How Often to Replace Tesla Battery? Maximize Longevity!

Last updated on September 10th, 2023 at 03:23 am

Tesla is a renowned brand that designs vehicles with exceptional components, including the battery. 

While the battery of a Tesla is highly efficient and has received great reviews on its performance, it can begin to degrade over time, leading to a reduction in its performance level. 

To avoid any unpleasant surprises while on the road, I recommend that you replace 

the battery periodically. How often do you replace a Tesla battery?

Tesla batteries typically require replacement after about eight years. However, this timeline can vary based on factors like usage patterns. If you don’t perform regular maintenance on your vehicle, you may need to replace your Tesla battery sooner. By monitoring your battery’s health over time, you can ensure that you’re always driving with optimal performance and safety.

In this article, I’ll provide all the necessary details on the cost of Tesla battery replacement and some useful tips on making your Tesla battery last longer. 

How Often Do You Need to Replace a Tesla Battery?

According to the warranty, Tesla Model S and X cover about 150,000 miles (8 years), while Tesla Model 3 and Y cover 100,000 miles (8 years)  before needing replacement.

While the warranty may cover you for a certain number of miles and years, It’s important to note that the lifespan of Tesla batteries may vary based on different factors. 

Here are some factors that may affect the lifespan of Tesla batteries:

• Battery chemistry. Tesla batteries can vary depending on the battery chemistry. 
• Tesla changes its battery chemistry occasionally, with some models containing NCA while others contain LFP. 
• How you use and maintain your Tesla battery can affect its lifespan. Constant speed charging, high-speed driving, and heavy loading can cause the battery’s health to degrade.
• The temperature you subject your Tesla battery to also affects its lifespan. Harsh weather conditions may cause the battery’s health to degrade.
• Constantly charging your Tesla battery up to 100% may cause the battery’s health to degrade.

Here are the potential signs to look out for when your Tesla battery is degrading and needs replacement:

• A common sign of Tesla battery degradation is reduced range. Your Tesla may not be able to travel as long as before.
• The battery capacity diminishes, and you may need to charge it more frequently. Also, the charging speed of your battery will reduce significantly.
• The energy consumption of your Tesla may increase. When your battery starts to degrade, you may require more energy than normal to go on your usual rides.
• Your Tesla battery may display an inaccurate charge state due to battery degradation.

What Does It Cost to Replace a Tesla Battery?

Here is a table showing the battery replacement cost for each Tesla model.

Tesla Model	Cost
Tesla Model S and X	$12000-15000
Tesla Model 3	$13500
Tesla Model Y	$15000

Here is a list of the factors that may affect the cost of Tesla battery replacement:

• The cost may be higher than expected due to labor and installation. If you don’t plan on replacing the battery, you’ll need to pay for it.
• You may need to pay for the cost to cover the warranty of your new battery
• The higher the capacity of the battery replacement, the more money you’ll spend on the cost. If you want something better, you’ll need to pay more.
• You’ll also have to pay some taxes and fees along with the cost of Tesla battery replacement.

Here is a breakdown of the processes involved in replacing a Tesla battery:

#1. Eligibility Test

The first thing a technician will do when replacing a Tesla battery is to assess it.

The technician will perform a diagnostic assessment to ensure the battery is eligible for replacement.

#2. Old Battery Removal and New Battery Installation 

Once the technician confirms that the battery requires replacement, the next step is removing it from its compartment. 

The expert technician carefully disconnects all the electrical components connected to the battery before removing it.

After successfully removing the old battery from the Tesla, the technician will proceed to attach the new battery. 

The technician will connect the components and wirings extracted from the old battery to the new one. 

#3. Battery Testing

After installing the new Tesla battery, the technician will test it. A series of tests are done on a Tesla battery to ensure it is in perfect shape.

One of the tests includes the charging and discharging test. The technician connects the battery to a power source to ensure it can hold charges.

The technician will also do a performance evaluation of the battery. This test monitors the voltage, current, temperature, and battery health to ensure they are of standard value.

The technician will perform a diagnostic check on the battery to determine if any anomalies are present.

The technician will then finally test the battery’s integration with your car. This test ensures the battery works and communicates well with the car’s control system.

Why Does My Tesla Battery Degrade Fast?

Some factors may have a hand in the rapid degradation of your Tesla battery, and you need to know about them.

Here are some reasons your Tesla battery may degrade fast:

#4. Intensive Use

Going too hard on your Tesla will undoubtedly contribute to your battery degradation.

You should refrain from taking your Tesla on aggressive rides or frequently taking it on long-distance trips.

Also, putting too much load on your Tesla while riding will cause stress to your battery.

#5. Bad Charging Habits

Frequently charging your Tesla battery up to 100% will reduce the battery’s lifespan. The maximum charge for daily use should be 80%, while 100% for long trips.

Super or deep charging your Tesla battery daily may cause fast battery degradation. The supercharging method generates more heat and weakens the battery’s health.

#6. Exposure to Extreme Temperature

Extreme temperatures, either hot or cold, have a part to play in the fast degradation of Tesla batteries. These conditions add stress to the battery and reduce its efficiency.

#7. Age 

Your battery may degrade fast because of its age. The efficiency of your battery reduces with time and increased charging cycles. Consider getting a new Tesla battery if this is the case.

How to Make Tesla Batteries Last Longer?

Here are some tips to lengthen your Tesla battery’s lifespan:

#1. Battery Charging Habits

The common misconception is that the longer you charge your Tesla battery, the longer it lasts. 

However, charging your Tesla battery for too long can affect the battery’s health.

When you charge your Tesla battery, it should not exceed 80%. You may charge the battery up to 100% if you plan on going on a long trip.

Frequently charging the battery up to the maximum level causes battery degradation. Also, always charge the battery when the charge level is low. 

Do not use supercharging if you’re not going on a long trip. Slow charging options are better for daily use because they are gentle on your battery health.

#2. Stay Clear of Extreme Temperatures

Riding your Tesla when extreme weather may take a toll on its battery health. Preheat or cool your Tesla before taking it out for a ride when the weather is cold or hot.

Furthermore, store your Tesla in an appropriate place when it is not in use. Do not park your Tesla in the open during hot weather so the heat doesn’t wear out the battery.

#3. Adopt Moderate Driving Styles

Being cautious when driving helps ensure your battery’s health doesn’t deteriorate. Driving at high speeds constantly and opting for high acceleration stresses your battery.

#4. Keep in Touch with Updates 

Always ensure that your Tesla software is current. Tesla constantly modifies their software to improve performance in car components, such as its battery health.

#5. Ensure Your Tire Pressure Is on a Standard Level

Tire pressure affects the overall energy consumption of your Tesla. Therefore, maintaining your car’s tire pressure helps to keep your battery health in check.