Locating and Using the Tesla Model 3 Charging Port
The Tesla Model 3 is designed with a user-friendly charging system for both home and public charging stations. Understanding where the charging port is located and how to access it quickly and easily can save you time and frustration during your electric vehicle experience.
Where is the Charging Port Located?
The charging port on the Tesla Model 3 is located on the rear left side of the vehicle, just above the left tail light. This location ensures easy access to the charging port, especially when operating at home or in public charging stations.
To open the port, you simply need to press the charging port cover, which can be done using the car's touchscreen interface, the Tesla mobile app, or by pressing a button on the charging cable.
How Does the Charging Port Operate?
In non-EU models, the charging port on the rear driver's side features a motorized protective cover that opens automatically when the Tesla charger is close to the vehicle. You can manually open the access door by pressing the button on the charging cable, or by gently pressing the bottom of the access door. Non-EU models come equipped with a standard Tesla Mobile Connector (TMC) version 2, which is attached with a Tesla charging plug and includes a control module with detachable AC adapter plugs on the other end.
EU models, however, are equipped with a CSS-2 charging port jack instead. This jack is under a motorized protective cover. The access door can be opened from the vehicle touchscreen, the Tesla smartphone app, the Tesla Model 3 keyfob, or by pressing the long button on the rear trunk. A brief delay is usually present before the access door physically opens in response to the charger's plug button. EU cars come with a TMC version 2 kit that includes a CSS-2 plug and the necessary plug adapters for 240Vac @ 50Hz power outlet compatibility.
Charging Plug Adapters and Carriers
Each non-EU Tesla Model 3 comes with a J1772-to-Tesla charging plug adapter, which allows you to charge at public EV charging stations. Additionally, the TMC v2 cable and adapters come in a zippered fabric carrying case for easy transportation and storage.
For EU models, the charging port is slightly different, with the inclusion of a CSS-2 plug instead of the standard Tesla plug. The EU kit also includes the necessary plug adapters for compatibility with 240Vac @ 50Hz power outlets. One important note is the presence of a small magnet on the bottom inside of the charging port access door, which can detach and cause a charging port warning alert to be displayed.
Mastering the location and operation of the Tesla Model 3 charging port can enhance your overall user experience. Whether you're at home or at a public charging station, knowing how to access the port quickly and efficiently will make your time spent with your electric vehicle more pleasant and convenient.