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2022 Lucid Air Grand Touring: 12V Battery Warning and Strange Electrical Issues

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Mike T. · rep 0 · May 24, 4:18 PM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2022 Lucid Air Grand Touring

Hey everyone, I've got a bit of a puzzling issue with my 2022 Lucid Air Grand Touring. Over the past week, I've noticed a '12V Battery Service Required' message pop up intermittently on the dash. It usually clears after a restart, but it's becoming more frequent.

Beyond the warning, I've also experienced some odd electrical glitches. Sometimes the infotainment system takes longer to boot up, and once, the power windows were sluggish. I'm wondering if this is a common problem for early Lucid Air models, or if it's something I can tackle myself.

Is the 12V battery easily accessible for a DIY check or replacement? Any specific tools or precautions I should be aware of? I'd appreciate any advice before I schedule a service appointment.

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 24, 4:18 PM

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ClearTheCode admin answer:

It sounds like you're experiencing classic symptoms of a weakening 12V auxiliary battery in your 2022 Lucid Air Grand Touring. While the main high-voltage battery powers the drivetrain, the 12V battery is crucial for starting the vehicle's computer systems, powering accessories like the infotainment, windows, lights, and door locks.

Here's what you need to know and how to address it:

Causes of 12V Battery Issues in EVs:

  • Normal Wear and Tear: Even in EVs, 12V batteries have a finite lifespan, typically 3-5 years, though sometimes less depending on usage and climate.
  • Parasitic Drain: While less common in newer EVs, excessive accessory use when the car is off, or a faulty module, can slowly drain the 12V battery.
  • Charging System Issues: The DC-DC converter, which charges the 12V battery from the high-voltage battery, could be malfunctioning, leading to undercharging.

DIY Diagnostics & Maintenance Steps:

  1. Check Battery Voltage: With the vehicle off, use a multimeter to measure the 12V battery's voltage. A healthy battery should read around 12.6V or higher. If it's consistently below 12.4V, it's likely weak. While the exact location can vary, in many EVs, the 12V battery is often found in the frunk (front trunk) or occasionally in the rear storage area.
  2. Inspect Terminals: Ensure the battery terminals are clean, tight, and free of corrosion. Loose or corroded connections can impede charging and power delivery.
  3. Consider a Trickle Charger: If you frequently leave your vehicle parked for extended periods, a 12V trickle charger designed for AGM or lead-acid batteries (depending on your Lucid's specific 12V battery type) can help maintain its charge.
  4. Replacement: If the battery is old or consistently testing low, replacement is the most likely solution. The Lucid Air uses a specific type of 12V battery, often an AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat) type. Ensure you get the correct size and specifications. Disconnecting and reconnecting a 12V battery in an EV requires care; always disconnect the negative terminal first and reconnect it last to avoid short circuits. Consult your owner's manual for the exact procedure and location.

When to See a Shop:

  • If the warning persists after checking and cleaning terminals, or if a new 12V battery doesn't resolve the issue.
  • If you're uncomfortable performing the replacement yourself.
  • If you observe other warning lights or error codes (e.g., OBD-II codes like P0A0D, P0A1F, or U-codes related to low voltage or communication errors) that suggest a deeper electrical system problem beyond the 12V battery itself, such as a faulty DC-DC converter. A Lucid service center has specialized diagnostic tools to pinpoint these issues.
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