how to resolve Tesla Model S Original (2012-2020) with interior lights staying on

Tesla Model S Plaid/Refresh (2021-present)

Error Codes

1-3 hours

Time

medium

Difficulty

medium

Severity

3 min read

557 words

Problem Statement

Learn how to resolve the issue of interior lights staying on in Tesla Model S (2012-2020). Step-by-step guide with diagnostic steps and repair instructions.

Affected Component

Electrical

Estimated Time

1-3 hours

⚠️ Safety Warnings

Important safety information - read before proceeding

•Disconnect the battery before working on electrical systems to avoid short circuits.

Symptoms

•Interior lights remain on even after the doors are closed.
•Dome lights do not turn off after exiting the vehicle.
•Battery drain occurs when the vehicle is parked for extended periods.
•Notification on the display indicating a door is ajar.
•Malfunction indicators for the lighting system may appear.

Diagnostic Steps

1
Inspect all doors and trunk to ensure they are fully closed and not stuck.
2
Use the Tesla touchscreen to check for any alerts or notifications regarding the lighting system.
3
Scan the vehicle's systems using diagnostic software to check for error codes related to the interior lighting or door sensors.
4
Manually check each door switch for functionality by pressing them and observing the interior light behavior.
5
Inspect wiring harnesses and connectors for any signs of damage or corrosion that may cause a short circuit.
6
Verify the settings in the vehicle's menu related to interior lighting and door operation.

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

•Flathead screwdriver
•Cleaning cloth
•Multimeter
•Wire strippers
•Electrical tape

Parts Required

•Door switch (if faulty)
•Wiring harness (if damaged)

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Symptoms

•Interior lights remain on even after the doors are closed.

•Dome lights do not turn off after exiting the vehicle.

•Battery drain occurs when the vehicle is parked for extended periods.

•Notification on the display indicating a door is ajar.

•Malfunction indicators for the lighting system may appear.

Diagnostic Steps

1
Inspect all doors and trunk to ensure they are fully closed and not stuck.
2
Use the Tesla touchscreen to check for any alerts or notifications regarding the lighting system.
3
Scan the vehicle's systems using diagnostic software to check for error codes related to the interior lighting or door sensors.
4
Manually check each door switch for functionality by pressing them and observing the interior light behavior.
5
Inspect wiring harnesses and connectors for any signs of damage or corrosion that may cause a short circuit.
6
Verify the settings in the vehicle's menu related to interior lighting and door operation.

Solution

1. Preparation

Gather necessary tools and parts.
Ensure the vehicle is parked in a safe location with the ignition off.
Disconnect the negative terminal of the 12V battery for safety.

2. Inspect and Clean Door Switches

Tools Required: Flathead screwdriver, cleaning cloth.
Gently pry off the door switch covers using a flathead screwdriver.
Remove the door switches and inspect for dirt or corrosion.
Clean the contacts with a cleaning cloth and reconnect the switches.
Reinstall the covers.

3. Test Door Sensors

Tools Required: Multimeter.
Reconnect the negative battery terminal after cleaning.
Using a multimeter, test the continuity of each door switch while opening and closing the doors.
Replace any faulty switches that do not show continuity when actuated.

4. Check Wiring and Connectors

Tools Required: Wire strippers, electrical tape.
Inspect the wiring harness connected to the door switches and interior lights for frays, breaks, or corrosion.
Repair any damaged wiring by stripping the ends and using electrical tape to secure them, or replace the damaged section of the harness.

5. Update Software

Reconnect the negative battery terminal.
Power on the vehicle and navigate to the software update section on the touchscreen.
Ensure that the vehicle is running the latest software version and perform any available updates.