2008 TESLA ROADSTER coolant

9-1
Maintenance and careMaintenanceGeneral information 8-2
Routine maintenance 8-2
Owner maintenance 8-2
Opening and closing the hood 8-3
Fluid reservoirs Fluid reservoir locations 8-4
Brake fluid 8-4
Windshield washer fluid 8-5
Battery coolant 8-5
Windshield wiper and washer Checking the wiper blade 8-6
Replacing the wiper blade 8-6
Windshield washer jets 8-6
Cleaning and vehicle care Environmental precautions 8-7
Cleaning the vehicle exterior 8-7
Polishing the body 8-8
Using a car cover 8-8
Paint damage and rectification 8-8
Cleaning the vehicle interior 8-8
Roadster OHB.book Page 1 Th ursday, October 2, 2008 8:59 AM

Maintenance9-2
Maintenance and care
Maintenance and care
MaintenanceGeneral informationRegular maintenance is the key to ensuring
the continued reliability and efficiency of
your vehicle.
Maintenance is the owner's responsibility and
you must ensure that the appropriate
maintenance is carried out when required
and according to the recommendations
specified by Tesla Motors.Routine maintenanceTake your vehicle to Tesla Motors at the
regularly scheduled maintenance intervals of
every 12 months, or every 12,000 miles,
whichever comes first.
Maintenance and service must be performed
by Tesla-certified technicians. Damages or
failures caused by maintenance or repairs
performed by non-Tesla certified technicians
are not covered under the New Vehicle
Limited Warranty.
Service interval indicatorWhen the key is inserted and the starter
switch turned to the ACC position, the Touch
Screen momentarily displays the distance to
the next service interval.
In addition, this information can be displayed
by selecting the Info icon on the Touch
Screen when the vehicle is parked. For
details, refer to the Touch Screen Users
Manual provided in your owners package.
Owner maintenance
WARNING: Any significant or sudden
drop in fluid levels, or uneven tire wear
should be rectified immediately.
S
In addition to the routine maintenance
performed by Tesla Motors, a few simple
checks must be carried out more frequently.
Advice is given on the pages that follow.Daily checks• Operation of lights, horn, turn indicators,
wipers, washers and warning indicators
• Operation of seat belts and brakes
• Check for fluid deposits underneath the
vehicle that might indicate a leakWe e k l y c h e c k s•Brake fluid level. Refer to Brake fluid,
page 10-4 .
• Windshield washer fluid level. Refer to
Windshield washer fluid, page 10-5 .
• Battery coolant. Refer to Battery coolant,
page 10-5.
• Condition and pressure of each tire. Refer
to Wheels and tires, page 11-4 .
• Operation of the air conditioning. Refer to
Interior temperature control, page 7-4.
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Fluid reservoirs9-4
Maintenance and care
Fluid reservoirsFluid reservoir locations1.Windshield washer fluid
2. Brake fluid
3. Battery coolant
Brake fluid
WARNING: Seek qualified assistance
immediately if brake pedal travel is
unusually long or if there is a significant loss
of brake fluid. Driving under such conditions
could result in extended stopping distances
or complete brake failure.
S
Fluid level checkCheck the brake fluid level weekly with the
vehicle on level ground. The fluid level can be
checked visually through the side of the
reservoir without removing the filler cap.
The brake fluid level should be between the
MIN and the MAX marks.
Topping up the fluid
WARNING: Brake fluid is highly toxic.
Keep containers sealed and out of the
reach of children. In the event of accidental
consumption, seek medical attention
immediately.
S
1. Clean the filler cap before removing to prevent dirt from entering the reservoir.
2. Unscrew the cap and remove.
3. Top-up the reservoir to the MAX mark using brake fluid meeting DOT4
specification.
4. Replace the reservoir cap.
Caution: Brake fluid will damage
painted surfaces. Immediately soak up
any spills with an absorbent cloth and wash
the area with a mixtur e of vehicle shampoo
and water.
Caution: Only use new fluid from an
air-tight container. Do not use fluid
from previously opened containers or fluid
that has been previously bled from the
system - this fluid has absorbed moisture and
will decrease braking performance.
TR00531
2
3
TR0052
MAXMIN
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Fluid reservoirs
9-5
Maintenance and care
Windshield washer fluidTo ensure proper cleaning of the windshield
and to prevent freezing in cold weather check
the reservoir level weekly. If needed, top up
with windshield washer fluid.
Caution: Always follow the directions
provided by the windshield washer fluid
manufacturer. If the windshield washer fluid
requires dilution, carefully follow the
manufacturer’s directions and mix the
recommended quantities of water and
windshield washer fluid in a separate
container before topping up the reservoir.
Undiluted windshield washer fluid can cause
paint to discolor.
Battery coolantFluid level checkCheck the fluid level weekly with the vehicle
on level ground and when the vehicle is cool.
The fluid level can be checked visually
through the side of the reservoir without
removing the filler cap. The fluid level should
be between the MIN and the MAX marks.
If the level drops significantly, a leak may
exist. Contact Tesla Motors before using the
vehicle.
To p p i n g u p t h e c o o l a n t
The cooling system for your vehicle
contains a propylene glycol (PG) based
antifreeze. Compared to conventional
ethylene glycol based antifreezes, propylene
glycol is less toxic, sa fer for children, pets and
wildlife, and safer for the environment.
Top-up to the MAX mark with a 50% mix of
water and Havoline
® Extended Life antifreeze
Coolant-PG (Havoline XLC-PG).
Caution: Do not mix with any other type
of antifreeze! In an emergency, top up
with distilled water only and be aware of the
reduced frost and corrosion protection.
Antifreeze contains important corrosion
inhibitors. Maintain the antifreeze content of
the coolant between 50% and 60% year
round. Do not exceed 60% or cooling
efficiency will be impaired.
Ensure cap is replaced and fully tightened
after topping up.
Note: Change coolant every four years,
regardless of mileage.
TR0051
TR0056
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Approved fluids and capacities11-14
Technical specifications
Approved fluids and capacitiesFluid specificationsBattery Coolant50% mix of water and Havoline Extended Life
antifreeze Coolant-PG (Havoline XLC-PG).
Note: The cooling system for your vehicle
contains a propylene glycol (PG) based
antifreeze.
Brake fluidAny proprietary brand of brake fluid (or brake
and clutch fluid) meeting DOT 4
specification.
Only use new fluid from sealed containers.
Transmission fluidDexron VI ATFAir conditioningThe air conditioning system is filled with
R134a refrigerant. If oil needs to be added to
the system, only use Daphne Hermetic Oil FV
Series.
Battery cooling system* 7.4 quarts (US)7.0 liters
Brake fluid* 1.6 quarts (US)1.5 liters
Transmission fluid 1.4 quarts (US)1.325 liters
Washer reservoir 2.3 quarts (US)2.2 liters
Air conditioning refrigerant 1.6 lbs725 g
*For instructions on topping up batt ery coolant and brake fluid, refer to Fluid reservoirs,
page 9-4 .
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Index
AAccessing your vehicle.................................... 4-2
Accessory power socket .................................7-7
Air conditioning.................................................. 7-4
Air distribution .................................................... 7-4
Air recirculation .................................................. 7-4
Air vents .................................................................7-5
AirbagsDeactivation ..................................................3-7
Deployment effects ................................... 3-6
Disposal information ................................. 3-8
General information .................................. 3-6
Obstruction of air bags .............................3-7
Safety information ..................................... 3-6
Service information ................................... 3-8
Warning indicator .......................................3-7
Warning labels..............................................3-7
Warnings ....................................................... 3-6
Alarm system Indicator light .............................................. 4-7
Operation ...................................................... 4-7
PIN code ........................................................ 4-8
Switching off ................................................ 4-7
Ammeter display................................................ 6-11
Antifreeze .................................................. 9-5, 11-14
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) ................. 6-5
Anti-theft alarm .................................................. 4-7
Audio system ....................................................... 8-1BBattery ....................................................................5-2 Coolant ........................................................... 9-5
Environmental Note ...................................5-2
Fluid check and top-up ............................ 9-5
Preserving ..................................................... 5-3
Range .............................................................. 6-3
Specifications............................................. 11-19 Battery Life
Overview ........................................................ 5-2
Body Cleaning ......................................................... 9-7
Covering......................................................... 9-8
Polishing ......................................................... 9-8
Removing tar spots ................................... 9-7
Repairs ............................................................ 9-8
Brake warning indicator .................................. 6-5
Brake warning indicator light .......................6-12
Brakes Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS)......... 6-5
Emergency braking ................................... 6-6
Fluid specification .................................... 11-14
Fluid top-up .................................................. 9-4
Foot brake ..................................................... 6-5
Parking brake ............................................... 6-5
Regenerative braking................................ 6-5
Specifications ............................................. 11-18
Breakdown recovery ..................................... 10-13
Bulb replacement............................................. 10-9
Bulb specifications .......................................... 10-9
CCalifornia Proposition 65 ................................. 1-2
Car covers ............................................................. 9-8
Car washes ........................................................... 9-7
Cargo capacity.................................................... 11-7
Central door locking ......................................... 4-4
Chains ................................................................... 11-10
Change of ownership ........................................ 1-2
Charge level display.........................................6-12
Charging Charge level .................................................. 5-2
Charge settings ........................................... 5-4
Charge types ................................................ 5-4
Cost .................................................................. 5-5
Current limit.................................................. 5-4 High Power Connector ............................. 5-6
Performance setting .................................. 5-4
Range setting ............................................... 5-4
Standard setting ......................................... 5-4
Storage setting ............................................ 5-4
Storing your vehicle................................... 5-3
Charging indicator light ................................. 6-12
Charging port ...................................................... 5-6
Child passengers ................................................ 3-5
Child restraints .................................................... 3-5
Child seat air bag hazard ................................ 3-7
Child seats............................................................. 3-5
Cleaning Exterior ........................................................... 9-7
Interior............................................................. 9-8
Removing tar ................................................ 9-7
Roof.................................................................. 9-7
Underbody .................................................... 9-7
Wheels ............................................................ 9-8
Windshield, windows and mirrors ........ 9-8
Wiper blades ................................................ 9-8
Climate control.................................................... 7-4
Contacting NHTSA ............................................. 1-4
Coolant Battery ............................................................ 9-5
Specification ............................................... 11-14
Cost of charging ................................................. 5-5
Covering the vehicle ......................................... 9-8
Cruise control ...................................................... 6-9
Cruise control indicator lig ht ....................... 6-12
Cup holder ............................................................ 7-8
Current limit ......................................................... 5-4
DDashboard overview ......................................... 2-5
Data recording ..................................................... 1-2
Defrosting ............................................................. 7-5
Dimensions ......................................................... 11-15
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Index
Locking your vehicle ........................................ 4-2
Low tire pressure indicator light ................ 6-12
Lumbar support...................................................3-2MMaintenanceBrake fluid ..................................................... 9-4
Cleaning the exterior ................................ 9-7
Cleaning the interior ................................. 9-8
Daily checks.................................................. 9-2
Fluids ............................................................... 9-4
Owner maintenance .................................. 9-2
Paint repair ................................................... 9-8
Removing tar ............................................... 9-7
Routine maintenance ................................ 9-2
Service internal indicator ........................ 9-2
Underbody .................................................... 9-7
Washer fluid ................................................. 9-5
Washer jets ................................................... 9-6
Weekly checks............................................. 9-2
Windshield wiper........................................ 9-6
Master door locking switch............................ 4-4
Mileage................................................................... 6-3
Mirrors .....................................................................7-3
Modifying your vehicle ......................................1-2
Motor specifications ........................................11-17NNavigation system.............................................. 8-1
NHTSA .................................................................... 1-4OOdometer display ............................................. 6-12
Opening the doors Inside the vehicle........................................ 4-4
Outside the vehicle .................................... 4-4
Ownership change ..............................................1-2
PPaint code ............................................................. 11-2
Paint damage....................................................... 9-8
Parking brake ...................................................... 6-5
Passenger airbag deactivation ..................... 3-7
Performance charge setting .......................... 5-4
PIN code ................................................................ 4-8
PIN lock ................................................................ 4-10
Polishing the bodywork................................... 9-8
Power socket ....................................................... 7-7
Power windows .................................................. 7-2
Pressure washers ............................................... 9-7
Programming the key fob .............................. 4-3
Proposition 65 ...................................................... 1-2RRaising the vehicle........................................... 10-11
Range charge setting ....................................... 5-4
Rear suspension specifications .................. 11-18
Rear view mirrors............................................... 7-3
Recovery eye ....................................................10-14
Regenerative braking ....................................... 6-5
Regenerative braking visual display ...........6-11
Removing the hard-top ..................................7-14
Replacement bulbs.......................................... 10-9
Reporting safety defects ................................. 1-4
Roof Hard-top........................................................ 7-13
Soft-top .......................................................... 7-11SSafety compliance certification label......... 11-3
Safety defects ...................................................... 1-4
Safety instructionsChild seats ............................................ 3-5, 3-7
Jacking the vehicle .................................. 10-11
Lifting the vehicle .................................... 10-12 Obstruction of airbags.............................. 3-7
Seat belts ....................................................... 3-3
Tire repair .................................................... 10-4
Wearing seat belts when pregnant ..... 3-4
Windows ........................................................ 7-2
Seat belts Care .................................................................. 3-4
Cleaning.......................................................... 9-8
General information ................................... 3-3
Pre-tensioners .............................................. 3-4
Reminder............................................. 3-4, 6-12
Safety instructions ..................................... 3-3
Testing ............................................................ 3-4
Wearing .......................................................... 3-3
Wearing when pregnant .......................... 3-4
Seat heater controls.......................................... 7-4
Seat heaters ......................................................... 7-6
Seats Adjustment.................................................... 3-2
Child seats and restraints ........................ 3-5
Lumbar support........................................... 3-2
Security .................................................................. 4-7
Security code .......................................................4-8
Service data recording...................................... 1-2
Soft top Installing ....................................................... 7-10
Removing .......................................................7-11
Specifications Antifreeze .................................................... 11-14
Battery .......................................................... 11-19
Brake fluid.................................................... 11-14
Brakes............................................................ 11-18
Coolant ......................................................... 11-14
Electrical....................................................... 11-19
Fluids ............................................................. 11-14
Front suspension ...................................... 11-18
Motor ............................................................. 11-17
Rear suspension ........................................ 11-18
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