Tesla just delivered an update that helps to release frozen charge cables from its cars

The new Tesla update 2026.2.3 is here with a new way to release frozen charge cables, giving drivers a simple fix for one of winter’s most annoying EV problems.

The feature tackles a frustration many owners in cold climates know all too well.

Instead of wrestling with an icy connector or tapping through menus with frozen fingers, drivers can now use a quick physical action.

It is a small change that could make a big difference on frosty mornings.

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Being able to physically release frozen charge cables is really helpful

The new function lets Tesla owners stop charging and unlatch the cable by pulling and holding the rear left door handle for three seconds.

As long as the vehicle is unlocked or a recognized key is nearby, the car will release the connector.

Tesla says this is especially helpful when the button on the charging handle fails or an adapter gets stuck in the port.

Owners can still use the touchscreen or Tesla app, but the handle trick puts the solution right next to the charge port itself.

Frozen charge ports have long been a headache in colder climates.

Ice can build up around the charge port door and latch mechanism, preventing the cable from disengaging even when everything is working electronically.

Tesla has tried to address this before.

A past software tweak adjusted latch behavior in freezing conditions, and newer vehicles include a charge port defrost feature as part of cabin preconditioning.

Still, when ice physically locks things in place, software alone does not always save the day.

The new Tesla update is all about convenience.

Previously, drivers often had to pull out their phone, remove gloves, open the app, and manually stop charging.

Now they can simply reach for the door handle they are already standing beside.

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Evs and cold weather don’t mix

More broadly, EVs do face challenges in winter.

Cold batteries are less efficient, which can reduce driving range by 10 to 30 percent depending on conditions.

Cabin heating also draws energy, especially in vehicles without heat pumps.

Charging speeds can slow too, since batteries must warm up before accepting high power.

That said, features like battery preconditioning, heated seats, and remote climate control help offset many of these issues.

With this update, Tesla adds one more practical fix to the winter toolkit, proving that sometimes the best tech upgrade is simply making everyday annoyances disappear.

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