Inspecting and Maintaining TiresRegularly inspect the tread and side walls for
any sign of distortion (bulges), cuts or wear.Warning: Do not drive Model S if a tire is
damaged, excessively worn, or inflated to
an incorrect pressure. Check tires
regularly for wear, and ensure there are
no cuts, bulges or exposure of the ply/
cord structure.
Tire Wear
Model S is originally fitted with tires that have wear indicators molded into the tread pattern.
When the tread has been worn down to
1.6 mm, the indicators start to appear at the
surface of the tread pattern, producing the effect of a continuous band of rubber across
the width of the tire.
Replace a tire as soon as an indicator band
becomes visible or the tread depth reaches the minimum permitted by law.
Tire Rotation, Balance, and Wheel Alignment
Tesla recommends rotating the tires every 8000 km.
Note: Do not rotate tires on the Performance
Plus models.
Unbalanced wheels (sometimes noticeable as
vibration through the steering wheel) affect
vehicle handling and tire life. Even with
regular use, wheels can get out of balance. Therefore, they should be balanced as
required.
If tire wear is uneven (on one side of the tire
only) or becomes abnormally excessive, check
the alignment of wheels.
Punctured Tires
A puncture eventually causes the tire to lose
pressure, which is why it is important to check
tire pressures frequently. Permanently repair
or replace punctured or damaged tires as
soon as possible. Do not drive with a
punctured tire, even if the puncture has not
caused the tire to deflate. A punctured tire
can deflate suddenly at any time.
Your tubeless tires may not leak when
penetrated, provided the object remains in the
tire. If, however, you feel a sudden vibration or ride disturbance while driving, or you suspecta tire is damaged, immediately reduce your
speed. Drive slowly, while avoiding heavybraking or sharp steering and, when safe to do
so, stop the vehicle. Arrange to have Model S
transported to a Tesla service center, or to a
nearby tire repair center.
Note: In some cases, you can temporarily
repair small tire punctures (under 6 mm) using
an optional tire repair kit available from Tesla. This allows you to slowly drive Model S to
Tesla or to a nearby tire repair facility.Warning: Do not drive Model S with a
punctured tire. Even if the punctured tire has not deflated, it can suddenly deflate
at any time.
Flat Spots
If Model S is stationary for a long period in
high temperatures, tires can form flat spots. When Model S is driven, these flat spots causea vibration which gradually disappears as thetires warm up and regain their original shape.
To minimize the flat spots during storage,
inflate tires to the maximum pressure
indicated on the tire wall. Then, before driving, release air to adjust tire pressure to the
recommended levels.
Driving in Low Ambient Temperatures
Tire performance is reduced in low ambient temperatures, resulting in reduced grip and an
increased susceptibility to damage from
impacts. Performance tires can temporarily
harden when cold, causing you to hear
rotational noise for the first few miles until the tires warm up. Contact Tesla for winter tire
recommendations.
Safety Information
24Model S Quick Guide
