Tesla CP_a078 / CP_a079: Frozen Charge Port Latch Fix
By the EV Fix Guide editorial team · Updated · How we estimate costs
Quick answer
CP_a078 means the charge cable is stuck because the charge port latch is frozen. CP_a079 means the latch could not lock the cable in the cold, so AC charging is limited to 16A and Supercharging is unavailable. Both are winter problems that usually clear once the port thaws. At a Tesla Service Center this typically costs $0 (Thawing) / $300 - $700 (Latch actuator or charge port repair). An independent shop charges about $200 - $500 (Latch actuator or charge port repair), and doing it yourself costs $0 — potential savings of 30% - 100%. DIY difficulty: easy (5 Minutes).
Symptoms
- 'Cable blocked - Charge port latch may be frozen' alert (CP_a078): the cable will not come out
- 'Charge rate reduced - Charge port may be frozen' alert (CP_a079)
- Charge port light pulsing amber during AC charging, or solid amber at a Supercharger
- Happens on cold mornings, after freezing rain, or after a car wash in winter
Repair cost: Tesla vs independent shop vs DIY
| Option | Typical cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Tesla Service Center | $0 (Thawing) / $300 - $700 (Latch actuator or charge port repair) |
| Independent shop | $200 - $500 (Latch actuator or charge port repair) |
| DIY | $0 |
| Potential savings | 30% - 100% |
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?
Almost always fixable by the owner. If the latch keeps failing in mild weather, the charge port latch actuator or inlet may be worn; independent EV shops can replace it, usually for less than Tesla.
Get matched with an independent shop →How to fix it yourself (easy, 5 Minutes)
Use Defrost Car in the Tesla app for 30 to 45 minutes, turn on rear defrost, and if the cable is still stuck use the manual release cable in the trunk, exactly as Tesla's manual describes.
Tools you need
- Tesla app (Defrost Car)
- Access to the trunk (manual release cable)
Steps
- Push the charge cable fully back into the port to take strain off the latch, then try to remove it again.
- Press Defrost Car in the Tesla app and leave it on for about 30 to 45 minutes. Tesla notes this works better than changing climate settings on the touchscreen.
- Turn on rear defrost from the touchscreen; on many cars this also switches on a charge port inlet heater in cold weather.
- For CP_a079, reinsert the cable firmly. If the port light pulses green, the cable was not fully seated and full-speed charging is back.
- If the cable is still stuck (CP_a078), stop charging, open the trunk and pull the charge port release cable on the left side down to unlatch the cable.
- Check that nothing (cargo net, umbrella) is hooked on the release cable handle, which can stop the latch from engaging.
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 frozen charge port alert on a Tesla?
Tesla Service Center: $0 (Thawing) / $300 - $700 (Latch actuator or charge port repair). Independent shop: $200 - $500 (Latch actuator or charge port repair). DIY: $0. Typical savings versus the service center: 30% - 100%.
Can I fix a frozen charge port alert myself?
Yes. DIY difficulty is easy and it typically takes 5 Minutes. Use Defrost Car in the Tesla app for 30 to 45 minutes, turn on rear defrost, and if the cable is still stuck use the manual release cable in the trunk, exactly as Tesla's manual describes.
Can an independent shop fix a frozen charge port alert instead of Tesla?
Yes. Almost always fixable by the owner. If the latch keeps failing in mild weather, the charge port latch actuator or inlet may be worn; independent EV shops can replace it, usually for less than Tesla.
Which Tesla models are affected by a frozen charge port alert?
This issue is reported on the Tesla Model 3, Model Y, Model S, Model X and Cybertruck.
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Related guides
- Tesla Phantom Drain: Stop Battery Loss While ParkedIndependent: $0 - $150
- Tesla Not Charging at Home: Melted 14-50 Outlet FixIndependent: $150 - $400
- Tesla Battery Degradation: How to Check Range LossIndependent: $100 - $250
- Tesla PCS_a019 / PCS_a016: AC Charging Limited FixIndependent: $150 - $500
- Tesla CP_a004: Charging Equipment Not Recognized FixIndependent: $250 - $600
- Tesla CP_a046: Charging Communication Lost - FixIndependent: $150 - $600
This guide is for information only. High-voltage components (orange cables) can be lethal — leave them to trained technicians. Not affiliated with Tesla, Inc.