P/N: 1028871-07-A REV: 1i
TABLE OF CONTENTS
OVERVIEWInterior Overview............................................... 1.2
Exterior Overview ............................................. 1.3
OPENING AND CLOSING
Doors ..................................................................... 2.2
Windows .............................................................. 2.7
Rear Trunk........................................................... 2.8
Front Trunk ....................................................... 2.10
Sunroof ............................................................... 2.12
Glove Box .......................................................... 2.13
Cup Holders ...................................................... 2.14
SEATING AND SAFETY
RESTRAINTS
Front and Rear Seats ...................................... 3.2
Seat Belts............................................................ 3.4
Child Safety Seats ............................................ 3.7
Tesla Built In Rear Facing Child Seats..... 3.11
Airbags ............................................................... 3.15
DRIVINGDriver Profiles ................................................... 4.2
Steering Wheel ................................................. 4.3
Mirrors .................................................................. 4.5
Starting and Powering Off ........................... 4.6
Gears .................................................................... 4.7
Instrument Panel.............................................. 4.8
Lights ................................................................... 4.11
Wipers and Washers ..................................... 4.15
Park Assist......................................................... 4.16
Trip Information .............................................. 4.18
Energy Usage................................................... 4.19
Brakes ................................................................ 4.20
Traction Control............................................. 4.22
Cruise Control ................................................. 4.23
Rear View Camera ........................................ 4.24
USING THE TOUCHSCREEN
Touchscreen Overview.................................. 5.2
Touchscreen - Controls................................. 5.4
Touchscreen - Settings................................. 5.6
Climate Controls ............................................... 5.8
Active Air Suspension ................................... 5.11
Media and Audio............................................. 5.12
Phone .................................................................. 5.17Maps ..................................................................... 5.19
Navigation ....................................................... 5.20
Security Settings ............................................ 5.22
HomeLink® Universal Transceiver............ 5.23
Software Updates .......................................... 5.24
Mobile App ....................................................... 5.25
CHARGING
Electric Vehicle Components ...................... 6.2
Battery Information ........................................ 6.4
Charging Model S ............................................ 6.5
MAINTENANCE
Maintenance Schedule ................................... 7.2
Tire Care and Maintenance .......................... 7.3
Temporary Tire Repair................................... 7.8
Cleaning.............................................................. 7.12
Wiper Blades and Washer Jets ................. 7.15
Fluid Reservoirs ............................................... 7.16
Fuses.................................................................... 7.19
Jacking and Lifting ........................................ 7.23
Parts and Accessories .................................. 7.24
SPECIFICATIONS
Identification Labels ....................................... 8.2
Vehicle Loading ................................................ 8.3
Dimensions and Weights .............................. 8.5
Subsystems ........................................................ 8.6
Wheels and Tires.............................................. 8.8
ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE
About Roadside Assistance......................... 9.2
Instructions for Transporters ...................... 9.3
CONSUMER INFORMATIONDisclaimers ....................................................... 10.2
Reporting Concerns ...................................... 10.3
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Interior OverviewInterior Overview
1.2MODEL S OWNERS MANUAL
OVERVIEW
1.Interior doors (page 2.4)
2.High beams (page 4.12)
Turn signals (page 4.14)
Wipers and washers (page 4.15)
3.Cruise control (page 4.23)
4.Steering wheel buttons - left (page 4.3)
5.Instrument panel (page 4.8)
6.Steering wheel buttons - right (page 4.4)
7.Gear selector (page 4.7)
8.Touchscreen (page 5.2)
NOTE: Touch Controls in the bottom left
corner of the touchscreen to control
Model S features such as doors, locks, and
lights.9.Glove box button (page 2.13)
10.Power window switches (page 2.7)
11.Exterior mirror adjustment switches
(page 4.5)
12.Seats (page 3.2)
13.Steering column adjuster (page 4.3)
14.Horn (page 4.4)
15.Brakes (page 4.20)
16.Hazard warning lights (page 4.14)
17.Cabin climate control (page 5.8)
18.Cup holders (page 2.11)
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Doors
OPENING AND CLOSING2.5
Child-protection Locks
Model S has child-protection locks on the rear
doors and liftgate to prevent them from being
opened using interior handles. Use the
touchscreen to turn child protection locks on or
off. Touch Controls > Settings > Child
Protection Locks.
NOTE: It is recommended that you turn
child-protection locks on whenever children are
seated in the rear seats.
Drive-away Locking
Model S can automatically lock all doors
(including the trunks) whenever your driving
speed exceeds 8 km/h. To turn this feature on
or off, touch Controls > Settings > Drive-Away
Door Lock.
Walk-away Locking
If Model S is equipped with the optional tech
package, Model S doors and trunks can
automatically lock whenever you walk away
carrying the key.
To turn this feature on or off, touch Controls >
Settings > Walk-Away Door Lock.
NOTE: If all doors are closed and you
double-click the key to unlock Model S,
walk-away locking is temporarily suspended
until the next time you use the key to lock
Model S. This allows you to keep Model S
unlocked in your garage.
Unlocking with a Dead Key Battery
If Model S does not unlock when you walk up to
it, or when you press the unlock button on your
key, the key’s battery may be dead. If this is the
case, you can still unlock and drive Model S.
To unlock Model S (and disable the security
alarm), position the key near the base of the
passenger side windshield wiper, as shown.
To drive Model S, place the key against the
center console, immediately below the 12V
power outlet, then press the brake pedal to turn
Model S on.
For instructions on how to replace the key’s
battery, see page 2.3.
NOTE: Unlocking Model S using this method
disables walk-away locking. You must manually
re-enable walk-away locking after replacing the
key’s battery.
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AirbagsAirbags
3.18MODEL S OWNERS MANUAL
Inflation Effects
When airbags inflate, a fine powder is released.
This powder can irritate the skin and should be
thoroughly flushed from the eyes and from any
cuts or abrasions.
After inflation, the airbags deflate to provide a
gradual cushioning effect for the occupants
and to ensure the driver’s forward vision is not
obscured.
If airbags have inflated, or if your vehicle has
been in an accident, always have the airbags,
seat belt pre-tensioners and any associated
components checked and, if necessary,
replaced by Tesla.
In a collision, in addition to the airbags inflating:
•Doors unlock and the door handles extend.
•Hazard warning lights turn on.
•Interior lights turn on.
•High voltage is disabled.
To restore Battery power, use the touchscreen
to manually power off Model S (see page 4.6),
then press the brake to power it back on again.
Airbag Warning Indicator
The airbag indicator on the instrument
panel remains lit if the airbag system is
malfunctioning. The only time this
indicator should light up is briefly when
Model S first starts up, in which case it turns off
within a few seconds. If it remains lit, contact
Tesla immediately and do not drive.
Airbag Warnings
All occupants, including the driver,
should always wear their seat belts
whether or not an airbag is also provided at
their seating position to minimize the risk of
severe injury or death in the event of a crash.
Front seat occupants should not place
their arms over the airbag module, as an
inflating bag can cause fractures or other
injuries.
WARNING: Do not use seat covers on
Model S. Doing so could restrict
deployment of the side air bags if an
accident occurs. It can also reduce the
accuracy of the occupant detection system.
WARNING: Airbags inflate with
considerable speed and force, which can
cause injury. To limit injuries, ensure that
occupants are wearing seat belts and are
correctly seated, with the seat positioned as far
back as possible.
WARNING: Do not use a child safety seat
or seat young children on a seat with an
operational airbag in front of it. Doing so can
cause injury or death if the airbag inflates.
WARNING: To ensure correct inflation of
the side airbags, maintain an
unobstructed gap between an occupant’s torso
and the side of Model S.
WARNING: Passengers should not lean
their heads against the doors. Doing so
can cause injury if a curtain airbag inflates.
WARNING: Do not allow passengers to
obstruct the operation of an airbag by
placing feet, knees or any other part of the
body on or near an airbag.
WARNING: Do not attach or place objects
on or near the front airbags, the side of
the front seats, the headliner at the side of the
vehicle, or any other airbag cover that could
interfere with inflation of an airbag. Objects can
cause serious injury if the vehicle is in a crash
severe enough to cause the airbag to inflate.
WARNING: Following inflation, some
airbag components are hot. Do not touch
until they have cooled.
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4.1
DRIVING
Driver Profiles
Creating a Driver Profile ............................... 4.2
Restoring a Driver’s Profile .......................... 4.2
Saved Driver Settings .................................... 4.2
Steering Wheel
Adjusting Position ........................................... 4.3
Adjusting Sensitivity ...................................... 4.3
Using Left Steering Wheel Buttons.......... 4.3
Using Right Steering Wheel Buttons ....... 4.4
Horn ...................................................................... 4.4
MirrorsAdjusting Exterior Side Mirrors.................. 4.5
Rear View Mirror .............................................. 4.5
Starting and Powering Off
Starting Model S .............................................. 4.6
Powering Off ..................................................... 4.6
Gears
Shifting Gears ................................................... 4.7
Leaving Model S in Neutral (Tow Mode) 4.7
Instrument Panel
Instrument Panel Overview ......................... 4.8
Indicator Lights ................................................ 4.9
LightsControlling Lights ............................................ 4.11
Headlight High Beams .................................. 4.12
Headlights After Exit..................................... 4.13
Cornering Lights ............................................. 4.13
Turn Signals ...................................................... 4.14
Hazard Warning Flashers ............................ 4.14
Wipers and WashersWipers................................................................. 4.15
Washers ............................................................. 4.15
Park Assist
How Park Assist Works ................................ 4.16
Visual and Audio Feedback ....................... 4.16
Controlling Audible Feedback .................. 4.17
Limitations and False Warnings ............... 4.17
Other Parking Aids ........................................ 4.17
Trip Information
Displaying Trip Information ....................... 4.18
Energy Usage
Displaying Energy Usage ............................ 4.19
Driving Tips to Maximize Range .............. 4.19
Brakes
Braking Systems............................................ 4.20
Brake Wear ..................................................... 4.20
Regenerative Braking.................................... 4.21
Parking Brake ................................................... 4.21
Traction Control
How It Works................................................... 4.22
Cruise ControlOperating Cruise Control ........................... 4.23
Changing the Cruising Speed ................... 4.23
Canceling and Resuming ............................ 4.23
Rear View CameraCamera Location ........................................... 4.24
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Starting and Powering OffStarting and Powering Off
4.6MODEL S OWNERS MANUAL
Starting and Powering OffStarting Model S
When you open a door, Model S powers on the
instrument panel and touchscreen. The center
circle on the instrument panel displays the
status of doors and the charge level, and you
can operate all controls.
To d r i v e :
•PRESS THE BRAKE - the center circle on
the instrument panel changes to display the
speedometer, power meter, charge level,
and selected gear (P, R, N, or D)
•SELECT A GEAR - all the way down for
Drive and all the way up for Reverse,
Everything you need to know when driving
Model S displays on the instrument panel.
Key Not Inside
If Model S does not detect a key when you
press the brake, the instrument panel displays a
message telling you that a key was not
detected.
Place the key in the center console cup holder
where Model S can best detect it.
If Model S still does not detect the key, try
holding it against the center console,
immediately below the 12V power socket (see
page 5.16). Or try using another key. If another
key does not work, contact Tesla.
A number of factors can affect whether
Model S can detect the key. These include a low
battery in the key, interference from other
devices using radio signals, and objects
between the key and receiver.Always keep the key with you. After driving,
you need it to restart Model S after it powers
off. And when you leave Model S, you must
bring it with you to lock Model S, either
manually or automatically (see page 2.5).
Powering Off
When you finish driving, shift into Park by
pressing the button on the end of the gear
selector. The parking brake automatically
engages and all systems keep operating. When
you leave Model S with the key, it powers off
automatically, turning off the touchscreen and
instrument panel.
Model S also powers off automatically after
being in Park for 15 minutes, even if you are
sitting in the driver’s seat.
To power off Model S while you are still sitting
in the driver’s seat, touch Controls > E-Brake &
Power Off > Power Off. Model S automatically
powers back on again if you press the brake or
touch anywhere on the touchscreen.
NOTE: Model S automatically shifts into Park
whenever you finish driving and exit, even if you
shift into Neutral before exiting. To keep
Model S in Neutral, see page 4.7.
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Gears
DRIVING4.7
GearsShifting Gears
When Model S is in Park, you must press the
brake to shift to another gear.
Move the lever up or down to change gears.
If you try to shift into a gear that the current
driving speed prohibits, you hear a chime and
the gear does not change.
Reverse
Push the lever all the way up and release. You
can only shift into Reverse when Model S is
stopped or moving less than 8 km/h. If moving
less than 1.6 km/h, you must press the brake.
Neutral
Push the lever up or down to the first position
and release to shift into Neutral. Neutral allows
Model S to roll freely.
If Model S is in Park and you use the
touchscreen to release the parking brake
(Controls > E-Brake & Power Off ), Model S
shifts into Neutral (see page 4.21).
Model S automatically shifts into Park when you
exit. To leave Model S in Neutral, use the
touchscreen to engage Tow mode (see
page 4.7).
Drive
Push the lever all the way down and release.
You can shift into Drive when Model S is
stopped or moving less than 8 km/h in Reverse.
If Model S is moving less than 1.6 km/h, you
must press the brake to shift into Drive.
Park
With Model S stopped, press the end of the
gear selector. Whenever Model S is in Park, the
parking brake is applied.
Model S automatically shifts into Park
whenever you:
•Open the driver’s door and exit.
•Connect a charge cable.
Leaving Model S in Neutral (Tow
Mode)
Model S automatically shifts into Park
whenever you finish driving and exit Model S.
To keep Model S in Neutral when you exit,
allowing it to roll freely (for example, pulling
onto a transporter, etc.), activate Tow mode:
1.Shift into Park.
2.Press the brake pedal.
3.Touch Controls > E-Brake & Power Off >
To w M o d e.
Model S beeps, shifts into Neutral, and releases
the parking brake (if engaged).
When Tow mode is active, Model S
displays this indicator light on the
instrument panel, along with a message
telling you that Model S will remain free rolling.
NOTE: In Tow mode, Model S does not shift into
a driving gear. To cancel Tow mode, shift into
Park or touch Tow mode again. Tow mode also
cancels if you use the touchscreen to apply the
parking brake (Controls > E-Brake & Power Off
> Parking Brake).
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Instrument PanelInstrument Panel
4.8MODEL S OWNERS MANUAL
Instrument PanelInstrument Panel Overview
NOTE: The following illustration is provided for demonstration purposes only. Depending on vehicle
options, software version, and market region, the information displayed may be slightly different.
1.The center display changes depending on
whether Model S is off or ready to drive. If
Model S is off, the center displays shows
remaining estimated range and status of
doors. Pressing the brake powers Model S
on—the indicator lights flash on for a
second and the center display shows
speed, power, charge level, estimated
range (see item 9), and active gear. When
Model S is plugged in, the instrument
panel displays charging status (see
page 6.8).
2.Use the left steering wheel buttons to
operate the audio system. You can also
press and roll the scroll wheel to change
what displays on the left side of the
instrument panel (see page 4.3).
3.Pay attention to important status
messages that display here.
4.All indicator lights flash on briefly when
you press the brake to prepare to drive.
They should then turn off, unless the light
applies to a current situation (see
page 4.9).
5.Use the right steering wheel buttons for
voice commands, to handle telephone
calls, and to control some features of
Model S. You can customize what features
the scroll wheel can control (see
page 4.4).6.Door lock status
7.Odometer
8.Outside temperature
9.Range estimate
The estimated range based on the amount of energy remaining in the
Battery. You can specify how you want to display range by touching
Controls > Settings > Language & Units and choosing:
•Rated - based on ECE R101 testing.
•Ideal - assumes ideal driving conditions based on driving at a steady
speed of 89 km/h on a flat road, and using no additional energy (seat
heaters, air conditioning, etc).
NOTE: When anticipating when you need
to charge, use range estimates as a
general guideline only.
10.Pay attention to alert messages that
appear at the bottom center of the
instrument panel. If any alerts are in effect,
you can view information about them by
touching the alert icon (exclamation
mark) on the touchscreen’s status bar (the
topmost area of the touchscreen).
11.Currently selected gear Park, Reverse,
Neutral, or Drive.
12.Date and time
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