Tesla electric vehicles have been gaining popularity among consumers due to their impressive range, performance, and sustainable features.
However, some owners have reported experiencing certain noises while their vehicles are charging. In this article, we will explore some of the most common sounds that a Tesla car can make during the charging process and explain what causes them.
Understanding these noises can help Tesla owners identify any potential issues with their vehicle’s charging system and ensure a smooth and quiet charging experience.
If you’re in a hurry, here’s a short summary of the article:
In most cases, popping, buzzing, or other noises are normal while charging a Tesla. You should only pay attention if your Tesla displays an error message while charging.
1. Banging, Clunking, Popping, or Thumping Noise While Supercharging
When Tesla owners use Superchargers to rapidly charge their vehicles, they may hear a variety of noises that can be alarming at first. Some of the most common sounds include banging, clunking, popping, or thumping noises.
These noises can be caused by a variety of factors, including the rapid expansion and contraction of materials as they heat and cool during the charging process.
One of the main reasons for these noises is the thermal expansion of the metal components of the vehicle’s charging system, such as the connectors, cables, and internal components of the battery.
When a battery is rapidly charged, it generates a significant amount of heat, which causes the metal components to expand. As the components cool down, they contract back to their original size, causing a banging or clunking noise.
Another possible cause of these noises is the actuation of the vehicle’s charging contactors, which are electrical switches that control the flow of current between the battery and the charger.
These contactors can produce a popping or thumping noise when they are activated or deactivated.
It’s important to note that while these noises can be concerning, they are generally not a cause for alarm. Tesla has designed its vehicles and charging systems to withstand the stresses of rapid charging, and the noises are simply a side effect of this process.
However, if the noises are excessive or accompanied by other warning signs, such as a loss of charging speed or a warning message on the dashboard, it’s important to have the vehicle inspected by a certified Tesla technician to ensure that there are no underlying issues with the charging system.
Important: EV battery replacement can cost $1000s. To avoid high-voltage battery replacement, there are some things you can do. Read this article to find out the 10 best ways to maximize EV battery life and save tons of money!
2. Buzzing or Gargling Sound While Charging
If you own a Tesla electric vehicle, you may have experienced a buzzing sound coming from the vehicle while it’s charging. This buzzing sound is a normal part of the charging process and is caused by the vehicle’s charging system.
When you plug your Tesla into a charging station or a wall outlet, the vehicle’s onboard charger begins to convert the AC (alternating current) power from the source into DC (direct current) power that can be stored in the vehicle’s battery pack.
During this process, the charger can produce a slight buzzing sound as it operates.
The buzzing sound is usually most noticeable when you first plug in your Tesla to charge, and it may become quieter as the charging process progresses.
Some Tesla owners have reported that the buzzing sound can be heard both inside and outside the vehicle, while others have said that it’s only audible from outside the car.
In addition to the buzzing sound, you may also notice other sounds or sensations while charging your Tesla. For example, the vehicle’s fans may turn on to cool the battery pack, which can produce a humming or whirring sound.
You may also feel a slight vibration or pulsation in the charging cable as the charging process progresses.
The buzzing/gargling sound might be often heard while charging a Tesla car in cold temperatures, and it is caused by the battery coolant warming up the battery pack. It’s compeletely normal.
Also read: Is it Ok to Leave Tesla Charger Plugged in for Long? (the Facts)
3. Loud Fan Noise When Charging
When charging a Tesla, it is normal to hear a loud fan noise coming from the car. This noise is caused by the cooling system in the battery pack that helps regulate the temperature of the batteries during charging.
The batteries in a Tesla generate heat when they are charged, and if not properly cooled, this heat can damage the batteries and reduce their lifespan.
The cooling system consists of a series of fans and pumps that circulate coolant throughout the battery pack to keep it at a safe temperature.
When you plug your Tesla in to charge, the cooling system is activated, and the fans start spinning to circulate the coolant.
Depending on the level of charge and the temperature of the batteries, the fans may spin faster or slower, which can cause the noise to be louder or quieter.
The loud fan noise is not a cause for concern and is simply a normal part of the charging process.
The cooling system in a Tesla is designed to ensure that the batteries are kept at a safe temperature, which helps to extend the life of the batteries and ensures that they perform optimally.
When Should You Be Concerned When Tesla is Making Noises While Charging?
While it’s normal for a Tesla to make some noise while charging, there are certain situations where you should be concerned about the noise.
Here are a few instances when you should pay attention to the sounds your Tesla is making while charging:
Unusual or excessive noise: If your Tesla is making a louder or different noise than usual while charging, it could be a sign of a problem. This could be caused by a faulty fan, a loose component, or another issue that needs to be addressed by a qualified technician.
Prolonged noise: If the noise continues for a prolonged period of time, it could be a sign that something is wrong. Charging times vary based on the type of charger you are using, but if your Tesla is taking significantly longer to charge than usual and the noise continues throughout the entire charging process, it’s worth investigating further.
Error messages: If your Tesla displays an error message while charging, it’s important to take note of the message and contact Tesla support or a qualified technician as soon as possible. The message could be related to a charging issue that needs to be addressed to ensure the safety and proper function of your vehicle.