Tesla vehicles use a liquid cooling system to regulate the temperature of the battery, motors, and other components.
The coolant fluid circulates through various parts of the car and helps to dissipate heat and prevent overheating.
However, sometimes the coolant level may drop below the optimal range and trigger a warning message on the dashboard.
The warning message may say “Coolant Low – OK to Drive” or “Coolant Low – Service Required”.
The former means that the coolant level is slightly low but not critical, while the latter means that the coolant level is dangerously low and needs immediate attention.
In either case, you should not ignore the warning and take action as soon as possible.
What Causes Tesla Coolant Low Warning?
There are several possible causes for the Tesla coolant low warning, such as:
#1. A leak in the cooling system
This could be due to a faulty valve, hose, pump, radiator, or other component. A leak may not be visible from the outside, as the coolant may drip onto the underbody panels and evaporate.
However, you may notice a sweet smell, a hissing sound, or a puddle under the car.
#2. Air trapped in the cooling system
This could happen if the coolant was not properly bled after a service or a repair. Air bubbles can interfere with the coolant flow and cause the system to lose pressure and overheat.
#3. A faulty sensor or software glitch
This could cause the car to misread the coolant level or display a false warning. A simple reboot or a software update may fix the issue.
How to Fix Tesla Coolant Low Warning?
Depending on the severity of the warning and the cause of the problem, you may be able to fix the Tesla coolant low warning yourself or you may need to take the car to a service center.
Here are some steps you can take to troubleshoot the issue:
#1. Check the coolant level
To do this, you need to open the front trunk and remove the plastic cover on the passenger side, next to the windshield.
You will see the coolant reservoir with a cap and a min/max line. Use a clean dipstick to measure the coolant level.
If it is below the minimum line, you need to add more coolant. If it is above the max line, you need to drain some coolant.
#2. Add or drain the coolant
To add coolant, you need to use the recommended Tesla coolant fluid, which is Zerex G48 antifreeze coolant.
You can buy it online or at a local auto parts store. Do not use any other type of coolant, as it may damage the system.
To drain the coolant, you need to use a drain pan and a wrench to loosen the drain plug under the car. Be careful not to spill or splash the coolant, as it is toxic and corrosive.
Wear gloves and eye protection when handling the coolant.
#3. Bleed the cooling system
To bleed the cooling system, you need to remove any air pockets that may have formed in the system.
To do this, you need to run the car for about 15 minutes with the heater on full blast and the cap off the reservoir.
This will circulate the coolant and force the air out. You may need to repeat this process several times until the coolant level stabilizes and the warning disappears.
#4. Reboot the car
To reboot the car, you need to press and hold both scroll buttons on the steering wheel for about 10 seconds.
This will reset the car’s computer and clear any software glitches that may have caused the warning. You may also need to check for any software updates and install them if available.
#5. Take the car to a service center
If none of the above steps work or if the warning is severe, you need to take the car to a service center as soon as possible.
There may be a serious leak or a faulty component that needs to be replaced. Driving with low coolant can damage the car and compromise its performance and safety.
How to Prevent Tesla Coolant Low Warning?
To prevent the Tesla coolant low warning, you need to maintain the cooling system and check the coolant level regularly. Here are some tips to keep the cooling system in good condition:
#1. Follow the recommended service schedule
Tesla recommends servicing the cooling system every four years or 50,000 miles, whichever comes first.
During the service, the coolant will be flushed and replaced, and the system will be inspected for any leaks or damages.
#2. Monitor the car’s temperature
Tesla vehicles have a temperature gauge on the dashboard that shows the battery and motor temperature.
If the gauge shows a high temperature or a red zone, it means that the car is overheating and needs to cool down.
You should stop the car and let it rest for a while, or reduce the speed and the load on the car. You should also avoid driving in extreme weather conditions or on steep hills that may strain the car.
#3. Avoid mixing different types of coolant
Tesla vehicles use a specific type of coolant that is compatible with the car’s materials and specifications.
Mixing different types of coolant can cause chemical reactions, corrosion, clogging, or reduced performance.
You should always use the recommended Tesla coolant fluid, which is Zerex G48 antifreeze coolant, and never add water or any other substance to the coolant.
Conclusion
Tesla coolant low warning is a common issue that can affect the car’s performance and safety. It can be caused by a leak, air, a sensor, or a software glitch. You can fix it by checking the coolant level, adding or draining the coolant, bleeding the system, rebooting the car, or taking it to a service center. You can prevent it by servicing the system, monitoring the temperature, and using the proper coolant. By following these steps, you can keep the cooling system in good shape and enjoy your Tesla ride.
