Complete Lockout following Auto Update-with resolution

[amerifolklegend]

So does this only happen immediately after an update? (Forgive me, I'm new here and just catching up.) My car is not currently having this issue. If I turn off automatic updates, then only update with the windows open just in case, will this prevent me from being locked out for sure? Or can this lock-out happen some days down the line after an update, rather than immediately afterward?

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[Desertskibum8]

My understanding is that the 12 volt battery powers the computer during the software update.
The 12 volt is also responsible to provide power for locking/unlocking of the doors.
Sometimes the downloading process uses up the 12v battery where it doesn’t have enough juice left to unlock the doors, leaving the driver unable to get inside and start the car, which uses the high capacity batteries.
By leaving your window open during the download process, you are preserving access to the car to enter and start should your 12v battery die.

 

[CameraCarl]

This is getting ridiculous. We know Ford monitors these forums because they often comment about new buyer's posts showing photos of their cars and often offer to help with less critical issues. But Ford is strangely silent about this issue. Are they afraid to comment? Is there no fix and all of us 2023 owners have to wait for this to happen and constantly worry that our cars will inevitably become inoperable?

God, how i wish I had kept my Escape Hybrid.......

 

[amerifolklegend]

My understanding is that the 12 volt battery powers the computer during the software update.
The 12 volt is also responsible to provide power for locking/unlocking of the doors.
Sometimes the downloading process uses up the 12v battery where it doesn’t have enough juice left to unlock the doors, leaving the driver unable to get inside and start the car, which uses the high capacity batteries.
By leaving your window open during the download process, you are preserving access to the car to enter and start should your 12v battery die.

Sweet, thank you for the response. So in theory, If this were to happen to me and I had the windows open, I would be able to recharge the 12v battery and then be good to go?

 

[phil]

Based on the craziness of this experience I would highly recommend not doing automatic updates.

I've been recommending that for years. I can't understand why people are so eager to get these updates. The software updates do much more harm than good, and have caused dozens of problems, both minor and major.

Just not worth it.

 

[Desertskibum8]

Sweet, thank you for the response. So in theory, If this were to happen to me and I had the windows open, I would be able to recharge the 12v battery and then be good to go?

Correct. There is a bit of a comedy of errors here. The 12v battery is in the Frunk. When the 12v battery is low, but not dead, there is not enough juice for thekeyless entry to open the frunk. Ford recognized this and put in a backup way to access the frunk by being able to "jump start" the frunk trhough the access panel on the front bumper; but there is a glitch. in order to jump start the batter to open the frunk, the 12v battery much be completely dead. If the 12v is slightly charged, the jump start won't work, leaving one locked out of the frunk. So, to avoid being locked out of the frunk, keep your windows down so you can access the vehicle post update and start the car using the high capacity batteries. With the high capacity batteries charged, there should be enough juice to open the frunk and get everything right. That is my understanding - and it is important to note that I have only owned my Mach E for about 3 weeks - and what a whirlwind of learning it has become!

 

[amerifolklegend]

Correct. There is a bit of a comedy of errors here. The 12v battery is in the Frunk. When the 12v battery is low, but not dead, there is not enough juice for thekeyless entry to open the frunk. Ford recognized this and put in a backup way to access the frunk by being able to "jump start" the frunk trhough the access panel on the front bumper; but there is a glitch. in order to jump start the batter to open the frunk, the 12v battery much be completely dead. If the 12v is slightly charged, the jump start won't work, leaving one locked out of the frunk. So, to avoid being locked out of the frunk, keep your windows down so you can access the vehicle post update and start the car using the high capacity batteries. With the high capacity batteries charged, there should be enough juice to open the frunk and get everything right. That is my understanding - and it is important to note that I have only owned my Mach E for about 3 weeks - and what a whirlwind of learning it has become!

Well I'm on three days, so I'm right behind you. Thanks for the clarification.

 

[zvez]

Just wanted to share how this got resolved.
12 v battery was too dead to open doors but still alive enough to keep jump start from opening frunk.

Tech had to” force entry “ into car, which I presume is fancy speak for shimming in with locksmith tools.

OTA updates were reset and reinstalled. 12v and large batteries tested using “drain test”. 12 v battery replaced.

Car is now running perfectly and I have learned the following.
1. Only do updates with the car in the garage and windows down in case the update drains the 12 v battery.

2. When towing, insist on a tow truck with Wheel Lift and not a flat bed.

3. If locked out, a locksmith may be able to gain access to car without dealing with dealer.

Thanks you for all the help and insights.

great to hear it's sorted!

 

[Desertskibum8]

Well I'm on three days, so I'm right behind you. Thanks for the clarification.

Sounds like we can learn together. !!! This forum has been the best in helping me learn what I need to learn. It is definitely a new world going electric. Happy to help!!

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