Charge port door won't open
The charge port door is small and motorised, and in a cold snap it can freeze shut. Try these in order.
- Open it from the touchscreen. Tap the charging icon or the port on the car picture.
- Open it from the app. Go to Charging and tap Open charge port.
- Press the button on a Tesla charger handle while standing near the car with your phone key or key card.
- Warm the car up. In frost, turn on climate from the app for 20 to 30 minutes. Many cars have a setting to defrost the charge port when climate is on in cold weather. Do not pour hot water on the door: it can refreeze and damage the seal.
- Push gently on the edge of the door while someone taps Open on the screen. Don't lever it with anything hard.
If it still won't open
The door mechanism can fail. Book a repair through the Tesla app's Service menu. Mobile Service can often fix it at home.
Preventing frozen ports
- In freezing weather, park with the port away from the wind where possible.
- Precondition before you leave when you know you'll need to charge.
- A little silicone spray on the door seal in autumn can help (check your manual first).