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Consider Turning Off Regenerative Braking For Better Traction in Snow & Ice

For a Tesla Model 3 Dual Motor in snow and ice, it’s generally better to reduce or turn off regenerative braking (set it to Low rather than Standard).

 

What happens with regen braking

Regenerative braking slows the car automatically when you lift off the accelerator by sending power back to the battery. On dry pavement, this is efficient and smooth, but on slippery surfaces it can cause the wheels to lose traction, since the car is decelerating without you pressing the brake pedal.

Various Settings For Regenerative Braking

• Strong regen (Standard setting) can make the tires lock or slip momentarily, especially at low speeds or when traction is uneven.
• Low regen (or “off,” if available) allows for smoother coasting and better control when traction is limited.

• The car’s stability control will still help, but smoother driver input is key on slick roads.

Recommended winter setup

For icy or snowy conditions:

• Set regenerative braking to “Low.”
• Enable Slip Start if you’re stuck or starting on a very slick surface (this lets the wheels spin a little to gain traction).
• Use Chill Mode for softer throttle response.
• Keep traction control on at all times.

If you prefer regen for range reasons, you can leave it on Standard but drive very gently on the accelerator and lift off slowly —  “Low” is the safer choice overall in snow or ice.

 

Quality Automotive Servicing in Truckee is a authorized Tesla service and repair facility with several key team members who have attended training and certifications.  Reach out with your Tesla questions.  We are conveniently located in Central Truckee at 11500 Donner Pass Road. 

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