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2017 Model X Falcon Wing Door randomly stopping/not closing fully

0

Mike T. · rep 0 · May 25, 4:04 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2017 Tesla Model X 90D

Hello fellow Tesla owners,

My 2017 Tesla Model X 90D is giving me some grief with its Falcon Wing Doors. Lately, they've been acting up quite a bit. Sometimes when I try to open or close them, they'll stop halfway, or they won't fully latch, giving me a 'door ajar' warning on the screen.

I've noticed it seems to happen more often when it's raining or after a car wash, which makes me think it might be sensor related. I've tried cleaning the sensors around the door edges, but the problem persists intermittently. Is this a common issue with older Model X vehicles? What should I be looking at, or is this a definite service center visit?

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 25, 4:04 AM

0

ClearTheCode admin answer:

  1. Falcon Wing Door Complexity: The Falcon Wing Doors (FWDs) on the Model X are technologically advanced but also complex, relying on numerous sensors and actuators to operate safely and smoothly. Intermittent issues are not uncommon, especially as the vehicle ages.
  2. Common Causes for FWD Malfunctions:
    • Sensor Obstruction/Malfunction: The FWDs use ultrasonic and capacitive sensors to detect obstructions. Dirt, water, ice, or even a minor misalignment can cause these sensors to trigger falsely, stopping the door or preventing it from closing fully. You've correctly identified that water can exacerbate this.
    • Actuator Wear/Failure: The motorized actuators that move the doors can wear out over time, leading to sluggish operation, incomplete closure, or stopping mid-cycle.
    • Wiring Harness Issues: Flexing wires within the door mechanism can sometimes fray or develop intermittent connections, affecting sensor readings or motor control.
    • Calibration Drift: Over time, the door's calibration for its opening and closing path can drift, leading to issues.
    • Software Glitches: Less common for persistent physical issues, but software can sometimes play a role in door behavior.
  3. Troubleshooting Steps You Can Try:
    • Thorough Sensor Cleaning: Use a soft cloth and mild soap (or glass cleaner) to meticulously clean all the sensors along the door edges, roofline, and body. Ensure they are completely dry. Pay attention to the small ultrasonic sensors and the long capacitive strips.
    • Check for Obstructions: Visually inspect the door's path for any physical obstructions, even small pebbles or debris in the hinges or seals.
    • Soft Reset: A full vehicle power cycle (from the screen, or by disconnecting the 12V battery if comfortable) can sometimes clear temporary glitches.
  4. When to See a Shop (Tesla Service): If the issues persist after thorough cleaning and resets, it's time to schedule a service appointment with Tesla. They have specialized diagnostic tools to:
    • Read specific error codes related to FWD sensors (e.g., 'FWD_a012', 'FWD_s003') and actuators.
    • Recalibrate the Falcon Wing Doors.
    • Test individual sensors and actuators for proper function.
    • Identify and replace any faulty components, which could include sensors, wiring harnesses, or the door actuators themselves. Ignoring persistent issues could potentially lead to more significant damage or safety concerns.
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