Why doesn't the electric vehicle light up after inserting the key?
3 Answers
Here are some reasons why the electric vehicle lights may not turn on: Relay failure: If all the lights do not turn on, there is a high probability of a wiring issue or a problem with the relay switch. If only one light does not turn on while the other does, it is most likely a bulb failure or poor contact. Fuse damage: When the headlights fail to turn on, it could also be due to a blown fuse causing an open circuit. Insufficient battery power: Turn the ignition key to the 'on' position; for one-button start models, press the start button twice without stepping on the brake. Turn on the headlights, and if the light noticeably dims or does not turn on at all, and the horn sounds significantly weaker than usual or does not sound at all, it can be judged as insufficient battery power. In such cases, you can seek help from nearby vehicle owners for emergency measures such as jump-starting, borrowing fuel, or towing.
I've encountered this situation before - when you turn the key in an electric car, the dashboard lights don't come on, which is quite annoying. There could be several possible reasons: The most common is an issue with the small battery. Electric cars rely on a 12V auxiliary battery to power the dashboard. If left unused for long periods or in cold weather, it can easily drain. Also, accumulated dust in the keyhole can cause poor contact; or a blown fuse - check the fuse box for the dashboard-related label. Additionally, the car's software might sometimes freeze - you could try disconnecting the battery for a few minutes and then reconnecting it. If other devices like the horn work normally while only the lights don't come on, it's likely a localized circuit issue; otherwise, the entire battery might need charging. Last time I fixed it by just replacing a fuse. I suggest checking these points first to avoid unnecessary expenses. Remember, safety first - don't rush to drive when the lights aren't working. Make sure the vehicle is thoroughly inspected before hitting the road to avoid breaking down midway.
Having driven electric cars for over a decade, experience tells me that when you insert the key and the lights don't respond, the focus should be on the small battery and circuits. The instrument system of an electric car relies on a small 12V battery—if it's aged or leaking, functions won't start. Grab a multimeter to check the voltage; if it's below 12V, you'll need to charge or replace it. If it's not the battery, inspect the fuse box—locate the instrument fuse position, and if it's blown, replace it with a new one costing just a few bucks. Also, pay attention to the key slot—dust or rust can block signals. Try cleaning the contact points or using a spare key to start. Additionally, modern electric cars have an energy-saving mode; if left unused for too long, the lights may dim—press the start button to activate them first. If you can't fix it yourself, don't force it—take it to a professional shop to scan for fault codes with a diagnostic tool for a quick and safe solution. Regular maintenance should include checking the battery's condition to avoid similar issues.
