how to troubleshoot my Tesla Model S Original (2012-2020) that won't start?

Tesla Model S Plaid/Refresh (2021-present)

Error Codes

1-2 hours

Time

medium

Difficulty

high

Severity

3 min read

457 words

⚠️ Safety Warning

This issue requires immediate attention. If you are not experienced with automotive repairs, consult a professional mechanic. Working on critical systems can be dangerous.

Problem Statement

Learn how to troubleshoot and fix a no-start issue in Tesla Model S (2012-2020). Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair instructions.

Affected Component

Electrical

Estimated Time

1-2 hours

⚠️ Safety Warnings

Important safety information - read before proceeding

•Ensure all electrical systems are off before working on the 12V battery.
•Use caution when working with batteries to avoid short circuits or sparks.

Symptoms

•Touchscreen display remains off or unresponsive
•No sounds from the vehicle when attempting to start
•Key fob not recognized by the vehicle
•Dashboard warning lights may illuminate briefly before going dark
•Vehicle will not shift into gear
•Interior lights may not activate

Diagnostic Steps

1
Check the key fob battery to ensure it has sufficient charge.
2
Inspect the 12V battery for proper voltage (should be around 12.6V or higher).
3
Use the Tesla mobile app to attempt to unlock and start the vehicle.
4
Connect the vehicle to a charger and monitor charging status.
5
Perform a hard reset of the touchscreen by holding down the two scroll wheels on the steering wheel until the screen reboots.
6
Check for any alerts or notifications in the Tesla mobile app related to vehicle status.

Solution

💡 Expert Tip

For complex repairs like this, consider taking photos at each step. This helps if you need to reverse a step or consult with a mechanic. Also, keep all removed parts organized - you may need to reference them during reassembly.

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

•Multimeter
•CR2032 battery (for key fob)
•Portable battery charger or jump starter

Parts Required

•12V battery (if replacement is necessary)
•Key fob battery (CR2032)

Related Faults

Share this solution

Comments

No comments yet

Be the first to share your thoughts

Back to Generation

Diagnostic Steps

1
Check the key fob battery to ensure it has sufficient charge.
2
Inspect the 12V battery for proper voltage (should be around 12.6V or higher).
3
Use the Tesla mobile app to attempt to unlock and start the vehicle.
4
Connect the vehicle to a charger and monitor charging status.
5
Perform a hard reset of the touchscreen by holding down the two scroll wheels on the steering wheel until the screen reboots.
6
Check for any alerts or notifications in the Tesla mobile app related to vehicle status.

Solution

1. Key Fob Inspection

Sub-steps:
- Remove the key fob battery cover.
- Replace the battery (CR2032) with a new one.
- Reassemble the key fob and test for functionality.

2. 12V Battery Check

Sub-steps:
- Open the front trunk (frunk) and locate the 12V battery.
- Use a multimeter to measure the voltage across the battery terminals.
- If the voltage is below 12.4V, consider replacing the battery.
- If the battery is dead, jump-start it using a 12V jump starter or a portable battery charger.

3. Charging the Vehicle

Sub-steps:
- Connect the Tesla to a charging station using the mobile charging cable.
- Monitor the charging status on the vehicle display or through the Tesla app.
- Allow the vehicle to charge for at least 30 minutes before attempting to start again.

4. Hard Reset of Touchscreen

Sub-steps:
- Ensure the vehicle is in park.
- Press and hold both scroll wheels on the steering wheel until the touchscreen reboots (approximately 10 seconds).
- Wait for the touchscreen to power back on and check for functionality.

5. Software Update (if applicable)

Sub-steps:
- Connect the vehicle to Wi-Fi.
- Check for any available software updates in the settings menu.
- Follow on-screen instructions to complete the update if necessary.

Tools Required:

Multimeter
CR2032 battery (for key fob)
Portable battery charger or jump starter (if needed)

Parts Required:

12V battery (if replacement is necessary)
Key fob battery (CR2032)

Estimated Repair Time: 1-2 hours

Safety Warnings:

Ensure all electrical systems are off before working on the 12V battery.
Use caution when working with batteries to avoid short circuits or sparks.