By: Otaiba Ahsan
Owning a Tesla comes with plenty of exciting firsts, from the initial software update to the first road trip powered entirely by electricity. But one of the most basic tasks new owners encounter is figuring out how to open the charge port. Since there’s no traditional gas cap or obvious latch, it can be confusing at first glance. However, the process is simple. Continue reading for steps on how to open the charge port of your Tesla.
Opening the Charge Port
The charge port is located on the left side of your Tesla, often part of the rear tail light assembly in most models. As long as the vehicle is in Park, there are several convenient ways to open it:
- Using the Charging Cable: The simplest way to open it is to press and release the button on the Tesla charging cable while holding it close to the port. See the image from Tesla for reference.
- Touchscreen: If you’re sitting inside any parked Tesla and are on the main screen, a visual of the car will always be present alongside a few different control options. Tap the lightning bolt icon on the touchscreen located above the charge port on-screen, and this will open it.
- Mobile App: Open the mobile app, then tap Controls and hit the lightning bolt icon located next to the charge port on-screen.
- Physical Touch: If the vehicle is unlocked and an authenticated phone is nearby, then you can gently press the charge port with your hand and it will open.
- Voice Commands: Press the voice command button on the right side of the steering wheel and simply ask the car to “open the charge port.”
NOTE: You can also open the charge port through a slightly longer method from within the car using the touchscreen. Tap Controls > Charging > Open Charge Port. While this is the least efficient way to open the port, it’s another option available for owners.
NOTE: Not sure where to charge your Tesla? See our complete guide on locations where you can charge your Tesla.
The Bottom Line
The steps on how to open the charge port of your Tesla are easy. There are several methods available, however the simplest way is to use the charging cable by pressing and releasing the button on the cable while holding it close to the port. You can also get the port open using the touchscreen, mobile app, voice command, or by physically touching the port while the car is unlocked and an authenticated phone is close by.