Tesla MODEL Y 2012 Owner's Manual page 172

Tire Care and Maintenance
Tire Wear
Adequate tread depth is important for proper tire
performance. Tires with a tread depth less than 3 mm
are more likely to hydroplane in wet conditions and
should not be used. Tires with a tread depth less than
4 mm do not perform well in snow and slush and should
not be used when driving in winter conditions.
Model Y is originally fitted with tires that have wear
indicators molded into the tread pattern. When the
tread has been worn down to 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 10,000 km or
if tread depth difference is 1.5 mm or greater, whichever
comes first.
Tire rotation is an essential part of tire maintenance. It
helps maintain an even treadwear pattern which
enhances the tire's overall wear quality, decreases road
noise and maximizes tire life.
Vehicles with staggered tires can be rotated side-to-side
(left-to-right) but not front-to-back as the front and rear
tire size is different.
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.
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 Y transported to a Tesla
Service Center, or to a nearby tire repair center.
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NOTE: In some cases, you can temporarily repair small
tire punctures (under 6 mm) using an optional tire repair
kit available from Tesla. This allows you to slowly drive
Model Y to Tesla or to a nearby tire repair facility.
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 Y is stationary for a long period, tires can form
flat spots. When Model Y 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.
When a tire set becomes worn, replace all four tires at
the same time. Choose a Tesla-approved tire which is
designed specifically for your vehicle. Most Tesla-
approved tires can be identified with a Tx specification
(for example, T0, T1, T2). Tesla-approved tires are
designed to reduce road noise and optimize handling,
ride, and range. Contact Tesla Service for information.
If tires need to be replaced early, for example due to a
flat tire, we recommend replacing the tires in pairs
unless the other tires are within 1.5 mm of tread depth of
the new tire. When replacing tires, it is important to
match the brand and model of the older tires. Always
place a pair of new tires on the rear if all four tires are
the same size. Always balance the wheel and tire after
replacing a tire. Consult with a professional tire retailer
and installer for further guidance.
MODEL Y Owner's Manual