Are you ready to unlock the full potential of your Cadillac Lyriq and tap into Tesla's extensive Supercharger network? You absolutely can! While the Lyriq primarily uses the CCS (Combined Charging System) standard, a GM-approved NACS (North American Charging Standard) DC adapter is your key to accessing Tesla Superchargers. This guide will walk you through the process step-by-step, ensuring a smooth and efficient charging experience.
Step 1: Acquiring Your Essential Adapter
The first and most crucial step is to obtain the necessary NACS DC adapter. Think of this as the universal translator for your Lyriq and Tesla's charging infrastructure.
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| How To Charge Lyriq At Tesla |
Sub-heading: Where to Find Your Adapter
Official Sources: You can typically purchase a GM-approved NACS DC adapter through your Cadillac Parts Center at a local dealership. Some manufacturers also allow ordering via your vehicle's mobile app.
Third-Party Options: There are also third-party adapters available from brands like Lectron, which convert the NACS (Tesla) plug to CCS. Ensure any third-party adapter you choose is specifically designed for DC fast charging and is rated for the appropriate voltage and amperage (e.g., 500A, 1000V) to handle Supercharger speeds. It's always best to check for compatibility and safety certifications.
Sub-heading: Understanding the Importance of the Right Adapter
It's vital to differentiate between adapters for Level 2 AC charging (like Tesla Wall Connectors or Destination Chargers) and DC fast charging (Tesla Superchargers). A J1772 to NACS adapter is typically for slower AC charging, whereas for Superchargers, you need a NACS DC adapter that converts the Tesla DC fast charge to your Lyriq's CCS port.
Step 2: Preparing for Your Supercharge Session
Once you have your adapter, a little preparation goes a long way to ensure a seamless charging experience.
Sub-heading: Setting Up Payment and App Access
Tip: Read once for flow, once for detail.
Mobile App Integration: Before heading to a Supercharger, download and set up your myCadillac app (or the relevant GM brand app). Tesla Supercharging for non-Tesla EVs often requires arranging charge time and billing details through your vehicle's mobile app. You'll likely need to select a charging plan (e.g., pay-per-use or a Supercharging membership) and have a payment method on file.
Locating Superchargers: Use your Lyriq's built-in navigation system (if equipped with Google built-in), the myCadillac app, or the Tesla app to find nearby Supercharger stations. The myCadillac app should be able to display a comprehensive network of public chargers, including Tesla Superchargers, once the NACS access is enabled for your vehicle.
Sub-heading: Pre-conditioning Your Battery (If Applicable)
For optimal fast charging speeds, your Lyriq's battery should be at an ideal temperature. While Tesla vehicles automatically pre-condition their batteries when navigating to a Supercharger, some Lyriq models may also have a similar feature or a recommendation to drive for a bit before charging, especially in cold weather. Check your owner's manual for specific guidance.
Step 3: Charging Your Lyriq at a Tesla Supercharger
Now for the main event! Follow these steps carefully at the Supercharger station.
Sub-heading: Arriving and Connecting
Park Safely: Pull up to an available Supercharger stall, ensuring you have enough slack with the charging cable and can comfortably reach your Lyriq's charging port.
Open the Charge Port: Locate the charging port on your Lyriq (typically on the driver's side, often behind the rear wheel well or below the outside rearview mirror). Press the charge port door until it opens. If it's a motorized door, press the emblem or indicator. For DC fast charging, remember to remove the small dust cover on the lower portion of the port.
Connect the Adapter: Take your NACS DC adapter. First, connect the Tesla Supercharger's NACS cable to your adapter. Then, securely plug the adapter (with the attached Tesla cable) into your Lyriq's CCS charge port. You should hear a distinct click indicating a secure connection.
Sub-heading: Initiating the Charge
Follow App Prompts: The charging process for non-Tesla vehicles at Superchargers is typically initiated through the myCadillac app or the Supercharger station's own app. Follow the on-screen instructions in the app to begin the charging session.
Observe Charging Status: Your Lyriq's charging status indicator (often a ring light around the port or an indicator on the dashboard) will illuminate to show that charging has begun. You might also hear a chirp or other audible confirmation. Keep an eye on the charging progress, which can usually be monitored through your vehicle's display or the mobile app.
Sub-heading: Charging Best Practices
Optimal Charge Level: For daily use, it's generally recommended to charge your EV's battery to around 80%. Charging beyond this point significantly slows down the charging speed to protect the battery. If you're on a long road trip, you might charge to a higher percentage for extended range, but be aware of the tapering charge speeds.
Charge Speed Variation: The Lyriq is capable of substantial DC fast charging speeds (up to 190 kW). However, actual charging speed at a Supercharger will depend on factors like the Supercharger version (V3 offers up to 250 kW, V4 up to 325 kW for Cybertruck, but typically 250 kW for other vehicles), the battery's state of charge, ambient temperature, and the battery's health.
Don't Disconnect Prematurely: The charge plug will be locked during the active charging session. Do not attempt to force it out.
QuickTip: Pause to connect ideas in your mind.
Step 4: Ending Your Charging Session
Once your Lyriq has reached your desired charge level, it's time to disconnect.
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Sub-heading: Disconnecting Safely
Automatic Stop or Manual Stop: Your Lyriq will automatically stop charging when it reaches your set charge limit or 100%. You can also manually stop the charging session through your vehicle's center display or the myCadillac app by tapping "Stop."
Press the Tesla Connector Button: To safely terminate charging from the Supercharger, press the button on the Tesla connector itself. This will safely shut off the charging and unlock the adapter from your vehicle.
Remove the Adapter and Cable: Once unlocked, carefully remove the adapter from your Lyriq's charge port. Then, detach the Tesla cable from the adapter.
Close the Charge Port: Replace any dust covers and close your Lyriq's charge port door, ensuring it clicks shut. Some Lyriqs with motorized doors will close automatically.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to obtain a NACS adapter for my Lyriq?
You can typically get a GM-approved NACS DC adapter from your Cadillac dealership's parts department or potentially through your vehicle's mobile app.
How to know if a Tesla Supercharger is compatible with my Lyriq?
All Tesla Superchargers can theoretically be used with your Lyriq, provided you have the correct NACS DC fast charging adapter. Look for Superchargers on your vehicle's navigation or mobile app.
QuickTip: Pause when something feels important.
How to pay for charging at a Tesla Supercharger with a Lyriq?
Payment and charging session initiation for non-Tesla EVs at Superchargers are usually handled through your vehicle's brand-specific mobile app (e.g., myCadillac app), where you'll have a payment method on file.
How to optimize charging speed for my Lyriq at a Supercharger?
Ensure your battery is adequately pre-conditioned (warmed up, not overheated), especially in colder weather. Charging speeds are also generally faster when the battery is at a lower state of charge (e.g., 20-80%).
How to find available Supercharger stations for my Lyriq?
Use your Lyriq's built-in navigation, the myCadillac app, or the Tesla app to locate nearby Superchargers and check their availability.
How to troubleshoot if my Lyriq isn't charging at a Supercharger?
First, ensure the adapter is securely connected to both the Supercharger cable and your Lyriq's port. Check the charging station's screen or app for any error messages. Sometimes, a simple unplug and replug can resolve minor connection issues. Ensure your payment method is valid and the charging session has been initiated correctly in the app.
How to ensure my NACS adapter is safe to use with a Supercharger?
Tip: Read once for gist, twice for details.
Always use a GM-approved adapter or a high-quality, reputable third-party adapter that is specifically rated for DC fast charging (not just AC charging) and meets relevant safety standards.
How to disconnect the adapter from my Lyriq after charging?
First, stop the charging session via your car's display or app, or by pressing the button on the Tesla connector. Once charging has safely ceased, you can then press the release button on the adapter itself to remove it from your Lyriq.
How to tell the difference between Level 2 and DC fast charging adapters for Tesla?
Level 2 AC adapters for Tesla (J1772 to NACS) are typically smaller and only for slower home or destination charging. DC fast charging adapters (CCS to NACS, which the Lyriq needs to go from its CCS port to Tesla's NACS) are larger and designed to handle higher power for Supercharging.
How to get the most out of my Lyriq's battery life while using Superchargers?
While Supercharging is convenient for long trips, for daily charging, it's generally recommended to use Level 2 AC charging at home and keep your battery routinely charged between 20% and 80%. Frequent DC fast charging, especially to 100%, can put more strain on the battery over its lifetime.
Discover how to charge your Cadillac Lyriq at a Tesla Supercharger with this detailed guide:
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