Der Tesla Fridge – 35L Kühlschrank für Model Y

I unpacked the unit, nestled it into what I call “the basement” of my Model Y’s trunk, and connected the power.

Although the panel came on, the controls were unintuitive, and the instructions weren’t of much help. But, after fiddling over attempts I was a finally able to adjust the settings.

But then, nothing happened. The compressor would only activate for a few seconds, so over hours of experimenting, the unit never cooled.

I went to bed the first night thinking to myself, "Oh brother, my product was dead on arrival. I'll probably have to go through the hastle of a return and then missing having the fridge during an upcoming two-week vacation in the mountains of North Carolina."

The next morning I hunkered down and read all the reviews at teslafridge.com, where I learned about a setting that would provide full voltage to power outlets, including the one that powered the fridge to stay on when the vehicle is parked.

That did the trick! The unit quickly cooled to the desired temperature.

My hours of frustration and experimentation would have been saved if this were only mentioned in the manual!

So, I give it 5 stars for the product, and, if it were possible, 1 star for the documentation. The unit quickly cools. It's quiet, roomy and draws little power, primarily because it takes advantage of Tesla's sophisticated electronics and software. I plan to keep it set to just a few degrees above freezing, although I've tested down to well below zero degrees Fahrenheit.

Following are suggestions for improving the design for the next model:
• The app only works with Bluetooth. If it were re-designed for wi-fi, it could be enhanced to allow the app to be used in the same way as the Tesla app. This would allow monitoring and setting the temperature from a wi-fi or 5G connection rather than within the short range of Bluetooth.
• Automatic defrost would be much more convenient. (Since the unit doesn’t drain the battery quickly, I plan to rarely power it off.)
• Although picky, the power cord attaches to the opposite side of where the Tesla’s power outlet is located.

I am really happy with this fridge that fits perfectly in my Y's subtrunk. It is great for leftovers from a meal if you don't want to go straight home, cold drinks and snacks on a road trip and picking up a gallon of milk during lunch hour.

The only complaint I have is that the temperature you set in the app is always warmer than the actual temp in the fridge. I had it set at 39 and all my drinks froze because it was so cold. I have to keep it set at 45 to keep the temp around 39.

I would love to give this product five stars, but I can't. It's well thought out and nicely executed, but customer service is non-existent. I ordered mine with an AC adapter, which didn't come. I have tried three different contact methods to request status or expedite on this item, and have received no communication whatsoever. Nice product, but if you ever need help with it, you're on your own.

Is it possible to do a software update to be able to maintain a selected temperature? I have mine set to 36° but it is sitting at 32.
Also on newer models make a latch mechanism to hold the lid in the open position then push a button to allow the lid to be released when ready to close it.
Please make a drink partition to keep cans of soda from rolling around.

It was so easy for me to install in my car. I tested it out using my favorite drink, sparkling wayer in a glass container. 😋 it works perfectly!