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2022 Polestar 2 - Persistent 12V Battery Drain & "Service Required" Warnings

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Ashley M. · rep 0 · May 22, 7:50 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2022 Polestar 2 Long Range Dual Motor

Hey everyone,

I'm having a really frustrating issue with my 2022 Polestar 2 Long Range Dual Motor. Over the past few weeks, I've woken up several times to find the car completely unresponsive. The infotainment screen is black, the car won't 'wake up' when I approach, and I get a persistent "Service Required" message on the driver display if I manage to get it to power on briefly.

It seems like the 12V battery is draining overnight or even after just a few hours. I've had to jump-start it twice already. After a jump, it usually works fine for a day or two, but then the problem recurs. I've tried rebooting the infotainment system, but that hasn't helped long-term.

Has anyone else experienced this with their Polestar 2? Is this a known issue, or could it be a faulty 12V battery or something more serious with the charging system? Any advice would be greatly appreciated before I take it into the service center.

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 22, 7:50 AM

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ClearTheCode admin answer:

It sounds like you're dealing with a classic 12V battery drain issue, which is not uncommon in modern EVs, including the Polestar 2. While the main high-voltage battery powers the drivetrain, the 12V battery is crucial for all auxiliary systems like the infotainment, lights, sensors, and even initiating the high-voltage system. When it drains, the car becomes a brick.

Here are the common causes and steps you can take:

  1. Parasitic Draw: This is the most frequent culprit. A module or system isn't properly shutting down, continuously drawing power from the 12V battery. This could be related to:
    • Software Glitches: A bug in the car's software preventing modules from entering sleep mode.
    • Faulty Module: A specific electronic control unit (ECU) or sensor that is failing and staying active.
    • Aftermarket Accessories: Any non-factory installed devices (dashcams, trackers) that are hardwired and not properly configured to shut off.
  2. Failing 12V Battery: Even though your car is relatively new, a defective 12V battery can occur. It might not be holding a charge effectively, especially if it's been deeply discharged multiple times.
  3. Charging System Issue: The DC-DC converter, which charges the 12V battery from the high-voltage battery, could be malfunctioning. If it's not adequately topping up the 12V battery, it will eventually drain.

What to do:

  1. Check for Software Updates: Ensure your Polestar 2 has the latest software. Polestar frequently releases updates that address various electrical and battery management issues. You can check this through the car's infotainment system or the Polestar app.
  2. Try a Hard Reset: If you haven't already, try a more comprehensive reset than just the infotainment. Consult your owner's manual for the procedure to disconnect and reconnect the 12V battery (usually involves specific steps to avoid issues).
  3. Trickle Charge the 12V Battery: Use a smart trickle charger designed for AGM batteries (if applicable) to fully charge and maintain the 12V battery. This can help rule out a simple undercharge and potentially extend its life.

When to see a shop:

Given the recurring nature and the "Service Required" message, it's highly recommended to schedule a service appointment with Polestar. They have specialized diagnostic tools to:

  • Read Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs): While a direct 12V battery code might not always appear, low voltage can trigger a cascade of communication errors (e.g., U0100 - Lost Communication with ECM/PCM A, or U0001 - High Speed CAN Communication Bus). These codes can point to specific modules that are failing or drawing excessive power.
  • Perform a Parasitic Draw Test: This test measures the current draw when the car is off and asleep, identifying if any system is consuming too much power.
  • Test the 12V Battery and DC-DC Converter: They can accurately assess the health of your 12V battery and ensure the DC-DC converter is functioning correctly.

Do not delay, as repeated deep discharges can permanently damage the 12V battery and potentially lead to more complex electrical issues.

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