• Brake fluid health check every 4 years (replace if necessary)**.
• A/C desiccant bag replacement every 2 years.
• Cabin air filter replacement every 2 years.
• HEPA filters and 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.
**Heavy brake usage due to towing, mountain descents, or performance driving -- especially for vehicles in hot and
humid environments -- may necessitate more frequent brake fluid checks and replacements.
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. 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, low voltage battery,
etc.
NOTE: Damages or failures caused by maintenance or repairs performed by non-Tesla certified technicians are not
covered by the warranty.

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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 on page 238).
• 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.
NOTE: Because Model S uses regenerative braking (see Regenerative Braking on page 110), the brake pads are
typically used less frequently than those in traditional braking systems. To avoid the accumulation of rust and
corrosion, Tesla recommends frequently pressing the brake pedal to apply the mechanical brakes, which dries the
brake pads and rotors.
• Check the operation of the seat belts (see Seat Belts on page 51).
• 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 exterior (see Cleaning on page
250).
Monthly Checks
• Check windshield washer fluid level and top up if necessary (see Topping Up Windshield Washer Fluid on page
254).
• Check that the air conditioning system is operating correctly (see Operating Climate Controls on page 195).
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: Schedule a service appointment 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.
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• 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 on page 234.
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.

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Tire Care and Maintenance
Displaying Tire Pressures
You can display tire pressures on the instrument panel by using the right or left steering wheel buttons to display
Car Status (see Using Left Steering Wheel Buttons on page 96 or Using Right Steering Wheel Buttons on page 97).
The pressure of each tire displays in the visualization of your vehicle, in addition to what time the tire pressures were
last measured. To choose whether you want to display tire pressures using Bar or PSI, touch Controls > Display >
Tire Pressure.
You can also view tire pressures in the Tesla mobile app.
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 on page 243).
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.

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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.

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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" (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-toback 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 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.

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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 274) 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 273.
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 242).
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 274).
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 260 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 238). 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 238). 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 274).
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 114Air Suspension on page 116Air Suspension on page 118).
• 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 248). 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 248).
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 paintz, 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 250).
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 for plastic trim pieces, exterior lights, 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 250 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.
250

Owners Manual
CAUTION: Do not use hot water, detergents, highly alkaline or caustic cleaning ingredients or solvents,
specifically 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