Tesla cars are renowned for their build quality, stellar performance, and seamless functionality. In fact, it’s hard to think of any other EV brands that can compete with Teslas on any of these metrics.
Even so, Teslas, like other cars, are prone to software glitches or hardware malfunctions which require a reboot or reset. While such issues are not all that common, it’s important to be aware of how to deal with them when they arise so you don’t have to spend money at a service station.
Fortunately, resetting a Tesla is a very simple and straightforward process. In this guide, we’ll explore how to perform the different reset methods for a Tesla Model 3.
Tesla Model 3 Reset Options
Soft Reset
This reboot option restarts the software without disrupting the power supply to the electronics. In other words, the soft reset allows the Tesla to reboot without the need to discharge or recharge the electronics onboard the vehicle.
There are two soft reset methods for rebooting a Tesla. The first method is known as the “touchscreen reset” while the other is referred to as the “full vehicle reboot”. Here’s how to reset a Tesla Model 3 using each of these soft reset methods:
How to Reset a Tesla Model 3 by Touchscreen Reset
- Press both scroll wheels on either side of the steering wheel simultaneously and hold for about one minute
- Wait for the display screen to go dark before releasing
- The screen should automatically refresh and come back on
It’s worth pointing out that you can perform a touchscreen reset while driving your car without interfering with the driving functionality.
Even so, it’s recommended to perform a soft reset while your car is parked. This is because any instruments that you need to engage via the touchscreen will be unavailable to you for the duration of the reset process.
How To Reset a Tesla Model 3 – Full Vehicle Reboot Option
If your Tesla Model 3 doesn’t resume normal functioning after performing a touchscreen reset, the next best alternative is a full vehicle reset. There are two methods for performing this reboot on a Tesla Model 3.
Method 1
- Put your Tesla Model 3 in a park and ensure all doors are shut
- Push down on the brake pedal and hold
- Press and hold down the scroll wheels on either side of the steering
- Wait until the display screen comes back on before releasing the brake pedal and the scroll wheels
Method 2
- Put your Tesla Model 3 in a park and ensure all doors are shut
- Go to “Controls” on your display screen, select “Safety and Security” then toggle “Power Off”
- Wait for about 5 minutes before touching any part
- Once this time has elapsed, open your car door or press the brakes to start your car
Hard Reset
If none of the aforementioned soft reset methods restore your Tesla’s normal functioning, you need to perform a hard reset, also known as a “hard reboot”. This method typically entails disconnecting your Tesla’s smaller 12 V battery so that the electronics can discharge before reconnecting your battery.
Performing a hard reset requires a good understanding of electrical systems. It is best to leave this process to auto repair professionals.
However, if you don’t live near a Tesla service station or are unable to find a mobile tech for whatever reason, you can still perform this reboot by yourself. Just remember to be careful not to damage any car components as this can void your warranty.
How to Hard Reset a Tesla Model 3
- Place your Model 3 in a park
- Turn off the Climate Control system
- Open the front trunk (Frunk) and turn off your car
- Remove the top panel from inside the front trunk to gain access to the battery
- Disconnect the 12 V battery terminal using a 10 mm socket wrench,
- Fasten all seat belts on the back seats to prevent them from getting stuck or tangled.
- Reach beneath the seats to release the clips that hold the seats in place and lift the seats.
- Take out the foam cover from the wire harness then disconnect and unplug the wire harness.
- After 5 minutes, reconnect everything and you should be all good.
Wrapping Up: At what time should I reboot the Tesla Model 3?
As you can see, Teslas, like most other cars are not exempt from the occasional malfunction. The best part is that most of these functionality issues can be resolved through a simple soft or hard reset as described above.
Ideally, you should reboot your Model 3 when the software update is functioning erratically, the touchscreen is not functioning properly, or when facing connectivity issues
That said, these basic troubleshooting methods may not always work if your Tesla Model 3 is experiencing more complex software or hardware issues. Therefore, if your car fails to boot after attempting these reset methods, consider booking an appointment with a Tesla service station to have the problem diagnosed and resolved by professionals.
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