Problems Arise with Fisker Ocean in Newly Released Internal Documents

Customers Voice Concerns Over Power Loss, Braking, and Key Fob Problems

UPDATE: According to Fisker, the Ocean OS 2.0 Software Update has been released and will be rolled out in three OTA updates, starting this week. The update aims to improve “performance and powertrain” as well as enhance the user experience. A spokesperson for the company stated, “The Fisker Ocean brake system utilizes both friction braking and regenerative braking. In response to customer feedback, Fisker released an Over-the-Air update (Version 1.10) in December 2023 for the regenerative system, which improved the overall experience when driving over bumps and uneven surfaces.” The spokesperson also mentioned that the primary braking system, without regenerative braking, meets or exceeds all global certification standards for brake performance. The reported customer feedback was addressed through the over-the-air updates. Other concerns raised by customers are also being addressed by the automaker, as mentioned in other parts of this article.

The recently released Fisker Ocean is a frontrunner in its category, however it appears that the brand-new eco-friendly SUV is currently facing some initial technical difficulties.Despite being at the forefront of its segment, the Fisker Ocean seems to be experiencing some minor issues.

TechCrunch has obtained internal documents revealing that over 100 customer vehicles have experienced “loss-of-power incidents,” rendering them unable to be driven. Fisker acknowledges these issues but assures that they are not widespread and have been addressed through software updates delivered over-the-air.

However, this saga does not conclude here. According to the Fisker records, patrons are forced to confront not only unexpected power outages, but also a shortage of braking ability and faulty key fobs that have resulted in individuals being trapped within their cars. These are far from insignificant issues and could potentially compromise the safety of customers.

According to confidential records, the abrupt reduction in electricity being received by customers can be attributed to the depletion of the 12-volt batteries. The issue may stem from the control units draining the batteries at an accelerated rate, resulting in the Ocean experiencing a loss of power. However, Fisker has informed CarBuzz that steps have been taken to resolve this problem and it is no longer impacting their vehicles.

According to a spokesperson, Fisker has been closely monitoring the performance of both 12V and HV batteries in its customer fleet. This is being done through the use of anonymized cloud data that is streamed directly from the customer cars. As a result of this monitoring, Fisker has been able to deliver over-the-air (OTA) updates that include optimized calibrations for 12V management. These updates have already proven to be effective in reducing issues with 12V battery performance for customers.

According to reports, there are multiple factors that can contribute to the loss of power in a Fisker vehicle. These include malfunctions of the cabin water pump, issues with the driver assistance systems, and problems with the software responsible for controlling the high-voltage battery. Notably, Wendy Greuel, a member of the Fisker board, was one of the initial individuals to encounter this problem while driving on a public road. Similarly, other Fisker employees have also experienced the same issue, with one employee describing the car as making unusual noises and exhibiting sudden movements and stalling.

Last September, a customer expressed dissatisfaction when their Ocean abruptly turned off while waiting at a red light, citing a “battery system malfunction.” This incident was not an isolated one, as a Fisker employee reported another occurrence where the car “began shaking and then suddenly shut down in the middle of the road,” causing fear for the customer. Similarly, a different customer experienced a similar issue while driving on the 405 in Los Angeles. In the service logs of Fisker, the customer is quoted as saying, “I could have easily lost my life.”

According to the automaker, power losses are a rare occurrence and they have taken necessary measures to address the issue. In their statement, they claim that “almost all” of the problems have been resolved through software updates.

According to an email obtained by TechCrunch, “a small number of cases” have been attributed to hardware malfunctions that accurately activate a “safe state.” These incidents have been thoroughly examined and resolved on an individual basis.

As previously stated, malfunctions within the braking system persist in affecting customer-owned models of the Ocean. Documents from within the company have revealed a potential problem with the electronic stability control software, resulting in the regenerative braking system being rendered ineffective. However, Fisker has denied any knowledge of such an issue and maintains that the mechanical brakes should still function even without the use of regenerative braking.

According to a recent lawsuit filed against Fisker, one owner was instructed to adjust their regenerative braking to the lowest setting, which prevented them from sending energy back into the battery pack. This owner claims that this limitation was not disclosed to them prior to purchasing the vehicle. Additionally, another owner compared the experience of using the key fob to “flipping a coin,” as it often malfunctioned when trying to lock or unlock the car. Several other owners have reported being locked out of their vehicles and having to make alternative arrangements for transportation home.

According to a Fisker employee, there were reports of customers being stuck inside their Oceans. One particular owner was allegedly “locked inside his hot car.”

According to Fisker, the current issue at hand is being addressed through an over-the-air software update. This update is set to enhance the functionality of the key fob and guarantee that the vehicle is consistently unlocked with the first press. Additionally, it will also enhance the battery life.

According to Fisker, a forthcoming software update will “enhance the functionality of the key fob and guarantee that the initial press consistently unlocks the car.”

One frustrating issue that has been reported by some drivers is the seat sensor, which seems to only work sporadically in certain vehicles. This sensor is responsible for detecting when a driver is present and enables the vehicle to shift into gear. However, if it fails to register the driver’s presence, the car becomes immobilized. According to internal records, Fisker advised owners to move around in their seats in order to activate the gear lever properly. The company claims that this was a problem with early models and has since been resolved.

Several customers have reported issues with their vehicle’s hood unexpectedly opening while driving at high speeds. In fact, one customer in December had their hood fly open so forcefully that it actually caused damage to their windshield. Fisker has not made any official statements about the issue but did mention to TechCrunch that following service instructions should prevent the hood from opening.

According to Fisker, who spoke with CarBuzz, the key to keeping the hood closed is to follow the provided instructions. He emphasized that the service instructions for securing the hood are uncomplicated and easy to understand. As long as they are followed correctly, the hood will stay securely shut. Fisker stated, “The service instructions for securing the hood are simple, clearly defined and if followed correctly, the hood will remain closed.”

According to reports, a minimum of eight individuals have taken legal action against Fisker under California’s Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act in Los Angeles, San Mateo, and Sacramento. The accused company is being accused by the claimants for disregarding their warranty rights by failing to promptly address vehicle repairs.

The absence of a well-developed system for assistance has proven to be a challenge for affected clientele, who have had to go through considerable efforts to grab the attention of Fisker. One individual was forced to express their discontent in the comment section of a Fisker post on Instagram, while another had to visit a Fisker dealership to report issues with their new car, such as rattling noises and scratches.

It is hoped that Fisker will be able to overcome these challenges, which are simply initial obstacles. The organization has previously demonstrated its commitment to going above and beyond for its clients.