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Home/Cars/Tesla/Model S/Plaid/Refresh (2021-present)/why does my Tesla Model S Plaid/Refresh (2021-present) battery die when the car is off?

why does my Tesla Model S Plaid/Refresh (2021-present) battery die when the car is off?

Tesla Model S Plaid/Refresh (2021-present)

Severity: highDifficulty: medium1-3 hours
3 min read
570 words

⚠️ Safety Warning

This issue requires immediate attention. If you are not experienced with automotive repairs, consult a professional mechanic. Working on critical systems can be dangerous.

Problem Statement

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

Component
Electrical
Repair Time
1-3 hours

Safety Warnings

  • ⚠Disconnect the battery before working on electrical systems to avoid shock or damage.
  • ⚠Allow components to cool before handling, as they may be hot after vehicle operation.

Symptoms

  • •Battery drains faster than expected when the vehicle is not in use
  • •"Low Battery" warning message displayed
  • •Vehicle fails to start or shows insufficient power to operate
  • •Overheating of battery pack or charging components
  • •Abnormal behavior of electronic systems (e.g., lights flickering, infotainment issues)

Diagnostic Steps

  1. 1Check Battery Voltage: Use a multimeter to measure the voltage of the 12V battery when the vehicle is off.
  2. 2Scan for Error Codes: Utilize Tesla's diagnostic tools or an OBD-II scanner to check for any fault codes related to battery management or electronic systems.
  3. 3Inspect for Parasitic Draw: Disconnect the negative terminal of the battery and measure current draw using an ammeter. A draw above the normal threshold indicates a parasitic drain.
  4. 4Examine Battery Health: Check the state of charge (SOC) and overall health of the battery using Tesla's diagnostics.
  5. 5Evaluate Software Updates: Ensure the vehicle's software is up to date, as updates can resolve bugs affecting battery management.
  6. 6Inspect Electrical Connections: Visually inspect and tighten all battery connections, fuses, and wiring for corrosion or loose fittings.

Solution

Solution

1. Preparation

  • Gather tools: multimeter, OBD-II scanner, socket set, torque wrench.
  • Ensure the vehicle is parked on a level surface and turned off.
  • Disconnect the negative terminal of the 12V battery.

2. Replace 12V Battery (If Faulty)

  • Remove Old Battery:
    1. Disconnect the negative terminal first, then the positive terminal.
    2. Remove any securing brackets or covers.
  • Install New Battery:
    1. Place the new battery in the battery compartment.
    2. Connect the positive terminal first, then the negative terminal.
    3. Torque the terminal bolts to the manufacturer's specifications (typically around 10-15 Nm).

3. Check for Parasitic Drain

  • Reconnect the negative terminal and measure the current draw.
  • If the draw is still high, continue troubleshooting by disconnecting fuses one at a time to identify the component causing the drain.

4. Update Software

  • Connect to Wi-Fi and check for any available updates through the Tesla interface.
  • Follow prompts to install updates.

5. Final Assembly and Testing

  • Reassemble any covers or brackets.
  • Test the vehicle by starting it and monitoring for any warning lights or unusual behavior.

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

  • Multimeter
  • OBD-II scanner
  • Socket set
  • Torque wrench
  • Amp meter

Parts Required

  • 12V battery (if determined faulty)

Additional Information

Component

Electrical

Repair Time

1-3 hours

Difficulty

medium

Severity

high

Tools

5 items

Parts

1 items

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