Teslas aren’t like conventional cars in almost every sense. The darn door handles don’t even open normally. That is why they had to comply with the minimalistic design features by hiding the 12V outlet somewhere. So, how can I find the Tesla Model 3 Power Socket?
The Tesla Model 3’s and Model Y’s 12V outlets are located in the center console’s rear compartment. You can locate it by opening the driver-side console panel and lifting the box to reveal the upper area. The 12V outlet will then be visible.
As with all my articles, I delve a bit deeper into the topic. It seems like Tesla almost forgot about the 12V outlet and had to cram it into the console’s design somehow. Check out the rest of the article. This should get interesting. The positioning of the outlet feels somewhat haphazard, leading one to wonder about the overall design priorities of Tesla. As we explore deeper, we’ll also touch on related topics like how the outlet’s functionality may impact battery life, particularly in light of discussions surrounding Tesla phantom drain explained. Stay tuned for insights that could change your perspective on electric vehicle usage!
How To Locate the 12v Outlet in a Model 3
If you’re looking for the 12v outlet in your Model 3, follow these simple steps:
- Open the driver-side console panel.
- Lift the first box to reveal the upper area.
- Check for the 12v outlet in that area.
The following YouTube video provides additional instructions on how to find the 12v outlet in a Model 3:
Note: If you can’t find it, consult your car’s manual for more detailed instructions. But with these tips, you should be able to locate the 12v outlet in no time.
Why the 12v Outlet in a Model 3 Is Hidden
Many people have been asking about locating the 12v outlet in the Model 3 and why it’s hidden in the first place. Well, there are three reasons for this: Tesla’s minimalist design aesthetic, to prevent cluttering, and to make the outlet accessible.
Let me explain each reason in more detail:
- The first reason is that Tesla has a minimalist design aesthetic. The goal is to have a clean and simple look inside the car without unnecessary buttons or controls. That means that anything that can be hidden away, like the 12v outlet, will be.
- The second reason is to prevent cluttering. The Model 3 is designed to be as minimalistic as possible, both inside and out. That means there shouldn’t be any unnecessary wires or cables running around inside the cabin. By hiding the 12v outlet, it helps to keep the interior looking clean and uncluttered.
- The third reason is to make the outlet accessible. Even though it’s hidden away, the 12v outlet is still easily accessible when you need it. All you have to do is pull down on the rear seat armrest, and it will pop right out.
How To Use the 12v Outlet in a Model 3
Now that you know where the 12v outlet is, let’s talk about how to use it. The first thing you need to know is what voltage the outlet is.
The Tesla Model 3 has a 12v outlet, which you can use to power any 12-volt appliance, including things like phone chargers and portable air compressors. This feature makes the Model 3 particularly versatile for users who enjoy outdoor activities or need to charge devices on the go. However, it’s important to understand that electric vehicles operate differently from traditional gas-powered cars, raising the question of do electric cars use alternators. In the case of the Model 3, the answer is no; instead, it utilizes a high-capacity battery and power management systems to supply energy directly to its outlets.
To use the outlet, follow these steps:
- Plug in your appliance.
- Turn on the device.
Caution: Remember, the 12v outlet is not intended for high-powered devices like hair dryers or curling irons. If you try to use one of these devices, it may overheat and cause damage to the outlet.
| Specification | Rating/Category |
| Outlet Type | 12 Volts |
| Maximum Current | 15 Amps |
| Maximum Power | 150 Watts |
That said, if you need a handy charger to keep your phones powered up on long trips, the 12v outlet is a great option.
It charges up to 2 phones at a time, making it a great option for families or anyone who likes to travel with multiple devices.
What To Do if the 12v Outlet in a Tesla Model 3 Isn’t Working
If the 12v outlet in your Tesla Model 3 isn’t working, don’t panic! Here are a few things you can do to try and troubleshoot the problem:
- Check if the fuse is blown. The 12v outlet is powered by a 30-amp fuse, so if it’s faulty, replace it with a new one.
- If the fuse looks to be in good condition, check the wiring. Ensure all of the connections are tight and there are no loose wires.
- Check the voltage regulator. It’s located in the main electrical panel under the hood. If it’s not working correctly, it can cause the 12v outlet to malfunction.
