If you’re a proud owner of a Tesla Model X, you’re likely familiar with the futuristic allure of its Falcon Wing doors. These unique and awe-inspiring doors set your vehicle apart from the crowd, turning heads wherever you go. However, like any technological marvel, they can occasionally pose a challenge when they refuse to open.
Tesla Model X falcon doors remain shut, get stuck in 3″ to halfway, or do not open fully for various reasons like software glitches, internal component failure, or Key Fob dead battery. If your Tesla Model X Falcon door is not opening, you might have to try these fixes-
- Change the Key Fob Battery
- Reset the system
- Calibrate the door
- Manual opening
Falcon Door Won’t Open: Reasons with Solutions
When your Falcon Wing door decides to stay shut, it’s essential to diagnose the problem accurately. Here are the primary culprits behind this vexing issue:
Cause: Low Key Fob Battery
The Key Fob is your gateway to the futuristic world of Tesla. It offers convenience features like Passive Entry and automatic unlocking on approach.
However, these features rely on a functional Key Fob battery. If your Key Fob’s battery is running low or completely dead, it can lead to a scenario where your Falcon Wing doors won’t budge.
To address this, let’s first understand the Key Fob and its battery life:
Lifespan of Key Fob Battery
While Tesla’s Key Fob is a reliable companion, its battery has a limited lifespan. On average, a Key Fob battery lasts approximately one year in a Tesla Model X. However, this is notably shorter compared to the Model 3, which boasts a battery life of 3 to 5 years. This means that you’ll need to replace the Key Fob battery more frequently.
Signs of a Dying Key Fob Battery
Before your Key Fob’s battery reaches the critical stage, there are telltale signs that it’s running low:
- On-screen Notifications: Your Tesla’s touchscreen display may notify you when the Key Fob battery is in need of replacement.
- Reduced Range: You might notice that the Key Fob’s range for automatic unlocking is diminishing. You have to get closer to the vehicle for it to work.
- Unresponsive Key Fob: If you press buttons on the Key Fob, and it doesn’t respond as swiftly as it used to, it’s a clear indicator of a fading battery.
Solution: Reviving or Replacing a Dead Key Fob Battery
Step 1: Acquire a Replacement Battery
Before you begin the process of replacing the Key Fob battery, make sure you have a compatible replacement battery on hand. Tesla Key Fobs typically use CR2032 lithium coin cell batteries, which are widely available.
Step 2: Access the Key Fob
- Locate the small, round depression on the narrow edge of the Key Fob.
- Insert a thin object, such as a coin or a small screwdriver, into the depression.
- Gently twist the object to pry open the Key Fob’s cover.
Step 3: Remove the Old Battery
- Once the Key Fob is open, you’ll see the old battery. Carefully remove it by prying it out with your fingers or using a non-metallic tool.
- Discard the old battery safely.
Step 4: Install the New Battery
- Take the replacement CR2032 battery and insert it into the Key Fob with the positive (+) side facing up.
- Press down to ensure the battery fits snugly in its compartment.
Step 5: Reassemble the Key Fob
- Align the Key Fob’s cover with the body.
- Gently press the two halves together until they click into place.
Step 6: Test the Key Fob
With the new battery installed, test the Key Fob by pressing its buttons to verify that it’s functioning correctly. Your Falcon Wing doors should now respond as expected.
Revival of the Battery
If you are in an emergency and you can not find a replacement battery, here is how you can revive the dead battery for working a few more days-
- Remove the battery from the Key Fob.
- Then, place the battery on the floor.
- Now, hit the battery with a hard object as if you are hammering the battery. One or two strike is enough. The strikes should not be so mild that it does not affect the battery but they should not be too hard as well which would destroy the battery.
- Put the battery back in its place and you should have your Key Fob working fine again.
Keep in mind that it is a temporary revival and the battery will be permanently dead within a matter of days or a couple of weeks. So, get a replacement as soon as possible after doing this trick.
Cause: Dead 12V Battery
Another potential culprit behind your Falcon Wing door’s refusal to open is a dead 12V battery. While you may associate Tesla primarily with its electric powertrain and large lithium-ion battery, the Model X also relies on a traditional 12V lead-acid battery for various auxiliary functions.
Under normal circumstances, a standard 12V lead-acid battery in a Tesla Model X should last between 3 to 5 years with regular everyday use. However, in some instances, these batteries have been known to fail prematurely, causing frustration for owners.
Signs of a Dead 12V Battery
A dead 12V battery can manifest itself in several ways, affecting your vehicle’s functionality. Here are some common signs to watch out for:
- Inability to Start: If your Model X won’t start, or you experience a sudden loss of power, the 12V battery might be the culprit.
- Diminished Access: Issues with central locking, window operation, or media system glitches can indicate a failing 12V battery.
- Warning Messages: Your Tesla’s dashboard may display warning messages related to the 12V battery’s health.
The solution for this is simple, replace the dead battery.
Faults in Components
Beyond battery-related issues, there are two specific components that may be causing your Falcon Wing doors to remain partially or fully closed:
Door Actuator
The door actuator is an electronic component responsible for locking and unlocking your car door when commanded.
Like any mechanical part, it can experience issues due to age, water ingress, or even a blown fuse. If you notice that some doors are functioning correctly while others aren’t, the door actuator on the problematic door may require replacement.
Diagnosing and Replacing a Faulty Door Actuator
- If you suspect a malfunctioning door actuator, it’s advisable to contact Tesla Service or a certified technician. Replacing a door actuator involves intricate work and should be performed by a professional.
- They will diagnose the issue and, if necessary, replace the faulty actuator to restore proper door functionality.
Falcon Wing Calibration
The Falcon Wing doors are an engineering marvel, but occasionally, they may not open fully, leading to an inconvenient situation where you have to manually push them to the last inch. This is where Falcon Wing calibration comes into play.
Calibration essentially teaches the door control system where the upper and lower limits of door movement are.
Recalibrating Your Falcon Wing Doors
To recalibrate your Falcon Wing doors, follow these steps:
- Sit inside your Model X with the Falcon Wing doors closed.
- Put the vehicle in “Park” mode and ensure it’s stationary.
- On the touchscreen, go to “Controls” > “Service” > “Falcon Wing Doors.”
- Follow the on-screen prompts to initiate the calibration process.
- Once calibration is complete, test the Falcon Wing doors to ensure they open and close smoothly.
Now that we have discussed the external things, let us look at what we can do with the doors-
Issue 1: Tesla Model X Doors Not Opening All the Way
Problem: Your Falcon doors may not open fully due to the need for a fresh GPS lock on geographic coordinate system data.
Solution:
- Press the Falcon Door Handle: Begin by pressing the Falcon Door handle on the wide side, as it contains a sensor to initiate the door opening.
- Wait for Release: Allow the Falcon door to release halfway.
- Locate the FWD Button: If you’re on the passenger side, look for the Falcon Wing Door (FWD) physical button on the right-side B-pillar or MCU screen button. On the driver’s side, it’s on the left-side B-pillar or MCU screen button.
- Press and Hold: Click and hold the located button for 5 to 8 seconds until the door uplifts and opens fully.
- MCU Screen Prompt: On the MCU screen, you’ll see a pop-up prompt that says ‘Fully Open at This Location.’ Tap on it to open the Falcon door on the left or right side.
Warning: The Falcon doors may not open if they sense obstacles in front, so always maintain a safe distance when attempting this method.
Issue 2: Falcon Door Not Opening or Stuck
Problem: Falcon doors may open partially and then become stuck due to overload or internal bugs.
Solution:
- Change to Park Mode: Put your Tesla Model X in park mode.
- Steering Wheel Scroll Keys Reset: Hold and press both scroll keys on the steering wheel for 10 to 15 seconds while occasionally tapping the brake pedal.
- Release the Keys and Pedal: Release both the keys and the brake pedal once the screen goes blank.
- Wait for Reset: Wait for 20 to 30 seconds for the reset procedure to complete.
- Remove Snow and Water: Utilize a dry rag and brush to remove snow and water from areas you can reach.
- Use Touchscreen: Instead of using the door handle or key fob, open the Falcon doors using the touchscreen. This helps remove any remaining snow or water.
Warning: Do not obstruct the front door (approximately 20°) or introduce obstacles, as this can cause bodily harm when the doors open or close.
Issue 3: Tesla Model X Falcon Door Not Opening at All
Problem: The Falcon doors may refuse to open entirely due to obstacle detection or confusion regarding nearby objects.
Solution:
- Safety First: Ensure your Tesla Model X is in a safe area with no obstacles nearby.
- Close All Doors: Close all four doors by pressing the Lock button on the touchscreen that displays Tesla’s position.
- Access Quick Controls: Tap on the Tesla icon to access the Quick Controls option.
- Calibrate Doors: Within Quick Controls, select “Service” and then “Calibrate Doors.”
- Calibration Prompt: A prompt will appear on the screen. Hold and click on the “Calibrate Doors” bar until the calibration process is completed.
- Test the Falcon Doors: After calibration, test the Falcon doors to ensure they operate smoothly.
Final Thoughts
Owning a Tesla Model X is an exciting experience, and its Falcon Wing doors are a big part of what makes the vehicle so unique. While encountering issues with these doors can be frustrating, this guide has equipped you with the knowledge to troubleshoot and resolve common problems.
Remember, whether it’s a Key Fob battery replacement or addressing component faults, proper maintenance and quick action can keep your Model X and its Falcon Wing doors soaring high.
If you ever find yourself in doubt or facing a more complex issue, don’t hesitate to reach out to Tesla Service or a qualified technician for assistance.
Your Tesla Model X, with its Falcon Wing doors, is a symbol of innovation and the future of automotive technology. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you’ll ensure that your Falcon doors continue to operate flawlessly, leaving a lasting impression wherever you go.