Overview
In recent weeks, we have seen a rise in reports from multiple customers experiencing failures in scheduled charging while using the zappi’s timed boost feature. Upon investigation, these issues are predominantly occurring with the BMW X5 50e model but may also apply to other BMW models affected by the latest firmware update.
Identified Cause
BMW recently rolled out a firmware update, moving from version 8.0 to 8.5, which appears to have disrupted scheduled charging functionality. This firmware update, released approximately six weeks ago, has introduced complications when setting up scheduled charges through external devices like the zappi. Testing with a 3-pin plug charger (commonly known as a “granny charger”) reveals that the charging failure is also present on this method, confirming that the fault lies within the vehicle itself and not with the zappi.
Diagnostic Steps for Customers
To confirm that the issue is related to the vehicle’s firmware and not the zappi, please follow these steps:
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Perform a Test Using a 3-Pin Plug Charger:
- Ask the customer to set a scheduled charge directly through the vehicle and connect the 3-pin plug charger.
- This eliminates the zappi from the test, helping to determine if the fault originates from the vehicle’s internal systems.
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Observe Charging Behaviour:
- If the vehicle fails to charge on schedule using the 3-pin plug charger, this strongly suggests a fault within the vehicle, particularly with the recent firmware update.
- Document any error messages or unusual behaviour encountered during this test, as this information can be valuable when discussing the issue with BMW support.
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Advise Customer to Contact BMW Support:
- Inform customers that if the vehicle fails to charge as scheduled with a 3-pin plug, they should reach out to BMW support.
Possible Workaround: Remove and Re-add Profile on the EV
As an additional step, multiple users have reported success by removing their existing charging profile from the EV and re-adding it. If the diagnostic steps confirm that the issue is likely firmware-related, and BMW support has not yet resolved the matter, customers may consider this workaround as a temporary solution.
- Instruct the customer on how to remove their current profile from the vehicle’s system.
- Once removed, they can re-add the profile, which may reset the scheduled charging functionality and allow the vehicle to charge as expected.
Important Notes for Customers
- Primary Model Affected: Reports are primarily from owners of the BMW X5 50e, though the issue could impact additional models.
- Firmware Update Implications: BMW's recent update from firmware 8.0 to 8.5 appears to interfere with scheduled charging, affecting both the zappi and other charging methods.
- Diagnostic Approach: Testing with a 3-pin plug charger helps isolate the issue to the vehicle itself rather than external charging devices like the zappi.
Example Customer Scenario
Several BMW X5 50e customers report that their vehicles do not charge on schedule when using the zappi’s timed boost feature. Following a test with a 3-pin plug, they discover the same charging failure occurs, confirming the issue is not related to the zappi but likely to BMW’s latest firmware.
In such cases, it is advisable for customers to contact BMW, as they may require a firmware correction or further technical guidance from BMW’s support team.