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
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Tire Care and Maintenance
MAINTENANCE7.7 detected, it is possible that the tire sensor has
been damaged. Contact Tesla to have the fault
repaired as soon as possible.
Replacing a Tire Sensor
If the Tire Pressure warning indicator displays
frequently, contact Tesla to determine if a tire
sensor needs to be replaced. Tire sensors must
be replaced by a Tesla service technician who
can perform a brief setup procedure. If a
non-Tesla service center repairs or replaces a
tire, the tire sensor will not work until Tesla
performs the setup procedure.
book.book Page 7 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.
book.book Page 13 Friday, July 19, 2013 12:53 PM
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 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.
book.book Page 17 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.
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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.
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Instructions for Transporters
ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE9.3
Instructions for TransportersUse a Flatbed Only
Use a flatbed trailer only, unless otherwise
specified by Tesla. Do not transport Model S
with the tires directly on the ground.
CAUTION:
D a m a g e c a u s e d b y t r a n s p o r t i n g
is not covered by the warranty.
To transport Model S, follow the instructions
exactly as described next.
Disable Self-Leveling (air
suspension vehicles only)
If Model S is equipped with Active Air
Suspension, it automatically self-levels, even
when power is off. To prevent damage, you
must activate JACK mode to disable
self-leveling:
1.To u c h CONTROLS on the bottom left of the
touchscreen.
2.Press the brake pedal, then touch Controls
> Very High to maximize height.
3.To u c h Jack.
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 when Model S is
driven over 7 km/h.
CAUTION: Failure to activate Jack mode
can cause Model S to become loose while
being transported, resulting in significant
damage.
Activate Tow Mode
Model S automatically shifts into Park
whenever you open the door to exit, even if you
shifted into Neutral. To keep Model S in Neutral
(which disengages the parking brake), you
must activate tow mode:
1.Shift into Park.2.Press the brake pedal, then on the
touchscreen, touch Controls > E-Brake &
Power Off > Tow Mode.
When Tow mode is active, Model S
displays this indicator light on the
instrument panel, along with a
message telling you that Model S is free rolling.
NOTE: Tow mode cancels when Model S is
shifted into Park.
CAUTION:
If the electrical system is not
working, and you therefore cannot
release the electric parking brake,
attempt to quick start the 12V battery. For
instructions, call the number noted on the
previous page. If a situation occurs where you
cannot disengage the parking brake, use tire
skids or transport Model S for the shortest
possible distance using wheeled dollies. Before
doing so, always check the dolly
manufacturer’s specifications and
recommended load capacity.
Connect the Tow Chain
1.Remove the nose cone.
Insert a plastic pry tool into the top right
corner, and gently pry the nose cone
towards you. When the clip releases, pull
the nose cone towards you, without
twisting or bending it, to release the three
remaining clips.
CAUTION: Do not use a metal object
(such as a screwdriver). Doing so can
damage the nose cone and the
surrounding area.
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