Tesla low voltage battery warning is one such issue that the customers may run into. Users may be experiencing this problem as a result of a weak 12V auxiliary battery, extended periods of inactivity, and other factors.
To fix this issue, you can recharge the battery, or replace the battery.
But this is not the end of the solution. Let’s get to know everything in detail through this article.
What Causes Low Voltage Battery Warning And How To Fix It?
There are various reasons why your Tesla is showing a Low Voltage Battery Warning, all of which have an impact on the 12V auxiliary battery. Here is further information on the typical causes:
1. Old or Weak Battery:
Similar to regular cars, Teslas include a 12V auxiliary battery that supplies important features including the onboard computer, lighting, and climate control.
The Low Voltage Battery Warning may be reactive if the battery in question is weak or failing. Also, the capacity of the 12V battery degrades over time, resulting in voltage reductions which ultimately show the warning signals.
Get a new 12V battery to replace the old one. Tesla owners should employ an upgraded battery that complies with Tesla’s requirements.
It’s necessary to take care of an old 12V battery right away because if you ignore looking after the battery’s condition, it can cause a variety of electrical problems.
2. Inactivity for a Long Period:
When the Tesla is parked or at rest, a few accessories or features, such as the touchscreen or interior lights, may drain power out of the 12V battery.
The 12V battery may be leaking if these accessories remain on for a long period when the car is not in use. This is why you might be getting a warning.
In this case, you have to drive regularly to avoid the issue. Otherwise, you have to charge your Tesla following routine, especially if you intend to keep it parked for a long time. To keep the 12V battery charged while in long-term storage, think about utilizing a trickle charger.
3. Charging Cable Issues:
The 12V battery charger or the related charging system may sometimes have problems, making it impossible for the 12V battery to receive a sufficient charge when required.
It does make sense to show a warning as the battery is becoming slow or may show weak performance.
When you are about to charge your Tesla, don’t forget to check the condition of the charging wires, also link the cables firmly. The 12V battery may not be able to charge if the cables are faulty or loose.
4. Weather-Related Factors:
The operation of the 12V battery can be subject to high or low temperatures, which could result in voltage drops and activate the warning message.
Also, the internal resistance of the battery may grow in colder climates, decreasing its effectiveness.
Whenever it is possible, place your Tesla in an area that has a better temperature.
Besides, you can go for using the “Cabin Overheat Protection” option, it can assist in maintaining a comfortable interior temperature even in severely cold weather.
5. Long-term Updating Process:
Tesla cars need to get the firmware update over a certain period. The vehicle’s systems might use some of the 12V battery power during these updates. Long-running updates may cause the 12V battery to lose power.
Try to update the firmware with the proper process within a short time. To do so,
- Make sure your Tesla has a strong internet connection which is necessary for updating the firmware. Also, don’t drive the car during the updating process.
- Select the “Software” on the touchscreen of Tesla or the Tesla mobile app where an update might be available.
- If it shows, that the firmware update is available, follow the instructions from the screen to download it first and then install.
- Wait for a few minutes to finish the process.
- Once you finish updating the firmware, test it thoroughly.
Remember, you should always respond quickly when the Low Voltage Battery Warning appears on your Tesla’s touchscreen or when you get a warning through the Tesla app. If you overlook the warning, further problems may arise.
Related Post: The Ultimate Guide to Tesla HV Battery
How To Change the Tesla Battery By Yourself?
You must purchase a new 12-volt battery compatible with your car if you wish to replace it on your own. You also need to use a few tools and take a few actions.
To change the battery-
- Firstly turn off the car and keep the doors and windows while changing the battery.
- Disconnect the car’s main battery. Pull the back seats to unplug the battery, and then remove the black cover. After that, lift the silver-tipped black wire.
- After removing the black cover next to the front window, pull the hood, and then remove the air vent on the right side.
- Remove the 12-volt battery by unscrewing the metal plate holding it.
- Separate the red and black wires from the 12-volt battery in that order.
- Replace the new 12-volt battery with the old 12-volt battery.
- Reattach the red and black wires to the 12-volt battery accordingly, and then tighten the metal plate that contains the battery in place.
- Reinstall the front and rear seat coverings and the air vents that you removed.
- Connect the large battery that runs your car. After that, your car should run normally now that your new 12-volt battery is set to use.
Related Post: How Much Does a Tesla 12v Battery Replacement Cost?
How Much Does It Cost to Replace The 12v Battery For Your Tesla?
The cost of the 12-volt battery replacement varies depending on many factors. For instance, it depends on the Tesla model you drive and whether the warranty is still in operation.
The location of the battery change as well as the battery’s age and condition are other factors.
But, in general, a Tesla battery replacement can cost between $5,000 and $20,000. And it is worth noting that you can replace it every 10 to 20 years.
Frequently Asked Questions [FAQs]
What does the Low Voltage Battery Warning for Tesla Batteries mean?
The 12V secondary battery, which supplies the vehicle’s vital functions, is either low in voltage or having problems, according to the Tesla Low Voltage Battery Warning.
What should I do if my Tesla displays a Low Voltage Battery Warning?
Important things to do when you see the warning include turning off power-hungry equipment, parking your Tesla in a secure location, and taking action to fix the problem, such as jump-starting or charging the 12V battery.
Can I drive my Tesla even when the Low Voltage Battery Warning appears on the screen?
Driving the vehicle while this warning displays is rarely a good idea since it might damage the functionality of critical systems. It’s better to park sensibly and take care of the situation quickly.
How can I check the condition of my Tesla’s 12V auxiliary battery?
If the Low Voltage Battery Warning continues despite attempts to fix it, the 12V battery may need replacement if it is old, has a drastically decreased health condition, or is otherwise in need of replacement.
Read Also: How to Gain Highest Mileage Tesla with Original Battery!