This document chronicles a detailed personal experience and troubleshooting process for a 2014 Tesla Model S that experienced a critical failure, shutting down unexpectedly at highway speed. The owner suspected issues with main contactors or the drive unit's IGBTs.
Initial Failure and Diagnosis
The narrative begins with the car unexpectedly stopping. It details the owner's interactions with Tesla roadside assistance and the Tesla service center, which recommended a costly replacement of contactors and the battery cooler pump. Faced with high repair costs and uncertainty, the owner opted for a do-it-yourself approach to diagnose and repair the vehicle.
Troubleshooting and Repair Steps
The guide outlines the steps taken, including:
- Entering Service Mode on the Tesla vehicle.
- Accessing diagnostic codes and understanding their meaning, with a comprehensive list of identified error codes and their potential implications.
- Utilizing diagnostic tools like the OBDLink MX+ for battery voltage monitoring.
- Performing component replacements, such as the battery coolant pump.
- Addressing low voltage (LV) system issues and battery auxiliary components.
- Investigating and resolving high voltage (HV) system faults, including isolation issues within the drive unit.
- Detailed procedures for drive unit removal, inspection, and potential repair, including testing IGBT arrays.
- Guidance on cleaning and drying electronic components affected by coolant leaks.
Throughout the process, the owner provides insights into common pitfalls, the importance of careful diagnosis before replacing parts, and links to external resources for further assistance.
Key Resources and Links
The document references various resources to aid in the repair process:
- YouTube videos demonstrating specific procedures like battery pump replacement, HV battery handling, and drive unit removal.
- Tesla's official service manuals for detailed technical information.
- Information on diagnostic tools and cables required for advanced troubleshooting.
This guide serves as a valuable resource for Tesla Model S owners facing similar electrical or drive unit failures, offering a practical, step-by-step approach to diagnosis and repair.
