Tesla electric vehicles are known for their innovative technology and futuristic features. One of the eye-catching features that Tesla owners often encounter is flashing lights on their vehicles.
These flashing lights can be disconcerting and may raise concerns, but they are usually indicative of various vehicle functions, notifications, or potential issues.
In this article, we will explore the reasons behind Tesla’s flashing lights and provide solutions to common problems associated with them.
Why Does Lights on Tesla Are Flashing?
1. Tesla Mobile App Notifications
One of the most common reasons for flashing lights on a Tesla is the Tesla mobile app notifications.
When you receive a notification on your mobile app, such as a software update availability, Sentry Mode alert, or charging status update, your Tesla vehicle may flash its lights as a visual indicator.
This is a convenient feature that helps you stay informed about your car’s status.
However, this will not flash exterior lights. It should flash the touchscreen and an interior light.
Solution
To resolve this, simply check your Tesla mobile app for the notification details. You can clear or acknowledge the notification, which should stop the flashing lights on your vehicle.
2. Tesla Sentry Mode Activation
Tesla’s Sentry Mode is a security feature that uses the car’s cameras to monitor its surroundings. When Sentry Mode is activated, your Tesla may flash its lights and display a warning on the center touchscreen to deter potential intruders or vandals.
The easy way to know whether the Sentry Mode is the reason is to see which light is flashing. If the high-beam headlights are flashing, then it is almost certain that the Sentry mode is activated automatically.
Solution
If you see flashing lights and a warning message on your Tesla’s touchscreen, it’s a sign that Sentry Mode is active.
To turn it off, tap the Sentry Mode icon on the touchscreen. When the icon is not red, sentry mode is disabled.
3. Software Updates
Tesla vehicles regularly receive over-the-air software updates to improve performance, add new features, and fix bugs.
However, with new fixes come new bugs. Some software versions came with issues with flashing or pulsating lights on Tesla vehicles which were later fixed. One such version is the 2018.50 update which was released on December 27, 2018.
Solution
To address this, you can initiate a new software update which should have the bugs fixed. Since there is no way to roll back software updates in Tesla cars, this is the only solution for software bug induced light flashing incidents.
4. Vehicle Malfunctions or Errors
In some cases, flashing lights may indicate a malfunction or error in the vehicle’s systems. These errors could range from issues with the Autopilot system to problems with sensors or hardware components.
Solution
If you are unsure about the cause of flashing lights and suspect a vehicle malfunction, it is advisable to contact Tesla customer support or visit a Tesla Service Center for a thorough diagnosis and repair.
Sometimes, hardware malfunction or issues specific to your vehicle cause this kind of problem. Tesla service centers should be able to assist you better in such cases.
Charging Notifications
During charging, Tesla vehicles may flash their lights to indicate the charging status. This can include flashing green when the charging is complete or flashing amber to alert you of an issue with the charging process.
If you see flashing lights on the side of the charge port while charging, there is usually nothing to worry about. Check these Tesla charge port light indicator description to understand whether you need to consult Tesla or not-
- Flashing BLUE: The vehicle is communicating with the charging device, but yet to start charging.
- Flashing GREEN: The car is charging. When the car is close to a full charge, the frequency of the flashing slows down.
- Flashing AMBER: The car is charging at a reduced current. Check if the charger is connected properly or if the charger has any issues.
If the light is not flashing but stays on, then the issue could be different from what we have discussed here. Check our article on the Tesla lights that stay on when parked if you have that issue.
Conclusion
Tesla flashing lights are typically designed to provide valuable information to the driver or alert potential threats.
Understanding the reasons behind these flashing lights and knowing how to address them can enhance your Tesla ownership experience.
Whether it’s a mobile app notification, Sentry Mode activation, a software update, charging status, or a malfunction, you can now confidently respond to Tesla flashing lights with the appropriate solutions. Stay informed, stay safe, and enjoy your Tesla journey!