Tesla to reinstate 12-volt power and USB functionality through the introduction of the 'Accessory Power' feature.
Tesla to Reintroduce Accessory Power Feature in Upcoming Spring Update
Tesla owners can look forward to a new feature in the upcoming Spring Update 2025.8, scheduled for release in April 2025. This feature, called "Keep Accessory Power On," will provide more flexibility for keeping devices powered without the need for the vehicle to be in Camp Mode or Sentry Mode.
The new setting, accessible under Controls > Charging, will allow owners to leave a fridge or charging station running without unnecessary battery drain from other systems. It will also restore key functionality for Tesla drivers who rely on trunk-mounted fridges, air pumps, or other accessories designed for long periods of unattended use.
Notably, the system will only keep power flowing if the vehicle's battery is above 20%. This is to prevent deep discharges that could impact long-term battery health and avoid customer complaints related to excessive low-voltage battery drain.
In the past, Tesla had removed the ability for 12V power outlets and USB ports to remain active when a vehicle was parked and unoccupied. However, the latest software update, version 2024.32, has changed this, allowing users to power all 12V sockets and USB ports, including high-power 12V plugs found in the rear of some models, even when no one is in the vehicle.
Tesla warns that even if no devices are plugged in, the system will still consume a small amount of standby energy. Therefore, users are encouraged to toggle it on only when needed.
The information about the new feature comes from Not A Tesla App. While the exact timing for the full availability of the feature across all models is not explicitly specified in the latest sources, it is expected to be broadly available across supported Tesla models as of the 2025 Spring Update cycle, centered on the 2025.8.x releases.
The 2025.8.100 update mentions minor fixes and improvements but does not explicitly confirm the full availability of "Keep Accessory Power On" for every model immediately. However, feature availability often rolls out progressively based on model compatibility and hardware versions, and no later updates or announcements indicate a delay beyond this timeframe.
In addition to this feature, Tesla's Spring Update is expected to include various features and improvements, with continued rollouts and refinements over updates such as 2025.8.100. The update will not force the climate control system to stay on or disable walk-away locking, ensuring safety and battery preservation, as Tesla aims to prevent possible overheating or fire hazards from high-power third-party accessories left plugged in indefinitely.
[1] Tesla's Spring Update 2025.8 and Beyond: Expectations and Features [2] Tesla's 2025.8.100 Update: What's New and What's Missing [3] Tesla's "Keep Accessory Power On" Feature: A Closer Look at the Upcoming Spring Update 2025.8
