How to Reboot (Reset) a Tesla Model 3 and Model Y
The soft reset steps for a Model 3 or Model Y are similar to soft-resetting a Model X or Model S, but with fewer buttons. It’s always worth starting with a reset of the touchscreen before trying a full vehicle reset(again, the full reset is called power cycling in the Tesla Owner’s Manual and a “deep reset” by a lot of Tesla forum members).
The hard reboot/reset (disconnecting the 12V battery) should not be attempted unless recommended by a Tesla service rep or as a last resort.
Model 3/Y Soft Reboot Steps
Press and hold the scroll wheels until the screens turn off
The touchscreen and instrument cluster should restart after 10-30 seconds
As with the Model X and Model S, the touchscreen reset can be done while driving, but parking the vehicle first is highly recommended.
Model 3/Y Full Vehicle Soft Reboot (Reset)
Method 1:
Place vehicle in park, with all doors shut
Go to Controls > Safety and Security > Power Off
Don’t touch anything (brake, doors, steering wheel, touchscreen, etc) for at least two minutes (though it may be best to wait at least five).
After two (or five) minutes has passed, press the brake or open the door to start the Model 3/Y
Method 2:
Place vehicle in Park, with all doors shut
Press and hold the brake pedal
Press and hold both scroll wheels
Keep the brake and buttons pressed until the screen comes back on
Model 3/Y Hard Reboot Steps
Mobile service typically performs this one, but if you are far away from service centers and the mobile tech is not available, this is a method you can use yourself. With care. Don’t void your warranty.
Doing a hard reset on a Model 3 or Model Y for codes that just won’t clear, error messages that won’t resolve, or a vehicle that may be entirely stalled out on an update can sometimes be necessary. However, we do not recommend the hard reset, so if you can, get to a Service Center or schedule a visit with a Mobile Tech first.
Hard reset for a Tesla Model 3/Y
Turn off the Climate Control System
Fully open the driver’s window (to prevent being accidentally locked out)
Open the frunk
Turn off the car
Inside the frunk, remove the top panel (it’s the one with the windshield wiper fluid cap)
With a 10mm socket wrench, disconnect the 12V Battery terminal and isolate it from the post
Open passenger side of the back door
Fasten all the backseat seatbelts (if you don’t want to have to fish them up later)
Swipe your hand under the seats to release the clips that hold the seat down; lift the seats
Remove the foam cover for the wire harness
Disconnect the wire harness and unplug (there will be a noise from the main contactors)
Wait for at least 2-5 minutes
Reverse your steps to replace the wire harness, foam cover, seats, 12V battery terminal, and plastic cover in the frunk
