PILOT FAULT
OpenEVSE
Pilot Signal Distortion or Short
Display shows 'PILOT FAULT', charging stops or will not start, sometimes intermittent when moving the cable.
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Safety Warning
This repair may involve working with high voltage components or water connections. Always unplug the appliance before removing any panels.
If you are not confident in your ability to perform this repair safely, we strongly recommend contacting a professional technician.
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Possible Causes
Pilot wire shorted to ground or line, Water ingress into J1772 handle causing leakage, Damaged pilot resistor network on main board, Loose pilot terminal screw
How to Fix / Troubleshooting
Safety first: De-energize the EVSE at the breaker. Do not use the charger if the pilot is shorted to line; this can damage the vehicle.
- Step 1 – Wiggle test: With power OFF, gently flex the cable near the handle and at the enclosure entry while checking for visible damage. If the fault appears only when the cable is bent, the pilot conductor is likely damaged.
- Step 2 – Inspect for moisture: Open or examine the J1772 handle (if serviceable) for signs of water, condensation, or corrosion. Dry thoroughly and reseal. Replace the handle or cable if corrosion is severe.
- Step 3 – Resistance checks: With the cable disconnected from the board, measure resistance between the pilot conductor and ground, and between pilot and line. Both should be open (infinite) under normal conditions. Any low resistance indicates a short and requires cable replacement.
- Step 4 – Board inspection: Inspect the pilot resistor network and associated components on the main board for burn marks or physical damage. If damaged, replace the main control board.
- Step 5 – Secure connections: Tighten the pilot terminal screw on the main board and ensure the wire is fully inserted.
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Repair Difficulty
Medium
3/5
Required Part
J1772 Charge Cable Assembly
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