2023 Tesla Model S Maintenance Instruction Guide

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Maintenance Service Intervals

Service Intervals
Your vehicle should generally be serviced on an as-needed basis. However, Tesla recommends the following maintenance items and intervals, as applicable to your vehicle, to ensure continued reliability and efficiency of your Model S.
For more do-it-yourself maintenance procedures and information, see https://www.tesla.com/support/do-it-yourself-guides.
For more information on vehicle alerts, see Troubleshooting Alerts.

• Brake fluid health check every 2 years (replace if necessary).
• A/C desiccant bag replacement every 3 years.
• Cabin air filter replacement every 3 years.
• HEPA filters replacement every 3 years.
• Clean and lubricate brake calipers every year or 12,500 miles (20,000 km) if in an area where roads are salted during winter
• Rotate 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

NOTE: Any damage caused by opening the Battery coolant reservoir is excluded from the warranty.

NOTE: The above intervals are based on typical driving behaviors and scenarios. However, Model S should generally be serviced on an as-needed basis; depending on various circumstances such as driving behavior, usage, environmental conditions, etc., the above maintenance items may need to be replaced more or less frequently than specified. Additionally, the above list should not be considered comprehensive and does not include consumable parts such as windshield wipers, brake pads, etc.

NOTE: Damages or failures caused by maintenance or repairs performed by non-Tesla certified technicians are not covered by the warranty.

Schedule Service
Scheduling a service visit through the mobile app is easy. After touching Schedule Service, select the type of service needed and follow the directions in the mobile app. Provide as much detail as possible, such as:

• Photos, sound recordings, or videos.
• Date(s), time(s), and time zone when the issue occurred.
• Country of use and location.
• Approximate speed the vehicle was traveling (if applicable).
• Environmental conditions (rain, snow, cold, etc.).
• Road name and type of road (if applicable).
• Quality of lane markings (if applicable).
• Applicable vehicle settings.
• Identifiable symptoms.

Visit https://www.tesla.com/support/service-visits for more information on scheduling service.

Daily Checks

• Check the Battery’s charge level, displayed on the instrument panel or mobile app.
• Check the condition and pressure of each tire (see Tire Care and Maintenance ).
• Check that all exterior lights, horn, turn signals, and wipers and washers are working.
• Check for any unexpected indicator lights or vehicle alerts on the touchscreen or instrument panel.
• Check the operation of the brakes, including the parking brake.
• Check the operation of the seat belts (see Seat Belts).
• Look for abnormal fluid deposits underneath Model S that might indicate a leak. It is normal for a small pool of water to form (caused by the air conditioning system’s dehumidifying process).
• Look around the exterior of Model S and immediately remove any corrosive substances (such as bird droppings, tree resin, tar spots, dead insects, industrial fallout, etc.) to prevent damage to the paint (see Cleaning ).

Monthly Checks-

• Check windshield washer fluid level and top up if necessary (see Topping Up Windshield Washer Fluid ).
• Check that the air conditioning system is operating correctly (see Climate Controls ).

NOTE: In addition to cooling the interior, the air conditioning compressor also cools the Battery. Therefore, in hot weather, the air conditioning compressor can turn on even if you turned it off. This is normal because the system’s priority is to cool the Battery to ensure it stays within an optimum temperature range to support longevity and optimum performance. Also, even when not in use, you may hear Model S emit a whining noise or the sound of water circulating. These sounds are normal and occur when the internal cooling systems turn on to support various vehicle functions, such as maintaining the low voltage battery and balancing the temperature of the high voltage Battery.

WARNING: Contact Tesla immediately if you notice any significant or sudden drop in fluid levels or uneven tire wear.

Fluid Replacement Intervals
Battery coolant and brake fluid levels should only be checked by Tesla or a professional automotive repair shop. Specific service information is available in the Service Manual.

• Battery coolant: Your Battery coolant does not need to be replaced for the life of your vehicle under most circumstances.
  NOTE: Any damage caused by opening the Battery coolant reservoir is excluded from the warranty.
• Brake fluid: Do not top up your brake fluid.

Software
Updating software is important to ensure proper operation and longevity of your vehicle’s components. You must install a software update at the earliest opportunity. See Software Updates.
Tesla may update or reinstall your vehicle’s software as part of the normal diagnostic, repair, and maintenance process within Service.

High Voltage Safety
Your Model S has been designed and built with safety as a priority. However, be aware of these precautions to protect yourself from the risk of injury inherent in all high-voltage systems:

• Read and follow all instructions provided on the labels that are attached to Model S. These labels are there for your safety.
• The high voltage system has no user-serviceable parts. Do not disassemble, remove or replace high voltage components, cables or connectors. High voltage cables are colored orange for easy identification.
• If a collision occurs, do not touch any high voltage wiring, connectors, or components connected to the wiring.
• In the unlikely event that a fire occurs, immediately contact your local fire emergency responders.

WARNING: Always disconnect the charge cable before working underneath Model S, even if charging is not in progress.

WARNING: Keep your hands and clothing away from cooling fans. Some fans operate even when Model S is powered off.

WARNING: Some fluids (battery acid, Battery coolant, brake fluid, windshield washer additives, etc.) used in vehicles are poisonous and should not be inhaled, swallowed, or brought into contact with open wounds. For your safety, always read and follow instructions printed on fluid containers.

Tire Care and Maintenance

Displaying Tire Pressures
Tire pressures display on the touchscreen by touching Controls > Service. The pressure of each tire displays in the visualization of your Model S, in addition to what time your tire pressures were last measured. You can choose whether you want to display tire pressures using Bar or PSI by touching Controls > Display > Tire Pressure. The touchscreen also displays your vehicle’s recommended cold tire pressures so you can easily determine how much to inflate your tires.

NOTE: You may need to drive briefly before the visualization displays the tire pressure values.

Maintaining Tire Pressures
Keep tires inflated to the pressures shown on the Tire and Loading Information label, even if it differs from the pressure printed on the tire itself. The Tire and Loading Information label is located on the center door pillar and is visible when the driver door is open.

The Tire Pressure indicator light on the instrument panel alerts you if one or more tires is under- or over-inflated.

The Tire Pressure indicator light does not immediately turn off when you adjust tire pressure. After inflating the tire to the recommended pressure, you must drive over 15 mph (25 km/h) for a short amount of time to activate the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), which turns off the Tire Pressure indicator light.
If the indicator light flashes for one minute whenever you power on Model S, a fault with the TPMS is detected (see TPMS Malfunction).

NOTE: Your vehicle’s tire pressures will drop in cold ambient temperatures. If the TPMS indicator light appears, inflate the tires before driving. The tires will lose one PSI for every 10° F (6° C) drop in outside temperature. Proper tire pressures help protect tires from potholes and improve range when properly inflated.

WARNING: Under-inflation is the most common cause of tire failures and can cause a tire to overheat, resulting in severe tire cracking, tread separation, or blowout, resulting in unexpected loss of vehicle control and increased risk of injury. Under-inflation also reduces the vehicle’s range and tire tread life.

WARNING: Check tire pressures using an accurate pressure gauge when tires are cold. It takes only about one mile (1.6 km) of driving to warm up the tires sufficiently to affect tire pressures. Parking the vehicle in direct sunlight or in hot weather can also affect tire pressures. If you must check warm tires, expect increased pressures. Do not let air out of warm tires in an attempt to match recommended cold tire pressures. A hot tire at or below the recommended cold tire inflation pressure is dangerously under-inflated.

Checking and Adjusting Tire Pressures
Follow these steps when tires are cold and Model S has been stationary for over three hours:

1. Refer to the Tire and Loading Information label located on the driver’s center door pillar for the target tire pressure.
2. Remove the valve cap.
3. Firmly press an accurate tire pressure gauge onto the valve to measure pressure.
4. If required, add or remove air to reach the recommended pressure.
   NOTE: You can release air by pressing the metal stem in the center of the valve.
5. Re-check pressure using the accurate tire gauge.
6. Repeat steps 3 and 4 as necessary until the tire pressure is correct.
7. Reinstall the valve cap to prevent dirt from entering. Periodically check the valve for damage and leaks.

Inspecting and Maintaining Tires
Regularly inspect the tread and side walls for any sign of distortion (bulges), foreign objects, cuts or wear.

WARNING: Do not drive Model S 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 S 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’s overall wear quality, decreases road noise and maximizes tire life.
Vehicles with staggered wheels and non-directional tires can be rotated side-to-side (left-to-right) but not front-to-back as the front and rear tire size is different. Left-to-right rotation can increase tread life by changing the direction of rotation for each tire and balancing shoulder wear.
Unbalanced wheels (sometimes noticeable as vibration through the steering yoke (or steering wheel)) affect vehicle handling and tire life. Even with regular use, wheels can get out of balance. Therefore, they should be balanced as required.
If tire wear is uneven (on one side of the tire only) or becomes abnormally excessive, check the wheel alignment.

Punctured Tires
A puncture eventually causes the tire to lose pressure, which is why it is important to check tire pressures frequently. Permanently repair or replace punctured or damaged tires as soon as possible.
Your tubeless tires may not leak when penetrated, provided the object remains in the tire. If, however, you feel a sudden vibration or ride disturbance while driving, or you suspect a tire is damaged, immediately reduce your speed. Drive slowly, while avoiding heavy braking or sharp steering and, when safe to do so, stop the vehicle. Arrange to have Model S transported to a Tesla Service Center, or to a nearby tire repair center.

NOTE: In some cases, you can temporarily repair small tire punctures (under 1/4” (6 mm)) using an optional tire repair kit available from Tesla. This allows you to slowly drive Model S to Tesla or to a nearby tire repair facility.

WARNING: Do not drive with a punctured tire that has not been repaired, even if the puncture has not caused the tire to deflate. A punctured tire can deflate suddenly at any time.

Flat Spots
If Model S is stationary for a long period, tires can form flat spots. When Model S is driven, these flat spots cause a vibration which gradually disappears as the tires warm up and regain their original shape.
To minimize flat spots during storage, inflate tires to the maximum pressure indicated on the tire wall. Then, before driving, release air to adjust tire pressure to the recommended levels.

Improving Tire Mileage
To improve the mileage you get from your tires, maintain tires at the recommended tire pressures, observe speed limits and advisory speeds, and avoid:

• Pulling away quickly, or hard acceleration.
• Fast turns and heavy braking.
• Potholes and objects in the road.
• Hitting curbs when parking.
• Contaminating tires with fluids that can cause damage.

Replacing Tires and Wheels
Tires degrade over time due to the effects of ultraviolet light, extreme temperatures, high loads, and environmental conditions. It is recommended that tires are replaced every six years, or sooner if required, even if tread depth is above the minimum.
When a tire set becomes worn, replace all four tires at the same time. Choose a Tesla-approved tire which is designed specifically for your vehicle. Most Tesla-approved tires can be identified with a Tx specification (for example, T0, T1, T2). Tesla-approved tires are designed to reduce road noise and optimize handling, ride, and range. Contact Tesla Service for information. 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 ) 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.
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 Sensor).

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’s tires. The speed rating is shown on the sidewall of your tires (see Understanding Tire Markings ).

Asymmetric Tires
Model S tires are asymmetric and must be mounted on the wheel with the correct sidewall facing outward. The sidewall of the tire is marked with the word OUTSIDE. When new tires are installed, make sure that the tires are correctly mounted on the wheels.

WARNING: Road holding is seriously impaired if the tires are incorrectly installed on the wheels.

Removing and Installing Aero Covers
If your Model S is equipped with aero covers, you must remove them to access the lug nuts.

To remove an aero cover:

1. Grasp the aero cover firmly with both hands.
2. Pull the aero cover toward you to release the retaining clips.

To install an aero cover:

1. Align the aero cover into position so that the notch at the base of the Tesla “T” is aligned with the tire’s valve stem.
2. Push firmly around the perimeter of the aero cover until it fully snaps into place.
   For Gemini wheels, press on the perimeter of the cover until it aligns with the wheel surface. Press on the Tesla “T” in the center until the cap snaps into place. See Parts and Accessories  for more information.

CAUTION: To prevent the aero cover from falling off, ensure that it is fully secured before driving.

Wheel Configuration
If you are installing new wheels or swapping them for different ones, update your vehicle’s wheel configuration by touching Controls > Service > Wheel Configuration > Wheels. This allows Model S to learn the new wheels and provide more accurate status updates on your vehicle. Select a wheel from the drop down menu that matches the new wheels you plan to install on Model S. Selecting new wheels in the wheel configuration also changes the wheels that appear on your vehicle’s avatar on the touchscreen.
Ensure you are aware if your vehicle is equipped with staggered wheels, meaning the wheels are different sizes in the front and rear. Check the front and rear tire sizes marked on the tire sidewall to see if they match or are different sizes. If the wheels are staggered, take extra precaution to ensure the new wheels you install are staggered in the same way as the previous wheels.

NOTE: Changing your vehicle’s wheel configuration can impact range estimates, tire pressure warning levels, and vehicle visualization.

WARNING: Only use Tesla-approved wheels when installing or swapping wheels. Using non Tesla-approved wheels can cause serious damage. Tesla is not liable for damage caused by using wheels not approved by Tesla.

Tire Pressure Monitoring
Each tire should be checked monthly when cold and inflated to the recommended pressures that are printed on the Tire and Loading Information label located on the driver’s door pillar (see Maintaining Tire Pressures). If your vehicle has tires of a different size than the size indicated on the vehicle placard or tire inflation pressure label, determine the proper tire inflation pressure for those tires.
As an added safety feature, your vehicle has been equipped with a TPMS that displays a tire pressure telltale (Tire Pressure Warning) on the instrument panel when one or more of your tires is significantly under- or over-inflated. Accordingly, when the Tire Pressure indicator light displays on the instrument panel to alert you about tire pressure, stop and check your tires as soon as possible, and inflate them to the proper pressure (see Maintaining Tire Pressures). Driving on a significantly under-inflated tire causes the tire to overheat and can lead to tire failure. Under-inflation also reduces range efficiency and tire tread life, and may affect the vehicle’s handling and stopping ability.

If Model S detects a fault with the TPMS, this indicator flashes for one minute whenever you power on Model S.

NOTE: Installing accessories that are not approved by Tesla can interfere with the TPMS.

WARNING: The TPMS is not a substitute for proper tire maintenance, including manually checking tire pressures and regularly inspecting the condition of tires. It is the driver’s responsibility to maintain correct tire pressure, even if under- or over-inflation has not reached the level for the TPMS to trigger the Tire Pressure Warning on the instrument panel.

Automatic Reset of TPMS Sensors
After replacing one or more wheels (but not after replacing a tire), the TPMS sensors are relearned to ensure tire pressure warnings are accurate. TPMS sensors reset automatically within two minutes of driving over 15 mph (25 km/h).

WARNING: If your Model S is equipped with aftermarket tires that differ in size from those printed on the Tire and Loading Information Label (see Vehicle Loading ), it is the driver’s responsibility to determine the correct tire pressure. Do not drive on public roads when tires are not inflated to the correct pressure.

WARNING: Do not depend on TPMS sensors to accurately determine pressures and trigger alerts. It is the driver’s responsibility to maintain correct tire pressures (see Maintaining Tire Pressures). Over or under-inflated tires can result in loss of control or tire damage, which can lead to serious injury.

Replacing a Tire Sensor
If the Tire Pressure warning indicator displays frequently, contact Tesla to determine if a tire sensor needs to be replaced. If a non-Tesla Service Center repairs or replaces a tire, the tire sensor may not work until Tesla performs the setup procedure.

TPMS Malfunction
Model S has also been equipped with a TPMS malfunction indicator to indicate when the system is not operating properly.

The TPMS malfunction indicator is combined with the tire pressure indicator light. When the system detects a malfunction, the indicator flashes for approximately one minute, then remains continuously lit. This sequence continues upon subsequent vehicle start-ups as long as the malfunction exists. When the TPMS malfunction indicator is on, the system might not be able to detect or signal under- or over-inflated tires as intended.

TPMS malfunctions can occur for a variety of reasons, including installing replacement or alternate tires or wheels that prevent the TPMS from functioning properly. Always check the TPMS malfunction indicator light after replacing one or more tires or wheels on your vehicle to ensure that the replacement tires or wheels allow the TPMS to continue to function properly.

NOTE: If a tire has been replaced or repaired using a different tire sealant than the one available from Tesla, and a low tire pressure is detected, it is possible that the tire sensor has been damaged. Contact Tesla to have the fault repaired as soon as possible.

Seasonal Tire Types
Understand Your Tire Type
The type of tires that your vehicle is originally equipped with depends on vehicle model and market region. It is important to understand the capabilities of your vehicle’s tires and whether they are suited for summer, all-season, or winter driving. Check the information on the sidewall of a tire for information about a tire’s performance characteristics (see Understanding Tire Markings )

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’s sidewall.

When driving with winter tires, you may experience more road noise, shorter tread life, and less traction on dry roads.

Driving in Low Temperatures
Tire performance is reduced in low ambient temperatures, resulting in reduced grip and an increased susceptibility to damage from impacts. Performance tires (summer applications) have reduced traction in ambient temperatures below 40° F (5° C), and are not recommended in snow/ice conditions. Performance tires can temporarily harden when cold, causing you to hear rotational noise for the first few miles (kilometers) until the tires warm up.

Using Tire Chains
Tesla has tested and approved the following tire chains to increase traction in snowy conditions. Tire chains should only be installed on the rear tires. The approved tire chains can be purchased from Tesla.

Tire Size	Recommended Chain
19″	KONIG K-SUMMIT

Do not use tire chains on 21″ tires.
When installing tire chains, follow the instructions and warnings provided by the tire chain manufacturer. Mount them evenly and as tight as possible.

When using tire chains:

• Inspect the tire chains for loose fittings and damaged links before each use.
• Set air suspension (if equipped) to Medium and turn off the Default Ride Height to Low setting (see Air Suspension).
• Set air suspension to Medium and turn off the Default Ride Height to Low setting.
• Avoid heavily loading Model S (heavy loads can reduce the clearance between the tires and the body).
• Do not drive the vehicle without the chains properly installed.
• Drive slowly. Do not exceed 30 mph (48 km/h).
• Remove the tire chains as soon as conditions allow.

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: 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 S, stop and investigate immediately.

Cleaning

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 ).
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.
   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.
2. Rinse with Clean Water
   After washing, rinse with clean water to prevent soap from drying on the surfaces.
3. 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  for best practices in cleaning the exterior glass.
To add a hydrophobic coating to your vehicle’s windows, apply the coating only to the side and rear windows, not the front windshield—doing so may affect the visibility of the autopilot cameras. Follow the hydrophobic coating manufacturer’s instructions for application details.

NOTE: Tesla is not responsible for any damage associated with applying window treatments on your vehicle.

Car Wash Mode
When taking Model S to a car wash, Car Wash Mode closes all windows, locks the charge port, 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 stationary and not actively charging.
If using an automatic car wash, Enable Free Roll keeps your vehicle in Neutral and activates free roll for the duration of the wash, while preventing Model S from applying the Parking brake if you leave the driver’s seat. To enable, press on the brake pedal and touch Enable Free Roll; or shift into Neutral.
Car Wash Mode disables if the vehicle’s speed exceeds 9 mph (15 km/h) or by touching Exit on the touchscreen.

CAUTION: Failure to put Model S in Car Wash Mode may result in damage (for example, to the charge port or windshield wipers). Damage caused by car washes is not covered by the warranty.

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.

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.

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’s occupancy sensors and may cause staining or damage.

CAUTION: The front seats are equipped with microphones (see Active Road Noise Reduction ) that must not be exposed to liquids. To prevent damage to these microphones when cleaning, do not over-saturate the area of the seats where these microphones are located.

Carpets
Avoid over-wetting carpets. For heavily soiled areas, use a diluted upholstery cleaner.

Seat Belts
Extend the belts to wipe. Do not use any type of detergent or chemical cleaning agent. Allow the belts to dry naturally while extended, preferably away from direct sunlight.

Door Seals
Wipe door seals with a damp cloth to remove any debris. Excessive debris on the door seals can cause paint damage when contacting surrounding surfaces. Avoid using alcohol wipes or any chemical products that can potentially deteriorate the coating on the door seals.

Touchscreen, Rear Touchscreen, and  Instrument Panel
Clean the touchscreen and instrument panel using a soft lint-free cloth specifically designed to clean monitors and displays. Do not use cleaners (such as a glass cleaner) or alcohol-based gel products (such as hand sanitizer) and do not use a wet wipe or a dry statically-charged cloth (such as a recently washed microfiber). To wipe the touchscreen without activating buttons and changing settings, you can enable Screen Clean Mode. Touch Controls > Display > Screen Clean Mode. The display darkens to make it easy to see dust and smudges. To exit Screen Clean Mode, press and hold HOLD TO EXIT.

Chrome and Metal Surfaces
Polish, abrasive cleaners, alcohol-based gel products (such as hand sanitizer), and hard cloths can damage the finish on chrome and metal surfaces.

Cautions for Interior Cleaning
CAUTION: Using solvents (including alcohol), alcohol-based gel products (such as hand sanitizer), bleach, citrus, naphtha, or silicone-based products or additives on interior components can cause damage.

CAUTION: Statically-charged materials can cause damage to the touchscreen or instrument panel.

WARNING: If you notice any damage on an airbag or seat belt, contact Tesla immediately.

WARNING: Do not allow any water, cleaners, or fabric to enter a seat belt mechanism.

WARNING: Exposure to chemical cleaners can be hazardous and can irritate eyes and skin. Read and observe the instructions provided by the manufacturer of the chemical cleaner.

Polishing, Touch Up, and Body Repair
To preserve the cosmetic appearance of the body, you can occasionally treat the paint surfaces with an approved polish containing:

• Very mild abrasive to remove surface contamination without removing or damaging the paint.
• Filling compounds that fill scratches and reduce their visibility.
• Wax to provide a protective coating between the paint and environmental elements.

Regularly inspect the exterior paint for damage. Treat minor chips and scratches using a paint touch-up pen (available for purchase from Tesla). Use the touch-up pen after washing but before polishing or waxing.
Repair rock chips, fractures or scratches. Refer to https://www.tesla.com/support/body-shop-support for more information on repair locations and available services.

CAUTION: Do not use cutting pastes, color restoration compounds, or polishes containing harsh abrasives. These can scour the surface and permanently damage the paint.

CAUTION: Do not use chrome polish or other abrasive cleaners.

Using a Car Cover
To preserve the cosmetic appearance of the body when Model S is not being used, use a genuine Tesla car cover. Car covers can be purchased from Tesla. See Parts and Accessories .

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). 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’s floor mat is securely fastened, and never place an additional floor mat on top of it. Floor mats should always rest on top of the vehicle carpeting surface and not on another floor mat or other covering.

FAQs