Your Battery coolant should not need to be replaced for the life of your vehicle under most circumstances. However, if the quantity of fluid in the cooling system drops below the recommended level, the instrument panel displays a warning message. Stop driving Model S as soon as safety permits and contact Tesla.

Fluid Level Check

DO NOT REMOVE THE FILLER CAP AND DO NOT ADD FLUID. Doing so can result in damage not covered by the warranty.

Do Not Top Up Battery Coolant

Warning

Battery coolant can be hazardous and can irritate eyes and skin. Under no circumstances should you remove the filler cap and/or add coolant. If the instrument panel warns you that the fluid level is low, contact Tesla immediately.

To maximize the performance and life of the Battery, the cooling system uses a specific mixture of G-48 ethylene-glycol coolant (HOAT). Contact Tesla for more specific information about the coolant.

Checking Brake Fluid

Warning

Contact Tesla immediately if you notice increased movement of the brake pedal or a significant loss of brake fluid. Driving under these conditions can result in extended stopping distances or complete brake failure.

A red brake indicator on the instrument panel alerts you if the quantity of fluid in the brake reservoir drops below the recommended level. If it displays while driving, stop as soon as safety permits by gently applying the brakes. Do not continue driving. Contact Tesla immediately.

Fluid Level Check

Tesla checks the brake fluid level and health at the regularly scheduled maintenance intervals.

Topping Up the Brake Fluid

Do not top up your brake fluid. The following instructions are provided for information purposes and future reference only:

Clean the filler cap before removing it to prevent dirt from entering the reservoir.
Unscrew the cap and remove it.
Top up the reservoir to the MAX mark using the appropriate brake fluid.
Reinstall the filler cap, ensuring it is fully secured.

Warning

Only use new fluid from a sealed air-tight container. Never use previously used fluid or fluid from a previously opened container—fluid absorbs moisture which decreases braking performance. Brake fluid is highly toxic. Keep containers sealed and out of the reach of children. In the event of accidental consumption, seek medical attention immediately. Brake fluid damages painted surfaces. Immediately soak up any spills with an absorbent cloth and wash the area with a mixture of car shampoo and water.

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 instrument panel.

To top up the washer fluid:

Open the hood.
Clean around the filler cap before opening it to prevent dirt from entering the reservoir.
Open the filler cap.
While avoiding spilling, fill the reservoir until the fluid level is visible just below the filler neck.
Wipe up any spills immediately and wash the affected area with water.
Reinstall the filler cap.

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 S.

CAUTION

Do not add formulated washer fluids that contain water repellent or bug wash. These fluids can cause streaking, smearing, squeaking, or other noises. In temperatures below 40° F (4° C), use washer fluid with antifreeze. In cold weather, using a washer fluid without antifreeze can impair visibility through the windshield. Windshield washer fluid can irritate eyes and skin. Read and observe the instructions provided by the washer fluid manufacturer.

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