
Fluid ReservoirsFluid Reservoirs
7.16MODEL S OWNERS MANUAL
Fluid ReservoirsRemoving the Maintenance Panel
To access fuses and check fluid levels, remove
the maintenance panel:
1.Pull the rear edge of the maintenance panel
upward to release the five clips that hold
the panel in place.
2.Maneuver the maintenance panel toward
the windshield to remove.
CAUTION: The maintenance panel
protects the front trunk from water.
When re-attaching, make sure it is fully
seated.
Checking Battery Coolant
If the quantity of fluid in the cooling system
drops below the recommended level, the
instrument panel displays a warning message.
Stop Model S as soon as safety permits and call
Roadside Assistance to have Model S
transported to Tesla.
Fluid Level Check
Tesla checks the Battery coolant level at the
regularly scheduled maintenance intervals. To
check it yourself, park Model S on level ground.
When Model S is cool, remove the maintenance
panel (see page 7.16).
Check the fluid level visually by looking at the
outside marks on the side of the reservoir. DO
NOT REMOVE THE FILLER CAP AND DO NOT
ADD FLUID. Doing so can result in damage not
covered by the warranty.
The fluid level should be between the MIN and
the MAX marks. If you notice that the fluid level
has dropped significantly, contact Tesla before
using Model S.
To p p i n g U p t h e B a t t e r y C o o l a n t
Under no circumstances should you add
coolant. If the instrument panel warns you that
the fluid level is low, contact Tesla immediately.
To maximize the performance and life of the
Battery, the cooling system uses a specific type
of G-48 ethylene-glycol coolant (HOAT).
Contact Tesla for more specific information
about the coolant.
book.book Page 16 Friday, July 19, 2013 12:53 PM

Fluid ReservoirsFluid Reservoirs
7.18MODEL S OWNERS MANUAL
Topping Up Washer Fluid
Model S has only one reservoir into which you
can add fluid. This is the washer fluid reservoir
under the front trunk. When the level is low, a
message displays on the instrument panel. Fill
until the fluid level is visible just below the filler
neck.
Do not use formulated washer fluids that
contain water repellent or bug wash. These
fluids can cause streaking, smearing, and
squeaking, or other noises.
Operate the washers periodically to check that
the nozzles are clear and properly directed.
To top up washer fluid:
1.Clean the filler cap before opening to
prevent dirt from entering the reservoir.
2.Open the filler cap.
3.Fill the reservoir until the fluid is visible just
below the filler neck.
4.Replace the filler cap.
NOTE: Some national or local regulations
restrict the use of Volatile Organic Compounds
(VOCs). VOCs are commonly used as antifreeze
in washer fluid. Use a washer fluid with limited
VOC content only if it provides adequate freeze
resistance for all climates in which you drive
Model S.CAUTION: Under no circumstances do
you need to inspect or top up other fluid
reservoirs. Two additional fluid reservoirs
are located next to the washer fluid, but
underneath the maintenance panel. In the
unlikely event that you see a message on the
instrument panel that one of these fluid levels is
low, stop Model S as soon as safety permits,
and contact Tesla.
CAUTION: Do not spill washer fluid on
body panels. Doing so can cause
damage. Wipe up spills immediately and
wash the affected area with water.
WARNING: In temperatures below 4°C,
use a washer fluid with antifreeze. In cold
weather, using a washer fluid without antifreeze
can impair visibility through the windshield.
book.book Page 18 Friday, July 19, 2013 12:53 PM

Fuses
MAINTENANCE7.19
FusesFuse Box Locations
Three fuse boxes are located under the
maintenance panel, located in the front trunk.
For instructions on how to remove this panel,
see page 7.16.
1.Fuse box 1 (see page 7.20). DO NOT replace
these fuses. If one of them fails, contact
Te s l a .
2.Fuse box 2. (see page 7.21).
3.Fuse box 3 (see page 7.22).
If Model S is equipped with the cold weather
option, an additional fuse box (4) is located
under the driver’s side trim panel.
Replacing a Fuse
To remove a fuse box cover, press the plastic
tabs on either side.
Identify the fuse protecting the affected circuit.
Refer to the label on the inside of the fuse box
cover or the fuse tables provided in this section.
Pull the fuse to remove it. A break in the wire
inside the fuse indicates that the fuse has
blown.
NOTE: Do not replace fuses in fuse boxes
1 and 4, and do not remove or replace any
relays. If one of these fails, contact Tesla.
WARNING: Always manually power
Model S off before replacing a fuse (see
page 4.6).
CAUTION: Only use Tesla approved
replacement fuses of the same rating and
specification. Using an incorrect fuse can
damage the electrical system and result
in a fire.
CAUTION: If a replacement fuse blows
after installation, contact Tesla to have
the electrical system checked.
book.book Page 19 Friday, July 19, 2013 12:53 PM

Vehicle Loading
SPECIFICATIONS8.3
Ve h i c l e L o a d i n gLoad Capacity Labeling
It is important to understand how much weight
your Model S can safely carry. This weight is
called the vehicle capacity weight and includes
the weight of all occupants, cargo and any
additional equipment added to your Model S
since it was manufactured.
There are two labels attached to Model S that
state how much weight it can safely carry.
These labels are located on the center door
post and are visible when the driver’s door is
open:
1.Tire and Loading Information label
2.Statutory Plate
WARNING: Overloading Model S has an
adverse effect on braking and handling,
which can compromise your safety or damage
Model S.
C A U T I O N : N e v e r l o a d m o r e t h a n 1 3 6 k g i n
the front trunk. Doing so can cause
damage.
CAUTION: Never store large amounts of
liquid in Model S. Significant liquid spills
can cause electrical components to
malfunction.
Tire and Loading Information Label
The Tire and Loading Information label
provides:
•The maximum number of occupant seating
positions.
•The maximum vehicle capacity weight.
•The size of the original tires.
•The cold inflation pressures for the original
front and rear tires. These pressures are
recommended to optimize ride and
handling characteristics.
NOTE: Never change this label, even if you use
different tires in the future.
If Model S is loaded to its full capacity, double
check all tires to ensure they are inflated to
their recommended pressure levels.
book.book Page 3 Friday, July 19, 2013 12:53 PM

Vehicle LoadingVehicle Loading
8.4MODEL S OWNERS MANUAL
Statutory Plate
In addition to the VIN, the Statutory Plate
provides:
•GVWR - Gross Vehicle Weight Rating. The
maximum allowable total mass of Model S.
This is calculated as the weight of Model S,
all passengers, fluids, and cargo.
•GAWR - Gross Axle Weight Rating for the
front and rear axles. The GAWR is the
maximum distributed weight that each axle
can support.
CAUTION: To prevent damage, never
load Model S so that it is heavier than the
GVWR or exceeds the individual GAWR
weights.
Calculating Load Limits
1.Locate the statement “The combined
weight of occupants and cargo should
never exceed XXX kg or XXX lbs” on your
vehicle’s “Tire and Loading Information”
label.
2.Determine the combined weight of the
driver and passengers that will be riding in
the vehicle.
3.Subtract the combined weight of the driver
and passengers from XXX kg or XXX lbs
(see Step 1).
4.The resulting figure equals the available
amount of cargo and luggage load
capacity. For example, if the “XXX” amount
equals 635 kg, and there will be five 68 kg
passengers in the vehicle, the amount of
available cargo and luggage capacity is 294
kg (635 - 340 (5 x 68) = 294 kg).
5.Determine the combined weight of cargo
and luggage being loaded on the vehicle.
That weight must not exceed the available
cargo and luggage load capacity calculated
in Step 4. WARNING: The front and rear trunks are
the preferred places to carry objects. In
an accident, or during hard braking and sharp
turns, loose items in the cabin could injure
occupants.
Example Load Limit Calculations
How much cargo you can carry in Model S
depends on the number and weight of
passengers. The following are typical examples
of calculated load limits. These examples
assume passengers weighing 68 kg. If the
passengers weigh more or less, the available
cargo and luggage load capacity decreases or
increases respectively.
Example 1: Driver and one passenger
Example 2: Driver and four passengers
The available cargo or luggage weight should
then be distributed between the front and rear
trunks.
CAUTION: Do not exceed the maximum
front trunk load weight of 136 kg.
Towing a Trailer
WARNING: Do not tow a trailer. Model S
does not support a trailer hitch. Installing
one could damage Model S and increase the
risk of an accident.
DescriptionTo t a l
Vehicle capacity weight 433 kg
Subtract occupant weight
(2 x 68 kg)136 kg
Ava i l a b l e c a rg o we i g h t 2 97 kg
DescriptionTo t a l
Vehicle capacity weight 433 kg
Subtract occupant weight
(5 x 68 kg)340 kg
Ava i l a b l e c a rg o we i g h t 93 kg
book.book Page 4 Friday, July 19, 2013 12:53 PM

Instructions for TransportersInstructions for Transporters
9.4MODEL S OWNERS MANUAL 2.Insert the towing eye.
Fully insert the towing eye (found in the
front trunk) into the opening on the right
side, then turn counter-clockwise until
securely fastened.
3.Attach the tow chain to the towing eye.
CAUTION: Before pulling, make sure the
towing eye is securely tightened.
Pull Onto the Trailer and Secure the
Wheels
Secure wheels using chocks and tie-down
straps:
•Ensure any metal parts on the tie-down
straps do not contact painted surfaces or
the face of the wheels.
•Do not place straps over body panels or
through the wheels.
CAUTION: Attaching straps to the
chassis, suspension or other parts of the
body can cause damage.
CAUTION: To prevent damage, do not
transport Model S with the tires directly
on the ground.
book.book Page 4 Friday, July 19, 2013 12:53 PM

ii
INDEXINDEX
safety information ......................................... 3-10
seat belt retained, installing ........................ 3-8
testing ................................................................ 3-10
upper tether straps ....................................... 3-10
cleaning
exterior
...............................................................7-12
interior ............................................................... 7-13
climate control
operating tips
.................................................. 5-10
overview .............................................................. 5-8
cold weather option .......................................... 4-15
console
armrests
............................................................ 2-14
cup holders ...................................................... 2-14
power socket ................................................... 5-16
USB ports .......................................................... 5-16
contact information
Tesla
.................................................................... 10-3
coolant
Battery (high voltage)
................................. 7-16
replacement of ................................................. 7-2
cornering lights ................................................... 4-13
cruise control ...................................................... 4-23
cup holders ........................................................... 2-14
current, charging .................................................. 6-7
customizing Model S ........................................... 5-6
D
DAB radio .............................................................. 5-13
dashboard overview ............................................. 1-2
data recording ..................................................... 10-2
de-icing ................................................................... 4-15
delivery mileage .................................................. 10-2
devices
Bluetooth, playing audio files
................... 5-15
connecting ....................................................... 5-16
playing audio files from ............................... 5-15
dimensions .............................................................. 8-5
dome (map) lights .............................................. 4-11
door handles
exterior
................................................................2-4
interior .................................................................2-4
door labels ............................................................... 8-3
doors
child protection locks
.................................... 2-5
drive-away locking .......................................... 2-5
interior rear, opening with no power ....... 2-6
locking and unlocking, key .......................... 2-2
locking and unlocking, touchscreen ........2-4
opening exterior, no power ......................... 2-5
opening, exterior handles .............................2-4
opening, interior handles ..............................2-4
unlocking when key does not work ......... 2-5
walk-away locking ........................................... 2-5
drive gear ................................................................4-7
drive-away locking ............................................... 2-5driver
profiles, creating
............................................. 4-2
seat adjustment ................................................3-2
seating position ................................................3-2
driving
energy gains
.................................................... 4-21
seating position ................................................3-2
starting Model S .............................................. 4-6
tips to maximize range ................................ 4-19
E
electric parking brake ....................................... 4-21
emergency flashers ............................................4-14
emergency rear door opening ........................ 2-6
energy
app
....................................................................... 4-19
displaying usage of .......................................4-19
gained from regenerative braking .......... 4-21
graph .................................................................. 4-19
range information ........................................... 4-8
tips to minimize usage of ........................... 4-19
event data recording ......................................... 10-2
exterior
car cover
........................................................... 7-14
cleaning ............................................................. 7-12
dimensions ..........................................................8-5
overview ...............................................................1-3
polishing, touch up, & repair ...................... 7-14
specifications .....................................................8-5
exterior lights, controlling ................................ 4-11
F
fan speed, interior ................................................ 5-9
favorites, adding and removing .................... 5-15
features, downloading new ........................... 5-24
flash drives
connecting
........................................................ 5-16
playing audio from ........................................ 5-15
flashers, warning .................................................4-14
flat tire repair ..........................................................7-8
floor mats ............................................................... 7-14
fluids
Battery (high voltage)
................................. 7-16
brake ................................................................... 7-17
replacement of ..................................................7-2
windshield washer ......................................... 7-18
fog lights ................................................................. 4-11
free rolling .............................................................. 4-7
front passenger detection ............................... 3-17
front suspension specifications .......................8-7
front trunk
closing
................................................................ 2-10
opening .............................................................. 2-10
book.book Page ii Friday, July 19, 2013 12:53 PM

vi
INDEXINDEX
tires
asymmetric ........................................................ 7-5
balancing ............................................................7-4
chains ................................................................... 7-6
flat spots .............................................................7-4
inspecting .................................................7-4, 7-5
installing new .................................................... 7-5
pressure monitoring ....................................... 7-6
pressures, how to check ............................... 7-3
punctures ............................................................7-4
replacing ............................................................. 7-5
replacing a tire sensor ................................... 7-7
replacing tire sealant ......................................7-11
rotation of ...........................................................7-4
specification ......................................................8-8
tire sealant .......................................................... 7-8
understanding tire markings ..................... 8-10
wear patterns ....................................................7-4
winter ................................................................... 7-5
touch up body ..................................................... 7-14
touchscreen
brightness
........................................................... 5-2
cleaning ............................................................. 7-13
Controls ...............................................................5-4
overview .............................................................. 5-2
Settings ............................................................... 5-6
software updates .......................................... 5-24
tow chain, connecting ........................................ 9-3
Tow mode ............................................................... 9-3
towing
connecting the tow chain
............................. 9-3
Jack mode .......................................................... 9-3
keeping Model S in Neutral ..........................9-3
securing the wheels ....................................... 9-4
towing a trailer ......................................................8-4
towing instructions .............................................. 9-3
TPMS
malfunction
........................................................ 7-6
overview .............................................................. 7-6
replacing a tire sensor ................................... 7-7
traction control .................................................. 4-22
traffic alerts ........................................................... 5-14
trailer hitches .........................................................8-4
transmission specifications ...............................8-6
transporting
connecting the tow chain
............................. 9-3
Jack mode .......................................................... 9-3
keeping Model S in Neutral ..........................9-3
securing the wheels ....................................... 9-4
trip information ................................................... 4-18
trunk, front
closing
................................................................ 2-10
inside emergency release .............................2-11
opening .............................................................. 2-10
opening, no power ..........................................2-11trunk, rear
adjust opening height
....................................2-8
child protection locks .....................................2-5
closing ..................................................................2-8
disabling interior handle ...............................2-5
interior release ................................................. 2-9
opening ................................................................2-8
opening, no power ......................................... 2-9
Ttire and Loading Information label ..............8-3
TuneIn ...................................................................... 5-14
turn signals ............................................................4-14
U
Units & Format ...................................................... 5-6
unlocking
passive
.................................................................2-2
trunk, front ........................................................ 2-10
trunk, rear ...........................................................2-8
using the touchscreen ................................... 2-4
when key does not work ...............................2-5
with key ...............................................................2-2
USB devices
connecting
........................................................ 5-16
playing audio files from ............................... 5-15
USB ports ............................................................... 5-16
V
Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) .............8-2
vehicle loading
determining load limit
................................... 8-4
general information .........................................8-3
information label ..............................................8-3
load calculation examples ........................... 8-4
vent, sunroof ......................................................... 2-12
ventilation ................................................... 5-9, 5-10
VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) .............8-2
volume control ............................................ 4-3, 5-2
W
walk-away locking ................................................2-5
warning flashers ..................................................4-14
warning lights
ABS
.................................................................... 4-20
air suspension ................................................... 5-11
airbag .................................................................. 3-18
Jack mode ......................................................... 5-11
summary of ....................................................... 4-9
tire pressure .......................................................7-3
traction control .............................................. 4-22
washer fluid, topping up .................................. 7-18
washer jets, cleaning ......................................... 7-15
washers ................................................................... 4-15
weight specifications ...........................................8-5
book.book Page vi Friday, July 19, 2013 12:53 PM