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.

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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.
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. It may take up to 24 hours after a tire replacement or repair before the tire lubricant is completely
dry and tires achieve maximum adherence to the rims. Avoid hard accelerations during this period to avoid tire slip
on the rim.
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 278) 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 277.
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 Resetting the TPMS Sensors on page 246).
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 on page 278).
Asymmetric Tires

Some 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 with the valve stem.
2. Firmly press the center of the cover to secure it in place, then work your way out to firmly pressing the outer
perimeter of each spoke. You may need to hold onto the opposite side of the cover until all spokes are secured.
3. Firmly press the center of the cap with your hands (do not hit the cover with your hands) to ensure it is secured.
4. As a final check, quickly pull each spoke to confirm they are secured in place.
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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 on page 264 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 & Tire > 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 on page 242). 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 on page 242). 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.
Resetting the TPMS Sensors

After replacing one or more wheels (but not after replacing a tire or rotating wheels), the TPMS sensors need to be
reset to ensure tire pressure warnings are accurate.
On newer versions of Model S, the TPMS sensors are reset automatically after driving over 15 mph (25 km/h) for
longer than 10 minutes. But for older versions, follow these steps:
1. Inflate all tires to their recommended pressures, as indicated on the Tire and Loading Information label located on
the door pillar.
2. Get ready to drive for ten minutes, then touching Controls > Service > Reset TPMS Sensors.
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3. Follow the onscreen instructions.
CAUTION: Selecting the incorrect wheel size may result in false tire pressure warnings. If a tire pressure
warning displays, exit the vehicle, close the rear trunk and all doors, wait for the touchscreen to go black,
then re-enter the vehicle and ensure that the correct wheel size is selected before touching Reset TPMS
Sensors.
NOTE: On some older versions of Model S, when changing to 21" wheels, the TPMS may generate false tire pressure
warnings. Bring Model S to a Tesla Service Center for further adjustment.
WARNING: Do not reset the TPMS sensors in an attempt to clear tire pressure warnings.
Replacing a Tire Sensor

If the Tire Pressure warning indicator displays frequently, use the mobile app to schedule a service appointment 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 overinflated 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.
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 on page 278).
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.
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.
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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 (also called snow 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 K45

Do not use tire chains on 21" tires.
CAUTION: Do not put tire chains on summer tires, doing so can cause damage.
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 Standard and turn off the Default Ride Height to Low setting (see Air
Suspension on page 117Air Suspension on page 119Air Suspension on page 121).
• 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: Air suspension (if equipped ) should remain in the Medium ride height setting to avoid damage.
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 snow 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 S, stop and investigate immediately.

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Temporary Tire Repair
Tire Repair Kit
Your Model S has no spare tire. Depending on the legislations that apply to the region in which you purchased
Model S, a tire repair kit may or may not be included. If a tire repair kit was not provided in Model S upon delivery,
you can purchase one from Tesla.
NOTE: Although Model S does not have a spare tire, in the event of a flat tire, Roadside Assistance provides towing
coverage for up to 50 miles.
The tire repair kit consists of a compressor and a canister of tire sealant (enough to repair one tire). When injected
into a tire, the sealant can penetrate a small puncture up to 1/4" (6 mm) to form a temporary repair.

NOTE: For punctures larger than 1/4” (6 mm), severe tread damage, a damaged sidewall, ripped tires or tires that
have come off the rim, contact Roadside Assistance.
WARNING: The tire repair kit is a temporary repair only. You must repair or replace a damaged tire as soon as
possible.
WARNING: Do not exceed 30 mph (48 km/h) when driving with a tire that has been temporarily repaired with
sealant.
WARNING: Follow all directions and warnings on the tire repair kit before starting a repair.
CAUTION: Do not drive on a deflated tire as this can cause serious damage.
Tire Sealant Canister

The tire sealant provided in the Tesla tire repair kit is approved for use with Model S and is designed not to damage
the TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System) sensors. Therefore, you must replace it only with one of the same type
and capacity (see Replacing the Sealant Canister on page 252). Tire sealant canisters can be purchased from Tesla.
The tire sealant has an expiration date printed on the outside of the canister. If the expiration date has passed, the
sealant might not work as expected. Always replace an expired tire sealant canister.
WARNING: Do not use any tire sealant other than the one available from Tesla. Doing so could cause tire
pressure sensors to malfunction.
WARNING: Always read and follow the safety and handling instructions printed on the sealant canister.
WARNING: Keep tire sealant out of the reach of children.
WARNING: Tire sealant can be harmful if it contacts the eyes or if swallowed or inhaled. If the sealant comes
into contact with your eyes, immediately flush with water and seek medical attention if irritation persists. If
swallowed, do not induce vomiting and seek medical assistance immediately. If inhaled, breathe fresh air.
Inhalation can cause drowsiness and dizziness. If breathing is affected, seek medical assistance immediately.

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Inflating with Sealant and Air
If you have a Tesla tire repair kit, follow these steps to temporarily repair a small tire puncture (less than 1/4”
(6 mm)).
1. Stop Model S in a safe place away from traffic and ask passengers to wait in a safe area.
2. Turn on the hazard warning flashers to alert other road users.
3. If possible, position the wheel with the puncture at the bottom.
4. Detach the power supply connector from the back of the compressor and plug it into the low voltage power
socket located on the front of center console.

5. Release the clear plastic hose from the tire compressor.
6. Remove the red cap and screw the end of the hose onto the tire’s valve.

7. Attach the sealant kit’s black air hose to the sealant valve and press the lever down to secure it in place.

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8. Ensure the compressor is lying on a level surface with the pressure gauge facing to the side as shown in Step 5.
9. Turn on the compressor.
10. Inflate the tire to the recommended pressure.
11. Turn off the compressor and disconnect the hose from the tire’s valve. Wipe any excess sealant from the tire valve
and wheel rim.
12. Immediately drive for 5 miles (8 km) to distribute the sealant around the tire. Do not exceed 30 mph (48 km/h).
13. Stop and check the tire’s pressure. If necessary, inflate using the black air hose.
14. Have the tire repaired or replaced as soon as possible.
15. Replace the tire repair sealant canister (see Replacing the Sealant Canister on page 252).
Inflating with Air Only
If you have a Tesla tire repair kit, follow these steps to inflate a tire with air:
1. Detach the power supply connector from the rear of the compressor and plug it into the low voltage power
socket located in Model S on the front of center console.

2. Release the black air hose from the compressor.
3. Attach the air hose to the valve and press the lever down to secure it in place.
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4. Ensure the compressor is lying on a level surface with the pressure gauge facing to the side where you can read
it.
5. To add air, turn on the compressor and inflate until the desired pressure is reached.
6. To release air, turn off the compressor, then press and hold the red button until the desired pressure is reached.
NOTE: For your convenience, the tire repair kit includes a selection of adapters that allow you to inflate other items.
These adapters are located in a compartment on the back of the compressor.

CAUTION: To avoid overheating, do not use the compressor continuously for more than eight minutes. Allow
the compressor to cool for 15 minutes between uses.
CAUTION: The compressor runs slowly when overheated from excessive use. Turn it off and allow it to cool.
Replacing the Sealant Canister
If you have a Tesla tire repair kit, you can purchase additional or replacement canisters of tire sealant from Tesla.
Follow these steps to replace the canister in your Tesla tire repair kit:
1. Unwrap the clear hose from the compressor. This hose is included with the tire repair sealant canister.
2. Remove the canister cover by sliding it upward to release it from the compressor.
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3. Remove the canister.

4. Insert the new canister and replace the cover.

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Cleaning
Cleaning the Exterior
To prevent damage to the paint, immediately remove corrosive substances (grease, oil, 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 254).
Follow these steps when washing the exterior of Model S:
1. 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 Model S using a clean soft cloth and cold or lukewarm water and 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. Do not use
acidic products either. Damage or discoloration resulting from cleaning products is not covered by the
warranty.
3. After washing, rinse with clean water to prevent soap from drying on the surfaces.
4. Dry thoroughly with a chamois. If necessary, dry the brakes by going on a short drive and applying the brakes
multiple times.
Use isopropyl alcohol wipes (such as those used to clean glasses or screens) to clean away small stains.
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 254 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.
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. 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.
CAUTION: Do not clean an ultrasonic sensor (if equipped) or camera lens with a sharp or abrasive object that
can scratch or damage its surface.
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.
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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. 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.

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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 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.
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 damage
when contacting surrounding surfaces. Avoid using alcohol wipes or any chemical products that can potentially
deteriorate the coating on the door seals.
Tesla Built-In Rear Facing Child Seats

Vacuum the seats to remove any loose dirt. Wipe the seats with a soft cloth dampened with warm water. You can
also use an upholstery cleaner designed for automotive use. Extend the belts to wipe. Allow the belts to dry
naturally, preferably away from direct sunlight.
Touchscreen and Instrument Panel

Clean the touchscreen(s) 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 front
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.
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• 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, depending on market region). 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 online from Tesla.

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 available online at
http://www.tesla.com. 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.

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Windshield Wiper Blades, Jets and Fluid
Topping Up Windshield Washer Fluid
The only reservoir into which you can add fluid is the windshield washer fluid reservoir, which is located behind the
front trunk. When the level is low, a message displays on the instrument panel.
To top up the washer fluid:
1. Open the hood.
2. Clean around the filler cap before opening it to prevent dirt from entering the reservoir.
3. Open the filler cap.
4. While avoiding spilling, fill the reservoir until the fluid level is visible just below the filler neck.

5. Wipe up any spills immediately and wash the affected area with water.
6. Reinstall the filler cap.
CAUTION: Use only ethanol-based windshield washer fluid meant for automotive vehicles. Using other
substances, such as untreated water, can result in bacterial growth within the climate control system resulting
in odor or potential damage that is not covered by warranty.
NOTE: Some national or local regulations restrict the use of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs). VOCs are
commonly used as antifreeze in washer fluid. Use a washer fluid with limited VOC content only if it provides
adequate freeze resistance for all climates in which you drive Model S.
CAUTION: Do not add formulated washer fluids that contain water repellent or bug wash. These fluids can
cause streaking, smearing, and squeaking or other noises.
WARNING: In temperatures below 40° F (4° C), use a washer fluid with antifreeze. In cold weather, using a
washer fluid without antifreeze can impair visibility through the windshield.
WARNING: Windshield washer fluid can irritate eyes and skin. Read and observe the instructions provided by
the washer fluid manufacturer.

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Checking and Cleaning Wiper Blades
Periodically clean the edge of the wiper blades and check the rubber for cracks, splits, and roughness. If damaged,
replace the blade immediately to prevent damage to the glass and improve visibility.
Contaminants on the windshield, or on the wiper blades, can reduce the effectiveness of the wipers. Contaminants
include ice, wax spray from car washes, washer fluid with bug and/or water repellent, bird droppings, tree sap, and
other organic substances.
Follow these guidelines for cleaning:
• Clean the windshield and wiper blades using washer fluid, isopropyl (rubbing) alcohol, or non-abrasive glass
cleaner approved for use on automotive glass and rubber. Inappropriate products can cause damage or smears,
and create glare on the windshield.
• Lift the wiper arm a short distance away from the windshield, just far enough to access the wiper blade. Do not
lift a wiper arm beyond its intended position.
If the wipers remain ineffective after cleaning, replace the wiper blades.
Replacing Wiper Blades
For optimum performance, replace the wiper blades at least once a year. Replacement blades must meet the
following criteria:
• The blade on the driver's side must be 26 inches (650 mm) long and 20 inches (500 mm) long for the blade on
the passenger's side.
• Ensure the connector on the replacement blade is the same as the original blade. Different connectors may
prevent the replacement blade from connecting to the wiper arm on the vehicle.
You can purchase replacement wiper blades on the Tesla Shop.
NOTE: Only install replacement blades that are identical to the original blades. Using inappropriate blades can
damage the wiper system and windshield.
To replace the wiper blades:
1. Shift into Park and turn off the wipers.
2. Touch Controls > Service > Wiper Service Mode to move the wipers to the service position.
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.

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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.

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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’s instructions.

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Jacking and Lifting
Jacking Procedure
Follow the steps below to lift Model S. Ensure that any non-Tesla repair facility is aware of these lifting points.
1. Position Model S centrally between the lift posts.
2. If your Model S is equipped with air suspension, it automatically self-levels, even when the vehicle is "asleep" and
the touchscreen is powered off (see Jack Mode on page 263). Use the touchscreen to set the suspension as
follows:
◦ Touch Controls > Suspension.
◦ Press the brake pedal, then touch Very High to maximize the height of the suspension.
◦ Touch Controls > Service > Jack Mode to disable self-leveling.
When Jack mode is active, Model S displays this indicator light on the instrument panel, along
with a message telling you that active suspension is disabled.

3. Position the lift arm pads under the designated body lift points at the locations shown.
WARNING: DO NOT position the lift arm pads under the Battery or side rails.

4. Adjust the height and position of the lift arm pads to ensure that they are correctly located.
5. With assistance, raise the lift to the desired height, ensuring the lift arm pads remain in their correct positions.
6. Engage any lift safety locks. Follow the lift manufacturer's instructions. To disengage Jack Mode, disable it in
Controls > Service.
NOTE: Jack mode may be unexpectedly enabled in situations where an object is supporting the vehicle's weight (for
example the bumper of the vehicle is resting on a curb).
WARNING: The air suspension system automatically self-levels, even when the vehicle is "asleep" and the