Onboard Charger (OBC) Repair

What is an onboard charger?

An onboard charger (OBC) serves as the power conversion hub in electric vehicles (EVs), transforming AC power from external sources into DC power to charge the vehicle's battery pack. It collaborates with the vehicle controller and charging station, adapting to various global charging standards while regulating the appropriate current and power needed for charging.

Enabling faster AC charging

Innovations in OBCs cater to the rising demand for faster EV charging while ensuring minimal battery degradation. By employing constant current and constant voltage methods, OBCs optimise charging speed. Constant current charges the battery swiftly but doesn't fully charge it, whereas constant voltage, or trickle charge, is slower but provides complete charging. Smart OBCs adeptly switch between these methods for optimised efficiency.

Signs your onboard charger requires repair

Slow charging: If your vehicle is taking significantly longer to charge than usual, it could indicate an issue with the onboard charger.

Charging failures: Frequent interruptions or failures during charging sessions, especially when using different charging stations, might point to a problem with the charger.

Reduced charging capacity: A sudden decrease in the charging capacity or an inability to reach full charge could signify a fault in the onboard charger.

Unusual sounds or smells: Strange noises or odours emanating from the charger during the charging process may indicate internal issues.

Warning lights: Any warning lights or error messages on the dashboard related to charging or the power system should prompt a check of the onboard charger.

Overheating: Excessive heat or the charger feeling unusually hot to the touch while in use could be a sign of a malfunction.

If you notice any of these signs, it's advisable to have your onboard charger inspected or repaired by a qualified technician to ensure optimal performance and safety. You can find an ACTRONICS-approved service point here.

Single-Phase vs. Three-Phase Chargers

• Single-phase: has capacities ranging from 7.2 kW to 11 kW, delivering charging efficiency suitable for everyday use. 
• Three-phase: offer capacities of up to 22 kW, significantly reducing charging times for EVs, and making them an ideal choice for faster and more efficient charging.

Why trust ACTRONICS to conduct your onboard charger repair?

• Two-year warranty on your repaired onboard charger
• We have nearly 20 years of remanufacturing expertise and extensive experience with electric vehicles.
• We conduct research in our own R&D centre.
• We are ISO9001:2015 and ISO14001:2015 certified for the remanufacturing and supply of replacement automotive electrical parts and for managing the environmental effects of our business.

FAQs

Why should I get my onboard charger remanufactured rather than repaired?

If a car owner notices an issue with their onboard charger, a typical garage visit might involve ordering a new charger or providing a quick fix. Our approach offers a cost-effective solution that ensures greater reliability and long-term performance for the fault.

Opting for onboard charger repair through remanufacturing carries the advantage of addressing any inherent flaws or weaknesses in the unit. By meticulously assessing each component's quality and identifying the root cause of the issue, we replace it with a superior part. This significantly reduces the likelihood of the same problem occurring again and ensures improved performance. Our expertise lies in handling onboard charger repair and remanufacturing, ensuring a reliable and lasting solution.

Is remanufacturing good for the environment?

Yes. Remanufacturing significantly reduces the use of raw materials and energy compared to manufacturing while preventing flawed units from ending up in landfills.

Repairs often result in parts with a limited lifespan, leading to their eventual disposal and the potential replacement of new units. Remanufacturing proves to be a more environmentally friendly choice than both manufacturing and repairing.

The automotive manufacturing process exerts a heavy toll on the environment due to extensive mining, refining of metals, and energy consumption at every stage, from material extraction to car sales. Opting for remanufacturing for your onboard charger minimises landfill waste and reduces energy consumption compared to starting from scratch.

Repairs might have a finite number of successful attempts, possibly leading to their disposal. Remanufacturing aims to enhance part performance and durability, decreasing the demand for new components, energy, and landfill space.

Where is the onboard charger located in the car?

The location of the onboard charger in a car can vary based on the vehicle's make and model. However, it's typically situated close to the car's power electronics unit or in the vicinity of the electric vehicle's battery pack. In many electric vehicles, you'll find the onboard charger integrated into the charging port or placed adjacent to it.

How much will onboard charger repair cost?

The pricing for each onboard charger repair is contingent upon factors like the onboard charger's make and model, the car's specifications, and other variables that necessitate an on-site assessment. To acquire a quote, browse through the range of onboard charger units we remanufacture on the website's top section or utilise the search function. Enter the essential details, and we'll gladly furnish you with a quote tailored to your needs.

Can private individuals use ACTRONICS services?

Our services are only available to garages and dealerships. 

If you would like your onboard charger repairs using our remanufacturing techniques, you can get in touch with an ACTRONICS-approved service point here.