In today’s tech-savvy world, Tesla electric vehicles have become synonymous with cutting-edge innovation and futuristic features.
One of the standout features of a Tesla is its massive touchscreen display, often referred to as the “center console” or infotainment system.
This high-resolution touchscreen serves as the command center for various functions in the vehicle, from entertainment and navigation to climate control and vehicle settings.
However, like any piece of technology, Tesla’s touchscreen display can encounter issues, with one of the most common being the screen not turning on.
In this article, we will explore the possible reasons behind this problem and provide solutions to help you get your Tesla screen back to life.
Quick Screen Fix: If your Tesla screen is not turning on, press and hold both scroll wheel buttons on the steering wheel to reboot it. This solves the issue in most cases. If not, you can try updating to the latest software, checking the low-voltage battery, and finally contacting Tesla support for the fix.
What Causes Tesla Touchscreen To Not Turn On?
When you get into your Tesla and the screen remains blank, it can be a disconcerting experience. Without the touchscreen, you lose access to critical functions like climate control, navigation, and even charging management. The first step in resolving this issue is understanding the potential causes. Here are some common reasons why your Tesla screen may not turn on:
1. Power Issues
The most common reason for a blank Tesla screen is a power issue. If your car’s battery is dead or not providing enough power to the touchscreen, it won’t turn on.
This can happen if the car has been sitting idle for an extended period or if there’s a problem with the 12-volt auxiliary battery.
Unlike the main high-voltage battery that runs the car, the low-voltage battery is tasked with running things like touchscreen, wipers, lights, and windows. Any issue with that battery means disruptions in these services.
2. Software Glitches
Tesla vehicles run on complex software systems, and sometimes, glitches or software bugs can cause the screen to freeze or go blank.
These issues can be temporary and often require a simple reboot to fix. Sometimes, you might need to wait for a subsequent software update for the fix.
3. Loose Connections
The touchscreen relies on various internal connections to function correctly. If any of these connections become loose or disconnected, it can lead to screen issues. This is more common in older Tesla models.
However, this is a rare phenomenon and if it happens, we recommend getting the Tesla serviced by Tesla service centers without messing things up yourself.
4. Hardware Failures
In some cases, the problem may be related to hardware failure within the touchscreen itself. This is less common but can occur over time, especially in older vehicles.
Now that we have a basic understanding of the potential causes, let’s delve into the solutions to address these issues.
How to Fix Tesla Screen That Won’t Turn On?
Here are some simple yet effective solutions for your Tesla touchscreen problem-
1. Reboot the Touchscreen
If your Tesla screen is unresponsive, the first troubleshooting step you should try is rebooting the car’s computer system. Here’s how to do it:
- Press and hold both the left and right scroll wheels on the steering wheel simultaneously.
- Continue holding them down for about 10 seconds.
- Release the scroll wheels when you see the Tesla logo appear on the touchscreen.
This action performs a soft reset of the car’s computer system and can often resolve minor software glitches causing the screen to go blank.
If the screen is unresponsive, slow, or buggy, or you see any other issues with the touchscreen, this solution often comes in handy to solve the issue.
2. Software Updates
Tesla frequently releases software updates to address bugs and improve overall performance.
If your screen issues are related to a software glitch, updating to the latest software version may resolve the problem.
You might be wondering if the touchscreen is not turning on, how am I going to update the software? Well, there is a way to do this using your Tesla mobile app.
To check for and install updates remotely, follow these steps:
- Go to the Tesla App.
- If there is an update available, you will see a Software Update option, select that.
- Tap on Install
Once you complete the process, the software update will start. You will be able to see the time remaining before the update is completed on the app homepage.
3. Check Power Source
As mentioned earlier, power issues are a common culprit for a blank Tesla screen.
Make sure your car’s main battery is charged sufficiently. If the main battery is low or depleted, the touchscreen may not turn on.
Additionally, check the 12-volt auxiliary battery, which powers some of the car’s essential systems, including the touchscreen. Before completely shutting down the screen, a depleted 12-volt battery triggers Tesla’s low-voltage battery warning.
If you have seen that error before the screen issues, you know what to fix! Replace the low-voltage battery.
4. Inspect and Secure Connections
If your touchscreen remains unresponsive, it’s a good idea to inspect the connections that power the screen.
However, I don’t recommend messing up with crucial components of Tesla. It’s best to contact Tesla’s customer support or visit a Tesla service center for professional assistance.
If none of the above solutions work, or if you suspect a hardware issue, it’s time to reach out to Tesla’s customer support.
Tesla has a dedicated support team that can provide remote assistance and, if necessary, schedule a service appointment to diagnose and repair the problem.
Final Thoughts
A blank Tesla screen can be a frustrating experience, but it’s often a solvable problem. By understanding the potential causes and following the troubleshooting steps outlined in this article, you can get your Tesla touchscreen back up and running.
Remember to start with a simple reboot, check your power sources, and inspect connections. If all else fails, don’t hesitate to contact Tesla’s customer support for professional assistance.
Additionally, taking preventive measures such as regular driving, software updates, and maintenance can help ensure a smooth and trouble-free Tesla ownership experience.