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Tesla BMS_a074: Max Charge Level Reduced - Cost & Fix

By the EV Fix Guide editorial team · Updated October 24, 2026 · How we estimate costs

Quick answer

BMS_a074 means a fault inside the high-voltage battery has reduced the maximum charge level and range. Like BMS_a079, the car will only charge when it is below 50%. It is OK to drive, but needs service, which is normally covered by the battery warranty. At a Tesla Service Center this typically costs $0 (Under battery warranty) / $12,000 - $20,000 (Pack replacement, out of warranty). An independent shop charges about $2,500 - $7,000 (Module-level repair, where available) — potential savings of 50% - 80% (out of warranty). Do not attempt this at home.

BMS_a074: Maximum Battery Charge Level Reduced

Symptoms

'Maximum battery charge level reduced - OK to drive - Schedule service' alert
Charging only starts below about 50% state of charge
Range roughly halved
Charge limit slider set higher than 50% has no effect

Repair cost: Tesla vs independent shop vs DIY

Option	Typical cost (USD)
Tesla Service Center	$0 (Under battery warranty) / $12,000 - $20,000 (Pack replacement, out of warranty)
Independent shop	$2,500 - $7,000 (Module-level repair, where available)
DIY	Not possible at home (High-voltage hazard)
Potential savings	50% - 80% (out of warranty)

Ranges are US estimates compiled from owner reports and shop quotes; prices vary by region, model year and parts availability. Report your price.

Can an independent shop fix it?

Within warranty, go to Tesla. Out of warranty, an independent EV battery specialist may be able to repair the pack at module level for much less than a replacement pack. Few general garages can do this work.

Get matched with an independent shop →

How professionals repair it

Safety warning: There is no safe home repair. You can keep using the car within half its normal range while you arrange service.

Tools a shop uses

Tesla app and screenshots of the alert
Purchase date and odometer reading (for warranty)

Steps

Keep driving; Tesla says the car is OK to drive. Plan trips around about half your normal range.
Charge whenever you are below 50%; the car will not start charging above that level.
Screenshot the alert and the charging screen showing where charging stops.
Check your battery warranty (8 years, mileage limit by model and year) and book service in the Tesla app.
Ask Tesla whether the fix is a module repair or a pack replacement, and whether the replacement pack is new or remanufactured.
Out of warranty, get a second opinion from an independent EV battery lab.

Pro tip: BMS_a074 and BMS_a079 look almost identical to owners: both cap charging at 50%. Mention the exact code when you book, because it helps the technician narrow down the fault.

Had this fixed? Share what you paid

Owner-reported prices keep these ranges honest. We publish only anonymous averages and email you the results.

Frequently asked questions

How much does it cost to fix a BMS_a074 battery alert on a Tesla?

Tesla Service Center: $0 (Under battery warranty) / $12,000 - $20,000 (Pack replacement, out of warranty). Independent shop: $2,500 - $7,000 (Module-level repair, where available). DIY: Not possible at home (High-voltage hazard). Typical savings versus the service center: 50% - 80% (out of warranty).

Can I fix a BMS_a074 battery alert myself?

No, this is not a safe DIY job. There is no safe home repair. You can keep using the car within half its normal range while you arrange service.

Can an independent shop fix a BMS_a074 battery alert instead of Tesla?

Which Tesla models are affected by a BMS_a074 battery alert?

This issue is reported on the Tesla Model 3, Model Y, Model S and Model X.

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Related guides

This guide is for information only. High-voltage components (orange cables) can be lethal — leave them to trained technicians. Not affiliated with Tesla, Inc.