Tesla Model S: Driving in Low Temperatures
Tire performance is reduced in low ambient temperatures, resulting in reduced grip and an increased susceptibility to damage from impacts. Performance tires (summer applications) have reduced traction in ambient temperatures below 40º F (5º C), and are not recommended in snow/ice conditions. Performance tires can temporarily harden when cold, causing you to hear rotational noise for the first few miles (kilometers) until the tires warm up.
Using Tire Chains
Tesla has tested and approved the following tire chains to increase traction in snowy conditions. Tire chains should only be installed on the rear tires. The approved tire chains can be purchased from Tesla.
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Do not use tire chains on 21" tires.
When installing tire chains, follow the instructions and warnings provided by the tire chain manufacturer. Mount them evenly and as tight as possible.
When using tire chains:
- Inspect the tire chains for loose fittings and damaged links before each use.
- Set air suspension (if equipped) to Medium and turn off the Default Ride Height to Low setting (see Air Suspension).
- Set air suspension to Medium and turn off the Default Ride Height to Low setting.
- Avoid heavily loading Model S (heavy loads can reduce the clearance between the tires and the body).
- Do not drive the vehicle without the chains properly installed.
- Drive slowly. Do not exceed 30 mph (48 km/h).
- Remove the tire chains as soon as conditions allow.
NOTE: Tire chains are prohibited in some jurisdictions. Check local laws before installing tire chains.
CAUTION: Using non-recommended tire chains, or using tire chains on other sized tires can damage the suspension, body, wheels, and/or brake lines. Damage caused by using non-recommended tire chains, or incorrectly installing tire chains, is not covered by the warranty.
CAUTION: Never deflate your tires to put on tire chains. When re-inflated, the chains might fit too tightly and cause tire damage.
CAUTION: Ensure that the tire chains cannot touch suspension components or brake lines. If you hear the chains making unusual noises that would indicate contact with Model S, stop and investigate immediately.
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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 S is due
Cleaning the Interior
Frequently inspect and clean the interior to maintain its
appearance and to prevent premature wear. If possible,
immediately wipe up spills and remove marks. For
general cleaning, wipe interior sur
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Using Sentry Mode
When Sentry Mode is turned on, the cameras and
sensors remain powered on and ready to record
suspicious activity around your vehicle when Model S is
locked and in Park.
To store and retrieve Sentry Mode footage, ensure that
Dashcam is on and a properly formatted USB flash drive
is inserted into
Rear Trunk
Opening
To open the rear trunk, ensure Model S is in Park, then
do one of the following:
Touch Controls > Trunk on the touchscreen.
Double-click the rear trunk button on the key fob.
Touch the rear trunk button on the mobile app.
Press the switch located under the liftgate's exterior
hand
