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 3 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 167).
Follow these steps when washing the exterior of Model
3:
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 3 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.
Car Wash Mode
When taking Model 3 to a car wash, Car Wash Mode
closes all windows, locks the charge port door, and disables windshield wipers, Sentry Mode, walk-away door locking, and parking sensor chimes. To enable, touch
Controls > Service > Car Wash Mode. Your vehicle
must be in Park and not actively charging.
If using an automatic car wash, Enable Free Roll keeps
your vehicle in Neutral and prevents
Model 3 from
applying the Parking brake if you leave the driver
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 3. 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 3 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 3 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 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.
CAUTION: Aftermarket, non-Tesla seat covers may
inhibit the sensitivity of a seat
Parts, Accessories, and
Modifications
Use only genuine Tesla parts and accessories. Tesla
performs rigorous testing on parts to ensure their
suitability, safety, and reliability. Purchase these parts
from Tesla, where they are professionally installed and
where you can receive expert advice about
modifications to Model 3. Accessories are available for
purchase from Tesla stores or online at
www.tesla.com.
NOTE: Some accessories may not be available in your
market region.
Tesla is unable to assess parts manufactured by other distributors and therefore accepts no responsibility if you use non-Tesla parts on
Model 3.
WARNING: Installing non-approved parts and
accessories, or performing non-approved
modifications, can affect the performance of
Model 3 and the safety of its occupants. Any
damage caused by using or installing non-
approved parts, or by performing non-approved
modifications, is not covered by the warranty.
WARNING: Tesla does not accept liability for
death, personal injury or damage that occurs if you
use or install non-approved accessories or make
non-approved modifications.
Accessory Wheels and Tires
If your Model 3 is fitted with Tesla accessory wheels or
tires, the Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR), wheel, tire, and loading information may be
different from the labels
shown on the vehicle. Refer to the relevant following
section for updated information.
NOTE: If your vehicle is not fitted with Tesla accessory
wheels or tires (it is
fitted with the factory original
wheels and tires, including Tesla genuine replacement
parts), refer to the labels attached to the center door pillar for the most accurate information for your
Model 3.
20" Sport WheelsWheelsLocationWidth (in)Offset (mm)20"Front/Rear8.540Tires (front/
rear)SizeTire PressureMichelin, Pilot
Sport 4S (PS4S)235/35ZR2042 PSI (290 kPa)**Increase the tire pressure to 44 PSI (300 kPa) prior to driving 136 mph (220 kph) or faster.GAWRFront2407 lbs1,092 kgRear2,767 lbs1,255 kg
Parts and Accessories
174MODEL 3 Owner
19" Sport WheelsWheelsLocationWidth (in)Offset (mm)19"Front/Rear8.540Tires (front/rear)SizeTire PressureContinental,
ProContact RX235/40R1942 PSI (290 kPa)*Hankook Ventus S1
Evo3235/40R1942 PSI (290 kPa)*Pirelli Winter
Sottozero 3235/40R1942 PSI (290 kPa)*Increase the tire pressure to 44 PSI (300 kPa) prior to driving 134 mph (215 kph) or faster.GAWRFront2,447 lbs1,110 kgRear2,767 lbs1,255 kg20" Zero-G Wheels (Performance)WheelsLocationWidth (in)Offset (mm)20"Front/Rear934Tires (front/rear)SizeTire PressureMichelin, Pilot Sport
4S (PS4S)235/35ZR2042 PSI (290 kPa)Michelin PS Cup 2245/35ZR2042 PSI (290 kPa)GAWRFront2,650 lbs1,202 kgRear2,784 lbs1,263 kg
20" Zero-G Wheels (Non-Performance)
WheelsLocationWidth (in)Offset (mm)20"Front/Rear940Tires (front/rear)SizeTire PressureMichelin, Pilot Sport
4S (PS4S)235/35ZR2042 PSI (290 kPa)GAWRFront2,650 lbs1,202 kgRear2,784 lbs1,263 kg
Parts and Accessories
175Maintenance
19" Gemini Wheels (Performance)
See Removing and Installing Aero Covers on page 163
for information on how to remove and install Gemini
wheel covers.
WheelsLocationWidth (in)Offset (mm)19"Front/Rear8.535Tires (front/rear)SizeTire PressureHankook Ventus
S1 Evo3235/40R1942 PSI (290 kPa)*Pirelli Winter,
Sottozero 3235/40R1942 PSI (290 kPa)**Increase the tire pressure to 44 PSI (300 kPa) prior to driving 136 mph (220 kph) or faster.GAWRFront2510 lbs1,141 kgRear3,023 lbs1,374 kg18" Aero WheelsWheelsLocationWidth (in)Offset (mm)18"Front/Rear8.540Tires (front/rear)SizeTire PressureMichelin, Primacy
MXM4235/45R1842 PSI (290 kPa)Michelin, Pilot Sport 4
(PS4)235/45R1842 PSI (290 kPa)Pirelli Winter Sottozero
Serie II235/45R1842 PSI (290 kPa)GAWRFront2,447 lbs1,110 kgRear2,840 lbs1,288 kg
Body Repairs
If your Model 3 is in a collision, contact Tesla or a Tesla-
approved Body Shop to ensure that it is repaired with genuine Tesla parts. Tesla has selected and approved
body shops that meet strict requirements for training, equipment, quality, and customer satisfaction.
Some repair shops and insurance companies might
suggest using non-original equipment or salvaged parts
to save money. However, these parts do not meet Tesla
Load Capacity Labeling
It is important to understand how much weight your
Model 3 can safely carry. This weight is called the vehicle
capacity weight and includes the weight of all
occupants, cargo and any additional equipment added to your
Model 3 since it was manufactured.
Two labels attached to Model 3 indicate how much
weight
Model 3 can safely carry.
Both labels are visible on the door pillar when the front door is open.
NOTE: If your Model 3 is fitted with Tesla accessory
wheels or tires, your
Model 3 may include an additional
label indicating that load capacity may
differ from what
is stated on the label. If this is the case, instead of referring to the label, refer to the Owner
Exterior Dimensions
AOverall Length184.8 in4,694 mm
B
Overall Width (including mirrors)Overall Width (including folded mirrors)Overall Width (excluding mirrors)82.2 in 76.1 in
72.8 in2,088 mm 1,933 mm
1,849 mmCOverall Height - coil suspension56.8 in1,443 mm
DWheel Base113.2 in2,875 mmEOverhang - Front33 in841 mmFOverhang - Rear39 in978 mm
GGround Clearance - coil suspension5.5 in140 mmHTrack - Front
Track - Rear62.2 in
62.2 in1,580 mm
1,580 mm
*Values are approximate. Dimensions can vary depending on a vehicle
Motor Type(s)
Rear motor: AC permanent magnet synchronous motor, liquid-cooled, with variable frequency drive.
Front motor (AWD vehicles): AC induction motor, liquid-cooled, with variable frequency drive.
Transmission
TypeSingle speed fixed gearGearbox Ratio9:1
Steering
SteeringSpecificationsTypeRack and pinion with electronic power steering, speed sensitiveNumber of turns lock to lock2.00Turning Circle (curb to curb)38 ft (11.6 m)
Brakes
Type4-wheel anti-lock braking system (ABS) with Electronic Brake Force Distribution, Integrated Advanced Stability Control and Electronic
Accelerator pedal actuated regenerative braking systemCalipers
Front: Four piston fixed
Rear: Integrated Electronic Parking Brake Sliding
Rotor Diameter (ventilated)
Front (non-Performance): 12.6"/320 mm
Front (Performance): 13.98"/355 mm
Rear (non-Performance): 13.2"/335 mm
Rear (Performance): 13.2”/335 mm
Front Rotor thickness
New: 0.98"/25 mm
Service limit: 0.91”/23 mm
Rear Rotor thickness
New: 0.79"/20 mm
Service limit: 0.71”/18 mm
Non-Performance Front Brake Pad
Thickness (excluding back plate)
New: 0.393"/10 mm
Service limit: 0.110"/2.8 mm
Subsystems
184MODEL 3 Owner