Tesla MODEL S 2012 Owner's Manual page 168

Tire Care and Maintenance
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.
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.
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 alignment of
wheels.
NOTE: When all tire sizes are the same and there is a
need to replace two tires, the new tires should always be
placed on the rear.
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.
166
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.
Wheel and tires are matched to suit the handling
characteristics of the vehicle. Replacement tires must
comply with the original specification. If tires other than
those specified are used, ensure that the load and speed
ratings marked on the tire (see
Markings on page 187) equal or exceed those of the
original specification.
When a tire set becomes worn, replace all four tires at
the same time. If tires need to be replaced early, we
recommend replacing the tires in pairs unless the other
tires are fairly new (for example, minimal wear relative to
the new tire). Place the new tires on the rear if all four
tires are of the same size. Always balance the wheel and
tire after replacing a tire. Consult with a professional tire
retailer and installer for further guidance.
Understanding Tire
MODEL S Owner's Manual