Why does the 2016 Tesla Model S experience rapid battery degradation, and what are the solutions?

 
Reasons for Rapid Battery Degradation in the 2016 Tesla Model S
 

High Usage of Supercharging
 

• Frequent use of Tesla’s Superchargers can accelerate battery wear because of the higher temperatures and higher currents involved.

 
High Mileage
 

• High mileage contributes to more charge-discharge cycles, which reduces the battery’s overall capacity over time.

 
Temperature Extremes
 

• Exposure to extreme temperatures, either very hot or very cold, can affect battery health negatively by accelerating chemical reactions inside the battery, leading to faster degradation.

 
High State of Charge
 

• Keeping the battery at a high state of charge (above 90%) for extended periods can also speed up battery degradation.

 
Frequent Deep Discharges
 

• Allowing the battery to frequently and deeply discharge below 20% can stress the battery and result in a lower overall lifespan.

 
Solutions to Mitigate Battery Degradation
 

Moderate Use of Supercharging
 

• Limit the use of Superchargers for long trips and rely more on home or standard chargers for daily charging needs.

 
Maintain Optimal Charging Levels
 

• Keep the battery charged between 20% and 80% for regular use. Avoid keeping the battery at 90% or higher unless needed for long trips.

 
Utilize Battery Management Settings
 

• Use Tesla’s software to optimize charging habits. Settings like maximum charge limits can help manage battery health.

 
Control Environmental Factors
 

• Ensure the vehicle is stored in moderate temperature conditions whenever possible. Utilize Tesla’s battery preconditioning feature to manage temperatures efficiently.

 
Regular Maintenance Checks
 

• Periodic inspections at a Tesla service center can help identify early signs of battery issues and mitigate them before they become severe.

 
Firmware Updates
 

• Keep the vehicle’s firmware updated to leverage Tesla’s improvements in battery management and efficiency.

 
By following these steps, owners of the 2016 Tesla Model S can help prolong the life of their vehicle’s battery and ensure it performs optimally for a longer period.