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.
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 195) equal or
exceed those of the original
specification.
For the specification of the original wheels and tires
installed on
Model S, see Wheels and Tires on page 194.
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 176).
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
Summer and All-Season Tires
Summer tires and all season tires are designed for
maximum dry and wet road performance but are not designed to perform well in winter conditions. All-
season 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.
If driving in cold temperatures or on roads where snow
or ice may be present, Tesla recommends using winter tires. If not equipped with winter tires, contact Tesla for winter tire recommendations.
WARNING: In cold temperatures or on snow or ice,
summer and all-season 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.
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
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
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 185). 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
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
The position of the windshield washers is set at the factory and should never need adjusting.
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 S. Windshield washer fluid can
irritate eyes and skin. Read and observe the
washer fluid manufacturer
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 S.
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 188).
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
DO NOT TRANSPORT WITH
WHEELS ON THE GROUND
The front and rear motors in Model S generate power
when the wheels spin. Always transport
Model S with all
four tires
off the ground. Ensure that the tires are unable
to spin at any time during transport.
WARNING: NEVER TRANSPORT YOUR VEHICLE
WITH THE TIRES IN A POSITION WHERE THEY
CAN SPIN. DOING SO CAN LEAD TO SIGNIFICANT
DAMAGE AND OVERHEATING. IN RARE CASES
EXTREME OVERHEATING MAY CAUSE THE
SURROUNDING COMPONENTS TO IGNITE.
Do not transport Model S using any method that is not
specified by Tesla. Adhere to the instructions provided in
the following sections and observe all warnings and
cautions provided. Damage caused by improper
transporting of your vehicle is not covered by the
warranty.
NOTE: Tesla is not liable or responsible for reimbursing
services not dispatched through Tesla Roadside Assistance.
Approved Methods for Transporting
A flatbed truck or comparable transport vehicle is the
recommended method of transporting
Model S. The
vehicle can face either direction when using a
flatbed.
If Model S must be transported without a flatbed truck,
then wheel lifts and dollies must be used to ensure that
all four wheels are
off of the ground. This method may
only be used for a maximum of
35 miles (55 km), and
must not exceed the manufacturer speed rating of the
dollies. With this method, Tesla recommends the vehicle
faces forward so that the front wheels are lifted and the rear wheels are on dollies.
NOTE: Transporting Model S with the front wheels on
dollies is not recommended, but may be done if an
external
steering yoke (or steering wheel) lock is applied
and care is taken to prevent the front wheels from
spinning.
CAUTION: DO NOT TRANSPORT YOUR VEHICLE
IF THERE IS ANY CHANCE OF ANY OF THE
WHEELS SPINNING.
CAUTION: Enable Transport Mode (see Activate
Transport Mode on page 203) before winching
Model S onto a flatbed truck. If Transport Mode is
not available or the touchscreen is not accessible,
self-loading dollies or tire skates must be used to
load the vehicle into the approved transportation
position. Tesla is not responsible for any damage
caused by or during the transport of Model S,
including personal property damage or damage
caused by using self-loading dollies or tire skates.
NOTE: Transport Mode is only intended to allow for
winching
Model S onto a flatbed truck or repositioning
the vehicle out of a parking space. While in Transport Mode, the tires are allowed to rotate slowly (under
3
mph or 5 km/h) and for a very short distance (less than
30 feet or 10 meters). See Activate Transport Mode on
page 203. Exceeding these boundaries can lead to
significant damage and overheating that is not covered
by the warranty.
WARNING: Model S is equipped with high voltage
components that may be compromised as a result
of a collision (see High Voltage Components on
page 159). Before transporting Model S, it is
important to assume these components are
energized. Always follow high voltage safety
precautions (wearing personal protection
equipment, etc.) until emergency response
professionals have evaluated the vehicle and can
accurately confirm that all high voltage systems
are no longer energized. Failure to do so may
result in serious injury.
Instructions for Transporters
202MODEL S Owner
APP_w218
Autosteer speed limit exceeded
Take control of steering wheel
What this alert means:
Autosteer is unavailable because your vehicle has exceeded the maximum speed limit for this driver assistance
feature.
What to do:
Take immediate control of the steering yoke (or steering wheel) and maintain control until you reach your
destination.
In most cases, Autosteer will not be available for the rest of your current drive. To reset it, bring the vehicle to a
complete stop and shift into Park. When you shift into Drive to travel to your next destination, Autosteer should be
available again.
NOTE: If this alert becomes active while you are driving in Germany, Autosteer should be available again once your
vehicle is traveling below the Autosteer speed limit.
If Autosteer is not available during your next drive, and remains unavailable throughout subsequent drives, schedule
service at your convenience. Your vehicle is OK to drive in the meantime.
For more information, see Autosteer on page 88.
APP_w221
Cruise control unavailable
Reduced front radar visibility
What this alert means:
Traffic-Aware Cruise Control and Autosteer are unavailable because the radar located in the front bumper area of
your vehicle has no or low visibility.
This could be a temporary obstruction caused by factors like snow, ice, dirt, or mud.
What to do:
Continue to your destination. Your vehicle is OK to drive. Traffic-Aware Cruise Control and Autosteer will remain
unavailable as long as the radar lacks adequate visibility.
If the alert persists throughout your drive, examine the front bumper before your next planned drive and attempt to
clear any obstruction. See the About Autopilot on page 81 sections “How It Works” and “Cleaning Cameras and
Sensors” for more information on clearing dirt or debris from that area of the vehicle.
If this alert persists throughout subsequent drives but no obstruction is visible on the front bumper where the radar
is located, schedule service at your earliest convenience. Your vehicle is OK to drive in the meantime.
APP_w222
Cruise control unavailable
Reduced front camera visibility
What this alert means:
Traffic-Aware Cruise Control and Autosteer are unavailable because one or more of the front cameras in your vehicle
is blocked or blinded by external conditions.
Traffic-Aware Cruise Control and Autosteer will remain unavailable while a front camera lacks adequate visibility.
Cameras can be blocked or blinded by:
Troubleshooting Alerts
210MODEL S Owner