High Voltage Components
1.
Heat Pump Assembly
2.
Front Drive Unit (Long Range Drive Unit shown)
3.
High Voltage Battery Service Panel
4.
High Voltage Battery
5.
High Voltage Busbars
6.
Rear Drive Unit (Long Range Drive Unit shown)
7.
Charge Port
WARNING: The high voltage system has no user serviceable parts. Do not disassemble, remove or replace high voltage components, cables or connectors. High voltage cables are typically colored orange for easy identification.
WARNING: Read and follow all instructions provided on the labels that are attached to Model S. These labels are there for your safety.WARNING: In the unlikely event that a fire occurs, immediately contact your local fire emergency responders.
Electric Vehicle Components
175Charging
Maintaining Tire Pressures
Keep tires inflated to the pressures shown on
the Tire and Loading Information label, even if
it
differs from the pressure printed on the tire
itself. The Tire and Loading Information label is located on the center door pillar and is
visible when the front door is open.
The Tire Pressure indicator
light on the instrument panel alerts you if one or
more tires is under- or over-inflated.
The Tire Pressure indicator light does not immediately turn off when you adjust tire pressure. After inflating the tire to the
recommended pressure, you must drive over
15 mph (25 km/h) for more than 10 minutes to
activate the Tire Pressure Monitoring System
(TPMS), which turns
off the Tire Pressure
indicator light.
If the indicator light flashes for one minute
whenever you power on Model S, a fault with
the TPMS is detected (see TPMS Malfunction on page 192).
You can display tire pressures on the touchscreen by opening Controls > Service.
You can also choose whether you want to
display tire pressures using Bar or PSI by opening
Controls > Display > Tire Pressure.
WARNING: Under-inflation is the most common cause of tire failures and can cause a tire to overheat, resulting in severe tire cracking, tread separation, or blowout, which causes unexpected loss of vehicle control and increased risk of injury. Under-inflation also reduces the vehicle
Inspecting and Maintaining
Tires
Regularly inspect the tread and side walls for
any sign of distortion (bulges), foreign
objects, 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
Adequate tread depth is important for proper
tire performance. Tires with a tread depth less
than
4/32” (3 mm) are more likely to
hydroplane in wet conditions and should not be used. Tires with a tread depth less than
5/32” (4 mm) do not perform well in snow
and slush and should not be used when driving in winter conditions.
Model S is originally fitted with tires that have
wear indicators molded into the tread
pattern. When the tread has been worn down
to
4/32” (3 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. For
optimal performance and safety, Tesla
recommends replacing tires before the wear indicators are visible.
Tire Rotation, Balance, and Wheel
Alignment
Tesla recommends rotating the tires every 6,250 miles (10,000 km) or if tread depth difference is 2/32 in (1.5 mm) or greater,
whichever comes first.
Unbalanced wheels (sometimes noticeable as
vibration through the steering yoke) 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.
NOTE: When replacing only two tires, install
the new tires on the rear if your vehicle
Replacing a Tire Sensor
If the Tire Pressure warning indicator displays
frequently, contact Tesla to determine if a tire
sensor needs to be replaced. If a non-Tesla
Service Center repairs or replaces a tire, the
tire sensor may not work until Tesla performs
the setup procedure.
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 tire pressure indicator
light. When the system
detects a malfunction, the
indicator
flashes for
approximately one minute,
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 under-
or over-inflated tires as intended.
TPMS malfunctions can occur for a variety of reasons, including installing replacement or
alternate tires or wheels 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 tires or 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
detected, it is possible that the tire sensor has
been damaged. Contact Tesla to have the
fault repaired as soon as possible.
Seasonal Tire Types
Summer Tires
Your vehicle may be originally equipped with
high performance summer tires or all season
tires. Tesla recommends using winter tires if
driving in cold temperatures or on roads
where snow or ice may be present. Contact
Tesla for winter tire recommendations.
WARNING: In cold temperatures or on snow or ice, summer tires do not provide adequate traction. Selecting and installing the appropriate tires for winter conditions is important to ensure the safety and optimum performance of your Model S.
All-Season Tires
Your Model S may be originally equipped with
all-season tires. These tires are designed to
provide adequate traction in most conditions year-round, but may not provide the same level of traction as winter tires in snowy or icy
conditions. All-season tires can be
identified
by “ALL SEASON" and/or "M+S” (mud and
snow) on the tire sidewall.
Winter Tires
Use winter tires to increase traction in snowy
or icy conditions. When installing winter tires,
always install a complete set of four tires at
the same time. Winter tires must be the same
diameter, brand, construction and tread
pattern on all four wheels. Contact Tesla for
winter tire recommendations.
Winter tires can be identified by a mountain/snowflake symbol on the
tire
CAUTION: Do not aim water hoses directly at windows, door, or hood seals or at electronic modules or exposed cabling.
CAUTION: To avoid corrosive damage that may not be covered by the warranty, rinse away any road salt from the underside of the vehicle, wheel wells, and brakes. After cleaning the vehicle, dry the brakes by going on a short drive and applying the brakes multiple times.
CAUTION: Avoid using tight-napped or rough cloths, such as washing mitts. A high-quality microfiber cleaning cloth is recommended.
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. Some touchless car washes use caustic solutions that, over time, can cause discoloration of decorative exterior trim. Avoid exposure to soaps and chemicals above pH 13. If unsure, check the product label or ask the staff at the car wash. Damage caused by improper washing is not covered by the warranty.
CAUTION: If washing in an automatic car wash, make sure the vehicle is locked. In addition, avoid using controls on the touchscreen that can result in accidentally opening doors or trunks while the vehicle is being washed. Any damage caused is not covered by the warranty.
CAUTION: Ensure the wipers are off
before washing Model S to avoid the risk of damaging the wipers.
CAUTION: Do not use chemical based wheel cleaners or pre-wash products. These can damage the finish on the wheels.
WARNING: Never spray liquid at a high velocity (for example, if using a pressure washer) towards the charge port while Model S is charging. Failure to follow these instructions can result in serious injury or damage to the vehicle, charging equipment, or property.
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
microfiber) 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.
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.
If equipped with leather seats, note that
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. Using
detergents or commercially available leather
cleaners and conditioners is not
recommended because they can discolor or dry out the leather.
If equipped with polyurethane seats, be
careful with dyes, such as from clothing or
denim, that come into contact with the seats.
Over time, dyes can
diffuse into the seat
material and cause staining.
Vacuum cloth seats as needed to remove any
loose dirt.
Cleaning
195Maintenance
CAUTION: Do not use cutting pastes, color restoration compounds, or polishes containing harsh abrasives. These can scour the surface and permanently damage the paint.
CAUTION: Do not use chrome polish or other abrasive cleaners.
Using a Car Cover
To preserve the cosmetic appearance of the
body when Model S is not being used, use a
genuine Tesla car cover. Car covers can be
purchased from Tesla. See
Parts and Accessories on page 202.
CAUTION: Use only a Tesla-approved car cover when Model S is plugged in. Using a non-Tesla car cover can prevent the Battery from being adequately cooled during charging.
Floor Mats
To extend the life of your carpet and make
them easier to clean, use genuine Tesla floor
mats (see Parts and Accessories on page 202). Maintain floor mats by regularly
cleaning them and checking that they are
properly attached. Replace
floor mats if they
become excessively worn.
WARNING: To avoid potential interference with a foot pedal, ensure that the driver
Removing the Maintenance
Panel
To check fluid levels, remove the maintenance
panel:
1.
Open the hood.
2.
Pull the maintenance panel upward to
release the clips that hold it in place.
CAUTION: The maintenance panel protects the front trunk from water. When re-attaching, make sure it is fully seated.
Checking Battery Coolant
Your Battery coolant should not need to be
replaced for the life of your vehicle under
most circumstances. However, if the quantity
of
fluid in the cooling system drops below the
recommended level, the instrument panel displays a warning message. Stop driving Model S as soon as safety permits and
contact Tesla.
Fluid Level Check
DO NOT REMOVE THE FILLER CAP AND DO NOT ADD FLUID. Doing so can result in damage not covered by the warranty.
Do Not Top Up Battery Coolant
WARNING: Battery coolant can be hazardous and can irritate eyes and skin. Under no circumstances should you remove the filler cap and/or 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
mixture of G-48 ethylene-glycol coolant
(HOAT). Contact Tesla for more specific information about the coolant.
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.
A red 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.
Fluid Level Check
Tesla checks the brake fluid level and health
at the regularly scheduled maintenance intervals.
Topping Up the Brake Fluid
Do not top up your brake fluid. The following
instructions are provided for information purposes and future reference only:
1.
Clean the filler cap before removing it to
prevent dirt from entering the reservoir.
2.
Unscrew the cap and remove it.
3.
Top up the reservoir to the MAX mark
using the appropriate brake fluid.
4.
Replace the filler cap, ensuring it is fully
secured.
WARNING: Only use new fluid from a sealed air-tight container. Never use previously used fluid or fluid from a previously opened container
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.
Topping Up Windshield Washer Fluid
The only reservoir into which you can add fluid is the windshield washer fluid reservoir,
which is located behind the front trunk. When
the level is low, a message displays on the
instrument panel.
To top up the washer fluid:
1.
Open the hood.
2.
Clean around the filler cap before opening
it to prevent dirt from entering the
reservoir.
3.
Open the filler cap.
4.
While avoiding spilling, fill the reservoir
until the fluid level is visible just below the filler neck.
5.
Wipe up any spills immediately and wash
the affected area with water.
6.
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: Do not add formulated washer fluids that contain water repellent or bug wash. These fluids
can cause streaking, smearing, and squeaking or other noises.
WARNING: In temperatures below 40