Installation:
1.
Remove the protective caps from the positive (+) and negative (-) posts on the new low voltage lead-acid battery.
2.
Carefully place the new lead-acid battery in the vehicle, taking care not to damage nearby
components.
3.
Install the low voltage lead-acid battery hold down
and use a 10mm socket to tighten the nut that secures it to the battery. Torque the nut to 6 Nm (4.4
ft-lb).
4.
Reconnect the first responder loop.
5.
Reconnect the positive (+) terminal by positioning
the terminal clamp over the terminal post. Using a 10mm socket, torque the nut to 6 Nm (4.4 ft-lb). Reinstall the positive (+) terminal cover.
6.
Reconnect the negative (-) terminal by positioning
the terminal clamp over the connector. Using a 10mm socket, torque the nut to 6 Nm (4.4 ft-lb).
7.
Connect the vent tube hose into the negative (-) terminal side of the low voltage lead-acid battery.
Maintenance Service Intervals
174MODEL 3 Owner
WARNING: Do not drive Model 3 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 3 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.
To improve vehicle handling characteristics and minimize
hydroplaning in wet conditions, put tires with the most tread on the rear of the car.
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.
Tire rotation is an essential part of tire maintenance. It helps maintain an even treadwear pattern which enhances the tire
If tires need to be replaced early, for example due to a
flat tire, we recommend replacing the tires in pairs
unless the other tires are within
2/32 in (1.5 mm) of tread
depth of the new tire. When replacing tires, it is important to match the brand and model of the older
tires. Always place a pair of new tires on the rear if all four tires are the same size. Always balance the wheel and tire after replacing a tire. Consult with a professional tire retailer and installer for further guidance.
If you
replace your tires or install different ones, reset the tire
configuration (see Tire Configuration on page 179). This
resets the learned tire settings and improves the driving
experience on your new tires.
NOTE: Regardless of the number of tires replaced, a
complete set of matching tires is recommended for optimum performance.
If tires other than those specified are used, ensure that
the load and speed ratings marked on the tire
(see
Understanding Tire Markings on page 214) equal or
exceed those of the original
specification.
For the specification of the original wheels and tires
installed on
Model 3, see Wheels and Tires on page 213.
If you replace a wheel, the TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System) sensors need to be reset to ensure they provide accurate warnings when tires are under-
or
over-inflated (see Automatic Reset of TPMS Sensors on
page 180).
NOTE: Installing winter tires with aggressive compound
and tread design may result in temporarily-reduced regenerative braking power. However, your vehicle is
designed to continuously recalibrate itself, and after changing tires it will increasingly restore regenerative
braking power after some moderate-torque straight-line accelerations. For most drivers this occurs after a short period of normal driving, but drivers who normally
accelerate lightly may need to use slightly harder accelerations while the recalibration is in progress. Go to
Service > Wheel & Tire Configuration > Tires to select
winter tires and quicken this process.
WARNING: For your safety, use only tires and
wheels that match the original specification. Tires
that do not match the original specification can
affect the operation of the TPMS.
WARNING: Never exceed the speed rating of your
vehicle
NOTE: Tire chains are prohibited in some jurisdictions.
Check local laws before installing tire chains.CAUTION: Using non-recommended tire chains, or
using tire chains on other sized tires can damage
the suspension, body, wheels, and/or brake lines.
Damage caused by using non-recommended tire
chains, or incorrectly installing tire chains, is not
covered by the warranty.
CAUTION: Do not use tire chains on the front tires.CAUTION: Never deflate your tires to put on tire
chains. When re-inflated, the chains might fit too
tightly and cause tire damage.
CAUTION: Ensure that the tire chains cannot touch
suspension components or brake lines. If you hear
the chains making unusual noises that would
indicate contact with Model 3, stop and investigate
immediately.Tire Care and Maintenance
182MODEL 3 Owner
Cautions for Exterior CleaningCAUTION: 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 3. 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.
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 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 and chemical residues from interior surfaces 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.
Although seating surfaces are designed to repel stains, Tesla recommends regular cleaning to maintain
performance and an as-new appearance. Promptly treat
dye transfer from clothing, such as indigo-dyed denim.
Avoid contact with harsh chemicals, including certain cosmetics. Never use cleaners containing alcohol or bleach. Spot-test cleaners on an inconspicuous area
before applying to visible surfaces.
Vacuum cloth seats as needed to remove any loose dirt.
CAUTION: Aftermarket, non-Tesla seat covers may
inhibit the sensitivity of a seat
3. Lift the wiper arm a short distance away from the windshield, just far enough to access the wiper blade.CAUTION: Wiper blades do not lock into a lifted
position. Do not lift a wiper arm beyond its
intended position.
4.
Place a towel between the wiper arm and windshield to avoid scratching or cracking the windshield.
5.
Hold the wiper arm and press the locking tab while sliding the blade down the arm.
6.
Align the new wiper blade on the wiper arm and slide
it toward the end of the wiper arm until it locks into place.
7.
Turn Wiper Service Mode off to return the wipers to
their normal position.
Cleaning Washer Jets
If a windshield washer becomes blocked, use a thin
strand of wire to clear any blockages from the nozzles.
WARNING: Do not operate the washers while
cleaning Model 3. Windshield washer fluid can
irritate eyes and skin. Read and observe the
washer fluid manufacturer
9. With a 10mm socket, loosen the nut and release the
battery hold down from the top of the low voltage
lead-acid battery by unhooking and slipping it back. If needed, tilt the battery hold down backward so it does not slip into the vehicle.10.
Carefully remove the low voltage lead-acid battery,
taking care not to damage the surrounding components.
WARNING: When lifting the lead-acid battery,
stand in front of the vehicle and use proper
lifting technique. The lead-acid battery weighs
approximately 25 lb (12 kg). Failure to do so
may cause serious injury.
11.
Inspect the new low voltage lead-acid battery to make sure it is equipped with a red plug on the
positive (+) terminal side. If the new lead-acid battery does not have a red plug, transfer the red plug from
the old battery to the new one.
CAUTION: Dispose of the old low voltage lead-
acid battery according to local laws, such as
dropping it off at a battery recycling facility.
Keep the battery upright and place it on a towel
or piece of cardboard when transporting it.
Installation:
1.
Remove the protective caps from the positive (+) and negative (-) posts on the new low voltage lead-acid battery.
2.
Carefully place the new lead-acid battery in the vehicle, taking care not to damage nearby
components.
3.
Install the low voltage lead-acid battery hold down
and use a 10mm socket to tighten the nut that secures it to the battery. Torque the nut to 6 Nm (4.4
ft-lb).
4.
Reconnect the first responder loop.
Parts and Accessories
200MODEL 3 Owner
Tire and Loading Glossaries
General Wheel and Tire Terms
Accessory WeightThe combined weight (in excess of those items replaced) of items available as factory
installed equipment.BeadThe inner edge of a tire that is shaped to fit to the rim and form an air tight seal. The
bead is constructed of steel wires which are wrapped, or reinforced, by the ply cords.Cold Tire PressureThe air pressure in a tire that has been standing in excess of three hours, or driven for less than one mile.Curb WeightThe weight of a standard vehicle, including any optional equipment fitted, and with the
correct
fluid levels.
Gross Vehicle WeightThe maximum permissible weight of a vehicle with driver, passengers, load, luggage, and
equipment.kPa (kilo pascal)A metric unit used to measure pressure. One kilo pascal equals approximately 0.145 psi.Maximum Inflation
Pressure
The maximum pressure to which the tire should be inflated. This pressure is given on the
tire side wall in psi (lbf/in2).
CAUTION: This pressure marked on the tire is the maximum allowed by the tire
manufacturer. It is not the pressure Tesla recommends using for Model 3.
Maximum Loaded
Vehicle WeightThe sum of curb weight, accessory weight, vehicle capacity weight, and production options weight.Production Options
WeightThe combined weight of options installed which weigh in excess of 3 lb (1.4 kg) more
than the standard items that they replaced, and are not already considered in curb or
accessory weights.PSI (lbf/in2)Pounds per square inch (the unit used to measure tire pressure).Recommended Tire
Inflation Pressure
Tire inflation pressure, established by Tesla, which is based on the type of tires that are
mounted on the vehicle at the factory. This information can be found on the Tire
and
Loading Information label located on the door pillar.
RimThe metal support for a tire, or tire and tube, upon which the tire beads are seated.Vehicle Capacity
WeightThe number of seats multiplied by 150 lbs (68 kg) plus the rated amount of load/luggage.
Load Carrying Definitions
Normal occupant weight68 kilograms (150 lbs) times the number of occupants specified in the second column
of the tables for calculating load limits (see
Vehicle Loading on page 206).
Occupant distributionDistribution of occupants in a vehicle.Passenger car tireA tire intended for use on passenger cars, multipurpose passenger vehicles, and trucks, that have a
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of 10,000 lbs (4536 kg) or
less.
Rim diameterNominal diameter of the bead seat.Rim size designationRim diameter and width.Rim type designationThe manufacturing industry