Wiper Blades And Washer Jets - Tesla MODEL S 2012 Owner's Manual

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.
NOTE: Only install replacement blades that are identical
to the original blades. Using inappropriate blades can
affect the operation of the rain sensor and 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 > ON
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.
Maintenance

Wiper Blades and Washer Jets

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.
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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