FAULTBASE
NEWSASKCars
© 2025 FAULTBASE
All rights reserved.
v2.0.0 • Production
ContactPrivacyImpressum
Home/Cars/Tesla/Model S/Plaid/Refresh (2021-present)/what should I do if my Tesla Model S Original (2012-2020) shows the check engine light?

what should I do if my Tesla Model S Original (2012-2020) shows the check engine light?

Tesla Model S Plaid/Refresh (2021-present)

Severity: mediumDifficulty: medium1-2 hours
3 min read
412 words

Problem Statement

Learn how to diagnose and fix the check engine light issue on Tesla Model S (2012-2020). Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair instructions.

Component
Electrical
Repair Time
1-2 hours

Safety Warnings

  • ⚠Disconnect the 12V battery before working on electrical components.
  • ⚠Handle high-voltage battery components with care to avoid electric shock.

Symptoms

  • •Check engine light illuminated
  • •Reduced power or performance
  • •Unusual noises from the vehicle
  • •Erratic behavior of electrical systems
  • •Possible increase in energy consumption

Diagnostic Steps

  1. 1Use an OBD-II scanner to retrieve error codes from the vehicle's computer.
  2. 2Check for any software updates available for the vehicle's firmware.
  3. 3Inspect the high-voltage battery for any visible damage or loose connections.
  4. 4Verify the condition and connections of the 12V auxiliary battery.
  5. 5Examine the wiring harnesses and connectors for any signs of wear or corrosion.

Solution

Solution

1. Preparation

  • Ensure the vehicle is parked on a level surface.
  • Disconnect the 12V battery to prevent electrical shock.
  • Gather required tools and parts.

2. Update Software

  • Connect the vehicle to a Wi-Fi network.
  • Navigate to the software update section in the vehicle's settings.
  • Download and install any available updates.

3. Inspect High-Voltage Battery

  • Reconnect the 12V battery.
  • Remove access panels to the high-voltage battery.
  • Inspect for any loose connections or damage.
  • Tighten any loose connections and replace damaged components if necessary.

4. Check 12V Auxiliary Battery

  • Locate the 12V battery under the front trunk.
  • Use a multimeter to check the voltage; it should be around 12.6 volts when fully charged.
  • If voltage is low, replace the 12V battery with a compatible unit.

5. Reassemble Components

  • Reattach any access panels removed during inspection.
  • Ensure all connections are secure.
  • Reconnect the 12V battery and close the trunk.

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

  • OBD-II scanner
  • Multimeter
  • Socket set
  • Screwdrivers
  • Torque wrench

Parts Required

  • 12V auxiliary battery

Additional Information

Component

Electrical

Repair Time

1-2 hours

Difficulty

medium

Severity

medium

Tools

5 items

Parts

1 items

Related Faults

Discover similar issues

  1. why does my Tesla Model S Plaid/Refresh (2021-present) struggle when going uphill

    Learn how to diagnose and fix uphill performance issues in Tesla Model S Plaid. Step-by-step guide with symptoms, diagnostics, and repair instructions...

    Component:Electrical
    Symptoms
    • •Reduced acceleration when climbing hills
    • •Unusual motor noise or whirring sounds during uphill driving
    • +{count} more

  2. my Tesla Model S has a check battery message what does that mean

    Learn how to diagnose and fix the 'Check Battery' message in Tesla Model S. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair instructions.

    Component:Electrical
    Symptoms
    • •Check Battery message displayed on the dashboard
    • •Reduced driving range or performance
    • +{count} more

  3. my Tesla Model S has a hard steering when cold what should I check

    Learn how to diagnose and fix hard steering issues in Tesla Model S. Step-by-step guide with symptoms, diagnostic steps, and repair instructions.

    Component:Steering
    Symptoms
    • •Hard steering effort when the vehicle is cold
    • •Possible groaning or whining noise from the power steering system
    • +{count} more

  4. why does my Tesla Model S have a clicking noise in the steering column

    Learn how to diagnose and fix the clicking noise in the steering column of your Tesla Model S. Step-by-step guide with symptoms, diagnostic steps, and...

    Component:Steering
    Symptoms
    • •Clicking noise when turning the steering wheel
    • •Increased resistance when steering
    • +{count} more

  5. why does my Tesla Model S Plaid/Refresh (2021-present) lose traction suddenly

    Learn how to diagnose and fix sudden loss of traction in Tesla Model S Plaid (2021-present). Step-by-step guide with symptoms, diagnostics, and soluti...

    Component:Suspension
    Symptoms
    • •Sudden loss of traction while accelerating
    • •Traction control warning light illuminated on the dashboard
    • +{count} more

  6. my Tesla Model S has a pulsating brake pedal when stopping what's wrong

    Learn how to diagnose and fix a pulsating brake pedal in Tesla Model S. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair instructions.

    Component:Brakes
    Symptoms
    • •Pulsating brake pedal when applying brakes
    • •Vibration felt through the brake pedal
    • +{count} more

Share this solution

Comments

Sign in to share your thoughts

Sign In

No comments yet

Be the first to share your thoughts

Back to Generation