2021 TESLA MODEL S brake fluid

WARNING: Although the instrument panel shows surrounding traffic, some vehicles may not be displayed. Never rely on the instrument panel to determine if a vehicle is present (for example, in your blind spot). Always use your mirrors and perform shoulder checks.
9.
Your Model S.
10.
The energy bar (a thin horizontal line at the bottom center of the instrument panel) displays
real-time energy usage. The bar is colored gray (or white if the display is in Dark mode) and moves to the right to represent energy being used during acceleration. The bar is green and
moves to the left to represent energy being gained through regenerative braking.
11.
When Autosteer is active and detects the driving lane, it is highlighted in blue (see Autosteer on page 93). Depending on the current driving scenario, you may see
neighboring lanes.
NOTE: In situations where Autosteer is unable to detect lane markings, the driving lane is
determined based on the vehicle you are following.
NOTE: If Navigate on Autopilot is active, the driving lane displays as a single blue line in
front of Model S (see Navigate on Autopilot on page 98).
Indicator Lights
Indicator lights display along the top of the
instrument panel to show status and alert you
of
specific vehicle conditions.
IndicatorDescriptionA brake system fault is
detected or the brake fluid
level is low. See Braking and Stopping on page 66. Contact Tesla
immediately.
A brake booster fault has
been detected. See
Braking and Stopping on page 66.
An ABS (Anti-lock Braking
System) fault is detected.
See
Braking and Stopping on page 66. Contact
Tesla immediately.
A parking brake fault is
detected. Contact Tesla.
See
Parking Brake on page 68.
IndicatorDescription
The parking brake is
manually applied. See
Parking Brake on page 68.
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 Tire Care and Maintenance on page 188.
A seat belt for an
occupied seat is not
fastened. See
Seat Belts on page 29.
NOTE: Depending on the
date of manufacture, rear seating positions may not be equipped with a seat
belt reminder.
Instrument Panel
62MODEL S Owner

Cleaning 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.
Keep the exterior cameras free of dirt,
condensation, or obstructions. These
substances can cause unclear pictures or
Autopilot and safety features to stop working
(see
Cleaning a Camera on page 194).
Follow these steps when washing the exterior
of Model S:
1.
Rinse Thoroughly
Before washing, flush grime and grit from
the vehicle using a hose. Flush away
accumulations of mud in areas where
debris easily collects (such as wheel wells
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, wheel wells, and brakes.
2.
Hand Wash
Hand wash Model S using a clean soft
cloth and cold or lukewarm water
containing a mild, high-quality car shampoo.
CAUTION: Some cleaners and car shampoos contain chemicals that can cause damage or discoloration, especially to plastic trim pieces, lamps, or camera lenses. For example, some car cleaning formulas contain hydroxide or other highly alkaline or caustic ingredients that can damage exterior components. Damage or discoloration resulting from cleaning products is not covered by the warranty.
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. If necessary, dry the
brakes by going on a short drive and applying the brakes multiple times.
Clean windows and mirrors using an
automotive glass cleaner. Do not scrape,
or use any abrasive cleaning
fluid on glass
or mirrored surfaces.
Cleaning a Camera
To ensure a clear picture, the camera lens
must be clean and free of obstructions.
Remove any build-up of dirt or debris by
spraying water onto the camera lens with a
spray bottle or pressure washer.
CAUTION: Do not attempt to remove dirt or debris by wiping an exposed lens with your hands or a cloth. This debris can damage the surface of the lens when rubbed against it during wiping.
CAUTION: Do not use chemical-based or abrasive cleaners. Doing so can damage the surface of the lens.
Cautions for Exterior Cleaning
CAUTION: Do not wash in direct sunlight.CAUTION: Do not use windshield treatment fluids. Doing so can interfere with wiper friction and cause a chattering sound.
CAUTION: Do not use hot water, detergents, or highly alkaline or caustic cleaning products, especially those containing hydroxide.
CAUTION: If using a pressure washer, maintain a distance of at least 12" (30 cm) between the nozzle and the surface of Model S. Avoid aiming the water jet directly at parking sensors (if equipped). Keep the nozzle moving and do not concentrate the water jet on any one area.
Cleaning
194MODEL S Owner

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

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

A
ABS (Anti-lock Braking System): 66
absolute speed limit: 126
access panel, removing: 199
accessories: 24
plugging into power socket: 24
Active Road Noise Reduction: 25
adaptive headlights: 58
adjacent lane speed: 119
aero covers: 190
air conditioning: 135
air filter: 140
air vents: 138
airbags: 38
alarm: 161
all-season tires: 192
Always Show Estimated Round Trip Energy: 146
anti-lock braking (ABS): 66
apps: 6
audio: 149, 152
playing files: 149, 152
settings: 149
volume control: 149
auto fold: 50
Auto High Beam: 57
Auto Lane Change: 95
auto tilt: 50
AUTO wipers: 65
automatic emergency braking: 123
automatic navigation: 142
Autopark: 109
autopilot: 119
blind spot collision warning: 119
side collision warning: 119
Autopilot: 84, 87, 93, 95, 109, 111, 122, 126
Auto Lane Change: 95
automatic emergency braking: 122
Autopark: 109
Autosteer: 93
collision avoidance assist: 122
forward collision warning: 122
overtake acceleration: 87
overview: 84
speed assist: 126
speed limit warning: 126
staying within speed limits: 126
Summon: 111
Traffic-Aware Cruise Control: 87
Autopilot components: 84
Autosteer: 93
B
backup camera: 76
battery (12V): 177, 210
complete discharge: 177
specifications: 210
Battery (high voltage): 177, 199, 210
care of: 177
coolant: 199
specifications: 210
temperature limits: 177
battery (key), replacing: 12
blind spot collision warning: 119
Bluetooth: 150, 154
devices, playing audio files from: 150
general information: 154
phone, pairing and using: 154
body repairs: 202
body touch up: 196
Boombox: 153
brakes: 66, 123, 199, 208
automatic in emergencies: 123
fluid level: 199
overview of: 66
specifications: 208
Bumper Clearance (Summon): 111
C
cabin air filter: 140
cabin camera: 25
cabin temperature control: 135
Calendar: 154, 157
California Proposition 65: 227
camera (rear view): 76
cameras (autopilot): 84
Camp Mode: 139
car cover: 197
Index

key: 12, 229
FCC and IC certifications: 229
replacing battery: 12
key card: 10
keys: 9, 12
adding key cards and phone keys: 12
deleting key cards and phone keys: 12
displaying a list of: 12
overview: 9
L
label: 204
Tire and Loading Information: 204
vehicle certification: 204
lane assist: 119
lane change, automatic: 95
Lane Departure Avoidance: 119
LATCH child seats, installing: 35
liftgate: 17
adjust opening height: 17
opening: 17
lifting: 201
lights: 56, 58
adaptive headlights: 58
hazard warning: 58
headlights after exit: 58
turn signals: 58
load limits: 204
location tracking: 142
locking: 14
lumbar adjustment: 26
M
maintenance: 186, 187, 188, 194, 198, 199, 200
brake fluid, checking: 199
cleaning: 194
daily checks: 186
fluid replacement intervals: 187
monthly checks: 186
panel, removing: 199
replacing wiper blades: 198
service intervals: 186
tires: 188
washer fluid, topping up: 200
washer jets, cleaning: 198
map orientation: 142
map updates: 148
mats: 197
media: 149, 152
microphones: 25
mileage upon delivery: 227
mirrors: 50
mobile app: 172
mobile app access: 172
Mobile Connector: 176, 179
description: 176
using: 179
modifications: 202
motor specifications: 208
N
Navigate on Autopilot: 98
navigating: 142
NCC certifications: 229
Neutral gear: 55
NHTSA, contacting: 229
noise reduction microphones: 25
O
Obstacle-Aware Acceleration: 122
occupancy sensor: 40
occupant classification: 41
odometer: 73
Off-Peak Charging: 184
offset from speed limit: 126
Online Routing: 147
opening hood without power: 222
overhang dimensions: 206
overtake acceleration: 87
Owner Information, about: 224
P
Park Assist: 70
Park gear: 54
parking brake: 68
parking, using Autopark: 109
parking, using Summon: 111
parts replacement: 202
Index