The Impact of Unplugging Your Tesla Model 3 in Cold Weather for a Month
Leaving your Tesla Model 3 unplugged in cold weather for an extended period, such as a month, can have several significant effects on the vehicle. From battery drain to range reduction, it’s important to understand what happens to your vehicle when it's not being charged properly. This article will explore the potential issues and how to mitigate them.
Battery Drain
Electric vehicles like the Tesla Model 3 have systems that continue to draw power even when the car is off. In cold weather, these systems work harder to maintain the battery's optimal operating temperature, leading to a faster battery drain.
Range Reduction
Cold temperatures can also reduce the effective range of your battery. If the car is unplugged, it won't be able to precondition the battery or cabin, resulting in even greater range loss when you try to use it again.
Potential Battery Damage
If the battery's state of charge (SoC) drops too low, typically below 20%, it can lead to battery degradation or even prevent the vehicle from starting. Tesla recommends keeping the battery charged between 20% and 80% for optimal health.
Tire Pressure
Cold weather can affect tire pressure, causing it to decrease. If the car is sitting for an extended period, it's a good idea to check the tire pressure before driving it again to ensure safety and optimal performance.
Software Updates
If the vehicle is not connected to Wi-Fi, it won't receive software updates during the period when it's unplugged. This could affect functionality or features when you return to it.
Cabin Condition
If the car is left in extreme cold without being plugged in, the interior may become uncomfortable or unsuitable for short-term use. Any perishable items left inside could also be damaged.
How to Mitigate These Issues
To avoid these issues, it's best to leave your Tesla plugged in, especially if you expect it to be unused for an extended period, particularly in cold weather. This allows the vehicle to maintain battery health and temperature.
For example, someone noted that they only lost 3% in three weeks of warm weather. However, this is not a reliable guide for cold weather conditions. In cold weather, the state of charge (SoC) will decrease, and the car will enter deeper levels of sleep. If the ambient temperature is cold enough, the car may periodically wake up to try and warm the battery pack to protect it. At some point, the SoC will drop to 0, and the battery will enter an anti-brick mode—in this state, even at 0 SoC, the Tesla pack maintains a charge to protect the pack from being completely "bricked."
It is crucial not to leave your Tesla unplugged in cold weather if you can avoid it. At the very least, ensure it is plugged into a 110V outlet to help maintain its battery and overall health.
In conclusion, proper maintenance of your Tesla Model 3 in cold weather is essential for optimal performance and longevity. Regular checks and plugging in during long-term storage are key steps in ensuring your vehicle remains in top condition.