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When you think about long-term EV ownership, most people wonder how far a Tesla can go before major components like the high-voltage battery give out. It’s the question that defines real-world reliability for electric cars. In the case of Joshua Higdon, the Arizona sun provided an answer that was both sobering and fascinating. After 130,000 miles, he says the Phoenix heat finally claimed his Tesla Model 3’s HV battery in the “Tesla Owners of Phoenix” Facebook group, and in a domino effect, taking out the Autopilot computer as well.
Here’s his detailed explanation of what happened: “Well it happened. 130k miles in and the Phoenix heat claimed my HV battery and autopilot computer. I updated this post for more detailed info on what I was told and what led up to this: 2 months ago, I woke up and went to my car where it had charged to 22% and said max charge reached. This was my first clue that something bigger was at play. I did a full reset by disconnecting both the 12v and HV battery (under the seat) and letting the car sit for about 10 minutes before reconnecting. After that it charged up just fine with zero issues.
This past Monday I jacked up the rear driver side of the car to address a clunking sound that I was hearing while driving. When trying to put the car into tow mode to disengage the e-brake, my entire car just shut off. My 12v battery needed to be replaced. I went to Tesla the next day and got one, installed it, and everything was just fine with the car. Fast forward to Friday, I go to leave work and my car won’t unlock or respond to anything on the app except opening my frunk. I had it towed to Tesla SC where they told me the car was reading a short in the pack which was not allowing the contact connectors to function and engage with the pack. This had to have occurred while my car was parked at work and the car was not able to cool the autopilot computer, so it overheated and is now most likely fried. This would be why my app was not allowing any functionality and not even unlocking my car. No controls in the car work at all. Now the screen isn’t even booting up (this might be due to the new 12v battery being very low on charge.
This was bound to happen, but I just did not expect it to happen yet. I have driven the car a lot and I should have been more responsible with my charging habits as far as not charging to 100% to avoid SC stops on longer trips.
I appreciate the advice and tips from those here trying to help. This was always going to be a “project” for me to dive into and learn about replacing the HV battery along with other major components on the car. I was hoping to have new parts sourced and ready before I started but that’s no longer the case. So now the journey begins and I’m honestly looking forward to having another project.”
Joshua’s honesty adds weight to the story. He doesn’t just blame Tesla but acknowledges how charging habits and battery degradation in extreme climates can catch up with even the most durable EVs. His reference to treating this as a “project” also shows the mindset of many early adopters. For them, the ownership journey isn’t just about avoiding problems, but about learning through them.
Why the Failure Matters
At first, the signs were subtle with an odd charging cap at 22% and a 12V replacement that seemed to fix things temporarily. But when the high-voltage pack shorted, it left the Model 3 powerless and unable to even boot its screen. The fact that the Autopilot computer overheated when cooling stopped working makes this a two-fold failure that’s more than just an inconvenience. It raises bigger questions about how Tesla’s thermal systems handle extreme heat and what long-term owners in places like Phoenix should expect.
Stories like Joshua’s contrast sharply with owners who report incredible longevity. For instance, one driver recently shared that their 2022 Tesla Model 3 reached 200,000 miles and still runs on the original battery with almost no issues. These polar opposite outcomes highlight how environment, driving style, and charging practices play a massive role in what happens beyond the warranty window.
Community Reactions
Other Tesla owners were quick to weigh in, and their perspectives highlight just how divided experiences can be.
Mike Hildebrant commented: “Something’s fishy here. There are plenty of Tesla’s in the valley with far more miles than 130k. Batteries seldom go out without some warning. OTP is built in and would have first alerted you, just as a fuse trips first. There are refurbishing companies that rebuild Tesla batteries. Usually this amounts to replacing one or two cells. As for the autopilot computer, it seems very odd that this would go out at the same time as the battery. Sorry you are having to deal with this. I certainly would not passively accept what they are telling you.”
Mike’s skepticism reflects a broader concern: are service centers sometimes over-attributing issues to full pack failures when repair or refurbishing might suffice? The availability of Tesla battery refurbishing and third-party service shops is an increasingly relevant topic for owners whose vehicles are out of warranty.
Another owner, Jackson Parkinson, pushed back on the heat argument: “Eh, my friend has 300k on his car in the ‘phoenix heat.’”
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His point underscores the inconsistency of EV degradation, where one Model 3 might fail just past 130k, while another keeps going three times that distance.
Finally, Patrick Woodgate added: “There are independent shops that can fix it for less. Even if it is the battery, they can swap in a used one.” Patrick’s comment points to an important consideration for Tesla owners. Once outside of warranty, the world of independent EV repair shops offering used battery swaps becomes not just viable but often financially necessary.
Technical Context
EV batteries are remarkably durable, but they are not immune to physics. High ambient temperatures like those in Phoenix can put extra stress on cells, accelerating chemical breakdown and reducing lifespan. Pair that with frequent high states of charge and deep discharges, and degradation can speed up. Tesla’s thermal management systems do a good job under most conditions, but once a critical fault prevents cooling from reaching components like the Autopilot computer, cascading failures can be possible.
This situation also ties into broader ownership lessons. Some drivers have been surprised by early battery degradation in low-mileage Teslas, while others regret not requesting a battery health test before buying used models. Together, these examples reveal the unpredictable nature of EV longevity in real-world use, especially when climate plays a significant role.
Lessons From Real-World Tesla Ownership
When I look at Joshua’s story, I see a turning point that represents the reality of maturing EV ownership. Tesla has proven that its vehicles can go the distance, but stories like this remind us that “going the distance” looks different depending on how and where the car is driven.
EVs aren’t immune to regional realities. The Phoenix heat, long commutes, and charging shortcuts will test even the best-engineered battery packs. What impresses me most is that Joshua isn’t discouraged. He sees this as an opportunity to learn and to dive into the mechanical side of EVs. That mindset might end up being just as important as the technology itself in shaping the future of electric car ownership.
Key Takeaways
- Extreme heat can accelerate battery wear: High temperatures like those in Phoenix put added stress on EV packs and supporting systems.
- Small warning signs matter: Odd charging behavior and intermittent 12V issues can be early clues of bigger HV problems.
- Independent EV repair options exist: Owners don’t always have to accept service center verdicts. Refurbished and used packs can be great alternatives.
- Charging discipline affects longevity: Frequent 100% charges may be convenient, but they can also reduce lifespan over time.
- Ownership mindset is key: Seeing failures as part of the journey helps owners stay invested even when big repairs come due.
Time For Your Opinion
Have you ever had to deal with a major EV battery or component failure? Did you go through Tesla or an independent shop?
And do you think high-mileage Teslas in extreme climates will define the real limits of EV ownership? Or are these just isolated cases?
I’d love to hear what you have to say in our comments section below.
Aram Krajekian is a young automotive journalist bringing a fresh perspective to his coverage of the evolving automotive landscape. Follow Aram on X and LinkedIn for daily news coverage about cars.
Image Sources: The “Tesla Owners of Phoenix” public Facebook group and Tesla’s gallery, respectively.
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Source: torquenews.com
