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 178).
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.
Window Cleaning and Treatments
Clean windows and mirrors using an automotive glass
cleaner. Do not scrape or use any abrasive cleaning
fluid
on glass or mirrored surfaces. Follow the directions in
Cleaning the Exterior on page 178 for best practices in
cleaning the exterior glass.
To add a hydrophobic coating to your vehicle
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 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.
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 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.
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.
Vacuum cloth seats as needed to remove any loose dirt.
CAUTION: Aftermarket, non-Tesla seat covers may
inhibit the sensitivity of a seat
Motor Type
Motor Type
Model S
Model XModel S Plaid
Model X Plaid
Front and rear
motorAC permanent magnet synchronous
motor, liquid-cooled, with variable
frequency driveAC permanent magnet synchronous motor, carbon-
fiber-wrapped rotor, liquid-cooled, with variable
frequency drive (2x motors in the rear)
Transmission
TypeModel SModel S PlaidFront transmissionSingle speed fixed gear, 7.56:1Single speed fixed gear, 7.56:1. Enhanced lubricationOverall Final Drive Ratio
Front unit motor: 7.56:1
Rear unit motor: 9.04:1Front unit motor: 7.56:1
Rear unit motor: 7.56:1
Rear transmissionSingle speed fixed gear, 9.04:1Independent single speed fixed gear, 7.56:1. Dry sump
lubrication
Steering
SteeringSpecificationsTypeVariable ratio rack and pinion with electronic power steering, speed sensitiveNumber of turns lock to lock2.33Turning Circle (curb to curb)40.3 ft/12.3 m
Brakes
BrakesSpecifications
Type
4-wheel anti-lock braking system (ABS) with Electronic Brake
Force Distribution, Integrated Advanced Stability Control and Electronic Accelerator pedal actuated regenerative braking systemCalipersFront: Four piston, fixedRear: Single piston, floatingRotor Diameters (ventilated)Front: 15.59”/395 mmRear: 14.37”/365 mmFront Rotor thicknessNew: 1.26”/32 mmService limit: 1.18”/30 mmRear Rotor thicknessNew: 1.10”/28 mmService limit: 1.02”/26 mm
Subsystems
192MODEL S Owner
BrakesSpecificationsFront Brake Pad Thickness (excluding back
plate)New: 0.41”/10.5 mm (MIN)Service limit: 0.09”/ 2.3 mmRear Brake Pad Thickness (excluding back plate)New: 0.33”/8.5 mm (MIN)Service limit: 0.11”/ 2.7 mmParking brakeElectrically actuated parking brake calipers
Suspension
SuspensionSpecificationsFrontIndependent, double wishbone, air spring with adaptive damper, stabilizer barRearIndependent, multi-link, air spring with adaptive damper, stabilizer bar
Battery - Low Voltage
Battery - Low VoltageSpecificationsRating6.9 amp hourVoltage15.5V
Battery - High Voltage
Battery - High VoltageSpecificationsTypeLiquid-cooled lithium ion (Li-ion)Nominal Voltage407 V DCTemperature RangeDo not expose Model S to ambient temperatures above 149
Disable the Self-Leveling Air Suspension System
NOTE: If Model S has no low voltage power, you need an
external
low voltage power supply to use the
touchscreen. See
If Vehicle Has No Power on page 205.
Your Model S is equipped with an air suspension system
that automatically self-levels the vehicle, even when
power is
off. To prevent damage, you must activate Jack
mode to disable self-leveling:
1.
Touch Controls > Suspension on the touchscreen.
2.
Press the brake pedal, and then touch Very High to
maximize height.
3.
Touch Controls > Service > Jack Mode.
NOTE: Jack mode cancels when driving speed exceeds
4 mph (7 km/h).
Activate Transport Mode
Transport Mode keeps the parking brake disengaged
while winching
Model S onto a flatbed truck. When
active, Transport Mode displays a message indicating that the vehicle will remain free-rolling. The following are required to enable Transport Mode:
Vehicle Hold is currently unavailable due to system constraints. When stopping, use the brake pedal to bring your
vehicle to a complete stop and keep your vehicle stationary.
What to do:
Continue to your destination. Your vehicle is OK to drive.
If this alert persists throughout subsequent drives, schedule service at your earliest convenience. Your vehicle is OK
to drive in the meantime.
For more information, see Vehicle Hold on page 72.
DI_a250
Adaptive ride control disabled
Drive with caution
What this alert means:
The speed of your vehicle is limited to 90 mph (144 km/h) due to an issue with the Adaptive Suspension Damping
system.
The system cannot provide real-time adjustments to the suspension system to optimize both ride and handling, and
as a result your ride may be softer than usual.
What to do:
If this alert persists throughout subsequent drives, schedule service at your earliest convenience. Your vehicle is OK
to drive in the meantime.
This alert is accompanied by a red indicator light on the instrument panel. For more information, see Air Suspension
on page 129.
ESP_a118
Assist for low brake performance activated
To stop, keep brake pedal firmly pressed
What this alert means:
Hydraulic Fade Compensation is active. This brake assist function activates temporarily to make sure you have full
braking capability in conditions where reduced braking performance is detected by your vehicle.
When this assist function activates, you may feel the brake pedal pull away from your foot and notice a strong
increase in brake pressure. You may also hear a pumping sound coming from the brake hydraulic unit at the front of
the vehicle. This will usually last for a few seconds, depending on road surface and vehicle speed. This is completely
normal and does not indicate any issue with your vehicle.
What to do:
Continue to press the brake pedal as you normally would, and do not "pump" (repeatedly press and release) the
pedal as this will interrupt the function.
This alert will clear when your vehicle comes to a stop or you are no longer pressing the brake pedal. It may still be
displayed for up to 5 seconds afterward.
Reduced braking performance is usually temporary, and can occur for a number of reasons including high brake
temperatures after heavy brake use, or driving in extremely cold or wet conditions. It can also indicate that your
brake pads or rotors have worn to the point that normal replacement is needed.
If you continue to experience reduced braking performance which does not improve over time, please contact Tesla
service at your convenience for a brake inspection.
For more information, see Hydraulic Fade Compensation on page 67.
Troubleshooting Alerts
238MODEL S Owner
A
ABS (Anti-lock Braking System): 66
absolute speed limit: 117
accessories, plugging into power socket: 27
Active Road Noise Reduction: 27
adaptive headlights: 59
adjacent lane speed: 88
adjustment (lumbar): 29
aero covers: 175
air circulation: 119
air conditioning: 119
air distribution: 119
air filter: 124
air vents: 122
airbags: 41
alarm: 133, 136
all-season tires: 177
Always Show Estimated Round Trip Energy: 151
anti-lock braking (ABS): 66
apps: 6
Arcade: 156
audio: 153, 156
playing files: 153, 156
settings: 153
volume control: 153
auto fold: 52
Auto Lane Change: 90
auto tilt: 52
AUTO wipers: 65
automatic emergency braking: 115
automatic navigation: 147
navigating: 147
Autopark: 103
autopilot: 111
side collision warning: 111
Autopilot: 81, 84, 88, 90, 103, 105, 114, 117
Auto Lane Change: 90
automatic emergency braking: 114
Autopark: 103
Autosteer: 88
collision avoidance assist: 114
forward collision warning: 114
overtake acceleration: 84
overview: 81
speed assist: 117
speed limit warning: 117
staying within speed limits: 117
Summon: 105
Traffic-Aware Cruise Control: 84
Autopilot components: 81
Autosteer: 88
average range: 170
B
backup camera: 77
Battery (high voltage): 161, 194
care of: 161
specifications: 194
temperature limits: 161
battery (key), replacing: 14
battery (low voltage): 161, 194
complete discharge: 161
specifications: 194
Blind Spot Camera: 111
Blind Spot Collision Warning: 111
Blind Spot Collision Warning Chime: 111
Bluetooth: 126, 154
devices, playing audio files from: 154
general information: 126
phone, pairing and using: 126
body repairs: 185
body touch up: 180
Boombox: 156, 157
brakes: 66, 115, 192
automatic in emergencies: 115
overview of: 66
specifications: 192
Bumper Clearance (Summon): 105
C
cabin air filter: 124
cabin camera: 118
cabin temperature control: 119
Calendar: 126, 128
California Proposition 65: 262
camera, rear-facing: 77
cameras (autopilot): 81
Camp: 123
car cover: 180
car wash mode: 178
car washes: 179
Caraoke): 154
card: 12
cargo area: 21
cargo volume information: 192
carpets, cleaning: 180
CCS (Combo): 160
CE certifications: 264
CHAdeMO: 160
Index
chains: 177
change of ownership: 11
charge port: 163
charge port light: 164
charge port manual release: 167
charge port release cable: 167
charging: 159, 160, 163
components and equipment: 159
instructions: 163
public charging stations: 160
charging locations, finding: 150
charging stations, displaying on map: 147
child protection: 19
disabling rear window switches: 19
child safety seats, installing and using: 35
cleaning: 178
climate controls: 119
coat hangers, rear: 27
cold weather best practices: 79
collision avoidance assist: 114
Colorizer: 156
connecting to Wi-Fi: 142
console, low voltage power socket: 27
console, rear: 25
consumption chart: 170
contact information: 202, 264
roadside assistance: 202
Tesla: 264
copyrights: 259
covers, seat: 31
cruise control: 84
D
dashboard overview: 4
Dashcam: 135
data recording: 261
data sharing: 261
declarations of conformity: 264
delivery mileage: 262
devices: 154
Bluetooth, playing audio files: 154
dimensions (vehicle exterior): 190
dimensions (vehicle interior): 190
dimensions (vehicle): 190
display settings: 6
Dog: 123
door handles: 17
door labels: 188
door seals: 180
cleaning: 180
doors: 17, 18
Child Lock: 18
interior locking and unlocking: 18
locking: 17
opening from interior: 17
Unlock on Park: 18
unlocking: 17
doors function: 18
Walk-Away Door Lock: 18
Drag Strip Mode: 73
Drive: 56
drive away locking: 18
drive modes: 55
driver: 47
profiles: 47
driving: 53, 169
starting: 53
tips to maximize range: 169
E
easy entry, driver profile: 47
EDR (event data recorder): 261
electric parking brake: 68
emergency braking: 114
Emergency Lane Departure Avoidance: 111
emergency lights: 60
emission control label: 187
energy: 61, 67
gained from regenerative braking: 67
range information: 61
Energy app: 170
energy use predictions (navigating): 151
Entertainment: 156
Erase & Reset: 11
event data recording: 261
exterior: 3, 178, 180
car cover: 180
cleaning: 178
overview: 3
polishing, touch up, & repair: 180
F
factory defaults, restoring: 11
factory reset: 11
fan speed, interior: 119
favorites (Media Player): 154
Favorites (navigation): 147
FCC certifications: 264
feature availability: 260
features, downloading new: 143
Index