How to Jump Start a Tesla Model 3
Steps from the 2026 Tesla Model 3 owner's manual (Low voltage (lithium-ion) battery, using an external low voltage power supply such as a portable jump starter).
- Open the hood using the no-power hood release procedure.
- Pull the maintenance panel upward firmly to release its trim clips and remove it.
- Remove the red cover and connect the power supply's red positive (+) cable to the red positive (+) jump post.
- Connect the power supply's black negative (-) cable to the bolt next to the brake fluid reservoir.
- Turn on the external power supply and touch the touchscreen to wake the vehicle.
- When finished, disconnect both cables, starting with the black negative (-) cable.
- Put the maintenance panel back and press down until secure, then close the hood.
- Model 3 cannot be used to jump start another vehicle; doing so can cause damage.
- Keep the positive cable away from other metal parts and avoid short circuits.
- If jumping from another vehicle, follow that vehicle manufacturer's instructions.
Source: 2026 Tesla Model 3 owner's manual, PDF page 247. Steps are summarized in our own words (AI-assisted, checked against the cited pages 2026-10-18). Other model years can differ; your manual has the final word.
Confirm with your own manual, dipstick or door-jamb label.
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