Maintenance ScheduleMaintenance Schedule
7.2MODEL S OWNERS MANUAL
MAINTENANCE
Maintenance ScheduleService Intervals
Regular maintenance is the key to ensuring the
continued reliability and efficiency of your
Model S.
Take Model S to Tesla at the regularly scheduled
maintenance intervals of every 12 months, or
every 20,000 kms, whichever comes first.
Model S must be serviced by Tesla-certified
technicians. Damages or failures caused by
maintenance or repairs performed by non-Tesla
certified technicians are not covered by the
warranty.
Fluid Replacement
Do not change or top up Battery coolant and
brake fluid yourself. Tesla service technicians
replace fluids at the regularly scheduled service
intervals:
•Brake fluid - every 2 years or 40,000 kms,
whichever comes first.
•Battery coolant - every 4 years or
80,000 kms, whichever comes first.
NOTE: Any damage from opening the Battery
coolant reservoir is excluded from the warranty.
Daily and Monthly Checks
In addition to the regularly scheduled
maintenance performed by Tesla, you should
carry out a few simple checks more frequently.
Daily Checks
•Check the Battery’s charge level, displayed
on the instrument panel.
•Check that all exterior lights, horn, turn
signals, and wipers and washers are
working.
•Check the operation of the brakes,
including the parking brake.
•Check the operation of the seat belts
(see page 3.5).
•Look for fluid deposits underneath Model S
that might indicate a leak. It is normal for a
small pool of water to form (caused by the
air conditioning system’s dehumidifying
process).
Monthly Checks
•Check the condition and pressure of each
tire (see page 7.3).
•Check washer fluid level and top up if
necessary (see page 7.18).
•Check that the air conditioning system is
operating (see page 5.9).
CAUTION: Contact Tesla immediately if
you notice any significant or sudden drop
in fluid levels or uneven tire wear.
High Voltage Safety
Your Model S has been designed and built with
safety as a priority. However, be aware of these
precautions to protect yourself from the risk of
injury inherent in all high-voltage systems:
•Read and follow all instructions provided on
the labels that are attached to Model S.
These labels are there for your safety.
•The high voltage system has no
user-serviceable parts. Do not disassemble,
remove or replace high voltage
components, cables or connectors. High
voltage cables are colored orange for easy
identification.
•If an accident occurs, do not touch any high
voltage wiring, connectors, or components
connected to the wiring.
•In the unlikely event that a fire occurs,
immediately contact your local fire
emergency responders.
WARNING: Always disconnect the charge
cable before working underneath
Model S, even if charging is not in progress.
WARNING: Keep your hands and clothing
away from cooling fans. Some fans
operate even when Model S is powered off.
WARNING: Some fluids (battery acid,
Battery coolant, brake fluid, windshield
washer additives, etc.) used in motor vehicles
are poisonous and should not be inhaled,
swallowed, or brought into contact with open
wounds. For your safety, always read and follow
instructions printed on fluid containers.
Dispose of used fluids and other
chemicals at authorized waste disposal
sites. It is illegal to pollute drains, waterways or
soil.
book.book Page 2 Friday, July 19, 2013 12:53 PM
Tire Care and Maintenance
MAINTENANCE7.3
Tire Care and MaintenanceMaintaining Tire Pressures
Keep tires inflated to the pressures shown on
the Tire and Loading Information label located
on the driver’s door pillar (even if it differs from
the pressure printed on the tire itself).
The Tire Pressure indicator light on the
instrument panel alerts you if one or
more tires is under- or over-inflated.
The Tire Pressure indicator light does not
immediately turn off when you adjust tire
pressure. After inflating the tire to the
recommended pressure, you must drive over
40 km/h for more than 10 minutes to activate
the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS),
which turns off the Tire Pressure indicator light.
If the indicator light flashes for one minute
whenever you power on Model S, a fault with
the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) is
detected (see page 7.6).
Checking and Adjusting Tire Pressures
Follow these steps when tires are cold and
Model S has been stationary for over three
hours:
1.Remove the valve cap.
2.Firmly press an accurate tire pressure
gauge onto the valve to measure pressure.
3.If required, add air to reach the
recommended pressure.
4.Re-check pressure by removing and
re-attaching the tire gauge.
5.If you added too much air, release air by
pressing the metal stem in the center of the
valve.
6.Recheck the pressure with the tire gauge
and adjust if necessary.
7.Replace the valve cap to prevent dirt from
entering. Periodically check the valve for
damage and leaks.
WARNING: Under-inflation is the most
common cause of tire failures. It can
cause a tire to overheat, resulting in severe tire
cracking, tread separation, or blowout, which
causes unexpected loss of vehicle control and
increased risk of injury. Under-inflation also
reduces Battery range and tire tread life.
WARNING: Check tire pressures using an
accurate pressure gauge when tires are
cold. It takes only one mile of driving to warm
up the tires sufficiently to affect tire pressures.
Parking the vehicle in direct sunlight or in hot
weather can also affect tire pressures. If you
must check warm tires, expect increased
pressures. Do not let air out of warm tires in an
attempt to match recommended cold tire
pressures. A hot tire at or below the
recommended cold tire inflation pressure is
dangerously under-inflated.
WARNING: Do not use any tire sealant
other than the type provided in a Tesla
tire repair kit. Other types can cause tire
pressure sensors to malfunction. If your
Model S did not include a tire repair kit, you can
purchase one from Tesla Motors.
book.book Page 3 Friday, July 19, 2013 12:53 PM
Tire Care and Maintenance
MAINTENANCE7.5
Improving Tire Mileage
To improve the mileage you get from your tires,
maintain tires at the recommended tire
pressures (see page 7.3), observe speed limits
and advisory speeds, and avoid:
•Pulling away quickly, or hard acceleration.
•Fast turns and heavy braking.
•Potholes and objects in the road.
•Hitting curbs when parking.
•Contaminating tires with fluids that can
cause damage.
Replacing Tires and Wheels
Tires degrade over time due to the effects of
ultraviolet light, extreme temperatures, high
loads, and environmental conditions. It is
recommended that tires are replaced every six
years, or sooner if required.
Wheel rims and tires are matched to suit the
handling characteristics of the vehicle.
Replacement tires must comply with the
original specification. If tires other than those
specified are used, ensure that the load and
speed ratings marked on the tire (see
page 8.10) equal or exceed those of the original
specification.
Ideally, you should replace all four tires at the
same time. If this is not possible, replace the
tires in pairs (both front or both rear). When
replacing tires, always re-balance and check
the alignment of wheels.
For the specification of the original wheels and
tires installed on Model S, see page 8.8.
WARNING: For your safety, use only tires
and wheels that match the original
specification. Tires that do not match the
original specification can affect the operation
of the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).
Asymmetric Tires
Model S tires are asymmetric and must be
mounted on the wheel with the correct sidewall
facing outward. The sidewall of the tire is
marked with the word OUTSIDE. When new
tires are installed, make sure that the tires are
correctly mounted on the wheels.
WARNING: Road holding is seriously
impaired if the tires are incorrectly
installed on the wheels.
Winter Tires
In snowy and icy conditions, consider installing
winter tires. Winter tires must be the same size,
brand, construction and tread pattern on all
four wheels. For recommendations on winter
tires, contact Tesla.
WARNING: On dry roads, winter tires
could have less traction than the
originally installed tires.
book.book Page 5 Friday, July 19, 2013 12:53 PM
Tire Care and MaintenanceTire Care and Maintenance
7.6MODEL S OWNERS MANUAL
Using Tire Chains
Tesla has tested and approved Security Chain
Company (SCC) Model Z-563 chains for use on
the rear wheels. These chains must only be
used if your Model S has 245/45R19 rear tires
installed. Do not use chains on 21” tires.
When installing tire chains, follow the
instructions provided by the tire chain
manufacturer. Mount them as tightly as
possible.
When using tire chains:
•Drive slowly—do not exceed 48 km/h.
•Avoid heavily loading Model S (heavy loads
can reduce the clearance between the tires
and the body).
•Remove the tire chains as soon as
conditions allow.
NOTE: Tire chains are prohibited in some
jurisdictions. Check local laws before installing
tire chains.
CAUTION: Using non-recommended tire
chains, or using tire chains on other sized
tires, can damage the suspension, body,
wheels, and/or brake lines. Damage caused by
using non-recommended tire chains is not
covered by the warranty.
CAUTION: Ensure that tire chains cannot
touch suspension components or brake
lines. If you hear the chains making
unusual noises that would indicate contact with
Model S, stop and investigate immediately.
Tire Pressure Monitoring
Each tire should be checked monthly when
cold and inflated to the recommended
pressures that are printed on the Tire and
Loading Information label located on the
driver’s door pillar (see page 7.3). If your
vehicle has tires of a different size than the size
indicated on the vehicle placard or tire inflation
pressure label, determine the proper tire
inflation pressure for those tires.
As an added safety feature, your vehicle has
been equipped with a tire pressure monitoring
system (TPMS) that displays a low tire pressure
telltale (Tire Pressure Warning) on the
instrument panel when one or more of your
tires is significantly under-inflated. Accordingly,
when the Tire Pressure indicator light displays
on the instrument panel alerting you of low tire pressure, stop and check your tires as soon as
possible, and inflate them to the proper
pressure (see page 7.3). Driving on a
significantly under-inflated tire causes the tire
to overheat and can lead to tire failure.
Under-inflation also reduces fuel efficiency and
tire tread life, and may affect the vehicle's
handling and stopping ability.
If Model S detects a fault with the Tire
Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS),
this indicator flashes for one minute
whenever you power on Model S.
NOTE: Installing accessories that are not
approved by Tesla can interfere with the TPMS
system.
WARNING: The TPMS is not a substitute
for proper tire maintenance, including
manually checking tire pressures and regularly
inspecting the condition of tires. It is the
driver's responsibility to maintain correct tire
pressure, even if under-inflation has not
reached the level for the TPMS to trigger the
Tire Pressure Warning on the instrument panel.
TPMS Malfunction
Model S has also been equipped with a TPMS
malfunction indicator to indicate when the
system is not operating properly.
The TPMS malfunction indicator is combined
with the low tire pressure indicator light. When
the system detects a malfunction, the indicator
light flashes for approximately one minute after
Model S powers on, and then remains
continuously lit. This sequence continues upon
subsequent vehicle start-ups as long as the
malfunction exists.
When the TPMS malfunction indicator is on, the
system might not be able to detect or signal
low tire pressure as intended. TPMS
malfunctions can occur for a variety of reasons,
including installing replacement or alternate
tires or wheels on the vehicle that prevent the
TPMS from functioning properly. Always check
the TPMS malfunction indicator light after
replacing one or more tires or wheels on your
vehicle to ensure that the replacement or
alternate tires and wheels allow the TPMS to
continue to function properly.
NOTE: If a tire has been replaced or repaired
using a different tire sealant than the one
available from Tesla, and a low tire pressure is
book.book Page 6 Friday, July 19, 2013 12:53 PM
Cleaning
MAINTENANCE7.13
Cleaning the Interior
Frequently inspect and clean the interior to
maintain its appearance and to prevent
premature wear. If possible, immediately wipe
up spills and remove marks. For general
cleaning, wipe interior surfaces using a soft
cloth (such as micro fiber) dampened with a
mixture of warm water and mild non-detergent
cleaner (test all cleaners on a concealed area
before use). To avoid streaks, dry immediately
with a soft lint-free cloth.
Interior Glass
Do not scrape, or use any abrasive cleaning
fluid on glass or mirrored surfaces. This can
damage the reflective surface of the mirror and
the heating elements in the rear window.
Airbags
Do not allow any substance to enter an airbag
cover. This could affect correct operation.
Dashboard and Plastic Surfaces
Do not polish the upper surfaces of the
dashboard. Polished surfaces are reflective and
could interfere with your driving view.
Leather Seats
Leather is prone to dye-transfer which can
cause discoloration, particularly on light
colored leather. White and tan leather is coated
with an anti-soiling treatment. Wipe spills as
soon as possible using a soft cloth moistened
with warm water and non-detergent soap.
Wipe gently in a circular motion. Then wipe dry
using a soft, lint-free cloth. Using detergents or
commercially available leather cleaners and
conditioners is not recommended because they
can discolor or dry out the leather.
Cloth Seats
Wipe spills as soon as possible using a soft
cloth moistened with warm water and
non-detergent soap. Wipe gently in a circular
motion. Then wipe dry using a soft, lint-free
cloth. Vacuum the seats as needed to remove
any loose dirt.
Carpets
Avoid over-wetting carpets. For heavily soiled
areas, use a diluted upholstery cleaner.
Seat Belts
Extend the belts to wipe. Do not use any type
of detergent or chemical cleaning agent. Allow
the belts to dry naturally while extended,
preferably away from direct sunlight.
Tesla Built In Rear Facing Child Seats
Vacuum the seats to remove any loose dirt.
Wipe the seats with a soft cloth dampened with
warm water. You can also use an upholstery
cleaner designer for automotive use. Extend
the belts to wipe. Allow the belts to dry
naturally, preferably away from direct sunlight.
Touchscreen and Instrument Panel
Clean the touchscreen and instrument panel
using a soft lint-free cloth specifically designed
to clean monitors and displays. Do not use
cleaners (such as a glass cleaner) and do not
use a wet wipe or a dry statically-charged cloth
(such as a recently washed microfiber).
Chrome and Metal Surfaces
Polish, abrasive cleaners or hard cloths can
damage the finish on chrome and metal
surfaces.
Cautions for Interior Cleaning
WARNING: If you notice any damage on
an airbag or seat belt, contact Tesla
immediately.
WARNING: Do not allow any water,
cleaners, or fabric to enter a seat belt
mechanism.
CAUTION: Using solvents (including
alcohol), bleach, citrus, naphtha, or
silicone based products or additives on
interior components can cause damage.
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Fluid Reservoirs
MAINTENANCE7.17
Checking Brake Fluid
WARNING: Contact Tesla immediately if
you notice increased movement of the
brake pedal or a significant loss of brake fluid.
Driving under these conditions can result in
extended stopping distances or complete
brake failure.
The Brake indicator on the instrument
panel alerts you if the quantity of fluid in
the brake reservoir drops below the
recommended level. If it displays while driving,
stop as soon as safety permits by gently
applying the brakes. Do not continue driving.
Contact Tesla immediately for assistance.
Fluid Level Check
Tesla checks the brake fluid 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
without removing the filler cap.
The brake fluid level should be between the MIN
and the MAX marks.
NOTE: The brake fluid level drops slightly
during normal use, as a result of brake pad
wear, but should not be allowed to drop below
the MIN mark.
To p p i n g U p t h e B r a k e F l u i d
Do not top up your brake fluid. Tesla service
does this when you bring Model S in for regular
servicing. The following instructions are
provided for information purposes and future
reference only:
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 DOT3 or DOT4
specifications.
4.Replace the filler cap.
WARNING: Only use new fluid from a
sealed air-tight container. Never use
previously used fluid or fluid from a previously
opened container—fluid absorbs moisture
which decreases braking performance.
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.
CAUTION: Brake fluid damages painted
surfaces. Immediately soak up any spills
with an absorbent cloth and wash the
area with a mixture of car shampoo and
water.
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Jacking and Lifting
MAINTENANCE7.23
Jacking and LiftingJacking Procedure
Follow the steps below to lift Model S. Ensure
that any non-Tesla repair facility is aware of
these lifting points.
1.Position Model S centrally between the lift
posts.
2.If your Model S is equipped with Active Air
Suspension, it automatically self-levels,
even when power is off. Use the
touchscreen to set the suspension as
follows:
•To u c h Controls.
•Press the brake pedal, then touch Ve r y
High to maximize the height of the
suspension.
•To u c h Jack to disable self-leveling.
When Jack mode is active,
Model S displays this indicator
light on the instrument panel,
along with a message telling you
that active suspension is
disabled.
NOTE: Jack mode cancels automatically
when Model S is driven over 7 km/h.
3.Position the lift arm pads under the body
rails at the locations illustrated. DO NOT
position the lift arm pads under the Battery.
4.Adjust the height and position of the lift
arm pads to ensure they are correctly
located.
5.With assistance, raise the lift, ensuring the
lift arm pads remain in their correct
positions.WARNING: If your Model S is equipped
with Active Air Suspension, it
automatically self-levels, even when power is
off. You MUST disable this system by engaging
Jack mode before lifting or jacking. If you do
not disable Active Air Suspension, Model S can
attempt to self-level, causing serious damage,
bodily injury, or death.
WARNING: Never raise Model S when the
charging cable is connected, even if
charging is not in progress.
WARNING: Do not work on an incorrectly
supported vehicle. Doing so can cause
serious damage, bodily injury, or death.
CAUTION: DO NOT lift from under the
Battery. Place the lift arm pads under the
body rails only. The locations illustrated
are the only approved lifting points for Model S.
Lifting at any other points can cause damage.
Damage caused by lifting Model S is not
covered by the warranty.
book.book Page 23 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
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