Cleaning - Tesla MODEL X Owner's Manual

Cleaning the Exterior
To prevent damage to the paint, immediately remove
corrosive substances (bird droppings, tree resin, dead
insects, tar spots, road salt, industrial fallout, etc.). Do
not wait until Model X is due for a complete wash. If
necessary, use denatured alcohol to remove tar spots
and stubborn grease stains, then immediately wash the
area with water and a mild, non-detergent soap to
remove the alcohol.
Keep the exterior cameras free of dirt, condensation, or
obstructions. These substances can cause unclear
pictures or Autopilot and safety features to stop
working (see Cleaning a Camera on page
Follow these steps when washing the exterior of
Model X:
1. Rinse Thoroughly
Before washing, flush grime and grit from the vehicle
using a hose. Flush away accumulations of mud in
areas where debris easily collects (such as wheel
wells and panel seams). If salt has been used on the
highways (such as during winter months),
thoroughly rinse all traces of road salt from the
underside of the vehicle, wheel wells, and brakes.
2. Hand Wash
Hand wash Model X using a clean soft cloth and cold
or lukewarm water containing a mild, high-quality
car shampoo.
CAUTION: Some cleaners and car shampoos
contain chemicals that can cause damage or
discoloration, especially to plastic trim pieces,
lamps, or camera lenses. For example, some
car cleaning formulas contain hydroxide or
other highly alkaline or caustic ingredients that
can damage exterior components. Damage or
discoloration resulting from cleaning products
is not covered by the warranty.
3. Rinse with Clean Water
After washing, rinse with clean water to prevent
soap from drying on the surfaces.
4. Dry Thoroughly and Clean Exterior Glass
After washing and rinsing, dry thoroughly with a
chamois. If necessary, dry the brakes by going on a
short drive and applying the brakes multiple times.
Clean windows and mirrors using an automotive
glass cleaner. Do not scrape, or use any abrasive
cleaning fluid on glass or mirrored surfaces.
Maintenance
Cleaning a Camera
To ensure a clear picture, the camera lens must be clean
and free of obstructions. Remove any build-up of dirt or
debris by spraying water onto the camera lens with a
spray bottle or pressure washer.
CAUTION: Do not attempt to remove dirt or
debris by wiping an exposed lens with your hands
or a cloth. This debris can damage the surface of
the lens when rubbed against it during wiping.
CAUTION: Do not use chemical-based or abrasive
cleaners. Doing so can damage the surface of the
lens.
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Cautions for Exterior Cleaning
CAUTION: Do not wash in direct sunlight.
CAUTION: Do not use windshield treatment fluids.
Doing so can interfere with wiper friction and
cause a chattering sound.
CAUTION: Do not use hot water, detergents, or
highly alkaline or caustic cleaning products,
especially those containing hydroxide.
CAUTION: If using a pressure washer, maintain a
distance of at least 12" (30 cm) between the
nozzle and the surface of Model X. Avoid aiming
the water jet directly at parking sensors (if
equipped). Keep the nozzle moving and do not
concentrate the water jet on any one area.
CAUTION: Do not aim water hoses directly at
windows, door, or hood seals or at electronic
modules or exposed cabling.
CAUTION: To avoid corrosive damage that may
not be covered by the warranty, rinse away any
road salt from the underside of the vehicle, wheel
wells, and brakes. After cleaning the vehicle, dry
the brakes by going on a short drive and applying
the brakes multiple times.
CAUTION: Avoid using tight-napped or rough
cloths, such as washing mitts. A high-quality
microfiber cleaning cloth is recommended.
CAUTION: If washing in an automatic car wash,
use touchless car washes only. These car washes
have no parts (brushes, etc.) that touch the
surfaces of Model X. Some touchless car washes
use caustic solutions that, over time, can cause
discoloration of decorative exterior trim. Avoid
exposure to soaps and chemicals above pH 13. If
unsure, check the product label or ask the staff at
the car wash. Damage caused by improper
washing is not covered by the warranty.
CAUTION: If washing in an automatic car wash,
make sure the vehicle is locked. In addition, avoid
using controls on the touchscreen that can result
in accidentally opening doors or trunks while the
vehicle is being washed. Any damage caused is
not covered by the warranty.

Cleaning

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