Taking Precautions with R1T Adventure Vehicles in Cold Weather: Necessary Accessories and Tips
R1T has been a popular choice for adventure vehicles, but the recent cold snap has revealed a major flaw in its design. Many users have reported that their R1T completely bricked when exposed to cold temperatures, leaving them stranded and unable to use the vehicle.
The issue appears to be related to the 12V battery, which can become drained if the vehicle is not plugged in during cold weather. This can cause the vehicle to enter a deep sleep mode, preventing it from responding to commands or unlocking with the app. In some cases, this issue may be covered under warranty, but it can still take several days for the vehicle to be repaired and returned.
In addition to this issue, many users have also reported problems with customer service and quality control. These issues can make it difficult to trust that the R1T will be reliable in extreme conditions, especially if you need to travel frequently.
Overall, while the R1T may be an attractive option for adventure vehicles, it is important to consider these potential issues before making a purchase. If you live in an area with cold winters, you may want to look into other options that are better suited for extreme temperatures.
Fortunately, there are several steps you can take to prevent your R1T from bricking in cold weather. First, make sure to plug the vehicle in when temperatures drop below freezing. This will help keep the battery charged and prevent it from draining. Additionally, you should also check the battery level regularly and make sure it is above 50%.
You can also invest in a battery heater or blanket to keep the battery warm during cold snaps. This will help ensure that the battery stays charged and prevents it from entering deep sleep mode. Finally, if you do experience any issues with your R1T, contact customer service as soon as possible. They may be able to provide assistance or repair the vehicle quickly.
Overall, while the R1T may be an attractive option for adventure vehicles, it is important to consider these potential issues before making a purchase. If you live in an area with cold winters, you may want to look into other options that are better suited for extreme temperatures. Taking the necessary precautions and investing in the right accessories can help ensure that your R1T remains reliable even in the harshest conditions.
What happened to the R1T?
The R1T wouldn't wake up from the app, and when the physical key was used, only the passenger side door would unlock. Once inside, there were warning messages including an unsafe electrical issue, and it wouldn't respond to any commands. It was completely bricked and blocking other cars in the driveway.
Was the vehicle plugged in?
It is highly recommended to leave EVs plugged in (when possible) during cold temperatures so they can use shore power to keep critical systems and the battery from getting too cold.
What was the cause of the issue?
It turned out to be a 12V issue.
Was it covered under warranty?
Yes, it was covered under warranty.
How long did it take to get the truck back?
It took some time due to holidays and needing paint for an unrelated ticket which was also delayed. It is hoped that the truck will be back this week.
Are there other concerns around support, quality, and reliability?
Yes, there are other concerns around support, quality, and reliability. The manufacturer has been working hard to address these issues and is committed to providing the best customer service possible.
What can be done to prevent this from happening again?
To prevent this from happening again, it is important to ensure that the vehicle is plugged in during cold temperatures, and that all software updates are applied as soon as they become available. Additionally, it is recommended to check the 12V battery regularly and replace it if necessary.