EVsHelp troubleshooting guide
Tesla not charging
A Tesla that is plugged in but not charging may be waiting for a schedule, already at its charge limit, or reporting a charger or vehicle fault. The exact message is more useful than guessing the cause.
Do this now
- 1
Read the charging message
Park safely. Check the vehicle touchscreen or Tesla app for the charging status and any alert code. Record the exact wording, battery percentage and charging location.
- 2
Check the charge limit
Compare the current battery level with the set charge limit. A car at its limit may not start another session. Follow the charge-limit recommendation displayed for your vehicle rather than automatically setting it to 100%.
- 3
Check scheduled charging
Look for a scheduled start time in the charging controls. If you need to charge now, use the normal Start Charging control if available. Scheduling menus vary by model and software version.
- 4
Confirm the charger session
At a public charger, check that the session has been started and authorized using its normal screen or app. Note any station error. For a charger-side problem, call the operator using the number on the charger.
- 5
Follow the alert-specific guidance
Find the exact alert in your model’s owner manual. Do not repeatedly retry a damaged charger, open charging equipment or attempt a high-voltage repair. If the alert does not clear, contact Tesla service or request help.
Still stuck? Request support
Have your model and year, exact alert, battery percentage, charger network and location ready. EVsHelp can help you work through the next safe step; a vehicle fault may need Tesla service.
Common questions
Why is my Tesla not charging even though it is plugged in?
Plugging in does not guarantee that charging has started. A schedule, charge limit, session authorization or an alert may be preventing it. Start with the displayed charging status.
Should I reboot the vehicle?
Do not treat a reboot as a universal charging fix. Follow the instructions for the exact alert and your vehicle’s manual. A reset does not make damaged charging equipment safe.
Manufacturer guidance
General guidance, not a diagnosis or a substitute for your vehicle’s manual. Instructions vary by model, year, software and charging equipment. EVsHelp is independent of Tesla and Nissan.