How to open the charging door on Kia e-Niro

When you come to charge your Kia Niro EV, you’ll need to plug it in. To do that, you need to open the charging door located at the front.
Sometimes, the Kia Niro charging door doesn’t open. That’s frustrating as it means you can’t top up your batteries. You’re stuck.
This problem could be caused by the following:

• Freezing weather
• Dirt or debris
• A common fault with the hinge mechanism

Never force the door open. Consult your owner’s manual for everything you need to know and what to do.
Go to a Kia dealership as soon as possible to have the issue rectified.

How to use the Kia e-Niro charging door

You need to open the charging door on the Kia Niro EV before you can plug it in. Of course. Under most normal circumstances, follow the standard instructions in the owner’s manual. Below is a brief summary.

1. Bring your Niro EV to a stop near the charging point you’ll use.
2. Put the car into Park (P) mode.
3. Apply the parking brake with your foot on the brake pedal.
4. Get out of your vehicle.
5. Ensure the e-Niro remains unlocked.
   • The charging door won’t open if you lock your car.
6. Walk to the front of the hood (where the charging door is located).
7. Press the button to open the charging door.
   • This is on the right-hand side as you look at it.
8. The door should open. Remove the cap and plug your car in to begin the charging process.

Kia Niro charging door won’t open

Some owners have reported running into problems opening the charging door.

• Never try to force the door open. You might break it.
• The charging door can freeze in cold weather. Try lightly tapping the area on and around the door to remove any ice buildup.
• The Kia Niro charging door has a common fault where the hinge mechanism seizes. See below.

Sometimes, even the emergency release doesn’t work. This is a relatively common problem at the moment. Thankfully, Kia mechanics are aware of this, so if you can get to a dealership, they should be able to fix the problem.
It’s caused by problems with the hinge and the mechanism for stopping the door from swinging wide open.
The best course of action is to:

Go straight to a Kia dealership.
They will most likely be able to open the door and free the seized component.
However, it’s more difficult if your Kia Niro EV is already low on charge.

• The safest option is to call for a breakdown company. You won’t be going anywhere if you can’t charge your car. The breakdown mechanic may attempt to open the Kia Niro charging door themselves, or they might tow you to a nearby Kia dealership. Either way, you should end up at a Kia shop, where the issue should be inspected, diagnosed, and repaired.
• Many owners report having to use a credit card (or similar) to prise open the door. Before doing this, you’d need to push the door to release it. If you manage to open the door, go straight to a Kia dealer to have the problem checked out and resolved. Don’t force it – you might damage the door or your credit card! If you can’t get it to open, refer to the option above and call for assistance.

It shouldn’t happen again – but if it does, you know where to go. Unfortunately, this is simply one of those niggling problems with new cars. Mechanics will probably simply spray WD40 (or another similar lubricant) on the hinge area. In some cases, they might shave the hinge down slightly.

How to close the Kia Niro charging door

Securely closing the Kia Niro EV charging door is very simple. Follow the below instructions.

1. Remove the charge connector and replace it on the station.
2. Replace the inlet cover.
3. Close the charging door firmly.

To check the door is shut:

1. Lock your car using the key.
2. Press the right-hand side of the charging door.
3. It should remain closed.

Consult your owner’s manual before operating your charging door and charging your car. It’s vital to read from cover to cover and explains how to use your EV safely.
Find a link to a PDF of the owner’s manual below.