Everyone thought this 100,000-mile 2014 Tesla Model S needed an expensive new battery, but mechanic discovers real issue was much simpler
Published on Oct 12, 2026 at 8:18 AM (UTC-4)
by Ben Thompson
Last updated on Oct 12, 2026 at 8:18 AM (UTC-4)
Edited by
Mason Jones

When things weren’t looking too good for this 2014 Tesla Model S, many assumed it would need an expensive battery – but the fix was a lot simpler.
YouTube channel OGS & Mechanics shared a video explaining the problem that was troubling this Model S with 100,000 miles on it.
There was a HV battery block imbalance, with readings around 3.5V and 3.0V.
But in this mechanic’s estimation, there was no need for a battery replacement.
Mechanics are constantly sharing pearls of wisdom online
These days, you don’t even need to go down to your local repair shop to get some advice from your local mechanic.
A lot of them are online now, sharing their tips and tricks for a healthy car through TikTok videos and Instagram reels.
For one mechanic, he had a lot to say when it came to making a car last for longer than 500,000 miles.
Another had a genius WD-40 hack which he assured viewers would save them thousands in repairs.

And how could we forget the crucial warning sign that means you should be selling your car ASAP?
Yep, there’s a whole host of things we’ve learned from social media mechanics.
You might have assumed that this 2014 Tesla Model S would need a whole new battery
YouTube channel OGS & Mechanics shared a video revolving around a 2014 Tesla Model S that had covered around 100,000 miles.
The problem? It had a battery cell imbalance.
What does that mean in layman’s terms?

Essentially, this means that the cells inside a battery pack are holding different amounts of capacities.
Much like a group of climbers roped together going up a mountain, the collective can only move as fastest as the slowest member.
A pack stops charging once its first cell fills and stops discharging once its first cell empties – so a weak single cell can limit the performance of the entire battery.
It does sound quite technical, and will undoubtedly lead many to think a costly new battery might be in order.
But this mechanic has insisted that an easier fix is at hand.

This mechanic found a simple fix for a 2014 Tesla Model S
“Most likely inside the battery is the wires got disconnected and is giving a false reading,” George, the channel’s host, explained.
“Which means we need to strip [the battery] and we can repair that without replacing [the battery].
“This is a simple car, it could run for ages – if repairs are done at the right time.”
Early detection and treatment was the key takeaway here.
Viewers applauded him for his insight.
“You are the pioneer in EV repairs. Hopefully many young people are watching and learning,” one commenter wrote.
“This guy knows his stuff,” another said.
Timeline for Tesla Model S
2009: Tesla unveiled the Model S prototype.
June 2012: Series production officially begins.
2013: MotorTrend names it ‘Car of the Year’.
2014: The Daily Telegraph labelled it a ‘car that changed the world’.
2015 – 2016: Rave reviews continue, as Car and Driver listed it among its best cars two years in a row.
Late 2020 to early 2021: The re-engineered Plaid platform is revealed.
January 2026: Elon Musk announced that the Model S and Model X would both be retired in the following quarter.
May 2026: The last Model S and Model X roll off the Fremont line.
Ben joined Supercar Blondie in February 2025 after being published by international organizations including LADbible, The Sun, the New York Post, and the Daily Mail. He covers supercars, rare and collectible vehicles, aviation, luxury assets, and the fascinating people behind them. His reporting has explored everything from seven-figure supercars and historic Ferrari collections to unusual aircraft adventures and extraordinary automotive discoveries from around the world. Ben has also gained first-hand insight into vehicle craftsmanship and customization, including visiting specialist workshops to see bespoke vehicles up close.


