Tesla Model S: Polishing, Touch Up, and Body
Repair
To preserve the cosmetic appearance of the body, you
can occasionally treat the paint surfaces with an
approved polish containing:
- Very mild abrasive to remove surface contamination
without removing or damaging the paint.
- Filling compounds that fill scratches and reduce their
visibility.
- Wax to provide a protective coating between the
paint and environmental elements.
Regularly inspect the exterior paint for damage. Treat
minor chips and scratches using a paint touch-up pen
(available for purchase from Tesla). Use the touch-up
pen after washing but before polishing or waxing.
Repair rock chips, fractures or scratches. Refer to
https://www.tesla.com/support/body-shop-support for
more information on repair locations and available
services.
CAUTION: Do not use cutting pastes, color
restoration compounds, or polishes containing
harsh abrasives. These can scour the surface and
permanently damage the paint.
CAUTION: Do not use chrome polish or other
abrasive cleaners.
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To preserve the cosmetic appearance of the body when
Model S is not being used, use a genuine Tesla car cover.
Car covers can be purchased from Tesla. See Parts and
Accessories.
CAUTION: Use onl
Periodically clean the edge of the wiper blades and
check the rubber for cracks, splits, and roughness. If
damaged, replace the blade immediately to prevent
damage to the glass and improve visibili
SEE MORE:
Removal
Remove cross car beam (refer to procedure).
Recover refrigerant from AC system (refer to procedure).
Disconnect AC connection to HVAC, discard 'O' rings (torque 22
Nm).
Remove screws (x2) securing bulkhe
Removal
Remove regulator assembly (refer to procedure)
Make sure exterior release handle is fully retracted.
Disconnect handle harness connector.
Remove nuts (x4) securing door release assembly to reinforcement
(torque 9 Nm).
Carefully release door handle assembly from d