If you're planning to park your Tesla for an extended period, such as during a vacation or a long trip, taking the right steps can help preserve your battery life and ensure your car is ready when you return. Here’s a comprehensive guide to keep your Tesla in top shape while it's idle.
---
1. Set the Charge Level
Tesla recommends maintaining the battery charge level between 50% and 70% for extended storage. Charging the battery too high or letting it deplete completely can stress the battery over time.
- Before parking: Charge your car to around 70% and adjust the charge limit in the Tesla app or on the car’s touchscreen to prevent it from charging beyond this point.
---
2. Enable Sentry Mode Strategically
Sentry Mode is a great security feature, but it uses significant energy when enabled. If your car is parked in a secure location, consider turning Sentry Mode off to conserve battery.
- How to disable: Go to Controls > Safety & Security > Sentry Mode and toggle it off.
---
3. Turn Off Cabin Overheat Protection
Cabin Overheat Protection keeps your car cool during hot weather but can drain the battery. If you’re leaving your Tesla parked for weeks, it’s best to disable this feature unless you expect extreme heat.
- How to disable: Navigate to Controls > Safety & Security > Cabin Overheat Protection and turn it off.
---
4. Use the Energy Saving Mode
For older Tesla models that include the Energy Saving feature, enabling it can reduce the car's energy consumption while parked.
- How to enable: Go to Controls > Display > Energy Saving and select the option.
---
5. Keep the Car Plugged In
If possible, leave your Tesla plugged into a power source while it's parked. This prevents the battery from dropping to critically low levels and ensures that it maintains an optimal charge.
- Tip: If you’re in an area prone to power outages, check the Tesla app periodically to ensure the car remains charged.
---
6. Minimize Battery Drain from Apps
Avoid frequently checking the Tesla app while the car is parked, as this wakes up the car and uses energy. Instead, trust the settings you’ve put in place and limit app interactions.
---
7. Pre-Condition the Climate Only When Necessary
If you need to access the car while it’s parked, avoid using the app to pre-condition the climate unless absolutely necessary, as this feature consumes energy.
---
8. Park in a Controlled Environment
Where you park can affect battery performance. If possible, park your Tesla in a garage or shaded area to protect it from extreme temperatures. Temperature fluctuations can increase battery drain, especially during extreme cold or heat.
---
9. Disable Smart Summon Standby
If your Tesla is equipped with Smart Summon, ensure that Standby Mode is disabled to conserve battery life.
- How to disable: Go to Controls > Autopilot > Standby Mode and toggle it off.
---
10. Check for Software Updates in Advance
Before leaving, make sure your Tesla’s software is up to date. This ensures the car has the latest energy-saving features and bug fixes.
- How to check: Navigate to Controls > Software and look for available updates.
---
11. Monitor Battery Through the Tesla App
While it’s best not to check frequently, monitoring your Tesla’s battery level every few days or weekly can help ensure it stays within the recommended charge range. If the battery drops significantly, you can remotely adjust settings or plug in the car if needed.
---
Final Thoughts
Tesla vehicles are designed with advanced systems to handle periods of inactivity. By following these steps, you can reduce unnecessary battery drain and protect your car’s battery health. With proper preparation, your Tesla will be ready to go as soon as you return.
Have you tried these tips? Share your experiences or additional suggestions in the comments below!
