OWNER ANSWER
ATTO 3 charging cable will not release
If the charging connector is locked on your ATTO 3, end the charging session and unlock the car before trying to remove it. Have the cable supported and ready: the handbook gives a 30-second removal window, and DC release uses two unlock presses within three seconds.
- Park securely and keep the car stationary. Safety note: unusual heat, smoke, a burning smell, arcing, damage or liquid inside the connector can indicate dangerous charging equipment; keep clear and contact the charger operator or emergency services as appropriate instead of attempting a release.
- End the session using the charger operator’s stop control or the documented vehicle control.
- Check that the charger confirms the session has ended; a full battery, low power or a paused schedule is not the same indication.
- Support the cable so its weight is off the connector.
- Unlock with the recognised key; for DC, press unlock twice within three seconds.
- Withdraw the connector straight by its body, using its normal release control where fitted, within 30 seconds. If it resists, leave it attached and use the next steps below.
What the result means
The connector should come out straight without force while the session remains stopped. If it releases after a fresh unlock but not after waiting, the relock timer may explain it. The anti-theft setting also affects automatic release when charging completes.
If that did not work
- The removal window expired: unlock again and make one gentle removal attempt.
- The charger still shows an active or occupied session: call its operator and ask it to end the session and check the connector mechanism.
- The car-side lock remains engaged after a confirmed stop and fresh unlock: use the matching handbook’s emergency-release illustration below, or contact BYD assistance or your breakdown provider if you cannot identify it.
The handbook places the release under the bonnet and illustrates two configurations on printed page 91 (PDF92). With the session confirmed stopped and undamaged equipment, match your car to the correct illustration before pulling its identified latch.
A recurring lock fault needs a BYD inspection even if the emergency release works. Ask for a check of the charge-port locking mechanism and the correct release arrangement for your vehicle.
What to note down for that call: AC or DC, operator/site and charger ID, session time, battery percentage, both screen messages and whether a fresh timed unlock helped.
Related links
Source: ATTO 3 handbook — original ATTO 3 RHD EN-240801; printed page 91, PDF 87, PDF 89, PDF 92. Checked 22 October 2026.