South Korean Tesla Model 3 owners face a recurring BMS battery fault, halving range. Tesla’s use of refurbished batteries and high out-of-warranty costs have sparked outrage, prompting government threats to cut EV subsidies unless a permanent fix is provided.
South Korean Tesla Model 3 owners face a recurring BMS battery fault, halving range. Tesla’s use of refurbished batteries and high out-of-warranty costs have sparked outrage, prompting government threats to cut EV subsidies unless a permanent fix is provided.
A growing number of Tesla Model 3 owners in South Korea are facing a critical battery issue linked to the "BMS_a079" error, which indicates a fault in the Battery Management System. This triggers a safety mode that limits charging to just 50%, slashing driving range by half.
Data submitted by Tesla to a Korean lawmaker reveals that 4,351 vehicles have been affected.
Tesla’s repair approach has intensified frustration. Instead of replacing faulty batteries with new ones, the company has reportedly used "remanufactured" units (refurbished from salvaged cells) in more than 2,400 cases.
Many owners have reported that these recycled batteries underperform or fail again with the same error, raising concerns about long-term reliability and transparency.
While owners within the eight-year, 160,000 km warranty receive repairs at no cost, those outside it face bills exceeding €18,800 for battery replacement.
This has turned vehicle ownership into a financial strain, especially as some owners have experienced repeated failures.
The backlash has prompted government action. South Korea’s Environment Ministry has warned Tesla that continued failure to resolve the issue could lead to withdrawal of EV subsidies worth up to €3,370 per vehicle.
A petition with over 14,000 signatures and pressure from consumer groups demand a full recall. With limited service centres and repair delays averaging 23 days, trust in Tesla’s after-sales network is at an all-time low.
Since the Model 3 hasn’t yet been launched in India, it’s safe to say that Tesla owners in India should drive their EVs worry-free.
Also read: Hyundai Announces Genesis Luxury Brand Entry into India by 2027
