How to Close Tesla Charge Port (Without Damaging the Hinge)

Tesla has revolutionized the automotive industry with its electric vehicles, and one of the most innovative features of its cars is the charge port.

However, some Tesla owners have reported difficulties in closing the charge port without causing damage to the hinge. This can be frustrating and expensive to fix, but fear not, there are ways to avoid this problem.

In this article, we will explore some tips and tricks on how to close the Tesla charge port without damaging the hinge, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free charging experience.

If you’re in a hurry, here’s a short summary of the article:

The best ways to close Tesla charging port is by waiting a few seconds after releasing the charger from the port, using the mobile app or touchscreen. Remember not to close it manually.

3 Ways You Can Close Tesla Charge Port

Automatically

If you’re using the Tesla charging connector, simply press the button on the connector handle to release it from the charge port. Once you’ve removed the connector, the charge port should close automatically after a few seconds.

Using the touchscreen

The simplest way to close the charge port is by using the car’s touchscreen. When you’re ready to unplug your car from the charging station, tap the “Charge Port” icon on the main menu screen.

This will open the charge port. To close it, tap the “Close” button on the same screen.

Using the mobile app

You can also use the Tesla mobile app to control the charge port. Open the app and tap the “Charge” button at the bottom of the screen.

Then tap the “Stop Charging” button to release the connector from the charge port. Once you’ve removed the connector, tap the “Close Charge Port” button to close the port.

Locking the car

If you lock your car, the Tesla charge port will automatically close.

Also read: Is it Ok to Leave Tesla Charger Plugged in for Long? (the Facts)

How not to Close Tesla Charge Port?

Manually closing the Tesla charge port isn’t recommended by Tesla and could potentially damage the charge port hinge.

However, if you find yourself unable to close the charge port using the touchscreen or other methods, use your finger to push the small white plastic lever inside the charge port down, and gently push the charge port closed until you hear it click into place.

While manually closing the charge port is a viable solution in some cases, it’s important to note that it should only be done in emergencies and with extreme care.

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Manually closing the charge port can put unnecessary strain on the hinge and potentially cause damage over time.

It’s always recommended to use the Tesla’s built-in methods for closing the charge port, such as the touchscreen or charging connector, to ensure a smooth and safe charging experience.

Conclusion

It’s important to note that different Tesla models may have slightly different methods for closing the charge port, so always refer to the car’s manual or documentation for specific instructions.

Additionally, it’s important to be gentle when closing the charge port to avoid damaging the hinge.