Tesla Model S: Battery Care

Never allow the Battery to fully discharge. Even when Model S is not being driven, its Battery discharges very slowly to power the onboard electronics. The Battery can discharge at a rate of approximately 1% per day, though the discharge rate may vary depending on environmental factors (such as cold weather), vehicle configuration, and your selected settings on the touchscreen. Situations can arise in which you must leave Model S unplugged for an extended period of time (for example, at an airport when traveling). In these situations, keep the 1% in mind to ensure that you leave the Battery with a sufficient charge level. For example, over a two week period (14 days), the Battery may discharge by approximately 14%.

Discharging the Battery to 0% may result in damage to vehicle components. To protect against a complete discharge, Model S enters a low-power consumption mode when the displayed charge level drops to approximately 0%. In this mode, the Battery stops

supporting the onboard electronics and auxiliary low voltage battery. Once this low-power consumption mode is active, immediately plug in Model S to prevent a jump-start and low voltage battery replacement.

NOTE: If Model S is unresponsive and does not unlock, open, or charge, the low voltage battery may be discharged. In this situation, try jump starting the low voltage battery (see Instructions for Transporters for instructions on how to jump start the battery). If the vehicle is still unresponsive, contact Tesla.

Temperature Limits

For better long-term performance, avoid exposing Model S to ambient temperatures above 140º F (60º C) or below -22º F (-30º C) for more than 24 hours at a time.

Energy Saving Feature

Model S has an energy-saving feature that reduces the amount of energy being consumed by the displays when Model S is not in use. On newer vehicles, this feature is automated to provide an optimal level of energy saving. However, on older vehicles, you can control the amount of energy being consumed by the displays by touching Controls > Display > Energy Saving. For more information on maximizing range and saving energy, see Getting Maximum Range.

Battery Warnings and Cautions

WARNING: The Battery has no parts that an owner or a non-Tesla authorized service technician can service. Under no circumstances should you open or tamper with the Battery. Always contact Tesla to arrange for Battery servicing.

CAUTION: If the Battery's charge level falls to 0%, you must plug it in. If you leave it unplugged for an extended period, it may not be possible to charge or use Model S without jump starting or replacing the low voltage battery. Leaving Model S unplugged for an extended period can also result in permanent Battery damage. If you are unable to charge Model S after attempting to jump start the low voltage battery, contact Tesla immediately.

CAUTION: The Battery requires no owner maintenance. Do not remove the coolant filler cap and do not add fluid. If the instrument panel warns you that the fluid level is low, contact Tesla immediately.

CAUTION: Do not use the Battery as a stationary power source. Doing so voids the warranty.

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