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2021 Tesla Model S — no crank with full dash power, then it starts later

TireBuilder162Community StarterDec 5, 20252021 Tesla Model S Long RangeBoston
2021 Tesla Model S Long Range, about 66,500 miles. Twice I have had full lights and accessories but no crank. After waiting a few minutes it starts normally. Battery terminals look clean. What would you want to measure during the actual failure?
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5 replies

QuietSeller995Community StarterCommunity StarterDec 5, 2025permalink
I'd want a measurement, not a hunch. Move a coil or plug on the 2021 Tesla Model S if it's cylinder-specific and see whether the code follows. Save the big job until that test fails. A shop burned me once by skipping that step. Not trying to scare you — just skip the expensive first guess. I'd rather pay for diagnosis than a second guess-repair.
CommuterDriver262Community StarterCommunity StarterDec 6, 2025permalink
Intermittent stuff lies if you only catch it once. Loaded-suspension checks on the 2021 Tesla Model S catch play that a wheels-hanging inspection misses. If the cheap test changes it, stop and reassess. On “no crank with full dash power, then,” that was the fork that mattered for me. Stop there until you know. If your situation is the opposite, ignore me. Doing the boring step first on purpose.
ColdStartCamper961Community StarterCommunity StarterDec 7, 2025permalink
Same neighborhood, different next step: Swap the cheap/easy piece first on the 2021 Tesla Model S and see if the fault moves. You'll know quickly if you're on the wrong tree. On “no crank with full dash power, then,” that was the fork that mattered for me. Time, temperature, and whether it's in gear are the notes that actually help a shop. If your situation is the opposite, ignore me. I keep a notes app thread for this now.
WrenchNerdCommunity StarterCommunity StarterDec 6, 2025permalink
Start with the test that can prove you wrong. Write temp, speed, and in-gear vs coast when the 2021 Tesla Model S does it — then decide on parts. You'll know quickly if you're on the wrong tree. Learned this the expensive way on a previous car. I've seen both outcomes, which is why I'd test instead of assume. If it repeats twice more I'll book time.
WrenchNerdCommunity StarterCommunity StarterDec 6, 2025permalink
I wouldn't throw parts yet. Get a real battery/charging test on the 2021 Tesla Model S, not just resting voltage, before blaming a module. Don't erase codes until someone who can help has seen them. Had a similar mess a couple years ago and that's what finally sorted it. I refuse to clear codes until someone else sees them.
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