Car thinks door is open, doesn't recognize either key, remote start doesn't work - 2014 85 - 12v reset fixed it

[kajsidog]

Adding a frustrating problem we had the other day should someone else experience it. Car wouldn't start. Tried both key fobs, tried holding in over center console. Used the app which was recognized but it wouldn't go into drive or reverse. Car also thought the driver's door was open, even when shut. This meant it wouldn't lock. It also meant occasionally when opening the alarm would go off. Tried rebooting, and installing software update which failed. Tesla said it couldn't be handled remotely or with mobile service and it needed towed. Tow mode was unavailable so watching it get yanked around to be in a spot for the flatbed was a little tough, ha ha.

At the service center they did a 12v reset to fix. (~$90 diagnostics) I asked if that was something we can do to save on a future tow but was told it required their computer.

Just wanted to add should anyone be searching these weird symptoms.

 

[kajsidog]

Bummer update. Two days after picking it up (and about two hours after posting) it doesn't recognize either key and screen is black. Had to crawl in through the back hatch. Thankfully was able to unlock charger from the app.

 

[SoCal Buzz]

Bummer update. Two days after picking it up (and about two hours after posting) it doesn't recognize either key and screen is black. Had to crawl in through the back hatch. Thankfully was able to unlock charger from the app.

Sounds more like the MCU is failing. Have you upgraded it already?

 

[kajsidog]

MCU was upgraded a year or so ago when we first got the car. @SoCal Buzz

We had it towed yesterday. Will try to remember to update what they find.

 

[kajsidog]

It took service awhile to figure out but it seems the TPMS module had malfunctioned and stayed in a wakeful state causing an electrical short in the CAN line that made the vehicle unresponsive. The car has now been updated to the newer TPMS system (we can see tire pressures!) for around $800 and everything seems to be good. I didn't envy the techs figuring this one out but am thankful for them.

 

[kajsidog]

About two weeks after that last post the car's rear doors wouldn't open, kids had to crawl over the console and get out the front in the school drop-off line. Afterwards the support line had recommended powering off the car which completely killed it and it had to be towed. Again. They spent a month with it, taking things apart, checking wiring, checking it multiple times a day, driving it home etc but were never able to find the root cause for the CAN line error as it had gone away once dropped off.

In the meantime we took advantage of the recent price drops, tax rebate and bought a demo Model 3. We'll miss the other S but feel better having at least one newer car. (my 2014 S has 213K miles)