Tesla wireless charger is a handy feature that allows you to charge your phone without using a cable. It uses a technology called Qi (pronounced “chee”), which transfers power wirelessly from a transmitter to a receiver.
There are several reasons behind your Tesla wireless charger not working. Most common of them could be due to incompatibility, obstructions, incorrect positioning, charger problems, or software issues. In this article, we will examine some of the potential causes and solutions for Tesla’s wireless charger not working problem.
What is the Tesla Wireless Charger?
In the center console of most Tesla vehicles is a wireless charging device that serves as the Tesla wireless charger. It can charge your phone at a rate of up to 15W, which is speedier than the majority of standard wireless chargers.
After the 2020 update, the majority of Tesla vehicles are equipped with a phone adapter that can charge two devices simultaneously, although at a reduced rate.
However, Model S vehicles manufactured between 2012 to 2020 and Model X vehicles manufactured between 2015 to 2020 can only charge one device simultaneously.
The Tesla wireless charging adapter transfers energy from the charging pad to the phone via electromagnetic induction. This means that your phone must have a Qi-enabled receiver for the charger to be compatible.
Qi is a wireless charging standard supported by the majority of handsets, including iPhones and Android devices.
Why is Your Tesla Wireless Charger Not Working and How to Fix It?
Some Tesla owners have reported problems with their wireless chargers, such as:
- The charger stops working after a few seconds.
- The charger charges very slowly or inconsistently.
- The charger does not charge at all.
There are several possible reasons why your Tesla wireless charger might not be working, such as:
- Your phone is not compatible with wireless charging or Qi-enabled.
- Your phone has obstacles that block the wireless charging signal.
- Your phone is not positioned correctly on the charging pad.
- Your wireless charger is not connected or damaged.
- Phone software issues.
If you encounter any of these problems, then there are some easy measures you can take to troubleshoot and repair your Tesla wireless charger.
Step 1: Ensure Compatibility with Wireless Charging
The first thing you need to do is to make sure that your phone supports wireless charging and is Qi-enabled. Wireless charging is not available on all phones, so you need to check if your device has this capability.
You can look up your phone’s specifications online or in the user manual. You can also use a website such as Qinside to determine if your phone model is listed.
If your phone does not support wireless charging, you will need to use a cable or a wireless charging adapter to charge it.
Step 2: Remove Potential Obstacles
Next, you must verify any obstructions that could interfere with the wireless charging signal. Some phones have protruding features, such as cameras or buttons, that prevent complete contact with the charging device.
In addition, bulky or metallic phone cases can interfere with the wireless charging signal. These can reduce or prohibit the charging efficiency.
Try eliminating these obstructions to see if your phone will charge more efficiently. You can also verify the functionality of your phone case by placing it on another Qi-compatible charger.
Step 3: Determine The Ideal Position
Another potential cause of your Tesla wireless charger not functioning is that your phone is not aligned correctly with the charger. The wireless charging signal is strongest in the middle of the charging pad, so you should position your phone as near as possible to the middle.
Some Tesla drivers have reported that one side of the wireless charger functions better than the other. This could be the result of variations in the manufacturing process or the positioning of the coils within the charger.
Try switching sides or gently adjusting the position of your phone up, down, to the left, or to the right on the pad until you find a consistent charging spot. Additionally, you can secure your phone with a rubber band or Velcro fastener.
Step 4: Inspect The Charger’s Connection and State
The fourth step is to ensure that the wireless charger is connected properly and in excellent condition. Occasionally, the charger may fail to function due to loose connections or damage from water, heat, or physical impact.
Unplug and re-plug the USB cable that connects the wireless charger to the car’s USB interface to test its functionality. Ensure that it is securely inserted and not tattered or damaged.
Examine the wireless charger for damage indicators such as fractures, burns, and corrosion. Depending on the severity of the damage, you may need to replace the wireless charger.
You can buy a replacement wireless charger from a Tesla shop or from third-party vendors like Jeda or Nomad.
Step 5: Restart Your Phone and Check for Phone Software Update
Sometimes, problems with the software on your phone can make it impossible for it to charge wirelessly. This may occur due to glitches, updates, or configuration changes.
The final step is restarting your phone or resetting its network settings to resolve the issue with the non-functioning Tesla phone charger. Additionally, you can see whether there are any software updates available and install them.
Step 6: Contact Tesla Support
If none of the methods above resolve the issue, it is advised to contact Tesla support for further assistance. You can contact them via their website, mobile application, or phone number and describe the issue you are experiencing.
They may request additional information such as your VIN number, firmware version, and photographs or videos of the problem. If necessary, they may also guide you through additional troubleshooting steps or assist you in scheduling a service appointment.
Read Also: Stuck at Tesla Bluetooth Initializing? Here’s the Solution!
Frequently Asked Questions FAQs
Is there a specific way to place my phone on the Tesla wireless charger?
Yes, you may need to manually move the phone around the charging pad to locate a sweet spot for charging.
Can I use any phone with the Tesla wireless charger?
No, only phones that support wireless charging and are Qi-enabled can be used with the Tesla wireless charger.
What should I do if my phone is not Qi-enabled?
If your phone is not Qi-enabled, it won’t be compatible with the Tesla wireless charger.