Breaking News: How to Jump Start from a Tesla Revealed
What To Know
- This guide will walk you through the process of how to jump start from a Tesla, ensuring you’re back on the road in no time.
- Unlike traditional gas cars that rely solely on a 12-volt battery to start the engine, Teslas use a 12-volt battery for auxiliary functions like powering the interior lights, door locks, and infotainment system.
- Use the Tesla Mobile Connector to connect the other end of the red cable to the positive terminal of the Tesla’s 12-volt battery.
So, your Tesla battery is flat, and you’re stranded. You’ve probably heard that jump-starting a Tesla is different from a traditional gas car. You’re right! But don’t worry; it’s not as complicated as it seems. This guide will walk you through the process of how to jump start from a Tesla, ensuring you’re back on the road in no time.
Understanding Tesla’s 12-Volt Battery
Unlike traditional gas cars that rely solely on a 12-volt battery to start the engine, Teslas use a 12-volt battery for auxiliary functions like powering the interior lights, door locks, and infotainment system. The main battery, responsible for propelling the car, is a high-voltage lithium-ion battery.
The 12-volt battery in a Tesla is essential for the car to function. If it dies, you won’t be able to open the doors, charge the main battery, or even use the touchscreen.
Why You Might Need to Jump Start Your Tesla
While Tesla’s are known for their excellent range, there are a few situations where your 12-volt battery might need a boost:
- Leaving the car’s accessories on: Leaving the lights, radio, or climate control on for an extended period can drain the battery.
- Leaving the car unused for an extended period: Even if you’re not using your Tesla, the 12-volt battery will slowly discharge over time.
- Extreme temperatures: Both extreme heat and cold can impact the performance of the 12-volt battery.
- Faulty battery: In rare cases, the 12-volt battery itself might be faulty and require replacement.
The Essential Tools for a Tesla Jump Start
Before you attempt a jump start, make sure you have the following:
- A set of jumper cables: You’ll need a standard set of jumper cables designed for 12-volt batteries.
- A working donor vehicle: This can be any car with a good 12-volt battery.
- A Tesla Mobile Connector: The Tesla Mobile Connector is required to connect the jump start cables to the Tesla’s 12-volt battery terminal.
- Safety glasses: Always wear safety glasses when working with car batteries.
Jump Starting Your Tesla: Step-by-Step Guide
Now, let’s get down to the business of jump-starting your Tesla:
1. Park the donor vehicle near your Tesla: Make sure the vehicles are close enough to reach the batteries with the jumper cables.
2. Turn off both vehicles: Ensure both the donor vehicle and your Tesla are completely off.
3. Locate the 12-volt battery terminal: The 12-volt battery terminal on a Tesla is located in the front trunk (frunk). Open the frunk and you’ll find a black plastic cover concealing the battery.
4. Connect the positive (red) cable: Connect the red clamp of the jumper cable to the positive (+) terminal of the donor vehicle‘s battery.
5. Connect the other end of the positive cable to the Tesla’s positive terminal: Use the Tesla Mobile Connector to connect the other end of the red cable to the positive terminal of the Tesla’s 12-volt battery.
6. Connect the negative (black) cable: Connect the black clamp of the jumper cable to the negative (-) terminal of the donor vehicle‘s battery.
7. Connect the other end of the negative cable to a grounding point on the Tesla: Find a bare metal grounding point on the Tesla’s frame (like a bolt or a bracket). Connect the other end of the black cable to this grounding point.
8. Start the donor vehicle: Start the donor vehicle and let it run for a few minutes.
9. Attempt to start your Tesla: Try starting your Tesla. It should start normally.
10. Disconnect the cables: Once your Tesla has started, disconnect the jumper cables in reverse order: negative, positive, negative, positive.
11. Let your Tesla run for a few minutes: Allow your Tesla to run for a few minutes to charge the 12-volt battery.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
If your Tesla doesn‘t start after following these steps, here are some troubleshooting tips:
- Check the connections: Make sure all the jumper cable connections are secure and tight.
- Test the donor vehicle’s battery: Ensure the donor vehicle’s battery is fully charged and capable of providing a sufficient jump start.
- Inspect the 12-volt battery: If the 12-volt battery is old or damaged, it may need to be replaced.
Beyond Jump Starts: Preventing Future Issues
While jump-starting your Tesla can get you back on the road, it’s essential to address the underlying cause of the battery drain. Here are some tips to prevent future issues:
- Avoid leaving accessories on for extended periods: Always turn off all accessories, including lights, radio, and climate control, when you park your Tesla.
- Regularly charge the 12-volt battery: If you don’t use your Tesla frequently, it’s a good idea to start it every few weeks and let it run for a few minutes to charge the 12-volt battery.
- Consider a battery tender: A battery tender is a device that keeps your 12-volt battery charged even when the car isn’t in use.
- Monitor battery health: Tesla’s touchscreen displays the health of the 12-volt battery. If you notice any issues, consult with a Tesla service center.
The Final Drive: Keeping Your Tesla Running Smoothly
Jump-starting a Tesla is a simple process when you follow the right steps. By understanding the role of the 12-volt battery and taking preventive measures, you can avoid future battery drain issues and keep your electric ride running smoothly.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use a conventional car battery charger to charge my Tesla’s 12-volt battery?
No, you cannot use a conventional car battery charger to charge a Tesla’s 12-volt battery. The Tesla battery is a special type of battery that requires a specific charger.
2. How long can I drive my Tesla after a jump start?
After a jump start, you should be able to drive your Tesla normally. However, it’s a good idea to drive for a few minutes to ensure the 12-volt battery is fully charged.
3. Can I jump start my Tesla from another Tesla?
Yes, you can jump start your Tesla from another Tesla. Follow the same steps as you would with a conventional car.
4. What should I do if my Tesla’s 12-volt battery is completely dead and won’t accept a jump start?
If your Tesla’s 12-volt battery is completely dead and won’t accept a jump start, you’ll need to have it replaced. Contact a Tesla service center or a qualified automotive technician.