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2018 Model 3 Slow Charging & Intermittent Connection Issues

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Paul Z. · rep 0 · May 22, 5:25 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2018 Tesla Model 3 Long Range

Hey everyone, my 2018 Tesla Model 3 Long Range has been acting up with charging lately. Sometimes it charges super slow, like 5-10 miles per hour on a Level 2 charger, and other times it just stops charging altogether after a few minutes. I've tried different Superchargers and my home Wall Connector, and the issue seems to follow the car.

I've checked the charging cable for any visible damage, and it looks fine. The charging port light sometimes flashes red, but not always. It's really frustrating when I plan a trip and can't rely on a full charge. Has anyone else experienced this with their Model 3?

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 22, 5:25 AM

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ClearTheCode admin answer:

Intermittent or slow charging on a Tesla can stem from several electrical components. Here's a breakdown of common causes and troubleshooting steps:

  1. Check Charging Port & Cable:
    • Inspect the charging port for any debris, bent pins, or corrosion. Use a flashlight if needed. Ensure the charging cable is fully seated and locked.
    • Try a different Tesla charging cable if available, as a faulty cable can cause these symptoms.
  2. Software Reboot:
    • Perform a soft reboot of your vehicle's infotainment system (hold both scroll wheels on the steering wheel until the screen goes black and the Tesla logo reappears).
    • Ensure your vehicle's software is up to date. Outdated firmware can sometimes cause charging anomalies.
  3. 12V Battery Health:
    • A weak or failing 12V auxiliary battery can sometimes cause unexpected electrical issues, including affecting the main charging system's ability to communicate or operate correctly. While less common for direct slow charging, it's worth considering if other electrical glitches are present.

Common Causes:

  • Faulty Charging Port Assembly: Damage or wear to the internal components of the charging port itself.
  • Onboard Charger (OBC) Malfunction: The OBC converts AC power to DC for the battery. A fault here can lead to slow or no charging.
  • Charging Contactor Issues: Internal relays that connect the battery to the charging system can fail.
  • Software Glitches: As mentioned, software can sometimes mismanage charging protocols.
  • Diagnostic Codes: A diagnostic scan might reveal codes like P0D2A (Charging System Performance) or P0D2B (Charging System Voltage Low).

When to See a Shop: If the issue persists after trying different cables, Superchargers, and performing a software reboot, it's highly recommended to schedule a service appointment with Tesla. Charging system components are complex and require specialized tools and knowledge for diagnosis and repair. Continuing to use a faulty charging system could potentially lead to further damage or safety concerns.

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