Replace the charge port latch assembly on a 2024 Model S Long Range. The latch is the small motorized mechanism that secures the J1772/NACS connector during charging; failure typically presents as a connector that won't lock or won't release.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Charge port latch assembly (motor + pawl) × 1 — OEM Tesla Model S charge port latch assembly — verify by VIN; NACS-equipped 2024 MS uses revised assembly vs. earlier J1772-native units
• Replacement fasteners (if any are damaged on removal) × 1 — OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park on level ground, place in P, engage parking brake.
2. Exit ALL doors with key fob away from the vehicle. Wait at least 2 minutes for HV systems to fully de-energize, even on this non-HV job.
3. Disconnect the 12V low-voltage battery in the frunk (under the nose cowl panel). On a 2024 Model S Long Range this is a low-voltage Li-ion unit — disconnect the negative terminal and isolate it.
4. DO NOT touch, cut, or pierce ANY orange cable — these are high-voltage and lethal.
5. If at any point you encounter an orange cable, an HV component, or are unsure if a system is de-energized: STOP and consult a Tesla-certified technician.
6. If a charge cable is currently locked in the port, pull the manual release cable located in the trunk (left side liner) to free it before starting.
7. Confirm the replacement latch matches the 2024 Model S NACS-equipped charge port revision.
8. Tape off the painted area surrounding the charge port door to protect the aluminum panel from scratches.

Procedure

1. 1

   Open charge port door
   With 12V still connected, briefly open the charge port door using the touchscreen or by pressing the door. Once open, proceed to disconnect the 12V battery as described in preparation. The door will remain in its open position mechanically.
2. 2

   Access the charge port assembly from inside the vehicle
   Open the rear hatch and remove the left rear interior trim panel covering the wheel-well area adjacent to the charge port. Use plastic trim tools to release the push-pin clips. Set fasteners aside in order. This exposes the back side of the charge port housing and its wiring harness.
   ⚠Note routing of any harnesses behind the trim — do not pinch on reinstall.
3. 3

   Identify the latch and verify HV separation
   Locate the charge port latch — it is the small motorized mechanism on top of the charge port housing with a low-voltage connector (typically a small black multi-pin). Confirm visually that the orange HV cables enter the rear face of the housing separately and are not part of the latch assembly. If the latch is integrated with HV connections in any way on your unit, STOP — this is not a DIY-serviceable configuration.
   ⚠️Do not unbolt or disturb any orange cable connector. The latch service touches only the low-voltage motor/sensor sub-assembly.
4. 4

   Disconnect latch wiring harness
   Release the locking tab on the latch's low-voltage connector and unplug it. If a secondary position-sensor connector is present, unplug it as well. Free the harness from any retaining clips on the latch body.
5. 5

   Remove the charge port outer trim ring (if required for access)
   From the outside, gently release the cosmetic trim ring around the charge port using a plastic trim tool. Some latch designs require access from the front to remove a retainer; others are fully serviced from the rear. Inspect both sides before applying force.
   ⚠Aluminum body — never pry against the painted panel. Pry only against the plastic trim ring itself.
6. 6

   Unbolt the latch assembly
   Remove the fasteners securing the latch to the top of the charge port housing. Support the latch as the last fastener is removed so it does not fall and damage adjacent components.
   Torque spec

   Sensor Bolts11 Nm (8 lb-ft)
7. 7

   Remove the failed latch
   Lift the latch assembly out, taking note of the orientation of the pawl and any alignment dowels. Compare directly to the new part to confirm correct replacement before proceeding.
8. 8

   Install the new latch assembly
   Position the new latch onto the charge port housing, aligning any dowels or locating tabs. Hand-thread fasteners first to avoid cross-threading the housing — the housing is plastic-bodied and easily damaged.
   Torque spec

   Sensor Bolts11 Nm (8 lb-ft)
9. 9

   Torque latch fasteners
   Torque the latch mounting fasteners to the manufacturer-specified value for sensor/latch bolts. Do not overtighten — the housing will deform.
   Torque spec

   Sensor Bolts11 Nm (8 lb-ft)
10. 10

    Reconnect latch wiring
    Reconnect the low-voltage connector(s) to the new latch and verify the locking tab clicks home. Reseat the harness into all retaining clips so it cannot chafe against moving parts of the latch pawl.
11. 11

    Verify charge port mounting integrity
    Before reinstalling trim, inspect the charge port housing's main mounting fasteners for tightness. If any were loosened during access, retorque to specification.
    Torque spec

    Charging Port Mounting8 Nm (6 lb-ft)

Reassembly

1. Reinstall the charge port outer trim ring, ensuring all clips fully seat.
2. Reinstall the left rear interior trim panel and all push-pin clips.
3. Reconnect the 12V low-voltage battery in the frunk (negative terminal last). Reinstall the cowl panel.
4. Allow the vehicle ~30 seconds to wake and the gateway to re-initialize before testing.
5. Remove protective tape from around the charge port.

Verification

• Open and close the charge port door from the touchscreen and from the key fob — confirm smooth motion.
• Insert a charge cable (Mobile Connector or home Wall Connector). Confirm the latch audibly engages and the cable cannot be pulled out.
• Initiate a charge session briefly to confirm the vehicle reports a successful handshake (no 'unable to charge' alerts) and that the latch reports 'locked' status.
• Press the release button on the connector and confirm the latch motor releases the cable cleanly.
• Check the touchscreen and the service menu for any charge-port-related alerts (e.g., CP_a004, CP_a046-style codes). Clear any stored faults if needed.
• Test once more after a full lock/unlock cycle to confirm repeatability.
• Note: While the vehicle is in for service, this is a good opportunity to check the cabin air filter (Tesla recommends replacement every 2 years, or every 3 years if HEPA-equipped) and brake fluid (every 2 years per Tesla's published recommendation).

More procedures for this vehicle