Zeekr 001 Performance AWD Mk1

The 15.4-inch infotainment screen is the most commonly reported issue on the Zeekr 001. Owners report stuttering, delayed response, temporary freezes, and occasional black screens. These often follow failed or interrupted OTA updates, but can also occur spontaneously. A soft reset (holding the power button for 10-15 seconds) resolves most incidents. In rare cases, disconnecting the 12V battery forces a full system reboot. Persistent issues require a service center visit for a firmware reflash. While frustrating, these are almost always software-level problems rather than hardware failures, and Zeekr has been addressing them through rolling OTA updates. Settings (including driver profiles, seat positions, and regenerative braking levels) may not be retained between drives on some software versions.

Like many modern EVs, the Zeekr 001 relies on a 12V auxiliary battery to power ECUs, door latches, brake boosters, and the telematics module. If the car sits unused for an extended period, the 12V battery can drain, leaving the car unable to 'wake up' despite a full high-voltage battery. Replacement cost is around €200-400 for the battery plus labor. Some owners have reported that after 12V battery replacement, numerous error messages appeared on the dashboard and sport mode became unavailable until a dealer reset was performed. A trickle charger or regular use helps prevent drain. Zeekr recommends annual inspection and load-testing of the 12V system.

The Zeekr 001 is available with an optional air suspension system (standard on Privilege, optional on Performance in some markets). The air compressor has been noted to produce unusual sounds when raising the vehicle. While no widespread failure pattern has emerged yet due to the car's young age, air suspension systems in general are known to develop compressor wear and air spring leaks after 60,000-100,000 km. Aftermarket compressor parts are available from around €200, but OEM replacement with labor at a Zeekr service center could run €1,200-2,000. Individual air struts cost €800-1,500 per corner installed. This risk applies only to air-suspension-equipped variants.

Multiple reviewers and owners have noted that the regenerative braking can feel jerky, particularly at low speeds and during motorway driving. Lifting off the accelerator can trigger unexpectedly strong deceleration, and modulating braking force smoothly is difficult. The system prioritizes regenerative braking up to 0.3g before engaging friction brakes, but the transition between the two is not always seamless. Zeekr has improved this through OTA software updates, and the 2025 model year shows refinements. Regenerative braking level settings may also reset between drives on certain software versions. This is primarily a software calibration issue rather than a hardware defect.

A recurring complaint among Zeekr 001 owners involves abnormal noises from the B-pillar area, front speaker covers, and center console. Some owners also report seat-related creaking. While the exterior build quality and interior materials are generally praised as premium-level, the assembly tolerances around trim fasteners appear to be a weak point. These noises do not affect driving safety or vehicle function, but they can be noticeable in the otherwise very quiet electric cabin. Fixes typically involve re-tightening or padding trim clips, which is straightforward under warranty but may cost €100-400 at an independent shop if clips need replacement.

Zeekr's European service infrastructure is still in its early stages. As of early 2026, the brand operates in Sweden, the Netherlands, Denmark, Germany, France, and Norway, but the number of physical service centers remains limited. Owners have reported difficulty booking service appointments through the app, receiving incorrect automated cancellation notices, and long wait times for parts. Trustpilot reviews for Zeekr EU cite poor customer care and unresponsive service centers. For used car buyers outside the 5-year warranty, this is a meaningful concern: finding a qualified independent mechanic familiar with the SEA platform may be challenging, and proprietary diagnostic tools are not yet widely available. This could increase both wait times and labor costs for non-warranty repairs.