So I live in Western MA and low and behold, winter is coming...

Yesterday we had rain all day in the 40s then it changed to rain/snow mix in the evening and then the low was around 25. I remote started my car in the morning and it worked great to defrost the ice on the windows (it wasn't plugged in since I live in a condo and they won't let me install a charger). When I got to work and tried to plug my car in, I pressed the charge port door button and nothing happened. The door is FROZEN SHUT. I've tried and tried but I don't want to be too violent and damage the door. Currently waiting for it to thaw in the sun before I can plug my car in for the day.

Surprising with the weatherproofing that this could happen but it is frustrating! I hope this doesn't happen on a frequent basis this upcoming winter.

So I live in Western MA and low and behold, winter is coming...

Yesterday we had rain all day in the 40s then it changed to rain/snow mix in the evening and then the low was around 25. I remote started my car in the morning and it worked great to defrost the ice on the windows (it wasn't plugged in since I live in a condo and they won't let me install a charger). When I got to work and tried to plug my car in, I pressed the charge port door button and nothing happened. The door is FROZEN SHUT. I've tried and tried but I don't want to be too violent and damage the door. Currently waiting for it to thaw in the sun before I can plug my car in for the day.

Surprising with the weatherproofing that this could happen but it is frustrating! I hope this doesn't happen on a frequent basis this upcoming winter.

Could you use window washer fluid with a a spray gun to thaw it? I assume that wouldn't damage the paint as it generally sprays all over the window and hood? just an idea

Still is a +1 for the Volt. A BEV would require the door be available for required charging - the EREV nature of the Volt = no requirement to charge if the charger door needs some time to defrost.

Had the same kind of problem with a locking gas cap once. Poured warm water on the cap and then it opened right up.

Update: After about 2 hours soaking up the sun, I went back down and it opened without a problem. After looking at the door after it opened the weather gasket only protects the plug itself and the surrounding area including the lock mechanism is exposed to the elements. So it appears that pouring warm water or washer fluid in the crack would help thaw the lock and not wash into the plug contacts.

Hot coffee?

I've had times (in other cars) when I could not open the door as the door seal was frozen to the car. That kind of thing happens. I've had that happen after going through a car wash in winter. Water freezes.

The owners manual specifically mentions this might happen. I was wondered as I read through it the other night if it was at all likely. I guess the answer is yes.