The short answer
Older Model S and Model X have a pyro fuse, the part that disconnects the high-voltage battery, and it runs on a small battery of its own. Tesla's bulletin SB-25-16-003 of June 2025 says that battery is reaching the end of its life, which sets off alerts and can limit the car's performance. The fix is a self-powered fuse, fitted without any inspection first. If you're buying one of these cars, ask the seller whether it was done, and for the invoice.
The bulletin at a glance
| Bulletin | SB-25-16-003, 3 June 2025 |
|---|---|
| Type | Campaign bulletin: Tesla applies it to every car it covers |
| Cars | Model S of model years 2012 to 2020 and Model X of 2015 to 2020, built in Fremont |
| Labor time | 2.10 hours for a Model S with HV Battery 1.0 or 1.5 0.54 hours for a Model S with HV Battery 2.0 0.66 hours for a Model X |
| Parts | One self-powered pyro fuse, chosen by VIN: 1111313-00-F (2000 A) or 1111445-00-F (2366 A) |
| Mobile service | No, it needs a service center |
Which cars it covers
Model S of model years 2012 to 2020 and Model X of 2015 to 2020, built in Fremont. Tesla says those years are a general approximation, and that its own VIN list decides which cars it covers.
What to ask the seller
Whether the pyro fuse was replaced under this bulletin, and the invoice that shows it. It is a campaign bulletin, 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, and what it would cost.
Common questions
What happens when a Tesla pyro fuse runs out of battery?
Tesla's bulletin says it sets off alerts and can limit the car's performance. The fix replaces it with a self-powered fuse.
Which Teslas need the pyro fuse replaced?
Model S of model years 2012 to 2020 and Model X of 2015 to 2020, built in Fremont, as a general approximation. Tesla's own VIN list decides which cars it covers.
How long does a Tesla pyro fuse replacement take?
Tesla's labor time is 2.10 hours for a Model S with HV Battery 1.0 or 1.5, 0.54 hours for a Model S with HV Battery 2.0, and 0.66 hours for a Model X.