Starting to regret getting Model S

[Modeler]

I picked up my new Model S 4 days ago and I'm already starting to regret the purchase. To start, the car came with a horrendously loud constant popping/creaking noise from somewhere around the top of the windshield. But the big issue occured today. I parked the car and got out to walk around it to the passenger side. While I was walking around, the car locked itself with my keys, cell phone, and everything else still in it. Thankfully I was able to find a phone to call home. My wife used my iPad to remotely unlocked the car. But I'm left very angry that something this idiotic can happen on a $100K car. Wish there was a return guarantee...

 

[ToddRLockwood]

The car probably wasn't actually locked. The handles will retract automatically after you shut the doors, but if the key fob is within range of the car, the car will not actually lock. The door handles will re-present just by pushing on one of them.

There has been a sunroof squeak issue on some vehicles. (Mine never had it.) It is an issue that can be fixed by the Tesla service centers, and they may even be able to fix it at your home.

 

[Soolim]

Locking your key inside the car is very strange and should never happened. Please bring it to the attention of your local service center and they should look after you. Did the delivery specialist gave you a tutorial on the functionalities of the S? If you feel more interaction with the DS is needed please do not hesitate to ask them. If you are still dissatisfied with the remedies of the SC, then escalate to the higher management as necessary.

 

[tstafford]

Not sure how you bought it but there are some return guarantees. I know that my lease thru Tesla would have allowed me to return inside of 30 days.

Sorry you are disappointed in the car. I'm sure you can find a way out of it. I'd speak to Tesla about your options.

 

[andrewket]

The car probably wasn't actually locked. The handles will retract automatically after you shut the doors, but if the key fob is within range of the car, the car will not actually lock. The door handles will re-present just by pushing on one of them.

Todd is correct, but it is possible that the car did not detect the keys in the car. The sensors/antennas don't seem to be quite as sensitive as other brands. There are known dead slots in the trunk.

You should have your service center check out the creaking. While Tesla has made huge strides on the fit and finish of the S since 2012, small items still sometimes make it past Q&A. Focus on the major positives - you're not using gas, it can almost drive itself on the highway, it's fast and super smooth, etc, and give Tesla an opportunity to fix the other items.

Congrats on your purchase, and welcome.

 

[sandpiper]

Todd is correct, but it is possible that the car did not detect the keys in the car. The sensors/antennas don't seem to be quite as sensitive as other brands. There are known dead slots in the trunk.

You should have your service center check out the creaking. While Tesla has made huge strides on the fit and finish of the S since 2012, small items still sometimes make it past Q&A. Focus on the major positives - you're not using gas, it can almost drive itself on the highway, it's fast and super smooth, etc, and give Tesla an opportunity to fix the other items.

Congrats on your purchase, and welcome.

I had my key locked into the car once. And I find that the odd time the handles don't present when I approach. But, in my case, I found that the problem is the two other RFID tags on my keychain. If the Tesla key is behind or under them, it sometimes doesn't work. But that's not unique to Tesla; it's just the way that these tags are.

 

[ecarfan]

To the OP: please tell us where the fob was located in the car, and was a cell phone or table lying on top of the fob.
Also, when you got around to the passenger side to find the door handles retracted, did you push on the handle to see if it would open? Or did you try to open the trunk with your hand?
I'm sure the noise at the top of the windshield can be fixed. Do you have the Panoramic roof option?

 

[skboston]

I've had my car locked itself with the keys in a few times, it's not uncommon actually even with the key in sitting in the center tray. I usually have my phone with me at all times, so that have saved me, but it's not pleasant for sure.

 

[mobe]

I have a friend who bought a brand new Mercedes Benz 450 SL with the pneumatic locking system. The car was constantly locking him out. Strange thing is, when it did, even though he had the key, he was unable to over- ride the system. Despite visit after visit to the dealer, they were never able to get it fixed. He finally traded the car back to the dealer because he never knew if he would be able to get into the car.

So yes weird things happen to all mechanical devices from time to time.
I think that it was probably just the handles retracting though and that it wasn't really locked.

Give the SC a chance to fix the squeak. I think you will be delighted at how they take care of you.

 

[bonnie]

Suggest until the OP knows the cause (use error/the doors weren't actually locked, key fob in dead zone, or service visit rq'd), that the driver control settings be set so that the car doesn't lock on walk away.

 

[Caligula]

Interesting. I've accidentally locked all manner of things in various vehicles throughout my life. It's never occurred to me to blame the car for this, however. I've apparently been too hard on myself all these years? :biggrin:

 

[apacheguy]

The car probably wasn't actually locked. The handles will retract automatically after you shut the doors, but if the key fob is within range of the car, the car will not actually lock. The door handles will re-present just by pushing on one of them.

Not always true. I had same issue as OP. Car locked itself with keys inside. Tried all door handles and even trunk to no avail. Had to remotely unlock.

Key was under the 17".

 

[rcarpen22]

My question is why anyone ever takes the key out of their pocket? I know it's not a super uncommon issue (as I've seen a number of people write about getting locked out). I have yet to purchase a MS, but I imagine when I do, the key will never leave my pocket. You don't need to use it for anything do you?

 

[SabrToothSqrl]

I don't find it comfortable to have the key in my pocket (While driving). so it goes in the center tray thingy. It's never locked me out. I leave the key in it, in my garage at home. I'm lazy that way lol.

If it's a black on black 85D... would it happen to be for sale ?

 

[BoldSharpe]

1. Disable the auto lock feature. I also disabled the auto present door handle feature as I found it to be annoying as they'd present when I'd go into my garage to take out the garbage, etc.

2. Call the service center and schedule an appointment to get the rattle fixed. It's unfortunate and annoying something so obvious wasn't noticed during the inspection process.

3. Post back here with your results.

 

[tezzla]

My question is why anyone ever takes the key out of their pocket? I know it's not a super uncommon issue (as I've seen a number of people write about getting locked out). I have yet to purchase a MS, but I imagine when I do, the key will never leave my pocket. You don't need to use it for anything do you?

I have to agree with rcarpen22. I've only locked the keys in my car twice in my life, once when they fell out of my hands getting something from the back seat (1980's) and once in my Mercedes (accidently dropped keys in trunk). NOT the car's fault!

 

[Cyclone]

My question is why anyone ever takes the key out of their pocket? I know it's not a super uncommon issue (as I've seen a number of people write about getting locked out). I have yet to purchase a MS, but I imagine when I do, the key will never leave my pocket. You don't need to use it for anything do you?

My mother leaves her key in her purse. If she was just walking around the car, she could leave her purse in the car. For me, if I am wearing jeans or most of my shorts, I keep the key in my pocket. If I am wearing dress slacks or a bathing suit, the key sits in the center console raceway. That said, I've never been locked out before either.

- - - Updated - - -

1. Disable the auto lock feature. I also disabled the auto present door handle feature as I found it to be annoying as they'd present when I'd go into my garage to take out the garbage, etc.

I am confused on the process/workflow here. Why do you take your car key with you into the garage to take out the garbage?

 

[Mark Z]

I don't find it comfortable to have the key in my pocket...

The key fob can fit nicely in a shirt pocket where it is easy to locate. I find the Bass Pro Shops Red Head shirts with two velcro closures to be an excellent design for wallet and key fob. Other styles have button or open pocket designs.

Long Sleeve: http://www.basspro.com/RedHead-Finley-River-Shirt-for-Men-Long-Sleeve/product/13102307012918/
Short Sleeve: http://www.basspro.com/RedHead-Finley-River-Shirt-for-Men-Short-Sleeve/product/13102507012511/

 

[BoldSharpe]

I am confused on the process/workflow here. Why do you take your car key with you into the garage to take out the garbage?

Is this what you're looking for? :wink:

 

[mkspeedr]

The work flow is the funniest thing I have seen all day.

BTW - I might need to use your process flow chart - I have the same problem with my garbage.