Tesla is a leading name in the world of electric vehicles (EVs), with a range of cars that have captured the attention of car enthusiasts and environmentalists alike.
As more people switch to electric cars, questions about their maintenance and upkeep become increasingly relevant. One such question that Tesla owners may have is: how long can a Tesla sit without being used?
A Tesla can sit without being used for 2-4 weeks without issues. After that, the battery might drain, and certain systems may need recharging.
While it may seem straightforward, the answer is more complex than one might think.
Several factors can affect the amount of time a Tesla can sit without being driven, including the model of the car, the condition of the battery, and the temperature and weather conditions where the car is stored.
In this article, we’ll explore the various factors that can impact a Tesla’s longevity in storage and offer some tips on maintaining your Tesla during periods of inactivity.
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Does The Tesla Battery Drain If Not Used?
One of the most common concerns of Tesla owners is whether their car’s battery will drain if the vehicle is not used for an extended period. The answer to this question is that the Tesla battery will drain if the car is not used for an extended period.
Most Tesla cars come equipped with lithium-ion batteries, known for their high energy density and long cycle life due to contact charge and discharge.
However, the rate at which the Tesla battery drains will depend on several factors.
The first factor that can impact the rate at which the Tesla battery drains is the type of battery the car uses.
Even the best lithium-ion batteries can lose a small percentage of their charge over time.
The rate at which the battery loses its charge will depend on the temperature and how long the car is stored without use.
Another factor that can impact the rate at which a Tesla battery drains is the battery’s condition.
If the battery is brand new, it will hold a charge for longer than a battery used for several years.
Also, if the battery is damaged, such as from extreme heat or cold exposure, it may lose its charge more quickly than a healthy battery. Therefore, ensure your battery is in good condition and maintained properly.
What Happens If I Don’t Drive My Tesla For A Month?
Several things could happen if you don’t drive your Tesla for a month. The first and most obvious is that the battery may drain, leaving you with a dead car when you try to start it again.
Moreover, certain systems within the car may need recharging after a period of inactivity, such as the 12-volt or powertrain batteries.
One of the biggest concerns for Tesla owners who store their cars for an extended period is the potential impact on the battery’s health.
Lithium-ion batteries, like those used in Tesla vehicles, are sensitive to temperature and can lose capacity over time.
Suppose the battery is left to discharge completely or at a low charge for an extended period. In that case, it can cause permanent damage and reduce the battery’s overall capacity.
To avoid this, Tesla recommends charging the battery to around 50% if you plan to store your car for an extended period.
Furthermore, keeping the car in a cool, dry place is important to prevent exposure to extreme temperatures that could damage the battery or other systems within the car.
How Long Can Tesla Go Without Being Driven?
Tesla cars can go for several months without being driven, but the time can vary depending on several factors. The most critical factor is the state of charge of the car’s battery.
Tesla cars use lithium-ion batteries, which can lose their charge over time. If the battery’s charge drops too low, it can cause permanent damage to the battery and reduce its overall capacity.
To prevent this, Tesla recommends keeping the battery charged to around 50% if you plan to store your car for an extended period.
Another factor that can impact the time a Tesla can go without being driven is the condition of the car’s tires.
Tires can lose pressure over time, and leaving a car stationary for an extended period can cause flat spots to develop.
To prevent this, Tesla recommends inflating your tires to their maximum pressure rating before storing your car.
In addition, you may want to consider using tire cradles or jacks to lift the car’s weight off the tires, reducing the risk of flat spots.
How To Prepare My Tesla For A Long Period Of Inactivity
Preparing your Tesla for prolonged inactivity involves several key steps to ensure the car remains in good condition. The first step is ensuring the car’s battery is adequately charged.
Tesla recommends keeping the battery charged to around 50% if you plan to store your car for an extended period.
This can help prevent the battery from losing its charge and reduce the risk of permanent damage.
Another critical step is to ensure the car is stored in a safe, dry location free from extreme temperatures or humidity.
Ideally, you should store your Tesla in a garage or covered carport, away from direct sunlight or exposure to the elements.
Besides, you may want to consider using a car cover to protect the car’s exterior from dust, dirt, and other debris.
It’s also important to inflate the tires to their maximum pressure rating and to use tire cradles or jacks to lift the car’s weight off the tires, reducing the risk of flat spots.
Can I Leave My Tesla Plugged In For A Long Time?
Yes, you can leave your Teslas plugged in for a long time. The manual recommends leaving your Tesla’s plugged in when not using it.
Depending on the type of Tesla, the battery should be charged between 20-90% for long-term storage, while you should charge the Model 3 between 40-80%.
It is also important to ensure the battery temperature is kept in an ideal range, as charging in extreme temperatures can reduce life.
Moreover, it is important to remember that leaving the car plugged in for a long time may increase electricity bills.
Conclusion
Tesla vehicles can sit without being used for up to 2-4 weeks without any significant issues, but after that period, certain systems may need recharging.
However, several factors can impact the longevity of a Tesla in storage, including the battery’s condition, the car’s model, and the storage temperature.
Tesla cars use lithium-ion batteries, and if left to discharge completely or in a state of low charge for an extended period, the battery can suffer permanent damage, which could reduce its overall capacity.
Therefore, it’s crucial to maintain the battery’s charge to around 50% and store the car in a safe, dry place.
Inactivity can also cause tires to lose pressure, resulting in flat spots developing, so inflating the tires to their maximum pressure rating and lifting the car’s weight off the tires with tire cradles or jacks is essential.
Storing the car in a cool, dry place can help prevent exposure to extreme temperatures that could damage the battery or other systems within the car.
Sources
How Much Range Is Lost On A Parked Tesla Model 3
What Do You Do With A Tesla When You Leave For Vacation
How Long Can a Tesla Sit Without Charging?
Electric cars: how to prepare for an extended period of inactivity
