my Tesla Model S Original (2012-2020) screen is frozen how to reset it

Tesla Model S Plaid/Refresh (2021-present)

Error Codes

10-30 minutes

Time

easy

Difficulty

medium

Severity

3 min read

475 words

Problem Statement

Learn how to reset a frozen touchscreen on Tesla Model S (2012-2020). Step-by-step instructions for soft, power cycle, and hard reset methods.

Affected Component

Electrical

Estimated Time

10-30 minutes

⚠️ Safety Warnings

Important safety information - read before proceeding

•Disconnect the battery only if necessary; ensure the vehicle is off and secured before doing so.

Symptoms

•Touchscreen display is unresponsive
•No response to button presses
•Vehicle functions that rely on the touchscreen are inaccessible
•Dashboard displays may be frozen
•Possible warning messages on the screen

Diagnostic Steps

1
Check for any visible signs of physical damage on the touchscreen.
2
Ensure that the vehicle is in 'Park' mode.
3
Attempt a simple soft reset by holding down the two scroll wheels on the steering wheel.
4
If unresponsive, try powering off the vehicle through the touchscreen settings (if accessible).
5
Verify if the issue persists after attempting to reset.

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

•None required for soft reset
•Wrench or socket set for battery disconnection (if necessary)

Parts Required

•None required unless physical damage is present.

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Diagnostic Steps

1
Check for any visible signs of physical damage on the touchscreen.
2
Ensure that the vehicle is in 'Park' mode.
3
Attempt a simple soft reset by holding down the two scroll wheels on the steering wheel.
4
If unresponsive, try powering off the vehicle through the touchscreen settings (if accessible).
5
Verify if the issue persists after attempting to reset.

Solution

1. Preparation

Ensure the vehicle is parked and turned off.
Have the vehicle key fob or mobile app nearby for convenience.

2. Soft Reset

Sit inside the vehicle with the doors closed.
Locate the two scroll wheels on the steering wheel.
Press and hold both scroll wheels simultaneously for about 10 seconds.
Wait for the screen to turn black and then the Tesla logo to appear.
Release the scroll wheels once the logo appears.

3. Power Cycle (if Soft Reset fails)

Open the vehicle settings by accessing the 'Controls' menu (if possible).
Navigate to 'Safety & Security'.
Select 'Power Off' and confirm.
Wait for at least 2-3 minutes without interacting with the vehicle.
Press the brake pedal or use the key fob to wake the vehicle.

4. Hard Reset (as a last resort)

If the screen remains frozen:

Disconnect the 12V battery (located in the front trunk) by loosening the negative terminal.
Wait for 5-10 minutes.
Reconnect the negative terminal and ensure it is tight.
Start the vehicle to check if the touchscreen is operating normally.