It was permanently affixed—I bought an extra just to keep it plugged in and be able to carry the other in the car wherever I went…ironic. so now I just bought a new UMC from the Tesla store…anyone know why the hell used UMCs are sold on ebay for much higher than the Tesla store? Are Tesla store deliveries backed up?
also, thanks to the great advice from folks on this thread, i bought a new Hubbel receptacle, hope i Never have this issue again!
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00IPBMUKY/ref=cm_sw_em_r_mt_dp_QRHHRRG8H24WRF77XAT3?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
It fortunately, it appears quite common as a consequence of the cheap receptacle installed by my electrician. even the Amazon reviews for this item talk about exactly this, even with pictures. I consider the mystery solved, thanks to you awesome people on this forum.