TESLA MODEL 3 2023 Owners Manual

For Gemini wheels, press on the perimeter of the cover until it aligns with the wheel surface. Press on the Tesla “T” in the center until the cap snaps into place. See
Parts and Accessories on page 190 for
more information.
CAUTION: To prevent the aero cover from
falling off, ensure that it is fully secured before
driving.
Removing and Installing Lug Nut Covers
If your Model 3 is equipped with lug nut covers, you
must remove them to access the lug nuts.
To remove a lug nut cover:
1.
Insert the curved part of the lug nut cover tool, if equipped (located in the glovebox in some vehicles, or you can use a small allen wrench) into the hole at the base of the Tesla "T".
NOTE: The lug nut cover tool can also be purchased
at an auto parts store or through online retailers.
2.
Maneuver the lug nut cover tool so that it is fully inserted into the hole in the lug nut cover.
3.
Twist the lug nut cover tool so that the curved part is
touching the middle of the lug nut cover.
4.
Firmly pull the lug nut tool away from the wheel until the lug nut cover is released.
To install the lug nut cover:
1.
Align the lug nut cover into position.
2.
Push firmly on the lug nut cover until it fully snaps
into place.
CAUTION: Make sure the lug nut cover is fully
secure before driving to prevent it from falling
off.
Wheel Configuration
If you are installing new wheels or swapping them for
different ones, update your vehicle

Ensure you are aware if your vehicle is equipped with
winter tires. Winter tires can be
identified by a mountain
and
snowflake icon on the tires

Seasonal Tire Types
Understand Your Tire Type
The type of tires that your vehicle is originally equipped with depends on vehicle model and market region. It is important to understand the capabilities of your vehicle

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: Do not use tire chains on the front tires.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 3, stop and investigate
immediately.Tire Care and Maintenance
182MODEL 3 Owner

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 3 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 183).
Follow these steps when washing the exterior of Model
3:
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 3 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.
Window Cleaning and Treatments
Clean windows and mirrors using an automotive glass
cleaner. Do not scrape or use any abrasive cleaning
fluid

on glass or mirrored surfaces. Follow the directions in
Cleaning the Exterior on page 183 for best practices in
cleaning the exterior glass.
To add a hydrophobic coating to your vehicle

Cautions for Exterior CleaningCAUTION: 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 3. 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 3. 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.
CAUTION: Ensure the wipers are off before
washing Model 3 to avoid the risk of damaging the
wipers.
CAUTION: Do not use chemical based wheel
cleaners or pre-wash products. These can damage
the finish on the wheels.
WARNING: Never spray liquid at a high velocity
(for example, if using a pressure washer) towards
the charge port while Model 3 is charging. Failure
to follow these instructions can result in serious
injury or damage to the vehicle, charging
equipment, or property.
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 surfaces using a soft cloth (such as
microfiber) dampened with a mixture of warm
water and mild non-detergent cleaner (test all cleaners on a concealed area before use). To avoid streaks, dry immediately with a soft lint-free cloth.
Interior Glass
Do not scrape, or use any abrasive cleaning fluid on
glass or mirrored surfaces. This can damage the
reflective surface of the mirror and the heating elements
in the rear window.
Airbags
Do not allow any substance to enter an airbag cover. This could
affect correct operation.
Dashboard and Plastic Surfaces
Do not polish the upper surfaces of the dashboard. Polished surfaces are
reflective and could interfere with
your driving view.
Seats
Wipe spills and chemical residues from interior surfaces as soon as possible using a soft cloth moistened with warm water and non-detergent soap. Wipe gently in a circular motion. Then wipe dry using a soft, lint-free cloth.
Although seating surfaces are designed to repel stains, Tesla recommends regular cleaning to maintain
performance and an as-new appearance. Promptly treat
dye transfer from clothing, such as indigo-dyed denim.
Avoid contact with harsh chemicals, including certain cosmetics. Never use cleaners containing alcohol or bleach. Spot-test cleaners on an inconspicuous area
before applying to visible surfaces.
Vacuum cloth seats as needed to remove any loose dirt.
CAUTION: Aftermarket, non-Tesla seat covers may
inhibit the sensitivity of a seat

Seat Belts
Extend the belts to wipe. Do not use any type of
detergent or chemical cleaning agent. Allow the belts to dry naturally while extended, preferably away from
direct sunlight.
Door Seals
Wipe door seals with a damp cloth to remove any debris. Excessive debris on the door seals can cause
paint damage when contacting surrounding surfaces. Avoid using alcohol wipes or any chemical products that can potentially deteriorate the coating on the door seals.
Touchscreen
Clean the touchscreen using a soft lint-free cloth
specifically designed to clean monitors and displays. Do
not use cleaners (such as a glass cleaner) or alcohol- based gel products (such as hand sanitizer) and do not use a wet wipe or a dry statically-charged cloth (such as a recently washed
microfiber). To wipe the touchscreen
without activating buttons and changing settings, you
can enable Screen Clean Mode. Touch
Controls > Display
> Screen Clean Mode. The display darkens to make it
easy to see dust and smudges. To exit Screen Clean
Mode, press and hold
HOLD TO EXIT.
Chrome and Metal Surfaces
Polish, abrasive cleaners, alcohol-based gel products (such as hand sanitizer), and hard cloths can damage the
finish on chrome and metal surfaces.
Cautions for Interior Cleaning
CAUTION: Using solvents (including alcohol),
alcohol-based gel products (such as hand
sanitizer), bleach, citrus, naphtha, or silicone-based
products or additives on interior components can
cause damage.
CAUTION: Statically-charged materials can cause
damage to the touchscreen.
WARNING: If you notice any damage on an airbag
or seat belt, contact Tesla immediately.
WARNING: Do not allow any water, cleaners, or
fabric to enter a seat belt mechanism.
WARNING: Exposure to chemical cleaners can be
hazardous and can irritate eyes and skin. Read and
observe the instructions provided by the
manufacturer of the chemical cleaner.
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:

Floor Mats
To extend the life of your carpet and make them easier to clean, use genuine Tesla
floor mats (see Parts and
Accessories on page 190). Maintain floor mats by
regularly cleaning them and checking that they are
properly attached. Replace
floor mats if they become
excessively worn.
WARNING: To avoid potential interference with a
foot pedal, ensure that the driver

Topping Up Windshield Washer
Fluid
The only reservoir into which you can add fluid is the
windshield washer
fluid reservoir, which is located
behind the front trunk. When the level is low, a message
displays on the
touchscreen.
To top up the washer fluid:
1.
Open the hood.
2.
Clean around the filler cap before opening it to
prevent dirt from entering the reservoir.
3.
Open the filler cap.
4.
While avoiding spilling, fill the reservoir until the fluid

level is visible just below the filler neck. The reservoir
has a capacity of 3.2 liters.
5.
Wipe up any spills immediately and wash the
affected area with water.
6.
Reinstall the filler cap.
CAUTION: Use only windshield washer fluid meant
for automotive vehicles. Using other substances,
such as untreated water, can result in bacterial
growth within the climate control system resulting
in odor or potential damage that is not covered by
warranty.
NOTE: Some national or local regulations restrict the use
of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs). VOCs are commonly used as antifreeze in washer
fluid. Use a
washer
fluid with limited VOC content only if it provides
adequate freeze resistance for all climates in which you drive
Model 3.
CAUTION: Do not add formulated washer fluids

that contain water repellent or bug wash. These
fluids can cause streaking, smearing, and
squeaking or other noises.
WARNING: In temperatures below 40

3. Lift the wiper arm a short distance away from the windshield, just far enough to access the wiper blade.CAUTION: Wiper blades do not lock into a lifted
position. Do not lift a wiper arm beyond its
intended position.
4.
Place a towel between the wiper arm and windshield to avoid scratching or cracking the windshield.
5.
Hold the wiper arm and press the locking tab while sliding the blade down the arm.
6.
Align the new wiper blade on the wiper arm and slide
it toward the end of the wiper arm until it locks into place.
7.
Turn Wiper Service Mode off to return the wipers to
their normal position.
Cleaning Washer Jets
If a windshield washer becomes blocked, use a thin
strand of wire to clear any blockages from the nozzles.
WARNING: Do not operate the washers while
cleaning Model 3. Windshield washer fluid can
irritate eyes and skin. Read and observe the
washer fluid manufacturer