Tech & Auto
Things Tesla Owners Should Stop Doing Immediately
By MARK COWLEY
Slam The Hood
Using too much force when closing a Tesla's hood risks damaging the car. This is because Tesla's hoods are particularly light and can deform much more easily.
Instead, lower the hood until the striker and latches are touching, then press down on specific areas to engage them. Keep in mind that these areas can vary between models.
Manual Release
A door release switch manually unlocks the door, but because of the unique design of Tesla's doors and windows, it's not recommended for regular use.
Instead, use the button located at the top of the handle, which lowers the window slightly before opening the door to ensure you don't catch it on the interior trim.
Low Battery
A low battery can cause battery damage, so it's generally best to keep the battery level somewhere between 20% and 80% for everyday use.
In particular, Tesla recommends not letting the battery drain to zero, as there's a risk of permanent damage to both the battery itself and the components that rely on it.
Energy App
If you're a Tesla driver who frequently stresses about how much range the car has left, it's essential to make good use of Tesla's Energy app.
Unlike the standard range indicator, the Energy app shows exactly how much energy each component of the car is using, even when it's parked.
Cleaning Wipes
Tesla's interiors use vegan leather, which is prone to stains and spills. Using cleaning agents or wipes containing alcohol or bleach to clean it can cause damage.
Using wipes or chemical products on the door seals can also cause damage to their coating, and carpets should not be allowed to get overly wet.