Have you noticed that the rear doors of your Tesla don't have an emergency release switch? In this article, you'll find out how you can still open the rear doors in an emergency and why it's important to be prepared.

The problem with the Tesla emergency release

Most Teslamodels have an electronic door opening mechanism that relies on a functioning low-voltage battery (12 or 16 volts). However, in the event of an accident, the vehicle may run out of power. The doors can then no longer be opened in the conventional way.

There is a mechanical emergency release lever for the front doors. However, this is missing or difficult to access on the rear doors. This can be dangerous in an emergency, especially if rapid evacuation is required.

This is how the emergency release works on the various Tesla-models

Model 3 (2017-2023):

The rear doors do not have a directly accessible emergency release mechanism. The emergency release is located behind the door trim and can only be reached via a cable pull. It is possible to retrofit a pull loop, but this requires a hole to be drilled in the door trim.

Model 3 Highland (from 2024):

The emergency release is more easily accessible here. It is located under a cover in the door compartment. By attaching a handle to the cable pull, you can open the door more quickly in an emergency.

Model Y:

With the Model Y the emergency release is also hidden under a cover in the door compartment. Not all vehicles have this cover. On older models, the door trim may have to be removed to gain access to the cable pull. A loop can also be attached here to make operation easier.

Model S (all model years):

The emergency release is located under the carpet on the floor, just below the edge of the seat. A small hole in the carpet provides access to the cable pull. Attaching a loop makes access easier in an emergency.

Model X:

The Falcon Wing doors have an emergency release behind the speaker cover. The grille can be removed with the hands to access the cable pull. It is not possible to simplify this mechanism, but it helps to practise the procedure.

Retrofitting a handle or loop solution

There are various options for equipping the emergency release cable pull with a loop or handle. This can significantly speed up evacuation in an emergency. However, please note that the mechanical emergency release also works while driving and with the child safety lock activated. If you are transporting children, you should consider whether you want to make such a modification to prevent children from opening the doors while driving.

Important notes on emergency unlocking

• Be careful when trying it outWhen you operate the emergency release, the window pane does not lower automatically. The window pane can be damaged when the door is closed if you are not careful.

• Emergency hammer as an alternative: If the doors are deformed after an accident, an emergency hammer for breaking the side windows can save lives.

Conclusion

Is retrofitting a more accessible emergency release overkill? Perhaps. But it can save lives in an emergency. It's worth knowing the options and taking the appropriate precautions to protect yourself and your passengers in the best possible way.

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