Tesla: Inductive charging unreliable? That could be the reason

Inductive charging in a Tesla can be very helpful: simply get in, place your phone on the charging pad, and get out with a full battery – that's the theory. But what if it doesn't work in practice?

The problem

Whether it's Model 3, Model S or others: Tesla drivers repeatedly report problems where charging in the inductive charging station doesn't work at all or only works briefly.

Proposed solutions

First, rule out any fault with the smartphone. This means removing any protective case or disabling fast charging in the settings. With some smaller phones, placing a block or similar object underneath the phone can help raise it higher in the charging station.

On some older Tesla models, it's possible to check the cable that runs from the charging station to the USB port in the center console and perhaps unplug and replug it. Unfortunately, on newer models, the charging station is hardwired.

Finally, all that's left to do is try, try, try. Maybe the charging station will eventually work again. If necessary, you'll have to use a regular charging cable or contact Tesla service.

Source of featured image: Brecht Denil via Unsplash