Can't Find a Working Charger

The chargers near you are broken, occupied, or missing

You need to charge but the charger you planned to use is broken, occupied, or does not exist where the app says it should be. Here is how to find an alternative quickly.

You arrived at a charging station but the chargers are out of service, fully occupied, or not where the app said they would be. You need to find another option.

What to try first

1

Check multiple charger apps

No single app shows all chargers. Check 2-3 apps (for example PlugShare, the car's built-in charger map, and a network-specific app). Filter by 'available now' if the app supports it.
2

Look for nearby alternatives within range

Check how much range you have and search for chargers within that radius. Hotel and shopping center chargers are often less busy than highway chargers. Destination chargers (slower AC) may be available when fast chargers are not.
3

Check community reports

Apps like PlugShare show user-submitted status updates. Check recent reviews to see if other drivers report the charger as working or broken. A charger with no recent check-ins may be out of service.

More scenarios in the app

The EVcourse app walks you through more specific scenarios for this problem with real-world scenarios. Free to try on iOS. Android coming soon.

Download for iOS

Android coming soon.

Frequently asked questions

What should I do if no EV chargers are available near me?

Check multiple apps, broaden your search radius, and consider slower AC chargers at hotels, restaurants, or parking garages. In a genuine emergency, a standard household outlet with a portable charger can add a small amount of range per hour, possibly enough to reach the next station. Check your car's manual for portable charger compatibility.

Are charger apps accurate about availability?

Real-time availability data varies by network. Some apps show live status, others rely on user reports. Community-driven apps can be helpful because they include recent driver check-ins alongside network data. Always have a backup location in mind.