Model 3 - Starting the low-voltage battery (lead-acid type) with jumper cables
Tesla Model 3 - Low voltage battery
Start the low-voltage battery (lead-acid type) with jumper cables
Vehicles manufactured in Gigafactory Shanghai before approximately October 2021 and in Fremont factory before approximately December 2021 have a low-voltage lead-acid type battery.
If you jump start Model 3 using another vehicle, follow the vehicle manufacturer's instructions. The following instructions assume that you are using a low-voltage external power supply (such as a jump starter).
- Open the bonnet:
- Remove the maintenance panel by pulling it upwards to release the clips in the trim that hold it in place.
- To remove the passenger compartment liner panel, pull it upwards to release the clips in the liner that hold it in place.
- Connect the positive (+) red wire of the low voltage power source to the positive (+) red terminal of the low voltage battery.
Caution: Do not allow the positive cable to come in contact with other metal components, such as the battery mounting bracket, as this may damage the Model 3.
- Connect the negative (-) black cable of the low voltage power source to the negative (-) black terminal of the low voltage battery.
- Turn on the external power supply (refer to the manufacturer's instructions). Press the touchscreen to wake it up.
Note: It may take several minutes to get enough power to wake up the touchscreen.
- When you no longer need the external low voltage power, disconnect both cables from the terminals on the battery. Start with the negative (-) black cable.
- Replace the passenger compartment trim panel by placing it in its original position and pressing down until it is firmly seated.
- Replace the maintenance panel by placing it in its original position and pressing down until it is firmly seated.
- Close the bonnet.
If you replace the lead-acid battery with a different model, you need to change the gateway configuration on the vehicle touchscreen. For more information, see service manual.