"Help! My range dropped by 30%!"
Relax, it's normal. Batteries are like humans—they hate the cold. Chemical reactions slow down, and the car has to work overtime to heat the cabin and the battery pack itself.
Winter Driving Guide
Maximize range and safety in freezing temperatures.
♨️ The Secret Weapon: Preconditioning
Never start a cold drive if you can help it. Use "Scheduled Departure" in the app.
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1. Set Schedule
Tell the car when you leave.
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2. Stay Plugged In
Uses wall power, not battery.
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3. Warm Battery
Regen braking works instantly.
❄️ Winter Survival Checklist
1
Check Tire Pressures
For every 10°F drop in temp, tire pressure drops by 1 PSI. Inflate them to the recommended 42 PSI (Cold).
2
Use Seat Heaters vs Cabin Heat
Seat heaters use barely any energy. Blasting the cabin heater drains the battery fast.
3
Watch for "Snowflake" Icon
A blue snowflake next to the battery bar means the battery is cold and some energy is locked away. It returns when warmed up.
4
Winter Tires are Mandatory
All-Season tires turn into hockey pucks below 45°F. Get dedicated winter tires (Michelin X-Ice or Pirelli Sottozero).
Help! My door handles are frozen shut!
Don't pour hot water on them (glass may crack).
- Method 1: Use the App to "Unlatch Door".
- Method 2: Give the handle a firm bump with the side of your fist to break the ice (The "Tesla Fist Bump").
- Prevention: Spray silicone lubricant on the seals before winter starts.