App Shows Charger but It's Not There
The map says there is a charger here but you cannot find it
You drove to a location shown on the map but the charger is missing, inaccessible, or not where the app says. This happens more often than you would think.
Your situation
You navigated to a charger shown in your app, but when you arrived the charger is missing, behind a locked gate, inside a private parking garage, or in a completely different spot than the pin on the map.
What to try first
- 1
Check if the charger is in a parking structure or behind a building
Many chargers are inside parking garages, behind hotels, or in areas not visible from the road. Check the app's photos and comments from other users. Some chargers require you to enter a parking garage (which may have a fee) to access them.
- 2
Verify the charger still exists
Chargers get removed, relocated, or decommissioned. Check the app for recent user reviews or check-ins. If the last activity was months ago and recent comments say it is gone, trust the community data over the map pin.
- 3
Search for the nearest alternative
Use a second app (PlugShare has the most community data) to find the closest working alternative. Filter by chargers with recent positive check-ins. Sort by distance and check that the connector type matches your car.
More scenarios in the app
The EVcourse app walks you through more specific scenarios for this problem with visual step-by-step guides. Free for iOS and Android.
Frequently asked questions
Why do charging apps show chargers that do not exist?
Charging databases update slowly. Chargers get removed, relocated, or permanently broken, but the listing stays in the database for months. Some listings are from planned chargers that were never installed. Community-driven apps like PlugShare are usually more accurate because users report problems.
How can I report a missing or broken charger?
Use the charger network's app to report the issue. On community apps like PlugShare, leave a check-in noting the charger is missing. This helps other drivers avoid the same trip. Some networks have a phone number on the charger listing for reporting problems.
Related guides
Stuck at the charger? Open the app.
Step-by-step help for real charging problems. Free on iOS and Android.
Free to download · Available on iOS and Android