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2023 Lucid Air Pure 12V battery draining quickly - 'vehicle won't start' message

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Mark S. · rep 0 · May 25, 5:17 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2023 Lucid Air Pure

I'm having a serious issue with my 2023 Lucid Air Pure. For the past few weeks, the 12V battery seems to be draining really fast. I'll leave the car parked overnight, and in the morning, I get a 'vehicle won't start' message, and none of the accessories work. I've had to jump-start the 12V battery twice already.

I thought EVs didn't have these kinds of problems! What could be causing this rapid drain? Is there something I can check myself, or is this a known issue with the 12V system in Lucid Airs? I'm worried about getting stranded.

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 25, 5:17 AM

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ClearTheCode admin answer:

Experiencing a rapidly draining 12V battery in an EV like your 2023 Lucid Air Pure can be concerning, but it's a common issue across many electric vehicles. While the large high-voltage battery powers propulsion, a separate 12V battery powers all the vehicle's auxiliary systems (lights, infotainment, windows, control modules).

  1. Understanding the 12V System in EVs:

    • Unlike gasoline cars where the alternator charges the 12V battery, EVs use a DC-DC converter to step down power from the high-voltage battery to charge the 12V battery. If this converter fails or is intermittently working, the 12V battery won't get recharged.

  2. Initial Checks:

    • Check for Parasitic Drain: Ensure all lights (interior/exterior), accessories, and infotainment are off when you leave the car. Sometimes, aftermarket accessories or even a faulty OEM module can stay active and drain the 12V battery.
    • Software Updates: Ensure your vehicle's software is up to date. Software bugs can sometimes prevent the DC-DC converter from properly charging the 12V battery or cause modules to stay awake unnecessarily.

  3. Potential Causes:

    • Faulty DC-DC Converter: This is a primary suspect. If the converter isn't working correctly, the 12V battery won't receive charge from the main high-voltage battery, leading to discharge.
    • Weak/Failing 12V Battery: Even in new cars, a 12V battery can sometimes be faulty or have a reduced capacity, especially if it was deeply discharged multiple times.
    • Parasitic Drain: A component in the vehicle (e.g., a control module, infotainment system) is not properly shutting down when the car is off, continuously drawing power from the 12V battery.
    • Loose/Corroded Connections: Check the 12V battery terminals for any looseness or corrosion, which can impede charging or discharge.

  4. Relevant OBD Codes:

    • P0A1F: DC/DC Converter Performance
    • P0A1B: DC/DC Converter Control Circuit
    • P0A1C: DC/DC Converter Input Voltage Low

When to See a Shop: If you're repeatedly experiencing 12V battery drain, especially after ensuring no accessories are left on, it's critical to schedule a service appointment with a Lucid service center. Diagnosing a parasitic drain or a faulty DC-DC converter requires specialized tools and expertise. Continuing to jump-start the battery can further damage it or other electrical components. This is a safety and reliability issue that needs professional attention.

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