Instrument PanelInstrument Panel
4.10MODEL S OWNERS MANUAL An ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) fault is detected. See page 4.20. Contact Tesla
immediately.
A brake system fault is detected or the brake fluid level is low. See page 4.20. Contact
Tesla immediately.
Tire pressure warning. The pressure of a tire is out of range. If a fault with the Tire
Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) is detected, the indicator flashes. For a TPMS
fault, contact Tesla. See page 7.3.
A door or trunk is open. See page 2.4.
Flashes green when the left turn signal is operating. Both turn signal indicators flash
green when the hazard warning flashers are operating.
Flashes green when the right turn signal is operating. Both turn signal indicators flash
green when the hazard warning flashers are operating.
Model S is in Tow mode and can roll freely. It does not automatically shift into Park
when you exit. See page 9.3.
Indicator Description
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Park Assist
DRIVING4.17 CAUTION: Keep sensors clean from dirt,
debris, snow, and ice. Avoid using a high
pressure power washer on the sensors
and do not clean a sensor with a sharp or
abrasive object that can scratch or
damage its surface.
CAUTION: Do not install accessories or
stickers on or near the parking sensors.
Controlling Audible Feedback
You can use Park Assist with or without audible
feedback. To turn chimes on or off, touch
Controls > Settings > Safety & Security > Park
Assist Chimes.
You can also mute the chimes temporarily by
pressing the scroll wheel on the left side of the
steering wheel. The chimes are muted until you
shift into a different gear or drive over
4.8 km/h.
Limitations and False Warnings
The parking sensors may not function correctly
in these situations:
•One or more of the parking sensors is
damaged, dirty, or covered (such as mud,
ice, or snow).
•Object is located below approximately
20 cm (such as a curb or low barrier).
•Weather conditions (heavy rain, snow, or
fog) are interfering with sensor operation.
•Object is thin (such as a sign post).
•A sensor’s operating range has been
exceeded.
•Object is sound-absorbing or soft (such as
powder snow).
•Object is sloped (such as a sloped
embankment).
•Model S has been parked in, or is being
driven in, extremely hot or cold
temperatures.
•The sensors are affected by other electrical
equipment or devices that generate
ultrasonic waves.
•Object is located too close to the bumper.
•A bumper is misaligned or damaged.
•An object that is mounted to Model S is
interfering with and/or obstructing the
sensor (such as a bike rack or a bumper
sticker).
Other Parking Aids
In addition to Park Assist, when shifted into
Reverse gear, the backup camera displays a
view of the area behind Model S. See
page 4.24.
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BrakesBrakes
4.20MODEL S OWNERS MANUAL
BrakesBraking Systems
Model S has an anti-lock braking system (ABS)
that prevents the wheels from locking when
you apply maximum brake pressure. This
improves steering control during heavy braking
in most road conditions.
During emergency braking conditions, the ABS
constantly monitors the speed of each wheel
and varies the brake pressure according to the
grip available.
The alteration of brake pressure can be felt as a
pulsing sensation through the brake pedal. This
demonstrates that ABS is operating and is not
a cause for concern. Keep firm and steady
pressure on the brake pedal while experiencing
the pulsing.
The ABS indicator flashes briefly on the
instrument panel when you first start
Model S. If this indicator displays at any
other time, an ABS fault has occurred
and ABS is not operating. Contact Tesla.
The braking system remains fully
operational and is not affected by an
ABS failure. However, braking distances
may increase.
If the instrument panel displays this
indicator at any time other than
displaying briefly when you first start
Model S, a brake system fault is
detected or the brake fluid level is low.
Contact Tesla immediately.
Emergency Braking
In an emergency, fully press the brake pedal
and maintain firm pressure, even on low
traction surfaces. ABS varies the braking
pressure to each wheel according to the
amount of traction available. This prevents
wheels from locking and ensures that you stop
as safely as possible.
WARNING: Do not pump the brake pedal.
Doing so interrupts operation of the ABS
and can increase braking distance.
WARNING: Always maintain a safe
distance from the vehicle in front of you
and be aware of hazardous driving conditions.
While ABS can improve stopping distance, it
cannot overcome the laws of physics. It also
does not prevent the danger of hydroplaning
(where a layer of water prevents direct contact
between the tires and the road).
Brake Wear
Model S brake pads are equipped with wear
indicators. A wear indicator is a thin metal strip
attached to the brake pad that squeals as it
rubs against the rotor when the pad wears
down. This squealing sound indicates that the
brake pads have reached the end of their
service life and require replacement. To stop
the squealing, contact Tesla Service.
Brakes must be periodically inspected visually
by removing the tire and wheel. For detailed
specifications and service limits for rotors and
brake pads, see page 8.6.
WARNING: Neglecting to replace worn
brake pads will result in damage to the
braking system and can create a braking
hazard.
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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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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.
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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
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SubsystemsSubsystems
8.6MODEL S OWNERS MANUAL
SubsystemsMotor
Transmission
Steering
Brakes
Type AC induction motor, liquid-cooled, with variable
frequency drive
Rating 375 Volts
Maximum Speed 16000 rpm
Type Single speed fixed gear
Overall Final Drive Ratio 9.73:1
Reverse Gear Reverse direction of motor, limited to 24 km/h
Type Rack and pinion with electronic power steering
Variable ratio and speed sensitive
Number of turns lock to lock 2.45
Turning Circle (curb to curb) 11.3 metres
Type 4-wheel anti-lock braking system (ABS) with
Electronic Brake Force Distribution, Integrated
Advanced Stability Control and Electronic
Accelerator pedal actuated regenerative braking
system
Calipers Four piston fixed
Rotor Diameters (ventilated) Front: 13.98”/355 mm
Rear: 14.37”/365 mm
Front Rotor thickness New: 1.26”/32 mm
Service limit: 1.18”/30 mm
Rear Rotor thickness New: 1.10”/28 mm
Service limit: 1.02”/26 mm
Front Brake Pad Thickness (excluding back
plate)New: 0.354”/9.0 mm
Service limit: 0.078”/2 mm
Rear Brake Pad Thickness (excluding back
plate)New: 0.315”/8.0 mm
Service limit: 0.078”/2 mm
Electronic Parking Brake (EPB) Pad
Thickness (excluding back plate). Electronic
calipers self-adjust for pad wear.New: 0.216”/5.5 mm
Service limit: 0.039”/1 mm
Parking brake Electrically actuated parking brake calipers
book.book Page 6 Friday, July 19, 2013 12:53 PM
i
INDEX
A
ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) ................. 4-20
access panel, removing .....................................7-16
accessories, installing ...................................... 7-24
accessories, plugging into power socket .5-16
air circulation ......................................................... 5-9
air conditioning
operating tips
................................................. 5-10
overview ............................................................. 5-8
air distribution ....................................................... 5-9
air filter ................................................................... 5-10
air suspension
automatic adjustments
.................................5-11
indicator lights ..................................................5-11
Jack mode ..........................................................5-11
manual settings ................................................5-11
air vents .................................................................. 5-10
airbags
after a collision
................................................3-18
front passenger, disabling ..........................3-17
how they work ................................................ 3-16
indicator lights .................................................3-18
inflation effects ...............................................3-18
location of .........................................................3-15
safety information ..........................................3-18
types of ............................................................. 3-16
alarm ........................................................................5-22
antifreeze ................................................................7-16
anti-lock braking (ABS) .................................. 4-20
audio
devices, connecting
...................................... 5-16
devices, playing from ....................................5-15
playing files .......................................................5-15
steering wheel buttons ................................. 4-3
automatic car washes ........................................ 7-12
B
backup camera ................................................... 4-24
battery (12V)
going flat
............................................................6-4
specifications .................................................... 8-7
Battery (high voltage)
care of
..................................................................6-4
coolant ................................................................7-16
discharge, impact of .......................................6-4
fluid check .........................................................7-16
general information ........................................6-4
specifications .................................................... 8-7
temperature limits ...........................................6-4
battery (key), replacing ..................................... 2-3
Bluetooth
audio devices, connecting
..........................5-15
general information .......................................5-17
phone, connecting .........................................5-18
phone, contacts and media ........................5-17
phone, disconnecting ...................................5-17
phone, pairing ..................................................5-17
phone, unpairing .............................................5-17body repairs
......................................................... 7-24
body touch up ..................................................... 7-14
brake fluid replacement ..................................... 7-2
brakes
anti-lock (ABS)
..............................................4-20
emergency braking ......................................4-20
fluid level ........................................................... 7-17
inspecting ........................................................4-20
regenerative braking .................................... 4-21
specifications ....................................................8-6
wear ...................................................................4-20
C
cabin temperature control ................................5-8
camera (rear view) ............................................ 4-24
capacity weight .....................................................8-3
car cover ................................................................ 7-14
car washes ............................................................. 7-12
carpets, cleaning ................................................. 7-13
chains ........................................................................7-6
charge cable
connecting
..........................................................6-5
disconnecting ....................................................6-5
charge current .......................................................6-7
charge levels ...........................................................6-7
charge port .............................................................6-5
charge port light .................................................. 6-6
charging
adapters
..............................................................6-3
charge port ........................................................6-5
connecting the charge cable ......................6-5
current setting ..................................................6-7
disconnecting the charge cable .................6-5
equipment summary ......................................6-3
High Power Wall Connector ........................6-3
instructions .........................................................6-5
light ...................................................................... 6-6
mobile equipment for ....................................6-3
public charging stations ................................6-3
set charge limit .................................................6-7
settings ................................................................6-7
status ....................................................................6-8
stopping ..............................................................6-5
charging schedule, setting ................................6-7
child protection
disabling liftgate
.............................................. 2-5
disabling rear door handles ......................... 2-5
locking rear windows ..................................... 2-7
child seats
choosing
.............................................................. 3-7
general guidelines ........................................... 3-7
installation methods .......................................3-8
installing multiple .............................................3-9
ISOFIX type, installing ...................................3-9
larger children ...................................................3-8
rear facing, opening ....................................... 3-11
rear facing, restrictions ................................ 3-11
rear facing, safety .......................................... 3-14
rear facing, seating a child ......................... 3-13
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