my Tesla Model S Plaid/Refresh (2021-present) won’t start, just clicks, what could it be?

Solution

1. Preparation

• Ensure the vehicle is in "Park" and on a flat surface.
• Disconnect the 12V battery to prevent any electrical shorts during inspection.
• Tools Required: Socket set, multimeter, torque wrench.

2. Inspect and Clean Battery Connections

• Remove the negative terminal first, followed by the positive terminal of the 12V battery.
• Inspect battery terminals for corrosion; clean with a wire brush and a mixture of baking soda and water if corrosion is present.
• Reconnect the positive terminal first, then the negative terminal, ensuring they are tight and secure.

3. Check 12V Battery and Replace if Necessary

• Measure the voltage of the 12V battery using a multimeter. If the voltage is below 12.4 volts, consider replacing the battery.
• If replacement is necessary:
  1. Remove the battery cover if applicable.
  2. Disconnect the old battery following the steps in the previous section.
  3. Install the new 12V battery, securing it properly.
  4. Reconnect the terminals as previously described.

4. Verify Main Battery Charge Level

• Check the main battery pack status via the Tesla app or dashboard.
• If the battery is low, connect the vehicle to a charging station or home charger to charge the battery sufficiently.

5. Reset and Update Vehicle Software

• Perform a soft reset by holding down the steering wheel scroll buttons.
• After the vehicle restarts, check for software updates through the vehicle interface and install any available updates.