
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

CleaningCleaning
7.12MODEL S OWNERS MANUAL
CleaningCleaning the Exterior
To prevent damage to the paint, immediately
remove corrosive substances (bird droppings,
tree resin, dead insects, tar spots, road salt,
industrial fallout, etc). Do not wait until Model S
is due for a complete wash. If necessary, use
denatured alcohol to remove tar spots and
stubborn grease stains, then immediately wash
the area with water and a mild, non-detergent
soap to remove the alcohol.
Follow these steps when washing the exterior
of Model S:
1.Rinse Thoroughly
Before washing, flush grime and grit from
the bodywork using a hose. Flush away
accumulations of mud in areas where debris
easily collects (such as wheel arches and
panel seams). If salt has been used on the
highways (such as during winter months),
thoroughly rinse all traces of road salt from
the underside of the vehicle.
2.Hand Wash
Hand wash Model S using a soft cloth and
cold or lukewarm water containing a mild,
good quality car shampoo.
3.Rinse with Clean Water
After washing, rinse with clean water to
prevent soap from drying on the surfaces.
4.Dry Thoroughly and Clean Exterior Glass
After washing and rinsing, dry thoroughly
with a chamois.
Clean windows and mirrors using an
automotive glass cleaner. Do not scrape, or
use any abrasive cleaning fluid on glass or
mirrored surfaces.
Cautions for Exterior Cleaning
CAUTION: Do not use hot water and
detergents.
CAUTION: In hot weather, do not wash in
direct sunlight.
CAUTION: If using a pressure washer,
maintain a distance of at least 30 cm
between the nozzle and the surface of
Model S. Keep the nozzle moving and do
not concentrate the water jet on any one
area.
CAUTION: Do not aim water hoses
d i r e c t l y a t w i n d o w, d o o r o r h o o d s e a l s , o r
through wheel apertures onto brake
components.
CAUTION: Avoid using tight-napped or
rough cloths, such as washing mitts.
CAUTION: If washing in an automatic car
wash, use Touchless car washes only.
These car washes have no parts (brushes,
etc.) that touch the surfaces of Model S.
Using any other type of car wash could
cause damage that is not covered by the
warranty.
CAUTION: Do not used chemical based
wheel cleaners. These can damage the
finish on the wheels.
CAUTION: Avoid using a high pressure
power washer on the rear view camera or
parking sensors (if equipped) and do not
clean a sensor or camera lens with a
sharp or abrasive object that can scratch
or damage its surface.
Some cleaning products contain
chemicals that are hazardous to the
environment. Always take precautions to
prevent spilling. It is illegal to pollute
drains, rivers and waterways. Used toxic
chemicals must be disposed of at
authorized waste disposal sites only.
book.book Page 12 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 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

FusesFuses
7.20MODEL S OWNERS MANUAL
Fuse Box 1
Access to fuse box 1 requires removal of components that must be performed by a Tesla service
technician. The following fuse list is provided only to assist you in determining if a fuse in this box
needs to be replaced. Contact Tesla Service if one of these fuses needs to be replaced.
Fuse RatingCircuit Protected
NOTE: THESE FUSES MUST BE REPLACED BY A TESLA SERVICE TECHNICIAN
1 5 A Accessory sensor, radio, USB hub
2 5 A Headlight leveling system (EU/China Coil Suspension vehicles only)
3 5 A Vanity lights, rear view mirror
4 30 A Outboard rear seat heaters (cold weather option)
5 15 A Seat heater (driver’s seat)
6 20 A Base audio amplifier
7 15 A Seat heater (front passenger seat)
820 APremium audio amplifier
9 25 A Sunroof
10 5 A Passive safety restraints
11 5 A Steering column controls
12 5 A Sensor for Drive mode and Yaw Rate (Stability/Traction Control)
13 15 A Wiper park
14 5 A Drive inverter
15 20 A Electric parking brake
16 5 A Parking/blind spot sensors
17 20 A Electric parking brake
18 5 A Not used
19 5 A In-vehicle HVAC sensor
20 5 A Cabin air heater logic
21 15 A Battery coolant pump 1
22 5 A Inlet actuators
23 15 A Powertrain coolant pump
24 5 A Cabin climate control
25 15 A Battery coolant pump 2
26 - Not used
27 10 A Thermal controller
book.book Page 20 Friday, July 19, 2013 12:53 PM

Fuses
MAINTENANCE7.21
Fuse Box 2
Fuse RatingCircuit Protected
28 25 A Window lift motor (right rear)
29 10 A Contactor power
30 25 A Window lift motor (right front)
31 - Not used
32 10 A Door controls (right side)
33 - Not used
34 30 A Rear center seat heaters, washer/wiper de-ice (cold weather option)
35 15 A 12V power socket
36 25 A Air suspension
37 25 A Window lift motor (left rear)
38 5 A Driver's seat memory
39 25 A Window lift motor (left front)
40 5 A Rear door handles
41 10 A Door controls (left side)
42 30 A Powered liftgate
43 5 A Perm. power sensor, brake switch
44 5 A Charger (charge port)
45 20 A Passive entry (horns)
46 30 A Body controls (group 2)
47 5 A Glove box light
48 10 A Body controls (group 1)
49 5 A Instrument panel
50 5 A Siren, intrusion/tilt sensor (Europe only)
51 20 A Touchscreen
52 30 A Heated rear window
53 5 A Battery management system
54 - Not used
55 30 A Left front electric seat
56 30 A Right front electric seat
57 25 A Cabin fan
58 - Not used
59 - Not used
book.book Page 21 Friday, July 19, 2013 12:53 PM

FusesFuses
7.22MODEL S OWNERS MANUAL
Fuse Box 3
Fuse Box 4
If Model S is equipped with the cold weather option, an additional fuse box (4) is located under the
driver’s side trim panel. Access to fuse box 4 requires removal of several components that must be
performed by a Tesla service technician. The following fuse list is provided only to assist you in
determining if a fuse in this box needs to be replaced. Contact Tesla Service if one of these fuses
needs to be replaced.
Fuse RatingCircuit Protected
71 40 A Condenser fan (left)
72 40 A Condenser fan (right)
73 40 A Vacuum pump
74 20 A 12V drive rail (cabin)
75 5 A Power steering
76 5 A ABS
77 25 A Stability control
78 20 A Headlights - high/low beam
79 30 A Light - exterior/interior
Fuse RatingCircuit Protected
NOTE: THESE FUSES MUST BE REPLACED BY A TESLA SERVICE TECHNICIAN
101 15 A Left rear seat heater
102 15 A Right rear seat heater
103 15 A Middle rear seat heater control
104 15 A Middle rear seat heater
105 15 A Wiper de-icer
106 - Not used
book.book Page 22 Friday, July 19, 2013 12:53 PM

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