Checking Brake Fluid - Tesla 2012- 21013 S Owner's Manual

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.
The Brake indicator on the instrument
panel 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 for assistance.
Fluid Level Check
Tesla checks the brake fluid level at the
regularly scheduled maintenance intervals. To
check it yourself, park Model S on level ground.
When Model S is cool, remove the maintenance
panel (see page 7.16).
Check the fluid level visually by looking at the
outside marks on the side of the reservoir
without removing the filler cap.
The brake fluid level should be between the
MIN and the MAX marks.
NOTE: The brake fluid level drops slightly
during normal use, as a result of brake pad
wear, but should not be allowed to drop below
the MIN mark.
MAINTENANCE
Fluid Reservoirs
Topping Up the Brake Fluid
Do not top up your brake fluid. Tesla service
does this when you bring Model S in for regular
servicing. The following instructions are
provided for information purposes and future
reference only:
1. Clean the filler cap before removing to
prevent dirt from entering the reservoir.
2. Unscrew the cap and remove.
3. Top up the reservoir to the MAX mark using
brake fluid meeting DOT3 or DOT4
specifications.
4. Replace the filler cap.
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.
7.17