Electric cars Zeekr 001 equipped with an advanced access control system, where master account is not just a login to the application, but a digital key to all functions of the car: from remote start to firmware updates. Transferring this account to the new owner is a mandatory step when selling or donating a car, but many encounter difficulties: the system requires identification confirmation, and dealers are not always ready to help. Unlike traditional cars, where it is enough to hand over the keys and PTS, here the process is complicated by digital protocols Geely and the requirements of Chinese data protection laws.

In this article we will analyze all official methods of transferring a master account (via app Zeekr App, dealership and service mode), and we’ll also tell you how to avoid common mistakes - for example, blocking your account due to incorrectly entering the confirmation code or losing access to the linked phone number. We will place special emphasis on legal nuances: why simply transferring your login and password is not enough, and what documents will be required for legal re-registration.

If you buy Zeekr 001 from your hands, be sure to check whether the previous owner is still on the list of system users - this is fraught with risks of remote access to the car. And for sellers it is critical to understand that Incorrect account transfer may void the warranty for software.

1. What is a Zeekr 001 master account and why it needs to be transferred

Master account in Zeekr 001 - this is unique account, linked to the vehicle's VIN number. It gives complete control over:

  • 🔑 Remote control: starting the engine, opening doors, climate control via the application.
  • 🔄 Software updates: Only the master account can install critical security patches.
  • 👥 User management: Add/remove secondary accounts (for example, for family members).
  • 📊 Telemetry data: travel history, driving style, battery charging.

If you do not transfer the master account to the new owner, he will face restrictions:

⚠️ Attention: Without a master account, it is impossible to update the firmware via OTA (over the air). Zeekr blocks such attempts by requiring authorization from the original owner. This may lead to refusal of warranty repair in case of system failures.

Moreover, the previous owner retains access to:

  • 📍 Vehicle geolocation in real time.
  • 🔋 Charging status and history of connections to charging stations.
  • 🚗 Remote control (for example, it can block the doors).

Therefore, transferring a master account is not just a courtesy, but a prerequisite for a secure transaction. In some countries (for example, China) this is even stipulated in the purchase and sale agreement for electric vehicles.

📊 Have you already experienced the transfer of a master account?
Yes, with the purchase of Zeekr 001
Yes, but from a different electric car
No, but I plan to sell/buy
I don't know what it is

2. Official methods of transferring a master account

Company Zeekr provided three legal ways to transfer the owner's rights. Each has its own nuances and requirements for documents.

2.1. Via Zeekr App (fastest method)

This method works if:

  • 📱 You have the latest update installed Zeekr App (version 3.5.0 or later).
  • 📄 You have access to email/phone number linked to your account.
  • 🔐 The car is connected to the Internet (via 4G or Wi-Fi).

Step by step instructions:

  1. Open Zeekr App and go to Profile → Account Settings → Transfer Ownership.
  2. Enter the vehicle's VIN number (located on the windshield or in the vehicle title).
  3. Confirm the action via SMS or email (the code is valid for 5 minutes).
  4. Enter the email or phone number of the new owner - he will receive an invitation to register a master account.
  5. The new owner must accept the invitation within 24 hours, otherwise the process will have to be repeated.
⚠️ Attention: If the new owner does not confirm the invitation, the old master account will remain active. This may block your request from being sent again for 7 days.

☑️ Preparation for transfer via the application

Done: 0 / 4

2.2. Via Zeekr dealership (most reliable)

This method is recommended if:

  • 🔄 You are selling a car through an official dealer.
  • 📵 Access to the linked phone number/email has been lost.
  • 🚨 A previous attempt to transfer via the application failed.

Documents for transfer:

Document Who provides Notes
Owner's passport Old and new owner Copies are not accepted
PTS or STS Old owner Original with a mark of change of ownership
Sales and purchase agreement Both sides With signatures and date of transaction
Vehicle VIN number Any side Can be provided electronically

The procedure takes 1–3 business days. The dealer sends a request to the central office Zeekr in China, where the account is relinked. The cost of the service is approx. 1,500–3,000 rubles (depends on the region).

💡

If the dealer refuses to assist with account transfer, contact the central office Zeekr Russia by email support@zeekr.ru with copies of documents. In the letter, indicate the subject: “Request for transfer of master account [VIN number].”

2.3. Through service mode (for advanced users)

This method requires access to service menu car and is only suitable for those who understand the diagnostics of electric vehicles. Zeekr does not recommend using it yourself, but in some cases (for example, when buying a car from Europe) this is the only option.

Instructions:

  1. Connect to your car via OBD-II adapter (for example, Vgate iCar Pro).
  2. Run a diagnostic program (for example, Zeekr Diag Tool or Geely GDS).
  3. Go to section Security → Master Account Reset.
  4. Enter the service code (can be requested from your dealer or Zeekr Support).
  5. Follow the onscreen instructions to reset your account link.
⚠️ Attention: Incorrect actions in the service menu can lead to blocking the multimedia system and the need for a complete flashing at the dealership (cost - from 10,000 rubles).
What to do if the service code does not match?

If the entered code does not work, it may mean that:

1) The code is tied to another VIN number.

2) The car has the "Anti-Theft" mode activated (must be disabled through the dealer).

3) The firmware version does not support reset via OBD-II.

In this case, contact technical support with the error log file (it can be exported via diagnostic software).

3. Common mistakes and how to avoid them

Even when following the instructions, users often encounter problems. Here are the most common of them:

3.1. "Account Transfer Failed" error in the application

Causes and solutions:

  • 🌐 No internet in the car: Connect to Wi-Fi or check your SIM card (if you have an eSIM).
  • ⏳ Code has expired: Retry the confirmation request.
  • 🔒 Account blocked: This may happen after 3 unsuccessful attempts to enter the code. Unblocking takes 24 hours.
  • 📱 Outdated version of the application: Update Zeekr App via App Store/Google Play.

3.2. The new owner did not receive an invitation

Check:

  • 📧 Spam folder in the mail of the new owner.
  • 📵 Correct email/phone number: A typo in one character and the letter will not arrive.
  • 🕒 Time zone: The invitation may arrive with a delay of up to 1 hour.

If the invitation does not arrive within 24 hours, repeat the procedure or contact support.

3.3. The previous owner remained in the user list

This is a critical error, as the old owner retains access to the car. To remove it:

  1. The new master account must be logged into Zeekr App → User Management.
  2. Find the old account in the list and click Delete.
  3. Confirm the action via SMS.
⚠️ Attention: If the previous owner refuses to delete voluntarily, the new master account can contact Zeekr Support with a copy of the purchase and sale agreement for forced removal.
💡

Always check the list of users after transferring the master account. Even if the procedure was successful, old accounts may remain in the system and pose a security risk.

Many owners think that it is enough to provide a new account password, but this blunder. Here's why:

1. Violation of user agreement

In paragraph 5.3 Zeekr User Agreement it is clearly stated that the master account cannot be transferred to third parties without an official procedure. If such a violation is detected, the company has the right:

  • 🚫 Block account.
  • 🔧 Refuse warranty service.
  • 📜 Transfer data about the violation to the traffic police (in case of disputes about property).

2. Fraud risks

If you simply give away your username and password, the previous owner can:

  • 🔄 Get your master account back through access restoration.
  • 💳 Link a new bank card to pay for services (for example, subscriptions to cards or charging).
  • 📍 Track movements car in real time.

3. Warranty issues

Zeekr records all changes in the master account. If the transfer was made unofficially, when you contact the service center, you may be refused repairs, citing:

“Violation of operating conditions, expressed in unauthorized access to the vehicle’s system functions” (clause 7.2 of the Warranty Card).

To avoid problems, always use official transmission channels and save confirmations (screenshots from the application, receipts from the dealer).

5. Special cases: purchase from Europe, used car, loss of access

Not all situations fit into the standard procedure. Let's consider atypical scenarios.

5.1. Buying Zeekr 001 from Europe

Cars imported from the EU often have master accounts linked to European servers Zeekr. In this case:

  • 🌍 Zeekr App may not see the car in the Russian region.
  • 📡 OTA updates stop coming (servers block access due to geo-restrictions).

Solution:

  1. Contact Zeekr Europe (support@zeekr.eu) with a request to transfer the account to the Russian region.
  2. Provide:
    • A copy of the PTS with a mark on customs clearance.
    • Purchase and sale agreement.
    • VIN number.
  • Pay the fee for changing the region (about 50-100 euros).

    • The process takes 2–4 weeks. Until it is completed, some functions (for example, voice assistant) may not work correctly.

    5.2. Buying a used car without transferring a master account

    If the previous owner has not transferred the account, you have two options:

    1. Agree with the seller:
      • Offer to meet at the dealer for official handover.
      • If the seller refuses, demand a discount (the risks of blocking functions are estimated at 10–15% of the cost of the car).
  • Contact Zeekr with a claim:
    • Provide the purchase and sale agreement, title, and evidence of attempts to contact the seller.
    • Zeekr can forcefully re-register an account, but the process will take 1–2 months.

      • 5.3. Lost access to the master account (forgotten password, lost phone number)

      If you have lost access to the email/phone number associated with your account:

      1. Contact Zeekr Support with a copy of your passport and PTS.
      2. Fill out the recovery form (link).
      3. Wait for confirmation (a video call with a manager may be required to verify your identity).

      Recovery takes 3–7 days. During this period, access to remote vehicle functions will be limited.

      💡

      When purchasing Zeekr 001 from Europe, check with the seller whether the master account is linked to the European region. If so, budget for time and money to transfer your account.

      6. How to check that the master account was successfully transferred

      After the transfer, be sure to follow these steps to ensure the procedure is correct:

      6.1. Check on the Zeekr App

      The new owner needs:

      1. Go to Profile → Account settings.
      2. Make sure that the field Account status indicated "Master".
      3. Check section User management — there should be no other people’s accounts there.

    6.2. Remote control test

    Try some basic commands:

    • 🔑 Lock/unlock doors.
    • 🔋 Turn on climate control.
    • 📍 Check the location of the car on the map.

    If everything works, the account was transferred correctly.

    6.3. Checking for software updates

    Go to Settings → System → Software Update and run the scan. If the system prompts you to install an update, the master account is active. If an error appears "Master account authorization required" — the transfer procedure has not been completed.

    6.4. Document verification

    Make sure you have:

    • 📄 Receipt from the dealer (if the transfer was through them).
    • 📧 Letter from Zeekr Support with confirmation (if access was restored).
    • 📱 Screenshot from the application with the “Master” status.

    These documents may be needed for warranty repairs or in disputed situations.

    7. Alternative solutions: if formal transfer is not possible

    In exceptional cases (for example, if the seller has disappeared or is uncooperative), alternative options may be considered. However, they come with risks and should only be used as a last resort.

    7.1. Reset the system to factory settings

    This method will delete all accounts, but will also erase:

    • 📁 Travel history and telemetry data.
    • 🎵 Media Settings (saved radio stations, Spotify accounts, etc.).
    • 🔧 Individual driving settings (regeneration modes, steering sensitivity).

      • How to reset:

      1. Go to Settings → System → Factory reset.
      2. Enter your PIN (default 1234 or 0000, if not changed).
      3. Confirm the action.
      ⚠️ Attention: After a reset, the vehicle may require reactivation through the dealer. In some cases this leads to blocking autopilot functions before re-registration in Zeekr.

      7.2. Creating a new master account through a loophole in the software

      In older firmware versions (before 2.1.5) there was a bug that allowed you to create a new master account through the service menu. However:

      • 🚫 Zeekr fixed this vulnerability in the 2023 updates.
      • 🔒 Attempting to use this method may result in the system being blocked.
      • ⚖️ This violates the user agreement and voids the warranty.

      If you are offered to “bypass the official procedure” through such methods, this is fraud.

      7.3. Going to court

      If the seller refuses to transfer the master account, and Zeekr does not help, you can file a claim for:

      • 📜 Recognition of the transaction as invalid (if the agreement does not indicate the transfer of digital rights).
      • 💰 Recovery of losses (for example, the cost of repairs due to the impossibility of updates).

      For this you will need:

      • 📄 Purchase and sale agreement.
      • 📧 Correspondence with the seller and support Zeekr.
      • 📹 Video recording of the car inspection (if the seller promised to transfer the account verbally).

      The average time for consideration of such a claim is 2–3 months.

      💡

      Resetting the system to factory settings is a last resort. In 80% of cases, it does not solve the problem with the master account, but only complicates further diagnostics.

      8. Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

      Can I transfer a master account without visiting a dealer?

      Yes, if you have access to the application Zeekr App and Internet in the car. Use the function Transfer ownership in your account settings. However, if you have an outdated version of the application or problems with confirmation, you will not be able to do without a dealer.

      What happens if you don’t transfer the master account when selling?

      The new owner will not be able to:

      • Update firmware over the air (OTA).
      • Add new users.
      • Use some remote control functions.

      In addition, you, as the old owner, will retain access to the car's data, which may be considered a violation of the law on the protection of personal data.

      Is it possible to have two master accounts on one Zeekr 001?

      No, the system Zeekr supports only one master account. All other users have limited rights. If two “masters” are displayed in the list of users, this is a bug that needs to be fixed through support.

      How much does it cost to transfer a master account through a dealer?

      Cost varies depending on region:

      • Moscow and St. Petersburg: 2,500–3,000 rubles.
      • Regions: 1,500–2,000 rubles.
      • Europe: 50–100 euros (when transferring an account to another region).

      Check the price in advance, as some dealers charge extra for “urgency”.

      Is it possible to transfer the master account if the car is pledged?

      No, if the car is pledged to the bank, the master account is usually blocked until the loan is fully repaid. This is stated in the pledge agreement. To unblock your account, you need to provide Zeekr a certificate from the bank confirming the absence of encumbrances.