The Model 3 and Model Y vehicles feature one of the most compact and technologically advanced battery systems. In most cases, these systems are repairable at the component level, including the replacement of one or more cylindrical cellsāsomething that was previously considered impossible. However, this is only true if the owner understands the urgency of the issue.
Weāve observed several cases of defective batteries succumbing to moisture ingress or retention within the housing. In many instances, owners have mechanically damaged the battery housingāpuncturing it or damaging other parts of the casing. If the repair of the cylindrical cell-based battery systems on the Model 3 or Y is delayed for several months, restoration often becomes impossible.
Why is delay a problem?
The battery consists of 96 cell groups, each containing 31 or more cells in parallel. And if one cell in paraller is damaged, it will damage complete group. Changing all cells in a group is not possible.
One recurring design flaw in the 2170 cylindrical cells is their orientationāall are installed upside down in the modules. The cells are not entirely encapsulated in foam; instead, the thermal gap filler is applied only at the bottom of the cell. Condensation and moisture, which form in conditions of extreme temperature fluctuations, drip down onto the shoulder of the cell, where the – and + terminals are located. This leads to electrolysis, permanent cell damage, and subsequent discharge of the entire group.
The battery housing has also proven insufficiently robust against impacts from road debris or curbs. Deformations at the rear often damage the vent valve, while impacts at the front can crack the entire housing, allowing water to enter directly into the battery system. Aftermarket manufacturers or Tesla itself should consider designing steel reinforcements to protect the front and rear of the housing. Similar issues have been observed with VAG, Mercedes, and Renault batteries, although the Tesla Model S housing has so far demonstrated superior durability.
Vehicles that are frequently charged at DC fast chargers have shown greater resistance to cell oxidation and other moisture-related issues. Rapid heating during DC charging drives out even minimal residual moisture through the āumbrella valveā vents, contributing to improved battery longevity.
If your battery is damaged in any way, itās highly recommended to perform a āpressure testā to check for leaks. If you encounter imbalance errors, insulation faults, or limited charging capabilities, do not wait weeks to address the issue. Acting promptly significantly increases the chances of saving the battery because this one from picture could not be saved.
Alert: BMS_A066, BMS_A107, BMS_a156
Partnumber: 1104429-00-N
OEM: 9155ā¬ +TAX
EVC: (no SR module on stock)
