Fluid Reservoirs - Tesla MODEL S 2012 Owner's Manual

Fluid Reservoirs

Removing the Maintenance Panel
To check fluid levels, remove the maintenance panel:
1. Open the hood.
2. Pull the maintenance panel upward to release the
clips that hold it in place.
CAUTION: The maintenance panel protects the
front trunk from water. When re-attaching, make
sure it is fully seated.
Checking Battery Coolant
Your Battery coolant should not need to be replaced for
the life of your vehicle under most circumstances.
However, if the quantity of fluid in the cooling system
drops below the recommended level, the instrument
panel displays a warning message. Stop driving Model S
as soon as safety permits and contact Tesla.
Fluid Level Check
On a Rear Wheel Drive Model S, you can check the fluid
level visually. BUT DO NOT REMOVE THE FILLER CAP
AND DO NOT ADD FLUID. Doing so can result in
damage not covered by the warranty. To check the fluid
level, park Model S on level ground. When Model S is
cool, remove the maintenance panel (see
Maintenance Panel on page
seen by looking at the outside marks on the side of the
reservoir.
174
Removing the
174). The fluid level can be
The fluid level should be between the MIN and the MAX
marks. If you notice that the fluid level has dropped
significantly, contact Tesla before using Model S.
Do Not Top Up Battery Coolant
WARNING: Battery coolant can be hazardous and
can irritate eyes and skin. Under no circumstances
should you remove the filler cap and/or add
coolant. If the instrument panel warns you that the
fluid level is low, contact Tesla immediately.
To maximize the performance and life of the Battery, the
cooling system uses a specific mixture of G-48 ethylene-
glycol coolant (HOAT). Contact Tesla for more specific
information about the coolant.
Checking Brake Fluid
WARNING: Contact Tesla immediately if you notice
increased movement of the brake pedal or a
significant loss of brake fluid. Driving under these
conditions can result in extended stopping
distances or complete brake failure.
A red brake indicator on the instrument
panel alerts you if the quantity of fluid in
the brake reservoir drops below the
recommended level. If it displays while
driving, stop as soon as safety permits by
gently applying the brakes. Do not
continue driving. Contact Tesla
immediately.
Fluid Level Check
Tesla checks the brake fluid level and health at the
regularly scheduled maintenance intervals. To check the
fluid level yourself, park Model S on level ground. When
Model S is cool, remove the maintenance panel (see
Removing the Maintenance Panel on page 174).
MODEL S Owner's Manual