How to Turn Off a Tesla Model Y

When Should You Power Down Your Tesla Model 3?

While your Tesla Model 3 is designed to stay powered on most of the time, there are certain situations where manually powering down the vehicle is recommended. Here are some key circumstances where turning off your Model 3 is advisable:

Long-term parking or storage: If you’ll be leaving your Tesla parked for more than a couple of weeks, such as when going on an extended vacation or storing it over the winter months, powering it down can prevent unnecessary battery drain and system operation.

Troubleshooting issues: In some cases, error messages or system glitches may require a full power cycle by shutting down and restarting your Model 3. This can reset certain systems and potentially resolve problems you’re experiencing.

Conserving battery for towing: If your Model 3 needs to be transported on a flatbed truck or trailer, Tesla recommends powering it down fully. This prevents the vehicle from trying to constantly charge the battery pack and maximizes range for loading and unloading.

Maintenance or repairs: When taking your Tesla in for service or repairs that may require disconnecting the battery, technicians will likely want you to power down the vehicle first as a safety precaution.

Step 1: Disable Connectivity Features

Before initiating the full power-down sequence, it’s crucial to disable all connectivity features on your Tesla Model 3 to prevent unnecessary battery drain. This includes turning off mobile data, WiFi, and Bluetooth connections.

To disable mobile data, open the touchscreen display and navigate to the “Controls” menu. From there, select “Mobile Data” and toggle it off. This will prevent your Tesla from continuously searching for and connecting to cellular networks, which can consume a significant amount of battery power over time.

Next, disable the WiFi connection by going back to the “Controls” menu and selecting “WiFi.” Toggle the WiFi setting to the off position. Like mobile data, having WiFi enabled can cause your Tesla to constantly search for and attempt to connect to wireless networks, draining the battery unnecessarily.

Finally, turn off Bluetooth by navigating to the “Bluetooth” option in the “Controls” menu and disabling it. Bluetooth is primarily used for connecting your smartphone or other devices to your Tesla’s infotainment system, but it can also contribute to battery drain if left enabled when not in use.

By taking these simple steps to disable connectivity features, you can significantly reduce the amount of power your Tesla Model 3 consumes while powered down, ensuring that it maintains an optimal battery charge level during extended periods of inactivity.

Step 2: Power Down the Display and Entertainment System

Before powering down the main drive system of your Tesla Model 3, it’s recommended to first reboot and power off the touchscreen display and entertainment system. This helps prevent any potential battery drain from apps, media playback, or connectivity features running in the background.

To reboot the touchscreen, simply press and hold both scroll wheel buttons on the steering wheel simultaneously until the display turns black and restarts. Once rebooted, swipe open the top menu and tap the Settings icon, then navigate to ‘Display’ and toggle off the setting for ‘Energy Saving’.

Next, go back to the main Controls menu and disable Mobile Access as well as any active WiFi or Bluetooth connections. These wireless features can continue drawing power even when the main vehicle systems are powered down. With connectivity disabled, the touchscreen should now be in a low-power state ready for shutdown.

Finally, press and hold the scroll wheel buttons again for 5-10 seconds until the display turns fully off. Your Tesla’s infotainment system is now in a powered down state, conserving battery while still allowing the core drive systems to remain operational.

Step 3: Shift to Park and Enable Parking Brake

Before powering down your Tesla Model 3, it’s crucial to ensure the vehicle is securely parked and the parking brake is engaged. Shifting into Park mode not only prevents the car from rolling away but also prepares the drivetrain for the shutdown sequence.

To shift into Park, simply move the gear selector stalk on the right side of the steering column into the “P” position. You’ll feel a distinct notch and hear an audible chime to confirm that the vehicle is in Park. It’s a good practice to give the gear selector a gentle push to ensure it’s fully engaged.

Next, apply the electronic parking brake by pressing the button located on the end of the gear selector stalk. A red parking brake indicator will illuminate on the instrument cluster, indicating that the parking brake is set. This added precaution ensures that your Tesla Model 3 remains stationary, even on steep inclines.

It’s important to note that the parking brake in your Tesla Model 3 is an electronic system, unlike the traditional mechanical parking brakes found in older vehicles. This means that the parking brake will automatically disengage when you shift into a driving gear and press the accelerator pedal.

Step 4: Initiate the Shutdown Sequence

With the vehicle shifted into Park and the parking brake engaged, you’re now ready to power down the Tesla Model 3’s drive system. The process is straightforward:

1. Press down on the brake pedal. This will initialize the start-up sequence and wake up the vehicle if it has already gone into a low-power sleep mode.
2. Once the touchscreen is active, locate the power button near the bottom right corner. Press and hold this button for approximately 5 seconds.
3. You’ll see the touchscreen go dark and the vehicle will complete its shutdown process.

It’s important to hold the power button for the full 5 seconds to ensure a complete shutdown. If you just tap it quickly, the Model 3 may only restart or reboot rather than powering off entirely.

With the drive system now powered down, your Tesla Model 3 has entered its low-power, “Waiting” state and is ready for extended parking or storage. Just remember that some systems like security and battery conditioning will still remain operational.

What Stays Powered On?

Even when you’ve followed the steps to power down your Tesla Model 3, several key systems and components remain active to protect the vehicle and maintain essential functions. Understanding what stays powered on is important, as it impacts battery drain, security features, and how quickly your Tesla can be ready to drive again.

Firstly, the security system and onboard cameras connected to Sentry Mode remain operational when the Model 3 is powered off. This allows the vehicle to continue monitoring its surroundings and recording potential threats or incidents even while parked. The built-in alarm system also stays armed, providing an additional layer of anti-theft protection.

Secondly, the battery heating and cooling systems continue running as needed to maintain the optimal temperature range for the high-voltage battery pack. Extreme hot or cold temperatures can negatively impact battery longevity, so this thermal management system helps preserve long-term battery health even when the car is powered down.

Additionally, basic electrical systems like the 12V battery that powers accessories, key fob functionality, and the ability for the mobile app to lock/unlock the vehicle all remain active. This ensures you can still access and secure your Tesla using the key cards or your smartphone, as well as power up essential systems before driving.

Caveats: What Gets Disabled?

While powering down your Tesla Model 3 is a straightforward process, there are a few key features and functions that will be disabled or impacted when the vehicle is powered off. It’s important to understand these caveats before initiating the shutdown sequence.

One of the main features that gets disabled is Sentry Mode, Tesla’s advanced security system that uses the vehicle’s external cameras to monitor its surroundings and detect potential threats. When the Model 3 is powered off, Sentry Mode will no longer be active, leaving your vehicle more vulnerable to potential break-ins or vandalism.

Similarly, the built-in dashcam functionality, which continuously records video footage from the vehicle’s cameras, will also be disabled when the Model 3 is powered down. This means that any incidents or events that occur while the vehicle is powered off will not be captured on video.

Another important caveat to consider is the impact on climate control and cabin temperature regulation. When the Model 3 is powered off, the climate control system will be disabled, which means that the cabin will no longer be actively heated or cooled. This can be particularly problematic if you’re leaving the vehicle parked in extreme temperatures for an extended period.

Finally, it’s worth noting that powering down the Model 3 can result in a slightly longer wake-up time when you’re ready to drive again. When the vehicle is powered on after being shut down, it may take a few extra seconds for all systems to fully boot up and become operational.

How to Properly Store Your Tesla Long-Term

If you plan to store your Tesla Model 3 for an extended period, such as several weeks or months, there are some additional steps to take beyond simply powering it down. Proper storage will help protect your vehicle’s battery and interior condition while it’s not in use.

First, you’ll want to charge the battery to approximately 50% state of charge before storing. Leaving the battery too depleted or fully charged for long periods can degrade its performance over time. Around 50% charge is the ideal sweet spot for long-term storage.

Next, give your Tesla a thorough cleaning inside and out. Vacuum the interior, wipe down all surfaces, and wash the exterior to remove any dirt, debris, or contaminants that could cause damage or staining while stored. It’s also a good idea to use a Tesla-approved car cover to protect the paint and exterior from dust, scratches, or sun damage.

Finally, before leaving your Tesla for an extended storage period, enable HVAC shutdown mode through the mobile app. This setting will disable the battery cooling system to prevent unnecessary battery drain but still allow the battery heater to run if temperatures get too cold. Just keep in mind that with HVAC shutdown enabled, you may need to allow extra time for the battery to cool or warm up before driving again after storage.

Troubleshooting a Tesla That Won’t Power Down

Occasionally, you may run into an issue where your Tesla Model 3 refuses to power down completely, even after following the proper shutdown sequence. If this happens, don’t panic – there are a few troubleshooting steps you can take.

First, try rebooting the touchscreen by holding down both scroll wheels on the steering wheel until the screen goes black. This can sometimes resolve minor software glitches that may be preventing a full shutdown.

If a reboot doesn’t work, the next step is to check for any active Sentry Mode or Dashcam recordings. These features can sometimes interfere with the shutdown process. On the touchscreen, navigate to the Sentry Mode or Dashcam settings and ensure they are disabled.

Another potential culprit could be a stuck or malfunctioning door sensor. Try opening and closing all doors firmly to ensure they are properly sealed and the sensors are working correctly.

If you’ve tried all of the above and your Tesla still won’t power down, your last resort is to disconnect the 12V battery temporarily. Consult your owner’s manual or a qualified Tesla service technician for the proper procedure, as improper battery disconnection could cause other issues.

In the rare case that none of these troubleshooting steps resolve the issue, you may need to schedule a service appointment with a Tesla Service Center to have the vehicle diagnosed and repaired.

When Should You Leave Your Tesla Powered On?

While powering down your Tesla Model 3 is recommended for extended periods of inactivity, there are certain situations where it’s preferable to leave the vehicle powered on. One such scenario is during a road trip or camping adventure, where you may want to take advantage of the Tesla’s advanced features and amenities.

By leaving your Tesla powered on, you can continue to access the navigation system, streaming audio, and other entertainment options, ensuring a more enjoyable journey. Additionally, you’ll have access to features like Sentry Mode and the dashcam, which can provide added security and peace of mind while your vehicle is parked.

Another instance where you might want to leave your Tesla powered on is if you’re using it as a power source for camping equipment or other accessories. The vehicle’s battery can serve as a reliable and eco-friendly power source, allowing you to enjoy the comforts of home while immersed in nature.

It’s worth noting that leaving your Tesla powered on will result in a gradual battery drain, so it’s essential to monitor the battery level and plan accordingly. If you anticipate extended periods of inactivity, it’s recommended to charge the battery to an optimal level or connect to a power source to maintain the desired charge level.

Powering Your Tesla Back On

After powering down your Tesla Model 3, getting it back up and running is a simple process. There are a few different methods you can use to wake up the vehicle:

Opening a Door: One of the easiest ways is to simply open the driver’s door. As soon as a door is opened, the Tesla will automatically power back on and the touchscreen will reboot.

Pressing the Brake Pedal: If the doors remain closed, you can press down firmly on the brake pedal. This will initiate the startup sequence and the touchscreen will turn on within a few seconds.

Using the Key Fob or Phone Key: You can also wake up your powered down Tesla by simply walking up to the vehicle with your authenticated key fob or phone key. The Tesla’s vehicle sensors will detect the key and automatically power on.

Scheduled Wake Up: If you’ve powered down your Tesla for an extended period like a vacation, you can set a wakeup time through the mobile app. The car will automatically power on at your scheduled time to precondition the battery and cabin.

Keep in mind that after powering back on from a full shutdown, it may take a minute or two for all systems to fully reboot and be ready to drive. Be patient and let the Tesla complete its startup routine before shifting into gear.

Power Management Tips to Maximize Battery

Even when your Tesla Model 3 is powered down, there are still some systems that remain active and slowly drain the battery over time. To maximize your battery’s charge during extended parking periods, there are several settings and modes you can enable to minimize this drain.

First, be sure to disable all connectivity features like mobile access, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth before powering down. These can continue searching for signals and consume power in the background. From the touchscreen, go to Controls > Safety & Security > Mobile Access and toggle it off.

Next, enable the Energy Saving mode from your Tesla mobile app. This minimizes battery drain from the vehicle’s always-on systems like the Sentry cameras and security features. It also reduces the frequency of battery heating and cooling to conserve energy.

If you’ll be storing your Model 3 for several weeks or months, enable the HVAC Shutdown mode from the app as well. This completely disables the battery thermal management system to prevent any power draw for heating or cooling the pack. However, note that you’ll need to allow time for the battery to return to its optimal temperature range when powering back on.

Finally, ensure your Tesla is parked in a shaded area out of direct sunlight if possible. This prevents the cabin from heating up excessively, reducing the need for the battery cooling system to run while powered down. Covering the windshield and windows can also help insulate the interior.

Powering Down Other Tesla Models

While the process for turning off a Tesla Model 3 is relatively straightforward, the steps can vary slightly for other models in Tesla’s lineup. Here’s a quick overview of how to power down a Model S, Model X, and Model Y:

Model S and Model X: These vehicles don’t have a dedicated power off button. To turn them off, simply shift into Park and exit the vehicle. The touchscreen and other systems will power down automatically after a short period of inactivity. If you need to force a restart or full shutdown, you can press and hold the scroll wheels on the steering wheel.

Model Y: The shutdown process for the Model Y is nearly identical to the Model 3. Follow the same steps: disable connectivity features, reboot the touchscreen, shift to Park, apply the parking brake, then hold down the power button for 5 seconds. Like the 3, some systems will remain powered on even when shut down.

Regardless of the model, it’s generally advisable to follow Tesla’s recommendations for proper storage and maintenance if you plan on leaving your vehicle inactive for an extended period. Charge levels, climate control settings, and other factors can impact battery longevity and overall vehicle health.

The Bottom Line on Powering Off Your Tesla

Proper power management is crucial for maximizing your Tesla Model 3’s battery life and ensuring optimal performance. By understanding when and how to power down your vehicle, you can avoid unnecessary battery drain, reduce the risk of potential issues, and prolong the lifespan of your electric car.

The key benefits of correctly powering off your Tesla Model 3 include:

• Energy conservation: Turning off your Tesla when not in use prevents unnecessary battery drain, especially during extended periods of inactivity or storage.
• Reduced wear and tear: Powering down certain systems when not needed can minimize wear on components, potentially reducing maintenance costs in the long run.
• Enhanced security: While the security system remains active, powering off disables certain features that could be exploited, adding an extra layer of protection.
• Troubleshooting assistance: In some cases, a proper power cycle (turning the vehicle off and back on) can help resolve software glitches or error messages.
• Extended battery life: Proper power management practices, such as avoiding excessive drain and following recommended storage procedures, can help extend the overall lifespan of your Tesla’s battery pack.

By following the step-by-step process outlined in this guide and adhering to best practices, you can ensure that your Tesla Model 3 remains in top condition, maximizing its performance, efficiency, and longevity. Embrace the power of proper power management and enjoy a seamless and sustainable driving experience with your cutting-edge electric vehicle.