Tesla Model X Owner Says, People Say It Must Be Bad In the Snow, and Hard to Charge, I Laugh and Say I Don't Have to Go Out Of My Way to Pump Gas in Sub-Zero Temps

How good is the Tesla Model X in the snow? Selena, who owns an X, says it's the best snow vehicle you can own. Check out Selena's story and others' views on the Tesla vs. Snow debate.

Should you buy a Tesla vehicle if you live in snow country?

There is a debate about whether electric vehicles like Tesla are good in the snow.   I live in Colorado, where the snow is measured in feet, not inches.   

CPR News says that Colorado is second only to California nationwide in EV market share. Many of those are Tesla models, with the Model X being very popular. 

What do Tesla owners say about how the Tesla Model X handles severe winter weather?

Selena, who owns a Model X, says, "Heading into the fourth winter with a Tesla, I wouldn't trade it for anything. I still get people who say it must be bad in the snow, hard to charge, etc."

"They heat up faster than any ice, and I always feel extra safe driving it. And it's another level of ease when FSD drives me." 

"I don't have to go out of my way to pump gas in sub-zero temps; I just drive home and plug in, she says, laughing. 

"Honesty, driving something other than a Tesla is a huge pain in the derriere and not nearly as easy and fun."

Tesla life in winter. 

Selena says, "I had to take a few runs in reverse to push the snow so the car could reach the Supercharger." 

"Now that it's plugged in and charging, I get to spend about 20 minutes toasty warm and catch up on X." 

Selena is not alone in her assessment of the Model X in the snow. 

A comment from Ray on the Tesla Motors Club website says, "I live in Minnesota, so here's what I can tell you about my '16 Model X in snow." 

"It handles better than any SUV/Crossover I have ever owned (BMW X5, Subaru Tribeca, Infiniti QX60, etc.) - the traction control and braking systems do an excellent job!"

"Turning down regen may be very helpful to avoid unintended sliding depending on how slick it is where you're going."

"If you're traversing deep and/or thick snow, raise the ride height a bit for superior clearance."

"If you're going through deep and/or thick snow, turn off range mode if you can - having full power to both motors improves handling, IMO."

"You will lose range w/ the cool ambient temps, so plan accordingly - both from the cabin heater and from keeping the pack at optimal temps."

Do you need winter-rated tires on a Tesla with all-wheel-drive?

Ray says, "I run Nokian winters on 19" wheels and generally get 420 - 460 wh/Mi w/preconditioning and average city or highways speeds provided it's above 25F and no headwind. I never turn off Insane mode and rarely reduce the regen setting."

"Last week, we got about 16" in 24 hours. Heavy stuff. It was fun watching the 4Runners and Suburbans skid and slip coming out of dead stops and around corners while I blissfully and easily drove around them!"

What are other Tesla owners saying about snow tires? 

Another Tesla owner, Sorka, says, "I just drove up to Dodge Ridge (north Cal) in the snow in our 2022 Plaid with Scorpion Winter tires. As expected, they performed fine. It was an uneventful drive."

"The plaid should have a slight advantage given the rear wheels are driven independently with no need to use single caliper braking to control slip and send power to the other side."

Another member (nhatman) says, "Heading to Big Bear for some skiing in your Tesla? That's an exciting adventure! Driving a Tesla in snow can be a unique experience."

He gives some third-party and user-experience insights and recommendations for Tesla model accessories.

Traction Mats: Consider having traction mats on hand. They can be a lifesaver if you find yourself stuck in deep snow. These mats provide the necessary grip for your tires to regain traction.

Winter Tires: If you're planning frequent winter trips, investing in a set of winter tires can significantly improve your Tesla's performance in snowy conditions. They are designed with a tread pattern suitable for cold weather, providing better grip and handling. Read my report on the best winter tires here. 

Windshield Washer Fluid: Ensure your windshield washer fluid is suitable for freezing temperatures. A winter-grade fluid helps prevent the washer fluid reservoir from freezing.

Battery Range Consideration: Cold weather can impact the range of electric vehicles, including Teslas. Plan for slightly reduced range, and consider preconditioning your Tesla while it's still plugged in to optimize the battery for winter driving.

TESERY Snow Chains: You've already prepared snow chains, which is excellent. 

TESERY offers a range of Tesla-specific snow chains designed for different models and various driving conditions. The variety in materials and designs allows you to choose chains that best suit your specific needs. Check out the selection here: Tesla Snow Chains.

"Remember, practicing installing and removing your snow chains in a controlled environment is always good before hitting the snowy roads. Safe travels, and enjoy your skiing trip to Big Bear!"

Conclusion:

Preparation is key for winter driving with a Tesla. Cold weather can impact the range of electric vehicles, including Teslas. Plan for slightly reduced range, and consider preconditioning your Tesla while it's still plugged in to optimize the battery for winter driving. This preparation will empower you to handle any winter driving situation with confidence.

Selena says, "Stay warm and always be charging."

What is your experience with a Tesla vehicle and winter driving? Do you have any advice for those considering a Tesla if they live in snow country? If so, click the red Add New Comment link below and let us know.

Check out this Tesla Cybertruck story.

Chief Tesla Cybertruck Engineer Interview Is Revealing, “I Never Wanted To Be the Next Elon Musk or Whatever” Click here for my revealing story. 

I am Denis Flierl, a Senior Torque News Reporter since 2012. My 30+ year tenure in the automotive industry, initially in a consulting role with every major car brand and later as a freelance journalist test-driving new vehicles, has equipped me with a wealth of knowledge. I specialize in reporting the latest automotive news and providing expert analysis on Subaru, which you'll find here, ensuring that you, as a reader, are always well-informed and up-to-date. Follow me on my X SubaruReport, All Subaru, WRXSTI, @DenisFlierl, Facebook, and Instagram.

Photo credit: Denis Flierl via Selena