2022 Lucid Air 12V Battery Dying - DIY Replacement Guide?

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Jason D. · rep 0 · May 22, 7:36 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2022 Lucid Air Pure

Hey everyone,

I've been having some weird issues with my 2022 Lucid Air Pure lately. Over the past few weeks, I've noticed the infotainment system sometimes takes longer to boot up, and a couple of times, I've gotten a '12V System Malfunction' warning on the dash. It usually clears itself, but it's concerning.

I know EVs still use a 12V battery for accessories and starting up the main systems, and I'm wondering if mine might be on its way out. The car is just over two years old, and I drive it daily.

Has anyone else experienced this with their Lucid Air? Is replacing the 12V battery something a DIYer can tackle, or is it best left to the service center? I'm pretty handy, but I want to make sure I don't mess anything up with the high-voltage system. Any tips on where it's located and what type of battery to get would be great!

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

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ClearTheCode admin answer:

It sounds like your 2022 Lucid Air Pure's 12V auxiliary battery might indeed be failing. While the main high-voltage battery powers the drivetrain, the 12V battery is crucial for all low-voltage systems, including the infotainment, lights, power windows, and initiating the high-voltage contactors.

Common Causes & Symptoms:

  • Age: Even in EVs, 12V batteries typically last 3-5 years, depending on climate and usage.
  • Parasitic Drain: Faulty accessories or modules can slowly drain the battery.
  • DC-DC Converter Issue: The DC-DC converter charges the 12V battery from the high-voltage system. If it malfunctions, the 12V battery won't get properly charged.
  • Symptoms: Slow infotainment boot, intermittent warning lights (e.g., '12V System Malfunction'), unresponsive accessories, or inability to 'start' the vehicle.

DIY Replacement Steps (General Guide - Always consult your owner's manual):

  1. Safety First: Ensure the vehicle is off and in 'Park'. It's recommended to wear insulated gloves and safety glasses.
  2. Locate the Battery: In many Lucid Air models, the 12V battery is located in the frunk (front trunk), often under a cover or trim panel. You may need to remove some plastic covers to access it.
  3. Disconnect: Always disconnect the negative (-) terminal first, followed by the positive (+) terminal. Use a wrench of the appropriate size.
  4. Remove Hold-Down: Unfasten any clamps or straps holding the battery in place.
  5. Remove Old Battery: Carefully lift out the old battery. It can be heavy.
  6. Install New Battery: Place the new battery (typically an AGM type, ensure it matches specifications) into the tray.
  7. Secure: Fasten the hold-down clamp.
  8. Connect: Connect the positive (+) terminal first, then the negative (-) terminal. Ensure connections are tight.
  9. Reassemble: Replace any covers or trim panels.
  10. Test: Turn on the vehicle and check for warning lights and proper function of accessories. You might need to reset some settings (e.g., window auto-up/down).

When to See a Shop:

  • If the new 12V battery also drains quickly or the '12V System Malfunction' warning persists after replacement, it could indicate a problem with the DC-DC converter or a parasitic drain that requires professional diagnosis.
  • If you are uncomfortable performing the replacement yourself due to the vehicle's complexity or safety concerns.
  • If you receive any OBD-II codes related to power management (e.g., P0A0D, P0A0E related to DC-DC converter issues, though specific Lucid codes may vary and require a diagnostic tool).

Always dispose of the old battery responsibly at a recycling center.