Ford Mustang Mach-E Experiencing 12V Battery Problems
How is the honeymoon going between the all-new Ford Mustang Mach-E electric crossover and early adopters? After waiting for a very long time to receive their vehicle, most customers are likely super-excited to take advantage of its performance and numerous cutting-edge technologies.
Some, however, are experiencing a lot of frustration already.
- Also: Ford Doubles Down on EV Investments, Accelerates Plans
- Also: Some Ford Mustang Mach-E Deliveries Delayed up to 8 Weeks
More specifically, a report by The Verge highlights a software issue that prevents the 12V battery from being charged when the vehicle is plugged in. And since there’s no alternator, it can't charge while driving, either.
Members of an online forum say the smaller battery (not the high-voltage battery feeding the electric motors) is not getting the trickle charge it needs when you plug the Mach-E in to charge. It can spend long periods of time not being charged and eventually runs empty, leaving the vehicle unable to start.
According to a document released by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) in the U.S., the problem only affects Mustang Mach-E units built before February 3, 2021. The exact number remains unspecified.
Ford sold 665 copies in Canada and 6,614 more south of the border during the first quarter of this year.
In a service bulletin, Ford says affected customers should take their vehicle to their local dealer to get the problem fixed by reprogramming several of the electronic control modules. An over-the-air software update will also follow later this year.
Still, this type of situation should not normally happen. It’s another reminder that you should probably wait to order a brand new model until the early bugs and glitches have been solved.
