I know it is a low-tech solution but I would be just fine with something like a manual hood release for the charger door. Less to break.
After reading that folks used a plastic pry tool to get the charging door open, I just used my fingers and pried REAL hard to pop the door open on my 2021 Kona Electric Limited. I agree that a manual release for the charging cable, but not the charging door, makes no sense at all! The first time this happened (about a week ago) I had about 14 miles of charge - not enough to get to a dealer. At least this time, I could have made the trip there⦠Gonna see if the TSB and/or the 81560-K4000 Push Opener replacement can be done to avoid this in the future.
Soo.. just an update.. I think the charging door actually being stuck was related to my 12v battery dying. After I replaced the 12v battery when my car died, I haven't had an issue with the charging door getting stuck anymore.
Lubricated the locking post mechanism and the hinge, as it was inconsistently opening after my overnight charge. A few lock/unlock cycles show improvement with silicone lubricant, but time will tell.
Don't have the time to check if it has already been discussed but y'all know there is a manual charger door release under the hood - right? I think you pull up on it. It is located near the 12V battery at the front of the engine bay. Orange knob as I recall.
That release is supposed to be for the charging cable, not the door. And yes, already discussed. Appreciate any and all insights into this poorly designed door/locking mechanism.
I haven't tested it. I assumed it would open the door and release the cable. No troubles with the door on our Kona - yet. -knocks on wood-