How to Tow a Tesla with a Dead Battery: A Comprehensive Guide

Towing a Tesla with a dead battery requires a specific approach to prevent damage to the vehicle’s sensitive electrical system and drivetrain. The key is to never tow a Tesla on its wheels unless absolutely necessary for a very short distance and at very low speed. The preferred method is to use a flatbed tow truck or a wheel-lift tow truck with dollies to ensure all four wheels are off the ground. Disengaging Tow Mode (if possible) and understanding the vehicle’s emergency release procedures are also crucial steps. Let’s dive into the details.

Understanding the Nuances of Towing a Tesla

Unlike traditional combustion engine vehicles, Teslas have intricate electrical systems and direct-drive powertrains that require careful handling during towing. A dead battery complicates matters further, as many features, including the activation of Tow Mode, may be inaccessible. Improper towing can result in significant damage to the motor, inverter, or even the battery pack, leading to costly repairs.

The Flatbed Advantage

The flatbed tow truck is undeniably the safest and most recommended method for towing a Tesla, especially with a dead battery. It completely eliminates the risk of drivetrain damage because the car is secured to the flatbed and transported with all four wheels off the ground.

Here’s the breakdown:

1. Call a Professional: Contact a reputable towing company experienced in handling electric vehicles, specifically Teslas. They will possess the knowledge and equipment necessary for a safe tow.
2. Explain the Situation: Clearly communicate that the Tesla has a dead battery. This informs the tow operator that Tow Mode may not be engaged and that alternative procedures might be needed.
3. Accessing the Vehicle: If the car is locked and the key fob isn’t working, the tow operator might need specialized tools to safely gain entry without damaging the car. Some Teslas have a manual door release located under the rear seats.
4. Winching Onto the Flatbed: The tow operator will use a winch to carefully pull the Tesla onto the flatbed. Pay close attention to the vehicle’s towing points to avoid damage to the body or undercarriage.
5. Securing the Vehicle: Once on the flatbed, the Tesla will be secured using straps or chains, ensuring it doesn’t move during transport.

Wheel-Lift with Dollies: A Viable Alternative

A wheel-lift tow truck equipped with dollies is another acceptable option, particularly if a flatbed isn’t readily available. Dollies are small wheeled platforms placed under the non-driven wheels (usually the rear wheels) of the Tesla, effectively lifting them off the ground.

Here’s how it works:

1. Professional Assessment: The tow operator will assess the situation and determine if dollies are suitable for the vehicle’s condition and the towing distance.
2. Securing the Front Wheels: The wheel-lift mechanism will secure the front wheels, lifting them off the ground.
3. Positioning the Dollies: The dollies are carefully positioned under the rear wheels and secured in place.
4. Slow and Steady Towing: The tow truck will then proceed slowly and carefully, ensuring the dollies remain securely attached and the Tesla remains stable.

Emergency Towing: The Last Resort

Under no circumstances should you tow a Tesla on its wheels for any significant distance, especially with a dead battery. If an emergency situation necessitates a short-distance tow (e.g., moving the car out of immediate danger), adhere strictly to the following guidelines:

1. Tow Mode Activation (If Possible): If the battery has enough charge, even a trickle, try to activate Tow Mode. This disengages the parking brake and allows the wheels to rotate freely. Navigate to Controls > Service > Towing.
2. Very Short Distance: Limit the tow to the shortest distance possible – ideally just a few feet to get the car out of harm’s way.
3. Very Low Speed: Maintain an extremely slow speed – no more than 5 mph (8 km/h). Exceeding this speed can cause severe drivetrain damage.
4. Smooth and Straight: Avoid sharp turns or sudden stops, as this can put undue stress on the drivetrain.
5. Monitor for Overheating: If possible, monitor the drivetrain temperature. If you notice any signs of overheating (unusual smells or sounds), stop immediately.

Important Considerations When Tow Mode is Unavailable:

• Parking Brake: If the battery is completely dead, the electronic parking brake will likely be engaged. Attempting to tow the vehicle with the parking brake engaged will cause significant damage to the brakes and tires. You must manually disengage the parking brake, which usually involves accessing a manual release mechanism (consult your owner’s manual).
• Steering Lock: A dead battery can also engage the steering lock, making it difficult to steer the vehicle. The tow operator will need to overcome this using specialized equipment or techniques.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I jump-start a Tesla with a dead battery?

While you can technically jump-start a Tesla, it’s not the same as jump-starting a traditional car. Teslas have a low-voltage (12V) battery that powers the car’s electronics, including the computer and door locks. If this battery is dead, you can jump-start it using another car or a portable jump starter. However, this will only allow you to access the car’s features and potentially activate Tow Mode. It will not charge the main battery pack. Refer to your Tesla owner’s manual for the specific jump-starting procedure. Incorrectly jump-starting a Tesla can damage the electrical system.

2. Where are the tow hooks located on a Tesla?

Teslas typically have a removable cover on the front bumper that reveals a threaded receiver for a tow hook. The tow hook itself is usually located in the frunk or glove compartment. Refer to your owner’s manual for the exact location and instructions on installing the tow hook. Never tow a Tesla using any other point than the designated tow hook receiver.

3. How do I put a Tesla in Neutral with a dead battery?

Putting a Tesla in Neutral with a dead battery can be challenging. If the 12V battery has a slight charge, you may be able to activate Tow Mode, which effectively puts the car in Neutral. However, if the battery is completely dead, you’ll need to consult your owner’s manual for the location and procedure for the manual parking brake release. This will likely require accessing a specific lever or cable, and the procedure varies depending on the Tesla model.

4. What is “Tow Mode” and how does it work?

Tow Mode is a feature in Teslas that disengages the parking brake and allows the wheels to rotate freely. It is designed specifically for towing purposes. When activated, Tow Mode also disables regenerative braking, preventing it from interfering with the towing process. You can access Tow Mode through the touchscreen: Controls > Service > Towing.

5. What happens if I tow a Tesla incorrectly?

Incorrect towing can lead to significant damage, including damage to the motor, inverter, battery pack, drivetrain, and brakes. These repairs can be incredibly expensive, potentially costing thousands of dollars. Always follow the recommended towing procedures and consult with a professional towing company experienced in handling electric vehicles.

6. Can I tow a Tesla with Autopilot or Full Self-Driving engaged?

Absolutely not. Autopilot and Full Self-Driving features are not designed for towing and should never be engaged during towing. These systems rely on wheel speed and steering input, which will be incorrect during towing, potentially leading to unpredictable and dangerous behavior.

7. What should I do if my Tesla’s battery dies in a remote location?

If your Tesla’s battery dies in a remote location, the first step is to contact Tesla Roadside Assistance. They can provide guidance and assistance, including arranging for a tow truck to reach your location. It’s also a good idea to have a portable jump starter in your car for emergency situations.

8. How much does it cost to tow a Tesla with a dead battery?

The cost of towing a Tesla with a dead battery can vary depending on several factors, including the distance of the tow, the type of tow truck required (flatbed vs. wheel-lift), and the towing company’s rates. Expect to pay a premium for towing an electric vehicle, as it requires specialized equipment and expertise. It’s always best to get a quote from multiple towing companies before proceeding.

9. Are there any specific Tesla models that are more difficult to tow?

Generally, the towing procedures are similar across different Tesla models. However, older models might have slightly different manual release mechanisms for the parking brake or door locks. Always consult the owner’s manual for your specific Tesla model for detailed instructions.

10. How can I prevent my Tesla’s battery from dying completely?

The best way to prevent your Tesla’s battery from dying completely is to practice good charging habits. Avoid letting the battery drain to zero, and try to keep the charge level between 20% and 80% for optimal battery health. If you plan to leave your Tesla parked for an extended period, enable Sentry Mode sparingly, as it can drain the battery significantly.

11. Can I use a regular tow rope to tow a Tesla in an emergency?

While using a tow rope might seem like a quick solution in an emergency, it’s strongly discouraged for Teslas, especially with a dead battery. Towing with a rope can be dangerous due to the lack of braking control and the risk of drivetrain damage if the wheels are rotating without the motor being properly engaged. Always opt for a professional towing service instead.

12. Does Tesla Roadside Assistance cover towing for a dead battery?

Tesla Roadside Assistance typically covers towing for a dead battery, depending on the circumstances and your warranty coverage. Contact them directly to confirm eligibility and arrange for assistance. Having Tesla Roadside Assistance is a worthwhile investment, as they are familiar with the specific needs of Tesla vehicles.