IsItAGoodCar

Common Problems with the
2021–2022 Polestar 2

We've identified 8 known issues that can affect the 2021–2022 Polestar 2. 3 of these are serious faults that could be expensive to repair.

8
Known Issues
3
Serious
4
Moderate
1
Minor

The 2021–2022 period has 6 more issues than the Polestar 2 average across all year periods.

All Known Issues

High Voltage Coolant Heater (HVCH) Failure

SeriousCooling System

The HVCH provides cabin heat in cold weather. Some early units have failed, leaving the car with no heating.

Most affected: Early 2021-2022 models

Estimated cost: £600–£1,000Affects: 2020–2022Often appears around: 10,000–30,000 miles

Typical symptoms

  • •No cabin heating in winter
  • •Charging speed affected in cold weather
  • •Service system message

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Test heater on maximum setting
  • ✓Check for climate-related error codes
  • ✓Verify recall status

One-Pedal Drive Braking Loss

SeriousBrakes

A recall was issued for a temporary loss of braking functionality after coasting downhill when using One Pedal Drive. This can potentially lead to a collision.

Most affected: All variants

Estimated cost: £0 (Recall)Affects: 2021–2024Often appears around: Any

Typical symptoms

  • •Reduced braking when using one-pedal mode
  • •Pedal feels soft after downhill coasting

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Verify recall status with Polestar
  • ✓Test braking in one-pedal mode on varied terrain

Propulsion System Errors / Limp Mode

SeriousElectrics & Electronics

Some owners experience sudden loss of motor power with dashboard warnings including "Propulsion System Service Required". Often traced to software faults or high-voltage contactor issues.

Most affected: All variants

Estimated cost: £0 (Software fix / Recall)Affects: 2021–2023Often appears around: 10,000–40,000 miles

Typical symptoms

  • •Sudden loss of power
  • •Multiple dashboard warnings
  • •Car enters limp mode
  • •Requires recovery

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Check for any outstanding recalls
  • ✓Ask about previous propulsion system errors
  • ✓Verify latest software is installed

TCAM / Connectivity Issues

ModerateElectrics & Electronics

The TCAM module can fail or become unresponsive, causing the car to lose all internet, GPS, and digital key functions.

Most affected: All Polestar 2 variants

Estimated cost: £0–£500 (often software fix)Affects: 2020–2023Often appears around: Any

Typical symptoms

  • •No LTE/4G signal
  • •GPS position frozen
  • •SOS light flashing or red
  • •Keys not recognized

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Check internet connectivity in the car
  • ✓Verify GPS accuracy
  • ✓Ask about recent OTA updates

Axle Clicking / CV Joint Noise

ModerateSuspension & Chassis

A rhythmic clicking sound from the front or rear axles, particularly noticeable at low speeds or during regenerative braking, often requiring axle replacement.

Most affected: All models

Estimated cost: £400–£800 (per side)Affects: 2021–2024Often appears around: 5,000–25,000 miles

Typical symptoms

  • •Rhythmic clicking at low speeds
  • •Clunking when transitioning between acceleration and braking

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Listen for clicking while turning at low speeds
  • ✓Drive in a quiet area with windows down

12V Battery Deep Discharge

ModerateElectrics & Electronics

The 12V battery can drain completely, often due to software preventing the car from entering "deep sleep", leaving the vehicle unable to unlock or start.

Most affected: All variants

Estimated cost: £150–£200 (if replacement needed)Affects: 2021–2024Often appears around: Any

Typical symptoms

  • •Car completely dead
  • •Cannot unlock with key fob
  • •Need to use physical key and jump start

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Check 12V battery health
  • ✓Verify the latest software version is installed

Infotainment Freezes & Black Screens

ModerateElectrics & Electronics

The Android Automotive infotainment system can freeze, reboot randomly, or display a black screen, sometimes disabling the reversing camera. Reported across all model years but especially 2021-2023.

Most affected: All variants

Estimated cost: £0 (software update)Affects: 2020–2024Often appears around: Any

Typical symptoms

  • •Touchscreen unresponsive
  • •Random system reboots
  • •Blank screen after cold start
  • •Reversing camera unavailable

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Test all infotainment functions
  • ✓Check software version is current
  • ✓Shift into reverse multiple times to test camera

Rust Corrosion on Rear Brake Discs

MinorBrakes

Due to heavy use of regenerative braking, the rear brake discs can corrode and seize, causing a loud bang and shudder when first moving off after the car has been parked.

Most affected: All variants

Estimated cost: £0 (Normal EV trait)Affects: 2020–2024Often appears around: Any

Typical symptoms

  • •Loud bang when pulling away
  • •Vibration under braking initially
  • •Visible rust on rear discs

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Inspect rear brake discs for corrosion
  • ✓Test brake feel at low speed

Buying Tips for the 2021 Polestar 2

  • ✓Check for the "Plus Pack" and "Pilot Pack" as these are highly desirable for resale in the UK
  • ✓Verify if the car was subject to early recalls for the power inverter and ensure the work was completed
  • ✓Inspect the panoramic glass roof (if fitted) for any delamination or stone chip damage
2020 Polestar 22023 Polestar 2

Browse 2021–2022 Polestar 2 in our Directory

View MOT history, registration data, and reliability scores for 2021–2022 Polestar 2 vehicles.

View 2021–2022 Directory

Other Polestar 2 Year Periods

20202021–202220232024

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