2016 Tesla Model S: 12V Battery Size & Group

Quick answer: 2016 Tesla Model S 12V Battery

• BCI Group Size: Group 48/H6
• Cold Cranking Amps (CCA): 600-850 A
• Reserve Capacity: 90-140 minutes
• Battery Type: AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat) required
• Terminal Layout: Right-hand positive (SAE posts)
• Physical Dimensions (L x W x H): 11 in x 7 in x 7.5 in (approx.)
• Dual-battery setup: No

Replacement battery options

• Optima: YELLOWTOP DH6
• Interstate: MTX-48/H6
• DieHard: Platinum AGM 48/H6
• Odyssey: Performance Series 48-720
• ACDelco: 48AGM

AGM vs flooded — which does this vehicle need?

The 2016 Tesla Model S requires an Absorbent Glass Mat (AGM) battery. The 12V battery is located in the front of the vehicle, under the hood, and is not easily accessible. Because of its location and the sophisticated electronics in the Model S, a sealed, non-spillable battery is essential. AGM batteries are also more resistant to vibration and can better handle the deep-cycling demands of a modern electric vehicle. A traditional flooded lead-acid battery is not suitable for this application and should not be installed.

Post-installation relearn / reset procedure

After replacing the 12V battery in a 2016 Tesla Model S, a relearn or reset procedure is generally not required. The vehicle's computer system is designed to recognize the new battery and adjust its charging parameters accordingly. However, it is good practice to allow the vehicle to sit for a few minutes after the new battery is installed to ensure all systems have properly rebooted. If any error messages or warnings appear on the touchscreen display, they can usually be cleared by rebooting the display (holding down both scroll wheels on the steering wheel) or by performing a full vehicle power-off and restart through the settings menu.

Signs of a failing 12V battery

A failing 12V battery in a Tesla Model S can manifest in several ways. You might see a "12V Battery Needs Service" or "Replace 12V Battery" warning on the touchscreen. Other symptoms can include:

• Loss of some electronic features
• Erratic or malfunctioning touchscreen display
• Inability to wake the vehicle from sleep
• A complete no-start condition (the high-voltage battery will not engage if the 12V system is dead)

Common battery issues for this generation

The 2016 Tesla Model S, like many modern vehicles, places a high demand on its 12V battery. The battery is responsible for powering the car's computers, displays, and safety systems, even when the main high-voltage battery is not in use. As a result, the 12V battery can have a shorter lifespan than in a traditional gasoline-powered vehicle, with replacement often needed every 3-5 years. The most common issue is simply the battery wearing out over time due to the constant electrical load.

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