Common reasons your Kia Niro won’t charge include:

• Problems with the charging cable
• Scheduled charging set
• 12V battery issues

In this article, we’ll look at the reasons why your Kia Niro won’t charge and ways to fix the problem.

Problems with the Kia Niro Charging Cable

Your Kia Niro must be plugged into a power source to charge. This is the first place to look if the car won’t charge. There are 3 ways to charge your Kia Niro.

1. AC – Level 2 at home or Destination Charger
2. DC – Fast charger
3. Trickle charge (Level 1)

AC – Level 2 Charger at Home or Destination Charger

Kia recommends that you use a Level 2 charger either at home or at a public destination charger. Your Kia Niro does not come equipped with a Level 2 cable as standard (some models may include one).

A level 2 charger can only be installed by a qualified electrician and should have its own breaker on your circuit.

The Niro EV uses a Type 2 connection, which will charge your car in approximately 9 hours.

But sometimes we run into problems with the Level 2 cable. This can range from a damaged cable to overloading of the circuit to foreign bodies in the socket preventing a complete connection.

Damaged Cable

EV charging cables are made of robust plastic and rubber but they can get damaged and if they do they will no longer charge your car efficiently.

The biggest culprit for damage is your car’s wheels and tires. It’s really important that you don’t drive over your cable.

Cables live in your garage or outside. If you drive over them the internal wires and makeup get damaged. If your car can’t make a complete safe circuit then charging won’t begin.

Firstly unplug the cable from both the wall and your car.

Examine the cable thoroughly, looking for any cracks, unusual bulges, or splitting. If you find any, you must replace the cable. The cable can’t be repaired and must be disposed of appropriately.

Replacement cables can be purchased online or through the Kia dealership.

Circuit Overloading

Your wall charger’s circuit may have overloaded at some point during the charging process, or even prior to plugging in.

Overloading will cause the circuit to trip. This is usually because of an error in your cable (damage) or another heavy-duty item has been plugged in, in the same zone as your charger. Everything in this zone is now unavailable.

This of course is a good thing as without a circuit breaker you will have a fire.

Look around your charging area to spot any unusual items plugged in, such as power washers or any high-usage item with an element such as a dryer.

If there is anything, unplug it, and go and check your circuit board. Flick the switch back on and hopefully, you’ll be back charging with no further difficulties. If it trips again then there is a bigger electrical issue. Unless you are a certified electrician, you will need to call one to check what’s going on.

Unplug everything in that zone and don’t use them until the electrician arrives.

This doesn’t help your charging position. Hopefully, you have enough range to get you to a fast charger or a destination charger nearby.

Foreign Objects or Debris in Cable

If your cable seems fine and nothing seems to have tripped there could be something wrong with the connection seal. This could be a foreign object in your connection.

With the cable unplugged at both ends check the connection for any debris. This can be anything from fluff or leaves to a bug. Bugs like the heat and climb in the connection without you realizing it.

If your onboard computer can’t make a complete seal then charging won’t begin.

Don’t stick anything sharp or pointy into the connection. If you can see anything there use a small soft brush or plastic tweezers to remove the item.

DC – Fast Charger

If you are having problems at a destination or fast charger, it’s easy to assume that it’s your car that’s the problem. But more often than not it’s the charger that is giving trouble.

Most fast charging stations are regularly monitored, (less so with destination chargers) but they can still cause trouble.

There could be a reduction in power in the area or an individual charger could be down.

Try moving to another charger. It’s a good idea to move to one that another customer has just used.

New Kia Niro models come with 500kWh of free charging, (about 1500-2000 miles) with Electrify America. If you have been using a fast charger on a regular basis, it could be that your free charging has run out.

Trickle Charging

Trickle charging is Level charging. It is not recommended by Kia as it takes so long to increase the range (about 36 hours). But many people find that this suits fine. Your Niro might not be your primary car, or you might not do a whole lot of miles. If your trickle charge is not working, the reasons are usually the same as your AC Level 2 – damage to the cable, or an overloaded circuit.

Reserved Charging Set

Kia Niro has the function to set a specific charging time and day. This may have been interrupted or hasn’t yet happened. This can explain the reason your Niro hasn’t charged.

You can check if a schedule is set by doing the following:

• Select EV option
• Select Charge Management Tab
• Charging & Climate
  • Settings Icon (cog)
  • Scheduled Charging
• Select the Start and End Time
  • You can select Off Peak only or Time Priority
• Select Ok
• After you connect the cable, scheduled charging will begin at the set time (this might be immediately)
• Once the time is set, tap the ‘Next Dpearture’ settings (cog)
  • Departure
  • Select the Day frequency
  • Click Ok
• There are a couple of reasons why you might not realize a Schedule Charge is set up. The car could have been in a dealership for a service and they set up a schedule and never canceled it. Or, you share the car with someone else and they set it up without telling you.

You can override the Schedule by connecting the cable and pressing the Deactivation button, located just below the steering wheel, on the left-hand side, within 3 minutes.

12V Battery Issues

All EVs, including the Niro, have two batteries. The high voltage battery and also a 12V battery.

The 12V runs all the auxiliary items in your EV, such as locking, window function, and media. If your 12V is flat then your car won’t charge or start.

The 12V lives under the hood. The hood latch is released by pulling the lever on the left-hand side in the driver’s footwell. It has an icon of an open hood.

Go to the front of the car and gently slide the latch, located in the middle, to the left. Your 12V is located on the right-hand side near the front.

The high voltage cables are identified by bright orange. Don’t touch them!

Remove the terminal caps for both the positive and negative. You can check the voltage with a battery charger or multi-meter. Anything less than 12V+, your battery requires a boost.

A booster is the better option but not always practical or available. You can jump your car from a donor gas car but never another EV.

Either way, the cables need to be attached in a particular sequence.

• Connect the Red (+) to Red (+)
• Connect the Black (-) to Black (-)
• Your battery charger will give you a reading of the voltage in your battery if it’s a digital booster.
• Turn on the battery pack
• When 12V+ is achieved, disconnect the cables in the reverse order
• Black and Black (-)
• Red and Red (+)

Hopefully, the battery now has enough charge to get you going.

If your 12V is continually discharging or not holding a charge, it’s probably time for a new one. The factory-installed 12V is pretty standard. If you need a new one, it’s worth up specking to a better brand or indeed purchasing one of the acid-free Li-Ion ones.

They are more expensive at approximately $400-$500, but they have a much longer life span. They don’t however like a lot of cold, so speak to your Kia dealership if you live in a cold state.

The 12V is boosted by the high-voltage battery, models post-2020 have a software update that gives the battery a lift every 24 hours but your 12V can still run into problems.

Your 12V has most likely drained because something has been left on, such as interior lights. However, if you have extras plugged in, particularly a dash cam, this is known to drain the 12V. It’s good to check that the dash cam is switched off when you exit the car.

You can switch the car to Utility Mode if you wish to have things plugged in while you’re stationary and this will save the 12V. But the 12V is an integral part of charging your car and if it’s flat, then this won’t happen.

If you are relying on a scheduled charge to begin, and the 12V is below a certain level, this won’t kick in. If a 12V goes below 10V a number of times then it’s considered goosed. It won’t ever really recover or hold a charge to 12V again and needs to be replaced.

The life of an acid battery is approximately 3-5 years whereas a Li-Ion 12V (really 16V) will last 10 years plus.

The post Kia Niro EV Won’t Charge appeared first on EVjuicedup.

Common reasons your Kia Niro charge port door won’t open are:

• Pressing on the incorrect area
• Car is locked
• The temperature is below zero
• Debris or dirt in the hinge mechanism

In this article, we’ll look at why the Niro charge port won’t open and how we can fix it.

Pressing on the Incorrect Area

The Kia Niro EV charging port is a the front of the car. In models manufactured in 2022 and before, the door is to the front right, where the traditional grille would have been. In the new 2023 model, the door is located front and center.

On older models, there is a plug icon on the door flap. To open the door simply press to the right of this icon and the push mechanism will release the door.

The 2023 model has the same mechanism but no icon to guide you. You still press the same area of the door to release it.

If you press anywhere else on the door the mechanism won’t release. With any mechanical item, over time the hinge may loosen giving scope for a wider press area.

Kia Niro is Locked

The second most common reason your charging door won’t open is that the car is locked. There is a slight quirk here where the unlocking of your car and opening the charge door is timed.

For example, if you unlock your car, open the trunk to place items in, and then go and open the charge door, you only have 15 seconds to do so.

If it has been longer than 15 seconds, the charge door will relock and, you will have to unlock it again, either with the key fob or within the car.

Although there’s no key attached to the charge door, it is attached to the locking mechanism.

This is for security reasons as you don’t want anyone tampering with your charge port when you’re not around.

Another reason is the doors might be set to Autolock. This can be altered onscreen in the User Settings Mode by Selecting Door.

Here you have:

• Autolock or AutoUnlock

In Autolock you have the following options:

• Approach Unlock
• 2 Press Unlock
• Power Liftgate

In AutoUnlock you have the following options:

• Enable on Shift or Enable on Speed
  • Enable on Shift to Park
  • Enable on Vehicle Off
  • Off

Each of these options is a personal choice but having one enabled is a reason why your charge port won’t open.

The Temperature is Below Zero

EVs and very cold climates can be problematic. That said, Norway has one of the highest EV per head per capita in the world. But below-zero temperatures can cause issues.

This is especially a concern for your charging door for a couple of reasons:

• Lack of seals
• Location of the Kia charge door
• The door is plastic

Lack of Seals

The charge port door opens and closes with a pressure hinge mechanism. Although there is a seal internally that seals the charge connection, there isn’t a rubber seal on the surrounding edge of the door. This may be altered in the future (as it is a problem for a few EV brands), but currently, it can cause problems where freezing rain can get behind the door leaving it frozen shut.

Location of the Kia charge door

Many EVs have their charge ports on the side of the vehicle but the Kia Niro port is located at the front. This can cause problems in sub-zero as the door is getting the full force of the oncoming temperature and also any spray from cars to the front.

This leads to ice and snow getting behind the door and freezing it shut.

The door is Plastic

Plastic is everywhere and it is a fantastic product to make any item in any shape. But even though chemical engineering and stabilizers enhance the behavior of plastic, continued zero temperatures can make the plastic brittle.

It also will freeze much quicker than a metal product and will freeze the door shut.

So what is the answer if your charge port door is frozen shut? The first go-to answer is to hit the door with the butt of your hand to crack any ice. You don’t want to damage the door, so don’t hit it too hard.

You can also spray the area with some De-Icer. Only spray around the edge of the door. Leave a couple of minutes and try opening it again.

Don’t pour water over the door directly as you could damage the internal charge connection.

If you know the temperature is going to drop then it’s a good idea to house your Kia indoors or under cover but this I know is not always possible.

Debris or Dirt in the Hinge Mechanism

The opening mechanism is a roll-away hinge, which is pretty standard in most fueling hatches. Because of the lack of seals, debris, and dirt can gather along the edge and work their way into the hinge.

Over time, as this builds up it can prohibit the hinge from working correctly. It causes the door to get stuck in the closed position. The movement should be smooth, so if you notice that it’s a bit rough you should take action.

Keep the door hinge as clean as possible using a soft cloth.

Don’t use any detergents or sprays in the port area as they can damage the charging area.

If you can’t open the door and feel that it is the hinge at fault, try pressing the door release and gently prise open with a store card (I don’t recommend a Credit Card or Debit Card in case you damage it).

Once open, clean the area thoroughly. Once clean, spray a small amount of WD40 on the hinge and wipe away any excess. It’s an area that requires regular cleaning to prevent grime build-up.

Software Update

Occasionally software updates can cause glitches with the locking mechanism. Always make sure you have the very latest software installed in your Kia Niro to avoid any problems.

If you have exhausted all of the above and are still experiencing problems it could be that the actuator is giving trouble or that a fuse has blown. It’s my advice that at this stage you speak with Kia’s expert technicians. You don’t want to void any warranty by replacing the incorrect module or mechanism.

The post Kia Niro Charging Door Won’t Open appeared first on EVjuicedup.

The Audi e-tron mileage range is from 232 miles – 300 miles depending on the model you have according to Audi, but the real range can be considerably lower depending on your driving style, climate, and how many extras are on your car.

In this article, we’ll look at what factors affect the range and how you can extend it.

Audi e-tron Range

The Audi e-tron is available in Q4, Q8, and GT models. Each has a different specification and range distance and also the price varies significantly.

The range stated above is the Audi factory range but we know in the real world the actual range can be quite different, and unfortunately much lower. Many factors can affect how your range is calculated, such as:

• Climate
• Driving Style
• Use of AC/ heating
• Extras on your car
• Apps and auxiliary items

We’ll look at these individually.

Secrets of your Audi e-tron

Hidden features you need to know – Today!

How Climate Affects Your Range

The Audi e-tron (and most EVs) are powered by Lithium Ion battery cells. Chemical reactions occur to make each cell work and power your vehicle.

In cold weather, this reaction is slowed and reduces the amount of power available to you thus reducing the range of your car.

But we must also consider that an EV differs from an ICE (Internal Combustion Engine) in how it heats your car. An ICE car uses residual heat from the engine to warm the interior of your car. An EV doesn’t have this extra heat and so needs to redirect some battery power to heat the cabin and so also reduces the range of the high voltage battery.

The Audi e-tron range is reduced by approximately 8-10% in a zero-degree climate. Prior to 2021, a winter package was available on models, which included heated seats and steering wheel, heated windscreen jets and adaptive wipers, and preconditioning for the high voltage battery. Some of these features are now standard but some are not available, and I wonder if is it because they were draining so much of the battery and ultimately the range.

Preconditioning should always be done through the wall charger and not the high-voltage battery as the range reduction is too high, and you haven’t even left for your commute yet.

How Driving Style Affects Your Range

The way you drive your e-tron can also reduce the range of your car. Steady driving will maintain a steady range reduction. If you are driving fast, then it makes sense you are using more energy. Although the highway speed is 65-70 mph, driving at 60 mph consistently will conserve energy in your battery and therefore extend the range.

But if you are driving in Stop-Go traffic, you are constantly accelerating and braking, which with a larger battery such as the e-tron, will cause the range to drop much quicker than a smaller battery.

If you have a heavy foot, this will hugely impact the range of your e-tron. To achieve the optimum range smooth acceleration and braking are required.

How Does the Use of AC/ Heating Affect Range

The use of AC and heating will reduce your battery range. Where you live and the general climate is definitely a factor but that doesn’t mean you can’t own an EV in a very cold climate. Norway has one of the highest EV ownership, with 79% of all Norwegian cars sold in 2022 being an EV or PHEV.

It just means you need to be aware that your range will drop more rapidly than normal if you have your heating on (or AC) for long periods of time.

The initial dash range will drop by 25-30% but will readjust as time goes on to approximately 15-20% reduction. This is still quite the loss for the sake of being ambiently cold or warm.

It’s better to preset the temperature to a certain degree to maximize the most of your range.

Preconditioning your e-tron is also a battery guzzler. Preheating can use 8%+ of a charge. It’s better to use the power from a charger, (wall) to precondition before you leave the house rather than the power from the battery.

How Do Extras on your e-tron Affect Range?

Weight is also a factor in your range. The Audi e-tron is one of the heaviest EVs on the market, at approximately 5500 lbs compared to the Tesla 3 at 3552 lbs. There’s no denying it’s a larger car, with more space, but the high-voltage battery is also heavier.

A heavier car means more work for the batteries in order to power the car to move, which in turn reduces the range of the car.

But when you then add extras to the car, such as roof boxes or bike racks this reduces the range even further.

The more aerodynamic your roof box is the less range reduction there will be. But the extra weight could be a range reduction of 10-15 miles in every 100 miles traveled.

The same can be said for a bike rack on the rear of the car. However, if you have bikes on the roof, the range reduction will be very significant as the aerodynamics are reduced and the e-tron is fighting against it.

How Do Apps and Auxiliary Items Affect Range?

Other items that can affect the range are things that are running in your car. Well, what’s the point in having extras if you can’t use them right? Well yes, and if you have plenty of range and aren’t traveling very far then no it doesn’t matter what you have running.

On the other hand, if you’re doing a long journey and aren’t fully sure of the charge points along the way, it might be a good idea to limit any auxiliary items, for example, turn the heated seats off (especially in the rear) and limit apps on your info screen. The more devices you have plugged in the more drain that is on the battery.

Ways to Extend the e-tron Battery Range

There’s nothing worse than range anxiety, and if you can’t quite believe the range shown this is exacerbated further. But there are ways that you can extend or at least preserve some of your range, according to Audi. They are:

• Efficiency Driving Mode
• Preconditioning
• Maintain the vehicle

Audi Efficiency Driving Mode

As it suggests, the Efficiency Driving Mode is designed to make the most of your battery. There are six modes in your e-tron: auto, comfort, all-road, dynamic, off-road, and efficiency.

Each adjusts the suspension to suit the driving mode. By reducing the drag on the suspension the car becomes more energy efficient and therefore uses less range than if you were in dynamic mode.

Preconditioning

As I mentioned already, preconditioning your e-tron can drastically reduce your range by up to 8%. But if you utilize the energy from the wall charger instead, this will preserve the high-voltage battery.

Maintaining your e-tron

Maintaining your e-tron’s service schedule will keep your battery in good shape. This includes your tires and tire pressure. The weight of your e-tron will wear your tires 20% quicker than an ICE (Internal Combustion Engine). Maintaining the correct pressure is very important so they wear evenly.

Reduced tire pressure (even by a couple of PSI) can make a difference in rolling resistance – the energy required to maintain a certain speed over a particular surface. The higher the rolling resistance the lower the tire efficiency and the lower your range.

Removing any extras on your e-tron will also improve your range. Items such as roof boxes, bike racks, and any excess weight in the trunk will reduce the range. If you’re not using the items they are better off in your garage. The lighter your e-tron the better your range and the lower your range anxiety will be.

I’ve written other articles on common Audi issues, which you hopefully won’t ever experience, but if you do, we have you covered with these posts:

Audi e-tron Won’t Charge – Top Reasons Why!

Audi e-tron Won’t Unplug – Top tips to help you

Audi e-tron Sunroof Leaking – This is why!

The post What is the Real Range of the Audi e-tron? Not what you think! appeared first on EVjuicedup.

Audi e-trons are less expensive to maintain than an ICE (internal Combustion Engine) vehicle and average $3000 – $6000 over 5 years depending on the e-tron model.

In this article, we’ll look at the costs involved in maintaining an e-tron and what is covered under warranty.

5-year cost to maintain an Audi e-tron

The Audi e-tron comes in a variety of different models. The entry point is the Q4, starting price of $49900 before extras and the top model is the RS e-tron GT with a starting price of $142400. That’s quite a variation but they are trying to suit all markets and buyers.

Once you have chosen your e-tron there are a range of different costs to consider going forward, such as:

• Service costs
• Insurance
• Tires
• Fuel

Service Schedule

Audi is considered a luxury brand, with a starting price of just under $50,000. This is still a considerable amount of money and you need to know what to budget going forward in terms of service schedule.

Audi recommends a Service Schedule at every 10k miles, and a tire rotation every 5k miles. This is comparable with Tesla (every 12k miles and 6250 tire rotation). At the first service (10k miles) your Audi tech will check the following:

• Brake Disk thickness
• State of Health of Battery
• Front and rear axle/suspension
• Check the display for any warning lights
• Tire repair kit check
• Tire check – depth and inflation
• First Aid kit expiration date
• Wiper blades
• Multi-point inspection
• Reset the Service reminder

It’s quite an in-depth list and your e-tron should pass all of the above without issue at 10k miles. The average cost for this first scheduled service is approximately $70-$120, depending on location.

The second service at 20k miles is much more detailed and unsurprisingly is twice the cost at $220. The checklist for 20k miles is as follows:

• Replace dust and pollen filter
• Brake Disk thickness
• Brake System – Check for damage and leaks, check brake hoses and bleeder caps
• Charging socket checking for damage, ensuring socket is dry
• Charging socket/cable, checking cable for any damage
• Check high voltage safety instruction labels for readability
• Check high-voltage system components for any damage and/or leaks
• State of Health of Battery
• Steering and driving of vehicle check
• All lights – interior and exterior – check and adjust if necessary
• Front and rear axle/suspension – dust seals on ball joints and tie rod ends
• Front axle drive check coolant
• High voltage cooling system check for damage and leaks
• High voltage cooling system for electrical components check the coolant level and top up if necessary
• Horn Check
• Check the display for any warning lights
• Check Door Hinge Mechanisms and lube if necessary
• Multi-Point Inspection
• Panoramic sunroof systems – Check for any debris
• Plenum chamber and water drain valves check for debris or dirt
• Replace the coolant cartridge in the Rear axle drive
• Safety belts check
• Spare tire check pressure and adjust
• Tire repair kit check for expiration
• Tires, check depth and pressure, and record measurements
• Body and underbody check for corrosion or damage
• Warning triangle check
• Check wipers and windshield washer – add fluid if necessary
• Complete road test
• Reset service reminder

Although the 20k service is much more detailed the price is adjusted upwards. If the Auto Tech discovers that something needs to be replaced (that’s not covered under warranty) this will incur a cost. These are generally expendable items, such as wiper blades, brake pads, etc.

The reality is that you are servicing your car every 10k miles, and rotating tires every 5k. This is more than the average car and unlike some brands, service is not free.

The cost of these can vary depending on where you live but the following is an approximate:

• Wipers: up to $100
• Brake pads and rotors: $700 – 800
• Tire balancing (after new tires): $250
• Engine light: $240

Insurance Costs

Insurance on your e-tron is a cost that has to be factored into your overall running costs. The average insurance cost, on a 2019 e-tron, for a 40-year-old male, with a good driving history is $1900. This reduces to $1400 for a newer 2022 model. It is also dependent on which insurance company you choose and where you are located.

The $1400 is for Nationwide Insurance company but this increases to $3479 for Allstate.

Audi is seen as a luxury brand and luxury cars are more expensive to insure. This is because of the cost of replacing your car if it is written off, but also the high cost of parts if something needs to be repaired or replaced.

However, the average cost of insuring an Audi is much less than insuring the equivalent Mercedes or BMW, which could be as much as $4000.

The cost to insure an 18-20 year old can range anywhere from $4000 – $10000.

Your location is also a factor in the cost of your e-tron insurance. Florida has the highest rate statewide, and Idaho has the lowest. But again your age and driving history will also be taken into account, no matter where you are.

Insurance Comparison

Secrets of your Audi e-tron

Hidden features you need to know – Today!

Tires

Audi recommends that you rotate your tires every 5k miles. This will help maintain the thread for as long as possible. The longevity of your tires will depend on your driving style and the type of tires you choose.

Well maintained, a set of tires will last 25-50 thousand miles. Within the 5-year window, you’ll definitely have to factor in the cost of a new set of tires, given that the average person drives up to 10k miles per year.

EV tires wear quicker than ICE tires because of the acceleration capacity of EVs and also because of the extra weight from the high-voltage battery.

Audi tires are covered under a tire manufacturer warranty for 2-4 years but this is only for manufacture defects and not for punctures or damage from poor roads.

E-tron tires and EV tires, in general, are specifically designed to carry the extra weight of the high-voltage battery and it’s unwise to put non-EV tires on your e-tron.

EV tires are priced between $150-$350 per tire with high-performance tires costing up to and in excess of $500 per tire.

If you look after your tires they will last longer. By looking after them I mean regularly rotating them (every 5k miles), but also continually checking them for uneven wear and regularly checking the PSI (pounds per square inch). PSI can drop by 1 per month. PSI is best checked on cold tires with a reputable air pump, and preferably the same air pump each time.

Wheel alignment is also an important factor in preserving your tires. Although there is a cost to wheel alignment it could save a tire in the long run.

Tire Cost for 2019 e-tron Sportback

Tire Maintenance Costs over 5 years for 75k miles

Fuel Costs

When we talk about fuel for an EV we’re talking about each charge that we require, so this can be quite subjective as to how much traveling you do, week to week. But it’s definitely cheaper than buying gas.

A charge point at home with a 240V Level 2 charger will take approximately 8-9 hours to fully charge and cost on average $50 per month. Compare this to a DC charger, $0.48 per kWh, (50kWh is around 200 miles) will cost you $24. Fast charging will depend on which supplier you choose. New Audi owners are entitled to 250kWh for free which is the equivalent of 4 fills or 800 miles.

Charging at home is always going to be cheaper but you must also consider the initial outlay of installation costs for a Level 2 charger over the first five years. The installation costs are averaging at $1300 – $1500 but this can differ depending on labor costs in your state and also the type of wall charger brand you select. Not all chargers work well with all EV brands, so you might already have a wall charger because this is not your first EV but you should if the one you have is suitable for Audi.

If you are renting or living in an apartment, installing a home charger is not always possible or practical. If so, DC or fast charging is your only way forward. Try not to fast charge every time as this will shorten the life of your high-voltage battery.

Some charging companies offer discounts when you create an account or agree to charge off-peak.

Regardless of which way you choose to charge EVs are a third less expensive than an ICE vehicle.

Overall e-tron Cost

When we look at the overall cost of maintaining and running, an e-tron is mid-range in the top EVs. The running costs are considerably lower than an ICE but higher than a Tesla which has a higher range capacity, but cheaper than a Mach e with comparable range.

The biggest negative when buying and maintaining an e-tron is that it no longer qualifies for the Federal Tax Credit for EVs, as it is not built in the USA. This in effect is an extra cost of $7500.

The cost of any unusual parts (not covered under warranty) that you might need also has to be looked at. They will have to be ordered from Germany, which can be quite pricey and also can extend the time your e-tron could be in the shop. This can mean that your e-tron is an expensive car to purchase and also maintain long-term.

The warranty for your e-tron is 4 years or 50k miles, whichever happens first. The high voltage battery is covered for 8 years or 100k miles. You receive 4 years of roadside assistance for any breakdowns, flat tires, or out-of-charge.

But all items are only covered if there is a manufacturing fault or defect or a recall. Repairing an e-tron can be quite pricey if you are not covered.

The extended warranty is certainly worth considering if you do a lot of mileage. It will typically add $3-5k over 5 years but will last up to 10 years or 120k miles.

I’ve written other articles on common Audi issues, which you hopefully won’t ever experience, but if you do, we have you covered with these posts:

Audi e-tron Won’t Charge – Top Reasons Why!

Audi e-tron Won’t Unplug – Top tips to help you

Audi e-tron Sunroof Leaking – This is why!

The post Is an Audi e-tron expensive to maintain? Need to know this! appeared first on EVjuicedup.

To fix the Audi e-tron blank screen, try a soft reboot; disconnect and reconnect your phone; or check for a software update.

In the article, we’ll look at why the screen is not responding and how to get it working again.

Audi e-tron MMI Screen Reboot

The e-tron screen is known to go blue or black. This can come as quite a shock if you’re driving along. It doesn’t affect the car’s driving ability but the screen options will no longer be visible.

The quickest way to get the screen back running is to do a reboot. A reboot can be done while driving but it’s always best to pull over to a safe place and give it your full attention.

To do a soft reset:

• Press and hold the Volume Knob for up to 10 seconds

This will reboot the MMI and hopefully solve your problem. The problem may reoccur and if it does you more than likely need a software update. We’ll look at that now.

e-tron Software Update

Your MMI and a lot of your e-tron are software and computer-based. Like all computers, from time to time they need to be updated. As of writing this article (Jul 23) Audi has not yet introduced OTA (Over the Air) updates – but has promised this will be available in the future. Any updates need to be activated in the Settings or will show as a Notification onscreen.

Why Do Software Updates Occur?

Audi is constantly improving the software in your e-tron and ironing out any bugs or glitches that creep in. It’s important to keep up to date with all software releases to ensure all safety aspects are secure and continue to be bug-free driving.

Activating a Software Update

To begin your MMI must be connected to the internet through Audi Connect. A notification appearing in the upper display can be activated by pressing on it (or opening the notification center.) Follow the onscreen instructions.

The installation will begin and it can take some time depending on the size of the update.

An additional notification will display once the update has been completed, which will confirm the successful update or that an error has occurred.

If there aren’t any notifications visible, but you feel that your system is a bit glitchy or lagging then you can check the system to see if one is available. To do this:

• Select Settings
• System Maintenance
• Software Update
• Search for Updates

If there aren’t any available then your glitch is being caused by something else. We discuss this further in the article.

If there is an update available:

• Select the Update
• Select Continue
• and follow the onscreen instructions

Once downloaded you can then follow the installation instructions. Don’t switch the ignition on during the installation as this can cause problems.

If an update won’t start, confirm that the MMI is connected to the internet. Try exiting the car, and locking the car to encourage the installation to begin.

Update Error

If the update begins and then stalls, this is a bigger problem. The error message will read

‘Online System Update: Incomplete. Warning! Vehicle Functions Limited.’

If this message appears, you must contact Audi Service without delay. Ignoring the message can lead to certain safety functions being unavailable.

Secrets of your Audi e-tron

Hidden features you need to know – Today!

CarPlay Phone Issues

Your phone connection could also be causing the MMI to glitch or lag. Your MMI might be trying to make a connection to your phone and is failing. The best solution for this is to disconnect your phone and then reconnect it.

Owners online have said that this is more of an iPhone issue rather than an Android problem.

To disconnect or delete your device

• Navigate to the Telephone menu
• Select Connection Manager
• Select Phone Option
• Select your phone
• Push the control knob to show device information
• Delete Bluetooth device

To connect your device

Your device can either be connected using a USB or wirelessly.

• Your e-tron must be parked
• The ignition must be on
• Select Settings
• Connected devices
• Audi Smartphone interface
• New devices
• Press the refresh icon
• Follow the onscreen instructions
  • You might have to select pairing on your iPhone

Sometimes issues and lagging occur with the MMI information screen if an update is required on your phone. Check your phone to see if any updates are available. Your phone might require a restart.

Try pairing your phone again if this is the case.

Screen Not Responding Quick Enough

If your screen is working but seems to be lagging or not as responsive as you would like, the touchscreen might be in the incorrect setting for you.

You can change the screen response time by doing the following:

• Home Screen
• Settings
• MMI – Touchscreen Feed
• Select – Low, Medium, or High

Everyone’s touch is different, select each and see which one works best for you.

Conclusion

If you have tried all of the above and are still having screen problems you will have to contact your nearest Audi dealer in the myAudi app.

• Navigate to the Car Tab
• Select the Service area of ‘Your Audi Partner’

If you have already been verified by the dealership the partner will be visible on the page. If not select ‘Search for New Audi Partner’.

You can then select one from the map or enter it in the search bar and click ‘Save Audi Partner’.

You can then contact them to discuss the problem and schedule a time that suits you best.

I’ve written other articles on common Audi issues, which you hopefully won’t ever experience, but if you do, we have you covered with these posts:

Audi e-tron Won’t Charge – Top Reasons Why!

Audi e-tron Won’t Unplug – Top tips to help you

Audi e-tron Sunroof Leaking – This is why!

The post Why is my Audi e-tron screen not working? Easy Fix below! appeared first on EVjuicedup.

Audi has a service bulletin to address and fix the leaking e-tron sunroof, but it might take more than one visit to the service center to eradicate the problem.

In this article, we’ll look at why the e-tron sunroof is leaking and how to get it fixed.

The issue of the e-tron sunroof leaking

The Audi e-tron is the mid to upper range cost for an EV, starting at $72k+. At this price, you don’t expect it to begin leaking every time it rains.

The problem is that rain doesn’t belong inside your e-tron and if the interior gets wet it can lead to other problems with electronic systems malfunctioning and the interior starting to smell or become moldy.

Many owners have reported their e-tron sunroof is leaking and many owners online have also complained that even after it has been fixed, it continues to leak after the next heavy downpour.

Why is the e-tron Sunroof Leaking?

There are a few reasons why the e-tron sunroof is leaking. They are:

• Clogged Drainage Channel
• Stress Crack in Channel
• Seal Breakdown
• Manufacturing Error

Clogged Drainage Sunroof Channel

The e-tron has a sunroof drainage system that moves water away from the sunroof and the car. However, over time items of debris, such as leaves or dirt can get caught in the channel and cause it to clog.

Water will always find a pathway and if it can’t move away from the car externally then it will unfortunately move internally. Resulting in a leak. The channel should be monitored regularly if the sunroof is continually open. Avoid parking under trees or places where dirt and dust can gather in the channels.

Stress Crack in Sunroof Channel

A stress crack in the channel is a known fault in the e-Tron and is part of a recall service bulletin. The stress crack may be due to a manufacturing defect or through pressure caused by the build-up of debris. Either way, it causes water ingress and will have to be repaired by Audi.

Seal Breakdown

On all cars, where the location of glass or an opening is, there will also be a rubber seal. The seals help maintain a watertight barrier and prevent leaks. But over time all seals will deteriorate in some form.

This can be caused by debris in the channel leading to friction or can be caused by UV breakdown.

The nature of a sunroof lends itself to being open when the sun is shining and this leads to the rubber seals being exposed to significantly more UV rays than to a door seal for example.

Once a seal begins to degrade it must be replaced by Audi.

Manufacturing Error

The last reason that the sunroof could be leaking is from the manufacturing or production stage of the car build. Each component must be fitted correctly to ensure a complete seal and even the tiniest margin of error can cause the sunroof to leak.

The mechanism along with the seal production must take into account all types of weather conditions including excessive downpours. But also must account for extreme temperatures where freezing rain or hail exists.

The other aspect that needs to be tested is high-powered car washing where excessive pressure can infiltrate the seals and lead to leakage.

Secrets of your Audi e-tron

Hidden features you need to know – Today!

Steps to Address the e-tron Sunroof Leakage

We have established the cause of the sunroof leak but how do we go about fixing it?

If you suspect that it is caused by debris then it’s worth taking a look. Open the sunroof fully and with a step stool have a good look into the track runners. If you spot anything, with a soft brush remove any leaves or significant debris. Try not to drag any debris along the runners as this could cause further damage.

If there is any excess water dry this with a lint-free cloth. Hopefully, this will fix your leaking sunroof but if it doesn’t you’ll have to seek advice from the Audi Service Center.

Contacting Audi Service Center

Once you have notified Audi Service Center they will do a thorough check of the seals, and sunroof mechanism to establish what is causing the leak.

A leaking e-tron sunroof has been flagged as a defect and so is covered for repair, regardless of warranty coverage. (4 years/ 50k miles). The fault was first listed in late 2019 but was updated in 2020 in a Service Bulletin.

The technician is instructed to first check all drains and channels to rule out pinching from the pillar trim.

They then check the seals for any defect or detachment.

The glass is then checked for smoothness of track alignment.

The last thing they check is for water that has settled in the wind-defector area of the mechanism. This can occur after an unexpected downpour when the owner can’t get the roof closed quickly enough.

This area is not waterproof and although it may not be noticeable immediately, water can appear over some days.

Audi has developed a lubricant that prevents water from moving along the wind defector mechanism.

However, this special lubricant (G 052 141 A2) is different from the sunroof frame lubricant (Carbaflo) and will react negatively if the two come into contact, causing the tilt mechanism to wear more quickly.

The lubricant should be the fix for the leak. However, other items may have become damaged because of the leak and may need to be replaced. Certain parts can only be obtained from Audi Germany and the service time may be extended by several weeks until they arrive.

Many e-tron owners have complained online that they have had to make two if not three visits to Audi for the same leak. If this is the case for you then be sure that they are aware of the latest bulletin and the lubricant cross-contamination outcome.

Importance of Promptly Addressing A Sunroof Leak

It is very important to address any leak in your e-tron as soon as possible, especially a sunroof leak. The leak will initially materialize in the headliner but as I say, water will always find a route to the ground, so it won’t stop there.

It will cause damage to electrical components which then become a safety issue through lack of lights or other electrical systems.

Water sitting in any pocket or area for periods of time can cause corrosion of metal parts which can hamper the integrity of the car body, should it be in an impact.

Sitting water can also breed bacteria and mold. You may not have noticed a leak but can detect a musty odor. This will compromise the air quality in your car and breathing in this kind of spores can lead to health issues.

What initially started as a small very repairable leak can quickly escalate into a much bigger problem.

If it seems that you have ignored the problem for a longer period Audi may question your terms of warranty.

The best advice is to talk with Audi about your sunroof leak. Take lots of images of the leak. The leak might have dried in the time between when you noticed the leak and your service appointment. Document how and when the leak occurred and the conditions outside when you noticed.

It might not have been raining when you noticed the leak as it can take a couple of days for the water to reach internal parts.

In the meantime, absorb as much of the moisture as possible with towels to prevent further or prolonged interior damage.

Don’t attempt to DIY the repair. Although it might seem like a good idea, Audi is the only one with a full set of e-tron tools, and any sign of interference or trying to repair will void your warranty.

I’ve written other articles on common Audi issues, which you hopefully won’t ever experience, but if you do, we have you covered with these posts:

Audi e-tron Won’t Charge – Top Reasons Why!

Audi e-tron Won’t Unplug – Top tips to help you

The post Audi e-tron Sunroof Leaking – This is why! appeared first on EVjuicedup.

Tesla will fix any panel gap issues in your new car if you notify them within 100 miles of purchase, and the panel gap exceeds the factory’s specification.

In this article, we’ll look at the consequences of panel gaps and what you can do to address the problem.

What is a Tesla Panel Gap?

Tesla first launched back in 2012 but in 2018-2019 it became the market leader in EV production. Unfortunately, increased popularity led to more orders than they could physically cope with in their manufacturing facilities, and quality control began to suffer.

Panel gaps are one of these failures. What is a panel gap? Panel gaps are spaces between the door, frunk, and trunk panels that are significantly wider than a standard vehicle and are noticeably off-sync.

The standard is 1/32 inch but in a Tesla this could be as much as 1/16 inch or more than double the norm.

For most Tesla owners the problem is not an issue, but sometimes the gap is so big that it can result in other issues such as aerodynamic problems or just really jarring with the overall look of the car.

And yes, as a new owner of a car that has cost upwards of $40k, I want it to look and drive perfectly. Why should anyone settle for less?

What is the Process for Tesla Fixing a Panel Gap?

When you receive ownership of your new Tesla, either at a designated address or a Tesla dealership you have up to 100 miles to report any problem you have with a panel gap or gaps.

A panel gap is not a given that Tesla will correct it. It has to be more than the factory specification but finding out what the specification is is not always easy.

Because of the way that Teslas are produced the panel gaps are not always a standard measurement. They may be different from side to side as well as from car to car. So a gap on the passenger side might be very noticeable but the driver’s side can be perfect.

It’s not considered a recall as not every Tesla is identical. If you make a Service query (within 100 miles) Tesla won’t automatically make the repair.

The answer that most Tesla owners receive is that the gap is within the specifications. It’s not a recall as it’s not causing any safety issues and apart from cosmetics, you can still drive your car as normal.

Unless the panel gap is causing a major issue, like the door won’t open or close, or the frunk or trunk won’t open or close, it’s unlikely that it will be seen as an urgent issue by Tesla.

If your Tesla has just arrived and there is a panel gap that is screaming at you, then the best advice is that you reject the delivery and opt for a new model. That’s not to say that the next one will be any better and you will have to wait for the new delivery date, which can be lengthy.

If they do agree to a fix, the fix might not be what you imagine. Don’t expect that your car will automatically be brought back to the factory and new panels fitted.

Secrets of Your Tesla

Hidden Features You Need to Know – Today!

As it’s not seen as a recall, the go-to fix will be a Service Engineer deployed to your house. You must notify Tesla through the Tesla App and give as much detail as possible about the panel gap problem, including images of the gaps and that you have not yet reached the 100-mile limit.

A Service Engineer will arrive and assess the panel gap and the symmetry between it and the corresponding side (if there is one) and make a judgment on what needs to be done.

The go-to action is that one gap is decreased and one is increased to align the symmetry. Or if the frunk or trunk is the issue rubber grommits or spacers will be adjusted if the side of one panel is sitting higher or lower than the other.

Problems that Occur with Panel Gap Fix

Fixing your panel gap may be a problem that you want to avoid as it can lead to other problems that can in turn be more noticeable. The main one is paint chipping or scuffing.

Adjusting panel gaps involves tools that will change the hinge distance on doors or where trim needs to be lifted. Soft tools should be used but this doesn’t always occur. There are many customer complaints online that panel adjustments have been carried out without 100% consideration for the paintwork.

Your car will be covered under warranty if chipped during a repair but you will then need to leave it at a Tesla Service Center for most likely a few days, as a paint touch-up is not a five-minute job.

Apart from the scuffing of paint, there is a chance that the panel gap adjustment can lead to exterior road noise.

The noise may not have been noticeable before but now that the gap is evened on both sides, this can sound like a hurricane with acceleration.

I would prefer to live with a slightly misaligned panel than excessive road or wind noise. When you begin to adjust hinges and seals they never quite sit correctly in the long term. Seals are going to degrade over time anyway and if they have previously been altered, that bit of give is not there in the future when it is required and at that stage, you might no longer have a warranty.

Used Tesla with Panel Gaps

Your new Tesla might only be new to you. The used Tesla market is thriving with some models selling on a par with their original price tag. If this is the case, then your 100-mile buffer is well and truly gone but the panel gap might be causing you some visual irritation.

The Model 3 and Model Y have been known to display trunk panel gaps. This has been somewhat adapted and corrected by Tesla quality control in that 6 rubber adjustment pads have been added. These can be moved either in or out to obtain a more level panel thus reducing the appearance of the gap.

Don’t overadjust as this can lead to further problems with the rear quarter panels. Two full turns is about the limit. The same can be done for the frunk panel gap.

Gaps on Tesla door panels pose a greater difficulty. Your doors are aligned through the interior hinges. To make an adjustment you will have to either loosen or tighten the hinges. This is not a quick and easy fix and you can end up with a bigger door problem than you began with, doors not making a complete seal and hence not locking properly or at all.

Unless you are confident about your ability to correctly adjust the door I would leave well enough alone. The general consensus is that Tesla is just a slightly quirky car and that an oversized panel gap is widely accepted as the norm.

Will the build quality improve in the future? More than likely yes. But the reality is Tesla is not Ford or Toyota and doesn’t have the experience behind them that top manufacturers do. But he’s doing a helluva job keeping up!

Do Panel Gaps Matter?

The reality is that panel gaps do not affect driver safety and are not considered cause for a recall.

It’s a sign that not much attention to detail was made in the production stage, mainly due to the lack of a large-scale assembly line.

Tesla has improved on early models where the gaps were so large that owners were somewhat embarrassed.

In saying that, if you are considering buying a used Tesla then I would definitely check out the panel gaps on any cars that you go to view. Significant gaps and misalignment can also be caused by a previous impact. This is for sure something you should check out as repaired panels that no longer fit can denote the body or frame of the car is distorted.

It’s a good idea to check the car’s full history before parting with your hard-earned dollars. Some panel change movements are going to show on any car that has some age to it. Rubber seals and hinges begin to degrade and sag over time. But overly large gaps suggest something else is occurring, especially if only on one side of the car.

Are Panel Gaps in Tesla Vehicles Normal?

The answer is, unfortunately, Yes. Tesla is just not as good at assembly as its larger rivals. They don’t have the factory experience to correct everything and still keep on top of the enormous orders. Well, how come the Porsche Taycan doesn’t have the same issue, I hear you ask?

Simply, the answer is Mr Musk wanted to provide EV technology to the masses, and with the rise in popularity of the Model 3, with an affordable price tag of $40,000 he couldn’t keep up with the demand and also produce an exceptional quality build.

The result is a fantastic EV car, that people can afford, but lacking in superior finish.

For most Tesla owners this is ok. They’re so delighted to own a Tesla that they simply don’t care that the panel gaps are twice or maybe even three times that of the Porsche.

I’ve written a ton on common Tesla issues, which you hopefully won’t ever experience, but if you do, we have you covered with these posts:

• Why is my Tesla steering wheel hot?
• Will Tesla Fix Interior Problems? Some – Know which Ones!
• Why Are My Tesla Windows Misaligned? Top Tips to Fix!
• Will Tesla Fix the Info Screen? What year was it made!

Check out the Tesla troubleshooting page for more problem Teslas.

Check out the Tesla charging page for common Tesla charging problems.

Check out the Tesla category page for a list of popular Tesla posts.

If you are curious about other EV models, check out the EV FAQ category.

The post Will Tesla Fix Panel Gaps? You better be quick! appeared first on EVjuicedup.

Tesla paint issues include flaking, chipping, and pitting. Repair is covered under Limited Warranty but this can be void if you attempt to fix it yourself or an external outlier is at fault, such as a salt state location.

In this article, we’ll look at the paint issues, how to avoid chipping and flaking, and how to repair them if necessary in the best possible way.

Is Tesla Paint Bad?

Tesla is known to chip, flake, and pit. The paint on your Tesla is a water-based EPA which could explain why it chips and flakes so easily. But lots of car manufacturers now use water-based paints so why is Tesla paint so prone to chips?

There are other items to be considered when we look at the reason for Tesla paint chips. Items like the depth of Tesla paint, and also external influences such as salt treatment in certain locations or even the products you are choosing to clean your Tesla.

Tesla EPA Paint

Very few car brands release full disclosure on all their products or components for fear of competition duplication. But Tesla’s company ethos lends itself to being as environmental as possible and it’s a given that they use water-based paints and plant extracts.

Water-based paints are as the name suggests – water-based – and this reduces the number of VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds) which are much more prevalent in solvent-based paints.

Water-based paints are therefore better for the environment as they produce less toxic waste in both production and during the paint process.

They are less harmful to human health as they give off less vapor during the painting process. They are also less of an irritant when in contact with the skin during paint production than regular solvent-based paint. But not completely without danger and should still be used in well-ventilated areas and with the correct procedures in place.

Water-based paints can offer the same performance in terms of durability and longevity but are known to have lower resistance to external chemicals or cleaning products.

Although the performance gap between solvent and water-based is decreasing with time, there are still advantages of solvent over water, unfortunately.

Secrets of Your Tesla

Hidden Features You Need to Know – Today!

Is Tesla Paint Soft?

The answer to the question is ‘Yes’ Tesla paint is soft. Due to the water-based material and the makeup of Tesla paint, it doesn’t perform as well as some other car paints on the market.

When tested with the Wolff-Wilborn Test Hardener (the industry standard for paint hardness) Tesla paint was graded at an F, on a scale of 6B – 6H, with 6H being the hardest, compared to other car brands that score in the 3H margin.

The reality is that solvent-based paint produces a much harder end result than water-based but the EPA is striving to eradicate all paints with VOCs.

What makes Tesla paint chips easier is not only the softness of the paint but also the depth or lack of depth in the most important areas.

Is Tesla Paint Thin?

The paint on your Tesla is known to be relatively thin compared to other brands. Anything from 4-7 mils (up to 180 microns) is standard for most brands. However, it should be noted that different panels have different depths. The roof for example of most cars is thinner than the hood or the wings. But in a Tesla, the thickness varies greatly from the standard brand, with some measurements as low as 1-4 mil.

The thinner the paint, the more likely it is to chip or flake.

The paint on a Tesla may not be applied all at once, or by different people from day to day and so the discrepancy occurs.

If the paint has not been applied correctly, an ‘orange peel’ effect occurs. This is where the paint can lift and appear to bubble and take on a peel appearance. Paint needs to be applied with many coats, and each is allowed to fully dry and harden before the next layer is applied.

Contacting Tesla About Paint Issues

Tesla understands that they have paint issues. This can be from cracking, pitting, or discoloration. The cracking and pitting results from the paint production side of the build. If you notice any paint problems with your paintwork Tesla will work to fix the problem under the Limited Lifetime Warranty.

There are conditions to the Warranty Clause which include external factors. The paint damage can’t be the result of a crash, aftermarket extras added to the body of the car leading to rust spots, any area of the car that has been touched up, or any part of the car that has been exposed to chemical – be it an inappropriate cleaning product of road salting.

If you have attempted to repair any type of paint defect then this will void your paint warranty.

As soon as you notice a paint problem you should contact the Tesla Service Center – through the Tesla App – and schedule an appointment. Include as much detail as you can and attach photos of any problem areas, be it cracking, flaking, or pitting.

Another issue that some owners have come across with dissatisfaction is that individual panels, one or more have slightly different color tones to the rest. Or that the panel is fading or discoloring at a different rate than the rest of the car.

This could be caused by this particular panel having been painted at a different time of the day than the rest, and the mix is a different consistency. It happens, and unfortunately to a greater extent in Tesla as the production line is smaller than some larger brand manufacturers.

The Answer to Tesla Paint Issues

Tesla will fix your paint issues as discussed above but there are ways that you can protect your paint and prolong the life of the paint coating.

Tesla offers a paint protection film. This prevents chipping on the front bumper and bottom of the rear doors. On some Models, mainly the Y, this can come as standard but a number of owners have claimed that theirs didn’t have any, but it was installed at a later date when queried.

You can buy it as an aftermarket kit through the Tesla store. It is easily applied with a slip solution. of baby soap and water.

The process is as follows:

• Remove the film backing
• Apply the Left Hand Side rear
• Apply the Right Hand Side Read
  • The two sides are not the same
• Apply to the contour of the car
• Do not have any overhang
• Use the squeegee supplied to remove any excess bubbles

This kit is also widely available through third-party sellers online and in-store.

Although it does a good job at preventing some stone damage it won’t eradicate all. The overall shape of a Tesla (all models) results in a lot of large flat surfaces (not aerodynamic) and planes which in turn throw small stones upwards.

The alternative to the protection panels is a ceramic coating or a car wrap. Both can be quite costly but they will protect your paint surface.

Tesla Ceramic Coating

A ceramic coating is not offered through Tesla, however before you jump in and install it, check that it won’t void your warranty. Most professional-grade applications will withstand the warranty process but always better to check first.

Ceramic coating is a liquid polymer, applied with an applicator, that bonds to the surface of your Tesla. It then requires time to cure and may require additional layers to achieve the desired thickness.

It basically acts as an additional layer(s) on top of the paint that is already quite thin to begin with.

Tesla Car Wrap

A car wrap is in essence the same as a Protection Film, but with the complete car being covered. I would advise that you seek a professional grade company to complete this for you.

The wrap is a thin layer of Thermoplastic Color Urethane (TPU) and acts as a barrier to prevent chips and scratches and also blocks UV rays.

The main advantage of a car wrap over ceramic coating is that a car wrap can be removed (using professional tools). Some TPUs also have self-healing abilities, when heated, the film can return to its original shape, filling in any minor gaps that might appear over time.

Both of these processes can be pricey. A ceramic coating can range from $600 – $2000 for a Model 3 and upwards again for a Model Y or S. Ceramic coating is very labor intensive. Each layer takes time to dry and harden. But the coating will last the lifetime of the vehicle.

A car wrap on the other hand can cost from a couple of hundred dollars for the area in front of the wheels (most likely the area for stone chips) to $8000 for a complete car.

The cost depends on the vinyl quality, the color or finish, the time it takes (usually up to a week), and the amount of car you are wrapping. If you are also including door sills then the cost can be considerably more.

A car wrap will last up to 7 years if you take care of it properly.

Can I Fix My Tesla Paint Chips?

The cost of a ceramic coating or car wrap is somewhat cost-prohibitive. You may have purchased your Tesla as a used car, and no longer can avail of the warranty or the chips are just from general wear and tear. So what is the alternative to coating or wrapping your car?

Well, you can invest in a touch-up kit. You can purchase these directly from Tesla at a cost of $60. It’s very important to follow the process exactly and also to match the color to the correct code of your Tesla (found on the label of your driver door panel).

White is not the same as Pearl White and Pearl White doesn’t ever match fully with the touch-up kit. In the sunshine, your Pearl White touch-up will definitely be noticeable.

There are many other alternatives available online that offer the same Tesla color matching and contain the same items in the kit (if not more) but if you are considering a third-party paint supplier, ensure that you read the reviews and pick a very reputable supplier. Nothing screams louder than mismatched dots on your hood.

Location of Your Tesla

The last thing I’ll mention is the location of your Tesla. Chipping occurs from small stones and debris coming in contact with your car but other elements can also degrade your paintwork.

Elements such as intense heat in sunny states can break down the paint with strong UV rays, and at the opposite end of the scale, if you live in a salt state (a lot of very cold weather). Salt can have a detrimental effect on your paintwork.

It’s not realistic to move state because of the paintwork on your Tesla but you will have to manage the paint more if you live in one of these extreme climates.

You can protect it from UV by storing it in the shade or in a garage, and by washing it thoroughly and regularly to prevent salt damage.

As mentioned the ideal cure for both of these climate occurrences is either Ceramic Coating or Car Wrapping but this is not cost-effective for every Tesla owner.

It is something to consider before purchasing a Tesla, however. How you will manage the extreme heat or cold and the paint challenges that arise from living in either.

I’ve written a ton on common Tesla issues, which, hopefully, you won’t ever experience, but if you do, we have you covered with these posts:

• Will Tesla Fix Interior Problems? Some – Know which Ones!
• Why Are My Tesla Windows Misaligned? Top Tips to Fix!

Check out the Tesla troubleshooting page for problem Teslas.

Check out the Tesla charging page for common Tesla charging problems.

Check out the Tesla category page for a list of popular Tesla posts.

If you are curious about other EV models, check out the EV FAQ category.

The post Will Tesla Fix Paint Issues? Owners Should Know This! appeared first on EVjuicedup.

Tesla windows are misaligned because they have been assembled incorrectly or need to be recalibrated.

In this article, we’ll look at why your Tesla windows are misaligned and how to go about correcting the problem.

Tesla Window Misalignment

One of the main causes of window misalignment is poor build quality in production. Tesla cars, although incredibly popular as an EV, are still far below the production numbers of many other brands such as VW or Toyota.

The assembly line process doesn’t run as efficiently as Mr. Musk would hope and so errors occur causing the window frame or indeed the glass to sit incorrectly.

Each window is made up of several components and just one of these sitting incorrectly can cause the whole mechanism to misalign. The pressure to complete a certain number of finished builds each day can cause instances where certain processes are rushed and in turn, it becomes the new owner that is ultimately quality control.

Machine calibration can also vary in a factory from day to day, due to temperature and user changes. What was correct yesterday may be different today, if the temperature increased by even half a degree.

The same can be said for any materials used, the glass or plastic frames can sit differently if produced in a different environment.

Tesla Window Warranty

If you have a new Tesla and your window alignment is off you should contact Tesla Service Center through the Tesla App immediately. They will more than likely suggest that you calibrate your windows to correct the problem.

You can follow these instructions to calibrate the window:

• Close the affected window’s door
• Sit into the driver’s seat and close the door
• Raise the affected window using the switch on the driver’s door
• Keep holding until it stops
• Lower the window with the driver’s switch until it stops
• Raise until it stops

The window should now be calibrated and aligned and open and close fully.

If this process hasn’t corrected the issue then your Tesla will have to be looked over by a Tesla technician. You will need to contact the Tesla Service Center again and advise that the suggested calibration did not work. They will either schedule you for an onsite appointment or they will send a Mobile Technician to your preferred location.

Secrets of Your Tesla

Hidden Features You Need to Know – Today!

What Could Be Causing the Window Misalignment?

Other reasons could cause the window misalignment such as:

• Wear and tear
• Impact or an accident
• Owner error operation
• Obstruction in the frame

Window Wear and Tear

Like all mechanisms, when your Tesla window gets some age behind it, it can start to fail. Tesla’s don’t come with a lifetime parts guarantee but rather a 4-year or 50,000-mile warranty, whichever comes first.

So great news if your TEsla falls into one of these categories but if not you’ll have to pay for the repair.

The wear and tear problem is usually that the window regulator has failed. The regulator is what powers the motor to move the glass up and down. If this is not working correctly this will cause the glass to misalign.

The regulator is made up of several different components: switch, motor, cable mechanism, track assembly, and regulator arms. Any one component failing can cause the window to misalign.

If the switch (electrical component) is failing intermittently, then the fuse can fail. If the fuse blows the window will no longer go up or down. A blown fuse is only drawing your attention to a bigger problem.

You can replace the window fuse by first locating it on the board. Window fuses are located in the internal fuse box in the car, not in the frunk. Most fuse boxes will have a list of fuses that relate to within. Tesla sometimes moves things around from Model to Model and Build to Build, so before you remove any, be certain that it is the correct one. See below for some fuse numbers for Model X and S:

Frame and Seals

The frame is made up of seals and rubber tracks. Again if your Tesla ages these seals can start to break down and the glass no longer rides smoothly on one or both sides of the tracks.

The seals can be replaced but will incur a cost if you are outside of the warranty. It’s generally not a job you can take on yourself as specialized tools are required. If not fixed correctly it can lead to a leaking window which will lead to further damage to the interior.

Impact or Accident on Your Tesla

Window misalignment can also occur if your Tesla has been in any kind of impact or crash. Even if the window in question wasn’t in direct line with the impact, the frame can still be damaged. An impact will display specific problems with your window such as:

• Window gaps
• Not fully opening or closing
• Uneven closing
• Leaking

Window Gaps

Any gap between the frame and the glass when fully closed is a sign of misalignment from an impact. The glass has moved away from the tracking arms and will need a professional or Tesla Service Technician to correct this.

Not Fully Opening or Closing

Again if you notice that the window doesn’t fully open or close post-impact you can try recalibrating it. If this doesn’t correct the problem you will have to contact Tesla Service Center and they will realign it for you.

Uneven Closing

If the window closes unevenly or more quickly on one edge over the other then this is also misalignment due to impact damage.

Leaking Window

You may not realize that your window is misaligned through impact until you spot a leak. The leak might only be slight but any kind of water ingress is a problem and needs to be dealt with.

The glass may have shifted in the frame or the seals and will need to be corrected by a professional.

Handling the Glass

Misalignment can be caused by mishandling of any of the windows. Every part of your Tesla has been highly engineered and calibrated. Resting or leaning on the frameless window design can result in damage to the mechanism.

Discourage anyone who is inclined to do this as your mechanism may need more than recalibrating as the pressure could bend or damage the internal tracking arms.

Obstruction in the Frame

Several situations can obstruct your window. These include:

• Debris
• Corrosion

Debris in your Window

Debris can get caught in the window guides or within the seals of the frame. This can be anything from dirt, leaves, tree sap, or items inserted by children or by accident, such as coins (at a toll booth!) Anything that’s not part of your window mechanism will stop your window functioning properly.

Corrosion in your Window

Corrosion can cause problems with your window operation. Corrosion can appear in the frame as rust or in the seals. You can temporarily remove any loose pieces with a soft cloth or brush but when this type of deterioration begins the only answer is to replace the seals or corroded components. This can mean the entire door. Failure to do so can result in the long-term effects of window mechanism failure but in the short term of damaged or scratched glass.

I’ve written a ton on common Tesla issues, which you hopefully won’t ever experience, but if you do, we have you covered with these posts:

• Why is my Tesla steering wheel hot?
• Tesla won’t go into reverse
• Tesla won’t go into gear

Check out the Tesla troubleshooting page for more problem Teslas.

Check out the Tesla charging page for common Tesla charging problems.

Check out the Tesla category page for a list of popular Tesla posts.

If you are curious about other EV models, check out the EV FAQ category.

The post Why Are My Tesla Windows Misaligned? Top Tips to Fix! appeared first on EVjuicedup.

Tesla will fix your infotainment screen if your car is Pre-2018, or within warranty and the damage or fault is not self-inflicted.

In this article, we’ll look at how to fix the infotainment screen and the reasons why it has failed you.

Tesla Pre 2018 Screen Fix

The Model S and Model X, pre-2018, were fitted with an eMMC (embedded Multi Media Card) with a memory storage of 8GB. This was expected to last 5-6 years but with the increase in updates and technology, it was soon apparent that this chip was not up to the job.

The screen was failing, going black while driving, or just not booting up on startup.

Tesla initially offered the upgrade at a cost but in June 2020, NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) insisted that this become a Tesla recall safety issue and that all Teslas from 2012-2018 that had the 8GB installed needed to be upgraded free of charge.

Rebooting of the screen does not rectify the issue. Many items remain unavailable but the car is actually still driveable.

Depending on which software version you are running (pre2020.48.12), you will not have access to the rearview camera, windshield demisting, defrosting, autopilot, lane change, and most importantly your range level.

Software released after this version allows most of the above items to remain but always consider your driver’s safety before taking a journey.

The recall will install the latest software and also upgrade the chip to a 64GB NVIDIA Tegra processor which has the capability of running the latest software and will last into the future with higher technology and more memory required.

Secrets of Your Tesla

Hidden Features You Need to Know – Today!

Why Do I Need to Upgrade My Tesla Screen?

Although the recall was back in 2020, there are still only approximately 88% of Teslas that have been upgraded. That number seems pretty high, but a recall should cover all vehicles.

You may have only discovered the glitchy screen recently if you have bought a used Tesla or if your Tesla is not your main car.

Either way, you should upgrade your Tesla to the latest software.

In the meantime, the latest software will monitor your eMMC, and if there is a problem your screen will show a notification – ‘Center Display Storage Device Degraded’. When or if this happens, you need to contact the Tesla Service Center, give the notification status, and book an appointment for an eMMC upgrade.

I Previously Paid for the eMMC Upgrade

If you have already paid for the upgrade to the 64GB then you are possibly in line for a reimbursement. Tesla has said they have contacted anyone who had previously paid but if you haven’t received any correspondence from them then it’s worth reaching out. Sometimes errors occur and people get missed.

Other Tesla Screen Problems Under Warranty

Your screen is covered under warranty for 2 years or 25,000 miles. This was previously double, 4 years or 50,000 miles, so check any documentation you have, carefully, that relates to your warranty.

The warranty will cover any glitches that you have in your screen and or any physical fault that may occur with your screen. This could be the screen not sitting correctly or coming away from the mount. Mainly people are just concerned with the Black Screen of Death but if your screen is doing things it’s not supposed to be then contact Tesla about it.

A screen repair only takes about 30 minutes but it does usually have to be booked into a Service Center and is not available for a Mobile Technician to fix, but not always the case.

Cracked or Broken Tesla Screen

A cracked or broken screen is not covered under warranty as it is a personal issue. Your screen is not going to just crack by itself. It can still be repaired but you will bear the full brunt of the cost of replacement. The labor costs are quite low at about $60 – $80, as it only takes about 30 minutes but the parts can be as much as $1400.

You can still drive your Tesla with a cracked screen but as mentioned above some of the items may not be available if the screen is very badly damaged, or indeed totally black.

How to Fix a Black Screen

Your Tesla screen could be black or not working for other reasons and can be fixed without a trip to the Tesla Service Center. Some of these reasons are as follows:

• Too Many Apps Running
• Software Update
• Screen Overheating
• Screen Overloading

Too Many Apps Running

Tesla screens allow apps on your phone to connect in the car. Your app must be connected to your car for it to run properly. This can be the main reason why your screen is glitching. It’s trying to connect to the app and failing because it can’t find the source.

If your app is not running correctly on your phone then it won’t run properly in your Tesla.

The best solution is to log out and back in again on your phone and then do the same in your Tesla. If this doesn’t work check for any app updates and try reinstalling it on your phone.

Software Update

Your Tesla might require a software update. Although many of the updates happen automatically, some older models sometimes need a push.

A yellow notification will give you the heads-up that a software update is available.

• Select Update from the Menu

Your car must be connected for all OTA (Over the Air) updates so if your Tesla was disconnected for any reason or length of time this could be why you missed the update and why your screen is now glitching.

Overheating Screen

Your Tesla screen is in essence a large tablet. Like any tablet, phone, or laptop if they get too hot they can freeze or act peculiar.

The best fix for this is to let it cool down for a time or do a Soft Reboot. A soft reboot will restore your screen to normal without losing any information.

To do a Soft Reboot (Reset) follow below:

• Shift into Park
• Remove any devices
• Hold both scroll wheels on the steering wheel for 10-15 seconds
• The touchscreen turns black
• Tesla Logo reappears
• Everything will once again be available

If your screen dies whilst driving, you can perform a soft reboot but it’s always better to pull over and give it your full attention.

Overloaded Screen

An overloaded system can also cause your screen to shut down. A bit like an overheated screen. If you have given a whole string of commands your system can sometimes just say, ‘Nope! Sorry!’ and shut down. This is especially true of older models with older processors. The best solution for a frozen screen is a Hard Reset.

• Put your Tesla in Park
• Remove any auxiliary items plugged in, i.e., phones and USB drives.
• Press and hold the Brake
• Hold both scroll wheels on your steering wheel for 10-15 seconds
• The touchscreen will go black
• Tesla Logo will appear
• When everything is back fully, your car should be working without issue.

Last Screen Option Before Calling Tesla

Calling the Tesla Service Center is always worth the time but sometimes the appointment time might be way in the future and you want action right now. If you have tried a Hard and Soft Reset but have had no joy you can Reset your car.

This is a big decision to make. A Reset will wipe all your data including profiles. It is usually only recommended to reset your Tesla if you are selling your car, but if you think that the screen problems are increasingly worse then it is worth a try. But beware!

To do a complete reset, follow the steps below:

• Select Service Menu
• Select Factory Reset
• Enter Tesla Details
• Select Confirm
• Your Sat Nav and Tires will need the drive to reset
• You will have to re-add your Phone Keys and Restore your Profile

This as I say is an absolute last resort. Try persuading the Tesla Service Center that you need a quicker appointment or ask them if they have any suggestions in the meantime to get you back up and running.

I’ve written a ton on common Tesla issues, which hopefully you won’t ever experience, but if you do, we have you covered with these posts:

What to Do if Tesla Screen is Black – Easy Fix Below!

Will Tesla Fix Interior Problems? Some – Know which Ones!

Will Tesla Offer a Normal Steering Wheel? – Yoke the New Normal!

Check out the Tesla troubleshooting page for more problem Teslas.

Check out the Tesla charging page for common Tesla charging problems.

Check out the Tesla category page for a list of popular Tesla posts.

If you are curious about other EV models, check out the EV FAQ category.

The post Will Tesla Fix the Info Screen? What year was it made! appeared first on EVjuicedup.