Tesla owners can now rejoice as a new over-the-air update has been released that allows them to enable the charging port heater separately, without having to warm up the entire car. This update, which will be rolled out across the entire Tesla lineup, is a game-changer for owners dealing with the challenges of charging in winter.
Charging port heaters were first introduced in Teslas in the latter part of 2020, but not all vehicles produced that year were equipped with this feature. Now, all models will come with a dedicated heater that specifically warms the charging port to prevent ice buildup, making it easier for owners to open it in winter. However, up until now, enabling the charging port heater was not a straightforward process.
Previously, owners could only enable the charging port heater in conjunction with other functions such as the rear defrost or cabin heating. With the latest over-the-air update, Tesla has finally allowed owners to activate the charging port heater independently. This update, included in software version 2024.44.3.1, introduces a new option called Charge Port Heater in the Controls then Service menu.
The new feature has been confirmed on the Model Y and Model X, with plans to extend it to the rest of the Tesla lineup. Owners living in colder climates will benefit the most from this update, as they can now keep the charge port ice-free without the need to defrost windows or heat up the cabin. The charging port heater will still activate automatically with general defrost functions, battery preconditioning, or when selecting a Supercharger as the destination.
While frozen charging port doors are not a common issue, Tesla owners have faced challenges with frozen doors and windows in winter. The frameless doors on Tesla vehicles require the side windows to roll down slightly to open the door, which can be hindered by ice buildup. Additionally, frozen door handles, especially on the Model S and Model X, can cause frustration as the powered handles may struggle to extend through thick ice.
On the other hand, Model Y and Model 3 door handles are manually operated, but can also be blocked by ice. Tesla has made design improvements to make breaking ice easier on these door handles. Frozen charging ports and door handles are among the most common winter issues faced by EV owners. Have you experienced these challenges with your Tesla? Share your experiences in the comments below.