BEST CAR BATTERY TESLA Model S (5YJS) (09.2012 - ...)

For your 2016 Tesla Model S facing harsh UK winters, the key concerns are cold weather performance and battery longevity. Here’s a detailed overview and recommendations based on available insights:

Tesla Battery Considerations for UK Winters
- Tesla’s main traction battery pack is designed to perform well in cold climates, but extreme cold can reduce range temporarily due to battery chemistry and energy used for heating. Tesla’s thermal management system helps mitigate this effect.
- Battery longevity: Tesla batteries generally last many years, but replacement costs in the UK are high—typically between £13,000 and £20,000 depending on model and battery size. The 2016 Model S battery may be out of warranty or close to it, so ensuring good maintenance and monitoring battery health is important.
- Battery refurbishment options: Instead of full replacement, companies like Cedar Electric in the UK offer Tesla battery refurbishment services that repair faults and extend battery life with a 12-month warranty, potentially saving up to £14,800 compared to full replacement.

Auxiliary 12V Battery
- The Tesla Model S also uses a separate 12V battery for auxiliary systems. This battery typically lasts 4-5 years and should be replaced proactively to avoid failures, especially in cold weather. Upgrading to advanced lithium 12V batteries (like those from Ohmmu.com) can improve reliability in cold climates and reduce the risk of being stranded.

Recommendations
* Maintain battery health by keeping your Tesla plugged in during cold weather to allow the thermal management system to keep the battery warm.
* Consider a battery refurbishment service if your main battery shows signs of degradation or faults, as this can be more cost-effective than full replacement.
* Upgrade the 12V auxiliary battery to a lithium version for better cold weather reliability and longer life.

* Regular diagnostics through Tesla service or trusted EV specialists (e.g., Cleevely EV) can help catch issues early before they become costly.
* Plan for battery replacement costs if your battery is out of warranty, budgeting between £13,000 and £20,000 for a new pack or consider refurbishment as a cheaper alternative.

In summary, your 2016 Tesla Model S’s main battery should handle UK winters well if properly maintained and kept warm. For longevity and reliability, consider refurbishing the main battery if needed and upgrading the 12V battery to lithium technology to avoid cold weather failures. Regular professional diagnostics are advisable to monitor battery health and address issues early.