battery:
    • First, disconnect the negative (-) terminal. Loosen the nut with a wrench and remove the cable.
    • Next, disconnect the positive (+) terminal in the same manner.
    • Carefully remove any hold-down clamps or straps securing the battery.
  4. Remove the Old Battery: Lift the old battery out. Be mindful of its weight.
  5. Install the New Battery:
    • The Polestar 2 typically uses an AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat) battery, often a Group 47 (H5) or similar size. Ensure the replacement battery matches the specifications (CCA, dimensions) of the original.
    • Place the new battery into the tray.
    • Secure it with the hold-down clamps.
  6. Reconnect the Battery:
    • First, connect the positive (+) terminal.
    • Then, connect the negative (-) terminal.
    • Ensure all connections are tight.
  7. System Reset: After connecting, you might need to reset certain vehicle systems, such as window auto-up/down functions (by holding the button down for a few seconds after the window is up/down) or infotainment settings. The car's computers will usually recalibrate over a short drive.

When to See a Shop:

  • If you're uncomfortable working with vehicle electrical systems.
  • If the '12V system service required' warning persists after battery replacement.
  • If you encounter any high-voltage system warnings or error codes (other than the 12V specific ones).
  • If the vehicle still fails to 'wake up' or start after a new battery is installed, indicating a deeper electrical issue.