ECO mode TESLA MODEL S 2015 Service Manual

Wi-Fi is available as a data connectionmethod and is often faster than cellular data
networks. Connecting to Wi-Fi is especially
useful in areas with limited or no cellular connectivity. To ensure fast, reliable deliveryof Model S updates (see Software Updates on
page 99), Tesla recommends leaving Wi-Fi
turned on and connected to a Wi-Fi network.
To connect to a Wi-Fi network:
1. Touch the 3G icon in the touchscreen
status bar. Model S will start scanning and
display the Wi-Fi networks that are within range.
2. Select the Wi-Fi network you want to use,
enter the password (if necessary), then
touch Connect .
You can also connect to a hidden network
that isn't shown on the list of scanned
networks. Just touch Wi-Fi Settings and enter
the name of the network in the resulting
dialog box.
Once you have connected to a network,
Model S auto-connects whenever the network
is within range. If more than one previously connected network is within range, Model S
connects to the one most recently used.
Note: You can also use a mobile hotspot or
your phone's Internet connection via Wi-Fi tethering.
Note: At Tesla service centers, Model S
automatically connects to a Tesla Service Wi-
Fi access point.
Connecting to Wi-Fi
98Model S Owner's Manual

Loading New Software
Model S updates its software wirelessly,
providing new features throughout your term
of ownership. The first time you enter Model S after an update is made available, a
scheduling window displays on the
touchscreen.
Note: Some software updates can take from
two to three hours to complete. Model S must
be in P (Park) when the new software is being
installed. To ensure the fastest and most
reliable delivery of software updates, leave
the Wi-Fi turned on and connected whenever
possible (see Connecting to Wi-Fi on page
98).
When a software update is available, a yellow clock icon appears on the touchscreen’sstatus bar.
1. Touch the up and down arrows to change
the time you want the update to begin (if
necessary). Then touch Set For This Time
to schedule the update. Once scheduled,
the yellow clock icon on the touchscreen’s
status bar becomes white.
2. Touch Install Now to immediately start the
update process.
You can reschedule the update any time
before it begins. To do so, touch the clock icon on the touchscreen’s status bar to displaythe update window.
If Model S is charging when the software
update begins, charging stops. Charging resumes automatically when the update is
complete. If you are driving Model S at the scheduled update time, the update is canceled
and you need to reschedule.
If the touchscreen displays a message
indicating that a software update was not successfully completed, contact Tesla.
Viewing Release Notes
When a software update is complete, learn
about the new features by displaying the
release notes. To display release notes at any time touch the Tesla “T” at the top center of
the touchscreen, then touch Release Notes.
Software Updates
Using the Touchscreen99

About the Battery
Model S has one of the most sophisticated
battery systems in the world. The most important way to preserve the Battery is to
LEAVE YOUR MODEL S PLUGGED IN when
you are not using it. This is particularly
important if you are not planning to drive
Model S for several weeks. When plugged in,
Model S wakes up when needed to
automatically maintain a charge level that
maximizes the lifetime of the Battery.
There is no advantage to waiting until the
Battery’s level is low before charging. In fact,
the Battery performs best when charged
regularly.
Note: If the Model S Battery becomes
completely discharged in a situation in which
towing is required, the owner is responsible for towing expenses. Discharge-related
towing expenses are not covered under the
Roadside Assistance policy.
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. On average, the Battery discharges at a rate of 1% per day. 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 discharges by
approximately 14%.
Discharging the Battery to 0% may
permanently damage the Battery. To protect against a complete discharge, Model S enters
a low-power consumption mode when the
charge level drops to 5%. In this mode, the
Battery stops supporting the onboard electronics to slow the discharge rate to
approximately 4% per month. Once this low-
power consumption mode is active, it is
important to plug in Model S within two
months to avoid Battery damage.
Note: When the low-power consumption
mode is active, the auxiliary 12V battery is no
longer being charged and can completely
discharge within 12 hours. In the unlikely event
that this occurs, you may need to jump start
or replace the 12V battery before you can
charge. In this situation, contact Tesla.Temperature Limits
For better long-term performance, avoid
exposing Model S to ambient temperatures above 140° F (60° C) or below -22° F (-30° 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 when Model S is not in use. Touch
Controls > Displays > Energy Saving . For more
information on maximizing range and saving
energy, see Getting Maximum Range on page
70.
Battery Warnings and CautionsWarning: 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 Model S or use
the vehicle without jump starting or
replacing the 12V battery. Leaving Model S unplugged for an extendedperiod can also result in permanent
Battery damage. If you are unable to
charge Model S, contact Tesla
immediately.Caution: The Battery requires no owner
maintenance. Do not remove the filler cap
and do not add fluid. If the instrument
panel warns you that the fluid level is low, contact Tesla immediately.
Battery Information
Charging103

Opening the Charge Port
The charge port is located on the driver’s side of Model S, behind a door that is part of therear tail light assembly.
Park Model S so that the charge cable easily
reaches the charge port.
With Model S unlocked, or a recognized key
nearby, press and release the button on a
Tesla charge cable to open the charge port door. If the cable you are using does not havethis button, you can also open the charge portdoor using any of these methods:
• Touch Controls > Charge Port on the
touchscreen.
• Touch the battery icon at the top of the touchscreen to display the Charging
screen, then touch Open Charge Port.
• Hold down the rear trunk button on the key for 1-2 seconds.
To charge at a public charging station, attach
an adapter to the station’s chargingconnector. The most commonly usedadapter(s) for each market region aresupplied with Model S. Depending on thecharging equipment you are using, you may
need to start and stop charging using a control on the charging equipment.
Note: The charge port lights up white when
you open the charge port door. If you do not
connect a charge cable, the light eventually
turns off.
Note: If you do not insert the charge cable
into the charge port within a few minutes after
opening the charge port door, the latch
closes. If this happens, use the touchscreen to
open the charge port door.Caution: The connector end of the charge
cable can damage the paint if dropped onto Model S.Caution: Do not attempt to force the
charge port door open. Doing so can
damage the latch. A damaged latch
cannot hold the door closed.
Plugging In
If desired, use the touchscreen to change the
charge limit and the charging current.
If you are using the Mobile Connector, plug it into the power outlet before plugging it intoModel S.
Align the connector to the charge port and
insert fully. When the connector is properly
inserted, charging begins automatically after Model S:
• Engages a latch that holds the connector in place.
• Shifts into Park (if it was in any other gear).
• Heats or cools the Battery, if needed. If the Battery requires heating or cooling,
you may notice a delay before charging begins.
Note: Whenever Model S is plugged in but not
actively charging, it draws energy from the wall instead of using energy stored in the
Battery. For example, if you are sitting in
Model S and using the touchscreen while it’s is
parked and plugged in, the energy being used
is drawn from the power outlet instead of the
Battery.
Charging Model S
104Model S Owner's Manual

During ChargingDuring charging, the charge port pulses green
and charging status displays on the instrument panel. The frequency at which thecharge port’s light pulses slows down as thecharge level approaches full. When charging iscomplete, the light stops pulsing and is solid
green.
Note: If Model S is locked, the light around the
charge port does not light up.
If the light around the charge port lights up
red while charging, a fault is detected. Check
the instrument panel or touchscreen for a
message describing the fault. A fault can
occur due to something as common as a
power outage. If a power outage occurs,
charging resumes automatically when power
is restored.
Note: When charging, particularly at high
currents, the refrigerant compressor and the
fan operate as needed to keep the Battery cool. Therefore, it is normal to hear sounds
during charging.
Stopping Charging You can stop charging at any time by
disconnecting the charge cable or touching
Stop Charging on the touchscreen.
To disconnect the charge cable:
1. Press and hold the button on a Tesla
connector to release the latch.
2. Pull the connector from the charge port.
3. Push the charge port door closed.
Note: To prevent unauthorized unplugging of
the charge cable, Model S must be unlocked
or able to recognize a key before you can
disconnect the charge cable.
Note: Model S stops charging whenever you
double-click the key. If you do not unplug
within 60 seconds, charging resumes.Caution: Tesla strongly recommends
leaving Model S plugged in when not in
use. This maintains the Battery at the optimum level of charge.Charge Port LightWhiteThe charge port door is open and
Model S is ready to charge. The
connector either hasn't been
inserted yet, or the latch is
released and the connector is
ready to be removed.Solid
GreenCharging is complete.Blinkin
g
GreenCharging is in progress. As Model S approaches a full charge, the
frequency of the blinking is slower.BlueModel S detects that a connector has been plugged in, but charging
has not started. Either Model S is
preparing to charge, or a charging
session is scheduled to begin at a
specified future time.Solid
AmberThe connector is not fully plugged
in. Realign the connector to the
charge port and insert fully.Blinkin
g
AmberModel S is charging at a reduced
current (AC charging only).RedA fault is detected and charging
has stopped. Check the instrument
panel or touchscreen for a
message describing the fault.
Charging Model S
Charging105

Changing Charge SettingsThe charge settings screen displays on the
touchscreen whenever the charge port door is
open.
To display charge settings at any time, touch
the Battery icon on the top of the
touchscreen, or touch Controls > Charging
(located in the upper right portion of the
Controls screen).
Note: The following illustration is provided for
demonstration purposes only and may vary
slightly depending on the software version
and market region of your Model S.
1. Charge status messages (such as
Charging Scheduled, Charging In
Progress) display here.
2. To adjust the charge limit, touch Set
Charge Limit , then drag the slider bar. You
can charge to any level from 50% to 100%
based on your driving needs. The setting
you choose applies to both immediate
and scheduled charging sessions.
3. Location-specific schedule. With Model S
in Park, set a specific time when you want
Model S to begin charging at the current
location. If, at the scheduled time, Model S
is not plugged in at the location, it will
start charging as soon as you plug it in as
long as you are plugging it in within six hours of the scheduled time. If you plug in
after six hours, Model S does not start
charging until the scheduled time on the next day. To override this setting, touch
Start Charging or Stop Charging (see
item 4). When you set a scheduled
charging time, Model S displays the set time on the instrument panel and the
touchscreen.
4. Touch to open the charge port door or to
start (or stop) charging.
5. The current automatically sets to the
maximum current available from the
attached charge cable, unless it was
previously reduced to a lower level.
If needed, touch the up/down arrows to change the current (for example, you may
want to reduce the current if you are
concerned about overloading a domestic
wiring circuit shared by other equipment).
It is not possible to set the charging
current to a level that exceeds the maximum available from the attached
charge cable.
When you change the current, Model S
remembers the location. So if you
subsequently charge at the same location, you do not need to change it again.
Note: If Model S automatically reduced a
charging location's current because of
fluctuations in input power (see the note
in Charging Status on page 107), Tesla
recommends charging at the lower
current until the underlying problem is
resolved and the charging location can provide consistent power.
Charging Model S
106Model S Owner's Manual

Charging StatusThe following illustration is provided for demonstration purposes only and may vary slightlydepending on the software version and market region of your Model S.1. Charging rate per hour.
2. Total estimated driving distance (or
energy) available. Instead of driving distance as shown here, you can display
the percentage of battery energy
remaining. To do so, touch Controls >
Settings > Units & Format > Energy &
Charging .
Note: A portion of the battery image may
appear blue. This indicates that a small
portion of the energy stored in the battery
is not available on your drive because the battery is cold. This is normal and no
reason for concern. When the battery warms up, the blue portion is no longer
displayed.
3. Current being supplied/Total current
available from the connected power
supply (see Changing Charge Settings on
page 106).
4. Estimated increase in driving distance (or
energy) achieved so far in this charging session. Instead of driving distance as
illustrated above, you can change settings
to display the amount of energy achieved.
To do so, touch Controls > Settings >
Units & Format > Energy & Charging .
5. Charging status information displays here.
For example, if Model S is charging, it displays the time remaining until fully
charged at the currently selected charge
level. When scheduled charging is set fora location, it displays when charging will
start.
6. Voltage being supplied by the charge
cable.
Note: If Model S is charging and detects
unexpected fluctuations in the input power, it automatically reduces the charging current by25%. For example, a 40 amp current isreduced to 30 amps. This automatic currentreduction increases robustness and safety in
situations when a problem exists outside of
Model S or its charging electronics. For
example, a home wiring system, receptacle,
adapter or cord is unable to meet its rated
current capacity. When Model S automatically
reduces a location's charging current, it
retains the reduced current for that location
as a precaution. Although you can manually
increase it, Tesla recommends charging at the
lower current until the underlying problem is
resolved and the charging location can
provide consistent power.
Charging Model S
Charging107

Maintaining Tire PressuresKeep tires inflated to the pressures shown onthe Tire and Loading Information label, even ifit differs from the pressure printed on the tire
itself. The Tire and Loading Information label is located on the center door pillar and isvisible when the driver’s door is open.The Tire Pressure indicator light on
the instrument panel alerts you if
one or more tires is under- or over-
inflated.
The Tire Pressure indicator light does not
immediately turn off when you adjust tire
pressure. After inflating the tire to the
recommended pressure, you must drive over
25 mph (40 km/h) for more than 10 minutes to activate the Tire Pressure MonitoringSystem (TPMS), which turns off the TirePressure indicator light.
If the indicator light flashes for one minute whenever you power on Model S, a fault with
the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) is detected (see TPMS Malfunction on page
113).
Checking and Adjusting Tire Pressures
Follow these steps when tires are cold and
Model S has been stationary for over three
hours:
1. Remove the valve cap.
2. Firmly press an accurate tire pressure
gauge onto the valve to measure
pressure.
3. If required, add air to reach the
recommended pressure.
4. Re-check pressure by removing and re-
attaching the tire gauge.
5. If you added too much air, release air by
pressing the metal stem in the center of
the valve.
6. Recheck the pressure with the tire gauge
and adjust if necessary.
7. Replace the valve cap to prevent dirt from
entering. Periodically check the valve for damage and leaks.Warning: Under-inflation is the most
common cause of tire failures and can
cause a tire to overheat, resulting in
severe tire cracking, tread separation, or
blowout, which causes unexpected loss of vehicle control and increased risk ofinjury. Under-inflation also reduces
Battery range and tire tread life.Warning: Check tire pressures using an
accurate pressure gauge when tires are
cold. It takes only about one mile (1.6 km) of driving to warm up the tires sufficiently
to affect tire pressures. Parking the
vehicle in direct sunlight or in hot
weather can also affect tire pressures. If you must check warm tires, expectincreased pressures. Do not let air out of
warm tires in an attempt to match
recommended cold tire pressures. A hot tire at or below the recommended coldtire inflation pressure is dangerously
under-inflated.Warning: Do not use any tire sealant
other than the type provided in a Tesla tire repair kit. Other types can cause tire
pressure sensors to malfunction. If your Model S did not include a tire repair kit,
you can purchase one from Tesla Motors.
Tire Care and Maintenance
Maintenance109

Inspecting and Maintaining Tires
Regularly inspect the tread and side walls for
any sign of distortion (bulges), cuts or wear.Warning: Do not drive Model S if a tire is
damaged, excessively worn, or inflated to
an incorrect pressure. Check tires
regularly for wear, and ensure there are
no cuts, bulges or exposure of the ply/
cord structure.
Tire Wear
Adequate tread depth is important for proper tire performance. Tires with a tread depth less
than 4/32” (3 mm) are more likely tohydroplane in wet conditions and should notbe used. Tires with a tread depth less than5/32” (4 mm) do not perform well in snow
and slush and should not be used when
driving in winter conditions.
Model S is originally fitted with tires that have
wear indicators molded into the tread pattern.
When the tread has been worn down to 2/32”
(1.6 mm), the indicators start to appear at the surface of the tread pattern, producing the
effect of a continuous band of rubber across
the width of the tire. For optimal performance and safety, Tesla recommends replacing tires
before the wear indicators are visible.
Tire Rotation, Balance, and Wheel Alignment
Tesla recommends rotating the tires every 5000 miles (8000 km).
Unbalanced wheels (sometimes noticeable as
vibration through the steering wheel) affect
vehicle handling and tire life. Even with
regular use, wheels can get out of balance.
Therefore, they should be balanced as
required.
If tire wear is uneven (on one side of the tire
only) or becomes abnormally excessive, check
the alignment of wheels.
Note: When replacing only two tires, always
install the new tires on the rear.
Punctured Tires
A puncture eventually causes the tire to lose
pressure, which is why it is important to check tire pressures frequently. Permanently repair
or replace punctured or damaged tires as
soon as possible. Do not drive with a
punctured tire, even if the puncture has not caused the tire to deflate. A punctured tire
can deflate suddenly at any time.
Your tubeless tires may not leak when
penetrated, provided the object remains in the
tire. If, however, you feel a sudden vibration or
ride disturbance while driving, or you suspect
a tire is damaged, immediately reduce your
speed. Drive slowly, while avoiding heavy
braking or sharp steering and, when safe to do
so, stop the vehicle. Arrange to have Model S
transported to a Tesla service center, or to a
nearby tire repair center.
Note: In some cases, you can temporarily
repair small tire punctures (under 1/4”/6 mm)
using an optional tire repair kit available from
Tesla. This allows you to slowly drive Model S to Tesla or to a nearby tire repair facility.Warning: Do not drive Model S with a
punctured tire. Even if the punctured tire has not deflated, it can suddenly deflate
at any time.
Flat Spots
If Model S is stationary for a long period in
high temperatures, tires can form flat spots. When Model S is driven, these flat spots causea vibration which gradually disappears as thetires warm up and regain their original shape.
To minimize the flat spots during storage,
inflate tires to the maximum pressure
indicated on the tire wall. Then, before driving, release air to adjust tire pressure to the
recommended levels.
Improving Tire Mileage
To improve the mileage you get from your
tires, maintain tires at the recommended tire
pressures, observe speed limits and advisory
speeds, and avoid:
• Pulling away quickly, or hard acceleration.
• Fast turns and heavy braking. • Potholes and objects in the road.
• Hitting curbs when parking.
• Contaminating tires with fluids that can cause damage.
Tire Care and Maintenance
110Model S Owner's Manual

Replacing Tires and Wheels
Tires degrade over time due to the effects of
ultraviolet light, extreme temperatures, high loads, and environmental conditions. It isrecommended that tires are replaced everysix years, or sooner if required.
Wheel rims and tires are matched to suit the
handling characteristics of the vehicle. Replacement tires must comply with the
original specification. If tires other than those
specified are used, ensure that the load and speed ratings marked on the tire equal orexceed those of the original specification.
Ideally, you should replace all four tires at the
same time. If this is not possible, replace the
tires in pairs (both front or both rear). When
replacing tires, always re-balance and check
the alignment of wheels.
If you replace a wheel, the TPMS (Tire
Pressure Monitoring System) sensors need to
be reset to ensure they provide accurate
warnings when tires are under- or over-
inflated (see Resetting the TPMS Sensors on
page 113).Warning: For your safety, use only tires
and wheels that match the original
specification (see Wheels and Tires on
page 143). Tires that do not match the original specification can affect the
operation of the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).Warning: Never exceed the speed rating
of your vehicle's tires. The speed rating is
shown on the sidewall of your tires (see
Understanding Tire Markings on page
145).Asymmetric Tires
Model S tires are asymmetric and must be mounted on the wheel with the correctsidewall facing outward. The sidewall of thetire is marked with the word OUTSIDE. When
new tires are installed, make sure that the tires
are correctly mounted on the wheels.Warning: Road holding is seriously
impaired if the tires are incorrectly
installed on the wheels.
Tire Types
Summer Tires
Your Model S may be originally equipped with high performance summer tires. These tires
are designed for maximum dry and wet road performance. Summer tires do not performwell in winter conditions. Tesla recommendsusing winter tires if driving in cold
temperatures or on roads where snow or ice
may be present. Contact Tesla for winter tire recommendations.
Warning: In cold temperatures or on
snow or ice, summer tires do not provide
adequate traction. Selecting and installing the appropriate tires for winter conditionsis important to ensure the safety andoptimum performance of your Model S,
even when equipped with dual motors.
All-Season Tires
Your Model S may be originally equipped with all-season tires. These tires are designed to
provide adequate traction in most conditions
year-round, but may not provide the same
level of traction as winter tires in snowy or icy
conditions. All-season tires can be identified by “ALL SEASON" and/or "M+S” (mud and
snow) on the tire sidewall.
Tire Care and Maintenance
Maintenance111