A guide to public charging for your electric car

Understanding how to find and use public chargers

Kia of Irvine i Irvine, CA, is here to help you make the most of public charging. Whether you’re navigating local charging stations or planning a road trip, understanding how to find and use public chargers is key to keeping your electric vehicle (EV) powered up and ready to go. Scroll down for a guide to public charging for your electric car. 

How to find public charging stations

Finding a charging station near you is easier than ever, thanks to a variety of tools and apps. Here are three convenient ways to locate a charger: 

How to use public charging stations

Once you’ve found a charger, follow these steps to connect and charge your vehicle safely: 

• Set Charger Connector Locking Mode: Some chargers allow you to secure the connection while your vehicle charges. This prevents others from unplugging your car.
• Activate the Charger: You can activate the charger using the network’s mobile app or by interacting with the charger itself (e.g., tapping a membership card or scanning a QR code).
• Unlock and Open Your Car’s Charger Port: On most Kia EVs, this can be done via the Kia Access app or by pressing the charge port button on the vehicle.
• Connect the Charger: Attach the connector to your vehicle’s charging port. Ensure it clicks into place for a secure connection.
• Pay for Charging: Payment methods vary but typically include paying through the app or directly at the charger via a credit card or contactless payment option.
• Return the Charger: Once your charging session is complete, disconnect the connector, return it to the charging unit, and secure it on the unit for the next user.