Tesla Overheating: All You Need To Know

Last updated on September 12th, 2023 at 03:02 am

Undoubtedly, Tesla automobiles are ones with impeccable designs and top-notch fabrication. But this does not make them insusceptible to occurrences like overheating.

If you own a Tesla, you may have experienced your car overheating. Overheating is dangerous because it prompts various issues, from decreased performance to vehicle shutdown.

Not to worry, this article gives insights into what causes overheating scenarios and potential strategies for mitigating the problem.

Typically, your Tesla will heat up due to factors ranging from poor maintenance to environmental conditions. Fast charging in your Tesla can cause overheating due to the increased power drawn from the battery. Charging your Tesla at a high rate causes an increase in electrical resistance in the battery cells, leading to increased heat.

In this article, we will discuss the possible causes of your Tesla overheating and how to prevent it from happening in the future. 

We will also provide some tips on properly maintaining your car so that it runs smoothly and efficiently for many years.

Why Is My Tesla Overheating?

There are numerous reasons why your Tesla will overheat. However, the most common include a faulty cooling system, fast charging, and extreme external conditions.

#1. A Faulty Cooling System

A typical Tesla cooling system combines a fan, radiator, and other components. 

It operates by circulating a coolant fluid around the battery and other components to absorb heat generated from the vehicle operations. 

The coolant fluid then dissipates this heat through a radiator or evaporator within the vehicle to regulate its temperature. 

Tesla also utilizes advanced active thermal management systems to optimize their cooling systems further. 

These designs reinforce peak performance levels even in extreme temperatures and conditions.

Furthermore, cooling systems help regulate the engine’s temperature, transmission, and other systems to keep them running at optimal levels. 

It transports heat away from the car’s components, such as the battery and motor, to keep them from getting too hot. 

You can see that the cooling framework plays a major role in temperature regulation.

If left unchecked, faulty cooling systems can lead to decreased performance and potential damage to the car’s components.

#2. Fast Charging 

Fast charging in Tesla vehicles is an advanced technology designed to provide a quick and efficient way to charge electric cars. 

It utilizes a combination of proprietary hardware and software optimized for the specific type of battery used in Tesla vehicles, allowing them to charge at higher speeds.

Anytime fast charging occurs, there is usually overheating due to the high current draw.

The battery cells cannot handle extreme currents for long periods, increasing temperature. 

Also, it can prompt the infotainment CPU to overheat due to the high cooling power draw. This is because the infotainment CPUs usually need a certain amount of cooling power. 

When too much current is drawn, a significant amount of cooling power is diverted to the car battery. Consequently, the CPU will overheat and become damaged.

#3. Extreme External Conditions

Extreme environmental conditions, such as high temperatures and direct sunlight, can result in overheating. 

Heat will build up in the car’s battery, motor, and other components, leading to a rise in the temperature inside the cabin. 

High external conditions can go to the extent of even suppressing the Cabin Overheat Protection, even when it’s active. 

The cabin overheat protection feature is designed to protect passengers from extreme temperatures inside the vehicle. 

It works by monitoring the temperature inside the vehicle and activating a cooling system where necessary. 

Additionally, poor ventilation or blocked cooling vents in the car can also contribute to overheating. 

They prevent air from entering the system, thereby prompting excessive heat up in the engine. 

How To Fix a Tesla That is Overheating?

If you experience any overheating scenario in your Tesla, there are several things you can do to fix the issue. 

These include simple DIY fixes that aren’t demanding and don’t require much time.

Below are some steps you can take to stop the overheat.

#1. Turn Off the Engine, Park Under the Shade, and Open the Windows

When you notice your Tesla overheating, the first thing to do is ride over to a cool and shaded area; switch off the car. 

This will help to reduce the temperature of the engine and prevent any further damage from occurring. 

After that, turn off the air conditioner and open the windows to allow for ventilation. 

Without proper ventilation, the car’s temperature can continue to rise until it reaches dangerous levels, which can cause irreparable damage. 

Opening the windows also allows fresh air into the car, which helps keep occupants comfortable and safe.

#2. Inspect the Vents and Ensure They’re Clean

Another thing you should do is inspect the cooling vents in the Tesla.

The cooling vents prevent the car from overheating by allowing air to flow freely and cool down components. 

If these vents become clogged or blocked due to dust, dirt, or other debris, this can cause the car to overheat as it cannot release heat properly.

Check for any obstructions or build-up and remove them if present. You can do this using an effective evaporator cleaner.

As a guide, frequently cleaning your vents helps prevent overheating and ensures that your Tesla runs safely and efficiently.

#3. Check the Coolant Level

Checking the coolant level is essential when you notice your Tesla overheating. Without the proper coolant, your Tesla’s engine can overheat and become damaged. 

It ensures that there’s enough liquid to keep your vehicle running at optimal temperatures and prevent damage from occurring. 

It can also help identify any potential issues with the cooling system so they can be addressed quickly and efficiently.

#4. Contact the Customer Service

If the temperature does not go down after following the above steps, contact Tesla’s customer service for further assistance.

You can likewise report any visible sign of damage, such as leaks or smoke, to them.

How Do You Prevent Overheating in Tesla?

Overheating in Tesla vehicles can be prevented through strategies such as proper maintenance, cooling systems, and proper settings.

Regular maintenance is essential to ensure that all components function properly and that the cooling system works correctly. 

The use of cooling systems such as active air suspension, liquid-cooled battery packs, and heat pumps can help keep the temperature inside the vehicle at an optimal level.

As a guide, frequently monitor the cooling framework for possible damages and ensure the coolant levels are okay.

Likewise, always inspect the radiator fan for any blockages or damage; replace it when necessary. 

Also, don’t forget to check the battery and other components for signs of wear and tear. 

Keep the battery cool by avoiding direct sunlight, and using a fan when charging can help prevent overheating.

Another vital step is activating the cabin overheat protection in your setting.

The cabin heat protection is a feature that helps reduce the heat entering the cabin and keep it cool, even during summer. 

To activate this feature, follow the steps below:

• Navigate to controls and choose safety
• Select cabin overheat protection
• Click on ‘on’. The air conditioning will operate whenever the cabin temperature exceeds 40⁰C or the initial settings.

These steps will help keep your Tesla running efficiently and reduce any risk of overheating.

What is Tesla Overheat Protection?

Tesla overheats protection is a climate control feature that maintains the cabin temperature within range. 

It’s an air conditioning that prevents the temperature from getting too high-usually above 105⁰F.

Those who live in hot climates will find the design very helpful. The reason is that it keeps the car cool even under intense heat.

With the principle of smart air distribution, the system removes heat by activating the air conditioner and regulating the fan speed accordingly.

Though the cabin overheats protection is very effective, kindly note that it’s restricted to the car’s internal environment. 

Also, it goes off automatically anytime the temperature is okay.

Is the Tesla Overheat Protection Worth It?

With Tesla’s Overheat Protection feature, drivers can be sure that their cabin is safe from overheating. 

This feature utilizes a combination of sensors and cooling systems to ensure that the internal temperature remains within a safe range. 

It ensures that both drivers and passengers have a pleasant and comfortable ride.

Altogether, the Tesla overheat protection is worth it because it offers maximum protection against extreme heating scenarios. It also keeps your vehicle running safely.

Though the feature is a valuable addition to the Tesla vehicle line-up, it still has some pros and cons.

Here are some of them:

Pros	Cons
Improved safety	Requires energy from the battery
Prevent health issues that can result from suffocation, especially in asthmatic patients	Reduced performance when the battery gets too hot
No extra cost for a monthly subscription compared to the internet connection feature	It sometimes required extra maintenance