Tesla is renowned for its innovative, high-performance, and technologically sophisticated electric vehicles. But what do you do if you reside in a cold climate and your heater starts malfunctioning or stops working?
The most frequent causes of Tesla heater not working are low battery, hardware failure, and firmware problems or limitations of the heat pump system.

Why is Tesla Heater Not Working in Cold Weather? (Fixes Added)
There are several possible reasons why your Tesla heater might stop working. Some of them are related to the car itself, while others are external factors. Here are some of the most common causes:

1. Heat Pump System Limitations
In exceptionally cold weather, the heat pump mechanism used by some newer models might not be able to collect enough heat from the outside air. This implies that the cabin might not stay warm enough, particularly when it is below freezing outside.
A heat pump is an apparatus that moves heat from one location to another. A refrigerant gas that absorbs and releases heat as it changes state is compressed and expanded to produce cooling.
In a Tesla, the heat pump can warm the cabin by drawing heat from the battery, the electric motor, or the ambient air.
However, there isn’t much heat that can be transported when the outside air is really cold. For the heat pump to generate sufficient heat for the cabin, it must work longer and consume more electricity. Its efficiency and effectiveness are lowered as a result.
The Fix:
Step-01: Pre-Conditioning
Preconditioning your vehicle entails remotely activating the temperature control system while it’s still plugged into a power source using an app on your phone or the touchscreen in your vehicle.
Pre-conditioning is a feature that lets you heat or cool your car before getting in. Your heating system’s comfort and effectiveness can both be enhanced by this.
You may arrange Pre-conditioning through the settings menu on the touchscreen or utilize the app. Before you go, condition your car for 30 to 60 minutes while it is connected in. In addition to warming up the batteries and the cabin, this will use less energy.
Step-02: Parking Location
Place your car in a warm spot. To allow it to warm up, place it somewhere enclosed, like a garage. If you park your car somewhere warm, it won’t get too cold at night or when it’s not in use. Additionally, this will prolong the life and range of your battery.
2. Heat Pump System Firmware Issue
It is possible that the heat pump system has a firmware issue related to extremely cold climates, and a software update is being developed to remedy it. This means that the system may malfunction or display error messages in certain circumstances.
Tesla has acknowledged this issue and stated that it is developing a software update that will improve the heat pump system’s efficacy in cold weather.
The update will also address some other minor bugs and glitches related to the system. You can check for updates on your car’s touchscreen or on your phone app.
The Electronic Expansion Valve (EXV) firmware updates 2021.44 through 2021.44.30.6 were installed in the Tesla vehicles were recalled.
Tesla Vehicles Recalled
Tesla | Built-in |
Model S | Between March 5, 2021 to January 12, 2022 |
Model X | Between October 31, 2021 to January 11, 2022 |
Model 3 | Between February 13, 2021 to January 12, 2022 |
Model Y | Between June 30, 2021, and January, 2022 |
The Fix:
While you wait for the software update or recall service, you can attempt some temporary fixes or mitigations for the Tesla heater issue. Here are some suggestions and explanations from Tesla and other vehicle owners:
Step-01: Climate Settings
Set the climate control to Auto and adjust the temperature to your liking. This is the most effective heating and cooling configuration.
Auto mode will adjust the fan speed, air flow direction, and air temperature based on your preferences and the outside climate.
Step-02: Recirculating Air Mode
Reduce the quantity of cold air entering the cabin by using the recirculation mode. Instead of drawing in outside air, the recirculating air mode will recycle the air inside the cabin. This will help conserve energy and keep the cabin comfortable.
Step-03: Reboot Your Car
Reboot your vehicle by holding down both scroll wheels on the steering wheel until the touchscreen turns black. This may remove any heat pump-related error messages or glitches. This will not affect your data or preferences.
You can also check for updates via the touchscreen in your vehicle or the app on your smartphone.
3. Low Battery Level
Tesla uses a heat pump system to heat the cabin, which draws power from the battery. If your battery level is too low, the heat pump might not work properly or at all.
To avoid this, make sure you charge your battery regularly and avoid driving in extreme cold conditions with a low battery.
The Fix:
To prevent this, you should charge your battery to at least 50% or more before driving in cold weather. You can also use a Supercharger or a Destination Charger to get a faster charge.
4. Hardware Failure
In rare cases, the heat pump or other components of the heating system might fail due to wear and tear, damage, or manufacturing defects. This can result in no heat or reduced heat output.
To diagnose this, you can check the error codes on the touchscreen or use a diagnostic tool. If you find any hardware issues, you should contact Tesla customer service or schedule a service appointment through the app as soon as possible.
The Fix:
If you find any hardware issues with your heating system, you should contact Tesla customer service or schedule a service appointment through the app. They will be able to assist you with troubleshooting, repairs, or replacements.
Related Post: Tesla Air Conditioning Smell – Causes and Solutions
Frequently Asked Questions [FAQs]
Can I drive my Tesla if the heater is not working?
Yes, but it may be uncomfortable in cold weather and could potentially fog up the windows.
Is it common for Tesla heaters to stop working?
While it’s not common, some owners have reported issues with the heating system.
Does the Tesla warranty cover the heater?
Yes, the heater is covered under Tesla’s comprehensive vehicle warranty.
How much does it cost to fix a Tesla heater?
The cost can vary depending on the specific issue and whether it’s covered by warranty.
How long does it take to fix a Tesla heater?
The repair time can vary, but most issues can be resolved within a few days.
Can a software update fix the heater issue?
Yes, sometimes a software update can resolve heater issues.
Can I use the Tesla app to diagnose the heater issue?
The Tesla app does not have built-in diagnostic tools, but it can be used to schedule service.
Does Tesla offer roadside assistance for heater issues?
Tesla offers roadside assistance for breakdowns, but it’s best to contact Tesla support for specific guidance on heater issues.
Read Also: Tesla Air Filter Replacement Cost: Everything You Need to Know