Fluid Reservoirs - Tesla MODEL 3 2012 Owner's Manual

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.
3. If checking the Battery coolant, remove the cabin
intake trim panel by pulling it upwards 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 touchscreen
displays a warning message. Stop driving Model 3 as
soon as safety permits and contact Tesla.
Fluid Level Check
DO NOT REMOVE THE FILLER CAP AND DO NOT ADD
FLUID. Doing so can result in damage not covered by
the warranty.
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 touchscreen 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.
Maintenance

Fluid Reservoirs

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 touchscreen
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.
Topping Up the Brake Fluid
Do not top up your brake fluid. The following
instructions are provided for information purposes and
future reference only:
1. Clean the filler cap before removing it to prevent dirt
from entering the reservoir.
2. Unscrew the cap and remove it.
3. Top up the reservoir to the MAX mark using the
appropriate brake fluid.
4. Reinstall the filler cap, ensuring it is fully secured.
WARNING: Only use new fluid from a sealed air-
tight container. Never use previously used fluid or
fluid from a previously opened container—fluid
absorbs moisture which decreases braking
performance.
WARNING: Brake fluid is highly toxic. Keep
containers sealed and out of the reach of children.
In the event of accidental consumption, seek
medical attention immediately.
CAUTION: Brake fluid damages painted surfaces.
Immediately soak up any spills with an absorbent
cloth and wash the area with a mixture of car
shampoo and water.
Topping Up Windshield Washer
Fluid
The only reservoir into which you can add fluid is the
windshield washer fluid reservoir, which is located
behind the front trunk. When the level is low, a message
displays on the touchscreen.
To top up the washer fluid:
1. Open the hood.
2. Clean around the filler cap before opening it to
prevent dirt from entering the reservoir.
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