The short answer
Some Model S and Model X built in 2016 have a third-generation onboard charger with an internal fault that stops DC fast charging, at Superchargers and at CHAdeMO chargers. Tesla's campaign bulletin SB-16-44-004 replaces the charger. Plug the car into a Supercharger on the test drive: if it charges, fast charging works today.
The bulletin at a glance
| Bulletin | SB-16-44-004, 17 November 2016 |
|---|---|
| Type | Campaign bulletin: Tesla applies it to every car it covers |
| Cars | Model S built between about 5 April and 18 September 2016, and Model X built between about 18 March and 16 September 2016 |
| Labor time | 1.35 hours for a Model S 2.10 hours for a Model X |
| Parts | A new third-generation onboard charger, 48 A or 72 A, to match the car |
Which cars it covers
Model S built between about 5 April and 18 September 2016, and Model X built between about 18 March and 16 September 2016. Tesla calls those dates a simplified summary of its VIN list.
What to ask the seller
Whether the charger was replaced under this campaign, and the invoice. A campaign is work Tesla means to do on every car it covers, so if it was not done, ask Tesla service with the VIN whether the car is still due it.
Common questions
Why will a 2016 Model S or Model X not fast charge?
One known cause is an internal fault in some third-generation onboard chargers, which Tesla's bulletin SB-16-44-004 covers. Tesla replaces the charger.
Which Teslas have the charger fault that stops fast charging?
Model S built between about 5 April and 18 September 2016, and Model X built between about 18 March and 16 September 2016.