brake TESLA MODEL 3 2023 User Guide

NOTE: If Autosteer cancels because you started steering
manually, Traffic-Aware Cruise Control remains active.
Disengage
Traffic-Aware Cruise Control as you normally
would, by pressing the brake pedal
moving the drive
stalk upward.
NOTE: If you move the drive stalk upward and hold it up
for more than one second,
Model 3 shifts into Neutral
after canceling Autosteer.
To disable Autosteer so it is no longer available, touch
Controls > Autopilot > Autosteer (Beta).
Auto Lane Change
NOTE: Depending on market region, vehicle
configuration, options purchased, and software version,
your vehicle may not be equipped with Auto Lane
Change, or the feature may not operate exactly as
described.
When Autosteer is active, engage a turn signal to move
Model 3 into an adjacent lane (moving the steering
wheel would cancel Autosteer).
WARNING: It is the driver

In situations where Auto Lane Change is unable to operate at optimal performance, or cannot operate due to inadequate data, the
touchscreen displays a series of
warnings. Therefore, when using Auto Lane Change,
always pay attention to the
touchscreen and be
prepared to manually steer
Model 3.
Adjacent Lane Speed
NOTE: Depending on market region, vehicle
configuration, options purchased, and software version,
your vehicle may not be equipped with Adjacent Lane
Speed, or the feature may not operate exactly as
described.
When moving significantly faster than vehicles in
adjacent lanes,
Model 3 automatically reduces the
driving speed. This is especially helpful in heavy
traffic
situations or when vehicles are constantly merging into
different lanes. When Model 3 detects other vehicles
driving
significantly slower, the touchscreen highlights
the adjacent lanes with arrows and detected vehicles in gray, and
Model 3 reduces the driving speed as
appropriate. To temporarily override this feature, press
the accelerator pedal.
WARNING: Never depend on Autopilot to
determine a safe driving speed; you are
responsible for driving safely and according to
traffic laws in your market region.
Stop Light and Stop Sign Warning
NOTE: Depending on market region, vehicle
configuration, options purchased, and software version,
your vehicle may not be equipped with Stop Light and
Stop Sign Warning, or the feature may not operate
exactly as described.
While Autosteer is in use, Model 3 displays a warning on
the
touchscreen and sounds a chime if it detects that
you are likely to run through a red stop light or stop sign. If this happens,
TAKE IMMEDIATE CORRECTIVE
ACTION!
The visual and audible warnings cancel after a few seconds, or when you press the brake pedal, whichever
comes
first.
Stop Light and Stop Sign Warning provides warnings
only. It does not slow down or stop
Model 3 at red traffic
lights, stop signs, road markings, etc. If equipped with
Traffic Light and Stop Sign Control, you can enable this
feature to automatically stop Model 3 at traffic lights
and stop signs (see Traffic Light and Stop Sign Control
on page 93).
CAUTION: Stop Light and Stop Sign Warning
requires on-board maps to know that a particular
stop light or stop sign exists at a location. In some
cases, map data is inaccurate or outdated and may
not include all stop lights or stop signs. Therefore,
Stop Light and Stop Sign Warning may not detect
all stop lights and stop signs.
WARNING: The Stop Light and Stop Sign Warning
feature does not apply the brakes or decelerate
Model 3 and may not detect all stop lights and
stop signs. Stop Light and Stop Sign Warning is
designed for guidance purposes only and is not a
substitute for attentive driving and sound
judgment. Keep your eyes on the road when
driving and never depend on Stop Light and Stop
Sign Warning to warn you of a stop light or stop
sign.
WARNING: Stop Light and Stop Sign Warning is
designed to warn you only when approaching a
visible red stop sign, solid red or later portion of a
yellow traffic light. It may not warn you of
intersections with flashing lights and it does not
warn you of yield signs or temporary stop and
yield signs (such as those used in construction
areas). Additionally, Stop Light and Stop Sign
Warning does not warn you of approaching stop
lights or stop signs when you are pressing the
accelerator pedal or brake pedal (which disables
Autosteer).
Limitations
Autosteer and its associated functions are particularly
unlikely to operate as intended when:

WARNING: Forward Collision Warning may
provide a warning in situations where the
likelihood of collision may not exist. Stay alert and
always pay attention to the area in front of Model 3
so you can anticipate whether any action is
required.
Forward Collision Warning operates only when driving between approximately
3 mph (5 km/h) and 90 mph
(150 km/h).
WARNING: Forward Collision Warning does not
provide a warning when the driver is already
applying the brake.
Automatic Emergency Braking
Model 3 is designed to determine the distance from a
detected object traveling in front of it. When a frontal collision is considered unavoidable, Automatic Emergency Braking is designed to apply the brakes to
reduce the vehicle

WARNING: Contact Tesla immediately if you notice
any significant or sudden drop in fluid levels or
uneven tire wear.
Fluid Replacement Intervals
Battery coolant and brake fluid levels should only be
checked by
Tesla or a professional automotive repair
shop. Specific service information is available in the
Service Manual.

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

Motor Type(s)
Rear motor: AC permanent magnet synchronous motor, liquid-cooled, with variable frequency drive.
Front motor (AWD vehicles): AC induction motor, liquid-cooled, with variable frequency drive.
Transmission
TypeSingle speed fixed gearGearbox Ratio9:1
Steering
SteeringSpecificationsTypeRack and pinion with electronic power steering, speed sensitiveNumber of turns lock to lock2.00Turning Circle (curb to curb)38 ft (11.6 m)
Brakes
Type4-wheel anti-lock braking system (ABS) with Electronic Brake Force Distribution, Integrated Advanced Stability Control and Electronic
Accelerator pedal actuated regenerative braking systemCalipers
Front: Four piston fixed
Rear: Integrated Electronic Parking Brake Sliding
Rotor Diameter (ventilated)
Front (non-Performance): 12.6"/320 mm
Front (Performance): 13.98"/355 mm
Rear (non-Performance): 13.2"/335 mm
Rear (Performance): 13.2”/335 mm
Front Rotor thickness
New: 0.98"/25 mm
Service limit: 0.91”/23 mm
Rear Rotor thickness
New: 0.79"/20 mm
Service limit: 0.71”/18 mm
Lateral runout
0.050 mm
Subsystems
210MODEL 3 Owner

Chordal runout
0.040 mm
Disk thickness variation (DTV)
0.010 mm
Non-Performance Front Brake Pad
Thickness (excluding back plate)
New: 0.393"/10 mm
Service limit: 0.110"/2.8 mm
Non-Performance Rear Brake Pad
Thickness (excluding back plate)
New: 0.354"/9 mm
Service limit: 0.078"/2 mm
Performance Front Brake Pad
Thickness (excluding back plate)
New: 0.393"/10 mm
Service limit: 0.085"/2.15 mm
Performance Rear Brake Pad
Thickness (excluding back plate)
New: 0.393"/10 mm
Service limit: 0.071"/1.8 mm
Parking brakeElectrically actuated parking brake integrated into rear caliper
Suspension
SuspensionSpecificationsFrontIndependent, double wishbone, coil spring/telescopic damper, sway barRearIndependent, multi-link, coil spring/telescopic damper
Battery - Low Voltage
Battery - Low VoltageSpecificationsRating33 amp hour or higherVoltage and PolarityLow voltage negative (-) ground
Battery - High Voltage
For LI-ION Battery:
TypeLi-ionNominal Voltage
355V DC
Temperature RangeDo not expose Model 3 to ambient temperatures above 140

DO NOT TRANSPORT WITH
WHEELS ON THE GROUND
The motor(s) in Model 3 generates power when the
wheels spin. Always transport
Model 3 with all four tires
off the ground. Ensure that the tires are unable to spin at
any time during transport.
WARNING: NEVER TRANSPORT YOUR VEHICLE
WITH THE TIRES IN A POSITION WHERE THEY
CAN SPIN. DOING SO CAN LEAD TO SIGNIFICANT
DAMAGE AND OVERHEATING. IN RARE CASES
EXTREME OVERHEATING MAY CAUSE THE
SURROUNDING COMPONENTS TO IGNITE.
Do not transport Model 3 using any method that is not
specified by Tesla. Adhere to the instructions provided in
the following sections and observe all warnings and
cautions provided. Damage caused by improper
transporting of your vehicle is not covered by the
warranty.
NOTE: Tesla is not liable or responsible for reimbursing
services not dispatched through Tesla Roadside Assistance.
Approved Methods for Transporting
A flatbed truck or comparable transport vehicle is the
recommended method of transporting
Model 3. The
vehicle can face either direction when using a
flatbed.
If Model 3 must be transported without a flatbed truck,
then wheel lifts and dollies must be used to ensure that
all four wheels are
off of the ground. This method may
only be used for a maximum of
35 miles (55 km), and
must not exceed the manufacturer speed rating of the
dollies. With this method, Tesla recommends the vehicle
facing forward so that the front wheels are lifted and the rear wheels are on dollies.CAUTION: Enable Transport Mode (see Activate
Transport Mode on page 221) before winching Model
3 onto a flatbed truck (see Pull onto the Flatbed
Truck on page 222). If Transport Mode is not
available or the touchscreen is not accessible, self-
loading dollies or tire skates must be used to load
the vehicle into the approved transportation
position. Tesla is not responsible for any damage
caused by or during the transport of Model 3,
including personal property damage or damage
caused by using self-loading dollies or tire skates.
NOTE: Transport Mode is only intended to allow for
winching
Model 3 onto a flatbed truck or repositioning
the vehicle out of a parking space. While in Transport Mode, the tires are allowed to rotate slowly (under
3
mph or 5 km/h) and for a very short distance (less than
30 feet or 10 meters). See Activate Transport Mode on
page 221. Exceeding these boundaries can lead to
significant damage and overheating that is not covered
by the warranty.
WARNING: Model 3 is equipped with high voltage
components that may be compromised as a result
of a collision (see High Voltage Components on
page 154). Before transporting Model 3, it is
important to assume these components are
energized. Always follow high voltage safety
precautions (wearing personal protection
equipment, etc.) until emergency response
professionals have evaluated the vehicle and can
accurately confirm that all high voltage systems
are no longer energized. Failure to do so may
result in serious injury.
Activate Transport Mode
Transport Mode keeps the parking brake disengaged
while winching
Model 3 onto a flatbed truck. When
active, Transport Mode displays a message indicating that the vehicle will remain free-rolling. To enable
Transport Mode: