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why does my Tesla Model S Original (2012-2020) have poor fuel economy suddenly? - Tesla Model S
Home/Cars/Tesla/Model S/Plaid/Refresh (2021-present)/why does my Tesla Model S Original (2012-2020) have poor fuel economy suddenly?

why does my Tesla Model S Original (2012-2020) have poor fuel economy suddenly?

Tesla Model S Plaid/Refresh (2021-present)

Error Codes
1-3 hours
Time
medium
Difficulty
medium
Severity
Navigation
ProblemSymptomsDiagnosisSolution
ProblemSymptomsDiagnosisSolution
3 min read
480 words

Problem Statement

Discover how to diagnose and resolve poor fuel economy issues in Tesla Model S (2012-2020). Step-by-step guide with symptoms, diagnostics, and solutions.

Affected Component
Electrical
Estimated Time
1-3 hours

⚠️ Safety Warnings

Important safety information - read before proceeding

  • •Ensure the vehicle is powered off before performing any maintenance.

Symptoms

  • •Decreased driving range on a full charge
  • •Increased energy consumption per mile
  • •Noticeable reduction in acceleration performance
  • •Unusual noises from the electric motor or drivetrain
  • •Overheating warning alerts on the dashboard

Diagnostic Steps

  1. 1
  2. 2
  3. 3
  4. 4
  5. 5
  6. 6

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

  • •Tire pressure gauge
  • •Air compressor
  • •Tesla diagnostic tool/app
  • •Basic hand tools

Parts Required

  • •Tesla-approved coolant (if needed)

Additional Information

Affected Component
Electrical
Estimated Time
1-3 hours
Difficulty
medium
Severity
medium
Tools Required
4 items
Parts Required
1 item

Related Faults

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Solution
1. Preparation
  • Ensure the vehicle is parked on a flat surface and turned off.
  • Gather necessary tools and parts for inspection and maintenance.
2. Tire Inspection and Maintenance
  • Tools Required: Tire pressure gauge, air compressor
  • Sub-steps:
    1. Check the tire pressure using a tire pressure gauge and adjust to the manufacturer's recommended levels.
    2. Inspect tires for uneven wear, damage, or low tread depth.
    3. Rotate tires if necessary and align if misalignment is detected.
3. Battery Health Check
  • Tools Required: Tesla diagnostic tool/app
  • Sub-steps:
    1. Use the Tesla app to check the battery’s state of health and any fault codes.
    2. If the battery health is significantly degraded, consider contacting Tesla service for potential replacement.
4. Software Updates
  • Sub-steps:
    1. Navigate to the software update section on the vehicle’s touchscreen.
    2. Ensure that the vehicle is running the latest software version.
    3. If an update is available, perform the update and monitor changes in performance.
5. Cooling System and Air Intake Inspection
  • Tools Required: Basic hand tools
  • Sub-steps:
    1. Open the front trunk and inspect the cooling system for any debris blocking airflow.
    2. Clean any obstructions found in the air intake or cooling system.
    3. Check the coolant levels and top off if necessary with Tesla-approved coolant.