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how to reset the check engine light on my Tesla Model S Original (2012-2020)? - Tesla Model S
Home/Cars/Tesla/Model S/Plaid/Refresh (2021-present)/how to reset the check engine light on my Tesla Model S Original (2012-2020)?

how to reset the check engine light on my Tesla Model S Original (2012-2020)?

Tesla Model S Plaid/Refresh (2021-present)

Error Codes
10-15 minutes
Time
easy
Difficulty
medium
Severity
Navigation
ProblemSymptomsDiagnosisSolution
ProblemSymptomsDiagnosisSolution
3 min read
436 words

Problem Statement

Learn how to reset the check engine light on your Tesla Model S (2012-2020) with step-by-step instructions and diagnostic tips.

Affected Component
Electrical
Estimated Time
10-15 minutes

⚠️ Safety Warnings

Important safety information - read before proceeding

  • •Ensure that the vehicle is in a safe location and is parked securely while performing resets.

Symptoms

  • •Check engine light illuminated
  • •Potential alert messages on the dashboard
  • •Reduced power or performance in some cases
  • •No immediate operational issues

Diagnostic Steps

  1. 1
  2. 2
  3. 3
  4. 4

Solution

Verification

After completing the repair, verify that the issue has been resolved:

  • ✓Test the affected component to ensure it functions correctly
  • ✓Check for any error codes or warning lights
  • ✓Monitor the vehicle for a few days to ensure the issue does not recur

Prevention Tips

To prevent this issue from occurring again:

  • •Follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule
  • •Address warning signs early before they develop into major issues
  • •Use quality parts and fluids recommended for your vehicle
  • •Keep detailed records of all repairs and maintenance

Tools & Equipment Required

  • •Tesla mobile app
  • •Vehicle touchscreen

Parts Required

  • •None for resetting the check engine light.

Additional Information

Affected Component
Electrical
Estimated Time
10-15 minutes
Difficulty
easy
Severity
medium
Tools Required
2 items
Parts Required
1 item

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Solution
1. Preparation
  • Ensure the vehicle is in park mode.
  • Confirm that the vehicle has a stable power supply (not in low battery mode).
  • Tools required: Tesla mobile app or vehicle touchscreen.
2. Resetting the Check Engine Light

  1. Using the Tesla Mobile App:

    • Open the Tesla mobile app on your smartphone.
    • Navigate to the 'Service' section.
    • Select 'Reset Vehicle' to clear minor alerts, including the check engine light.

  2. Using the Vehicle Touchscreen:

    • Sit in the driver’s seat and close all doors.
    • Press the brake pedal.
    • On the touchscreen, tap 'Controls'.
    • Select 'Service' and then choose 'Power Off'.
    • Wait for at least 2-3 minutes without interacting with the vehicle.
    • Press the brake pedal to wake the vehicle again; this may clear the check engine light.

  3. Performing a Full Power Cycle:

    • Turn off the vehicle completely and leave it parked for a few minutes.
    • Lock the car and wait for about 5-10 minutes before unlocking and starting the vehicle again.