Tesla MODEL S 2012 Owner's Manual page 198

Instructions for Transporters
Pull onto the Flatbed Truck -
Without Tow Eye
CAUTION: To avoid damage, only pull the vehicle
onto a flatbed truck using a properly-installed tow
eye. Using the chassis, frame, or suspension
components to pull the vehicle can result in
damage.
WARNING: If the vehicle is pulled onto the flatbed
truck without a tow eye, all suspension fasteners
should be checked for proper torque and all
components should be visually inspected for
damage prior to driving the vehicle again. If a
fastener is loose, or if any damage is found, the
affected component(s) should be replaced.
It is strongly recommended that you connect the winch
to your vehicle's tow eye, as described previously.
However, if a situation arises in which the tow eye is not
available (lost, misplaced, etc.), the following
instructions describe how to attach tow straps.
1. Attach the tow straps to each of the lower
suspension arms underneath the front of the vehicle.
2. To protect the underbody from damage, place a
protective barrier (such as a piece of wood) between
the tow strap and underbody.
3. Activate Transport Mode by touching Controls >
Service > Towing.
4. Pull Model S slowly onto the flatbed truck.
Secure the Tires
The vehicle's tires must be secured onto the truck using
the eight-point tie-down method.
• Ensure any metal parts on the tie-down straps do not
contact painted surfaces or the face of the wheels.
• Do not place tie-down straps over body panels or
through the wheels.
196
CAUTION: Attaching the tie-down straps to the
chassis, suspension or other parts of the vehicle's
body may cause damage.
MODEL S Owner's Manual