Can You Unplug the Tesla Charging Gun Directly?
3 Answers
Tesla charging cannot be unplugged directly. Method to unplug the Tesla charging gun: First, use the car key to end the charging session, then press the button on the charger. If you hear a click sound, release the button on the charger and then pull out the charging gun. As long as the operation method is correct, the Tesla charging gun can be smoothly unplugged. Precautions for unplugging the Tesla charging gun: On the charging gun card, the position where the thumb rests is the switch. Inside the gap directly below, there is a small metal rod. Just find something that can be inserted into it, push it in, and then press the switch—this should allow you to remove the charging gun. If you encounter a situation where the charging gun cannot be unplugged during the charging process, you can use this method. If it still doesn’t work, you can call the operator or the vehicle customer service.
As a Tesla owner, I must remind you never to yank the charging cable directly! Tesla's charging port has an electronic lock. Before unplugging, you must first tap 'Unlock Charge Port' on the touchscreen or hold the trunk button on the car key for 3 seconds. Last time I was in a hurry and pulled it directly, which triggered the alarm and nearly damaged the latch. Now the Supercharger design is very smart—when charging is complete and the screen turns green, simply press the button on the cable to automatically unlock it. For home charging stations, remember to unplug the power first before pressing the cable button. The manual states that forcibly pulling the cable may damage the charging port, and the repair cost could cover half a year's electricity bill—definitely not worth the risk.
Having repaired new energy vehicles for eight years, I can say that Tesla's charging guns with locking mechanisms are most vulnerable to rough handling. To unplug the gun, you must first 'communicate' with the vehicle: either stop charging via the central control screen or remotely unlock it through the mobile app. I've seen numerous cases where clients yanked the entire charging port base out of shape, requiring rear bumper removal for repairs—labor costs start at 2,000 RMB. Supercharger stations are more convenient: the gun automatically powers off upon charging completion, and once the light strip turns green, simply press the gun handle button. A 'click' sound indicates it's safe to unplug. Extra caution is needed in rainy conditions—always unlock before unplugging to avoid short-circuit risks.
