Tesla Service: tips on vehicle care, maintenance and self-help

Tesla Vehicles are not only a technical masterpiece, they are also cars that deserve regular care. To ensure that your vehicle always stays in top shape, you should carry out a few simple maintenance tasks regularly.

Here you can find out how to get the best out of your Tesla and fix minor problems yourself.

Top up the windshield washer fluid:

A clear view is essential for your safety. When the windshield washer fluid is running low, the Tesla-touchscreen shows you a warning. This allows you to top up the fluid quickly and safely:

  1. Open the hood of the front trunk.

  2. Clean the area around the filler cap to avoid dirt.

  3. Open the filler cap and fill the fluid to just below the filler neck.

  4. Wipe off any spilled liquid immediately and rinse the area with water.

  5. Replace the filler cap.

Tip: Only use windshield washer fluid suitable for vehicles. Untreated water can lead to bacterial growth and unpleasant odors in the air conditioning system.

Clean windshield washer nozzles: Ensure a clear view

If the windshield washer nozzles of your Tesla are clogged, you can easily clear the blockages yourself. Use a thin wire to carefully remove dirt or deposits from the nozzles. It is important not to operate the windshield washer system during this cleaning process, as the washer fluid can cause eye and skin irritation. Always read and follow the instructions on the windshield washer fluid you are using.

Replace wiper blades: Clear visibility even in bad weather

To ensure that you always have a clear view in the rain, the wiper blades on your Tesla should be replaced at least once a year. Make sure that the wiper blade on the driver's side is 26 inches (650 mm) long and the one on the passenger's side is 20 inches (500 mm) long. It is important that the connector of the replacement blade is identical to the original blade so that you can fit it without any problems. (Specifications for Tesla Model Y) Different connectors could make fitting impossible.

To replace the wiper blades, proceed as follows:

  1. Put the transmission in "Park" and switch off the windshield wipers.

  2. Touch "Vehicle > Service > Windshield wiper service mode" on the touchscreen to move the wipers to the service position.

  3. Carefully lift the wiper arm, just enough to make the wiper blade accessible. Take care not to lift the arm beyond the intended position, as the wiper blades do not lock into place when they are raised.

  4. Place a towel between the wiper arm and the windshield to prevent scratches or damage.

  5. Hold the wiper arm firmly, press the locking tab and slide the old wiper blade down to remove it.

  6. Align the new wiper blade with the wiper arm and slide it into position until it clicks into place. Make sure that the new blade is firmly seated and does not move before switching off the service mode.

 
To remove stones and foreign objects from the brake shield of your Tesla

A sudden creaking, grinding or knocking noise from the brakes or wheels of your Tesla may indicate that a stone or foreign object has become lodged between the brake disk and the brake shield. Although this situation does not affect braking performance, it should be rectified as soon as possible.

Step-by-step instructions for removing stones or foreign objects:

  1. Warning: If you have recently driven your vehicle, the brake components may be hot. To avoid injury, do not touch any hot parts.

  2. Put the vehicle in park.

  3. Remove the hubcap if your vehicle is fitted with one. 

  4. Using a gloved hand, carefully press on the top, sides and underside of the brake shield until the stone or foreign object falls out. Caution: Do not use any tools that could damage the brake shield or the wheel. Do not press too hard to avoid bending the brake shield.

  5. Repeat the process on the other wheels if necessary.

  6. Make sure that the noise has disappeared.

  7. Refit the hub cap, if removed.

If the noise persists, try driving slowly forwards and backwards to dislodge the foreign object. If this is not successful, make an appointment via the Tesla mobile app.

Checking and adjusting tire pressure: how to do it correctly

Correct tire pressure is crucial for safety, the service life of the tires and the range of your Tesla. On the touchscreen or in the Tesla mobile app, you can quickly check the tire pressure. To measure and adjust the tire pressure, proceed as follows:

  1. Check the recommended tire pressure on the tire and charging information plate on the driver's side.

  2. Use an accurate tire pressure gauge to measure the pressure.

  3. Pump air into the tires or deflate them until the recommended pressure is reached.

  4. Check the pressure again and repeat the process if necessary.

Important: Tires should always be checked when cold. Even a short drive can affect the tire pressure by heating it up.

Precautionary measures:

  • Avoid under-inflation of the tires, as this is the most common cause of punctures.

  • Tire pressure drops in cold weather. Adjust the pressure accordingly to ensure optimum driving conditions.

Check tire tread depth: Safety on all roads

Regularly checking the tire tread depth is essential for the safety and performance of your Tesla. Especially on wet or snow-covered roads, sufficient tread is essential to prevent aquaplaning and ensure good traction.

Measure the tread depth:

  • Tires with a tread depth of > 5/32" have sufficient tread.

  • If the tread depth is between 3/32" and 4/32"you should replace or rotate the tires soon, as their performance may be impaired in wet or snowy conditions.

  • Tires with a tread depth of < 2/32" must be replaced immediately.

To optimize handling, place the tires with the greatest tread depth in the front positions.

This is how you measure the tread depth:

Use a tread depth gauge to measure the tread on the outside, in the center and on the inside. To do this, press the pin of the gauge into one of the main tread grooves. This measurement helps you to accurately assess the condition of your tires and take action in good time.

Switch the vehicle off and on: First aid for problems

If your Tesla is behaving unusually or displays an unexplained error message, simply switching the vehicle off and on can often solve the problem.

This is how you switch your vehicle off and on again:

  1. Put the vehicle in park.

  2. Tap on the touchscreen on Vehicle > Safety > Switch off.

  3. Wait at least two minutes without operating the vehicle - do not open any doors, do not touch the brake pedal or the touchscreen.

  4. To switch the vehicle back on, press the brake pedal or open a door.

This simple method can solve many minor software problems and return your car to normal operating condition.

Touchscreen restart: How to restart the touchscreen:

  1. Make sure your vehicle is in park.

  2. Press both scroll buttons on the steering wheel simultaneously until the touchscreen turns black.

  3. Wait about 30 seconds for the screen to restart.

Important: During the restart, the vehicle status display, safety warnings and other important functions such as the reversing camera are not available. This procedure should therefore only be carried out when the vehicle is safely stationary.

    Manage keys: Control access to yourTesla

    You can easily manage the keys that are assigned to your Tesla Model Y access. This includes adding new keys, removing keys that are no longer required and customizing the key names.

    How to add a new cell phone key:

    1. Download the Tesla mobile app on your phone and log in.

    2. Make sure that Bluetooth and location services are activated on your phone.

    3. Open the Tesla mobile app and select Set up mobile key.

    4. Follow the instructions on the screen to pair the key.

    Add the key via the touchscreen:

    1. Go to Vehicle > Locks > Keys > Add key.

    2. Scan the new key card or the new key on the card reader.

    3. Confirm the pairing by scanning an already authenticated key.

    Remove the key:

    To remove a key, select Vehicle > Lockstap the trash can icon next to the corresponding key and confirm the removal by scanning an authenticated key.

    With these simple steps, you retain control over access to your Tesla and ensure that only authorized persons can use your vehicle.

    Apply the brakes: a quiet and safe ride

    After replacing brake pads or brake discs, it is important to run in the brakes to prevent possible squealing noises and achieve full braking power. Running in the brakes is particularly helpful when driving in the rain, cold weather or if surface rust has formed on the brakes.

    Before you start braking, make sure that the tires have the correct pressure. You can find this information on the sticker on the driver's door pillar or in your vehicle handbook.

    This is how you apply the brakes:

    1. Find a straight stretch of road where there is little traffic and drive at around 80-90 km/h.

    2. Press the brake pedal evenly and with medium pressure to gradually slow the vehicle down to 15 km/h.

    3. Repeat this process six times, pausing for at least 30 seconds between each pass.

    If the braking noises persist, you should use the Tesla mobile app to arrange a service appointment.

    Check the brake fluid: Safety first

    If you notice that you have to depress the brake pedal further than usual or that brake fluid is leaking, you should immediately Tesla immediately. A loss of brake fluid can lead to longer braking distances or even total brake failure. A red warning light on the touchscreen indicates that the brake fluid level has fallen below the recommended level. In this case, you should stop the vehicle safely and Tesla to have the problem rectified.

    You should leave it to the experts to top up the brake fluid. This work requires specialist knowledge and the use of the correct brake fluid to ensure safety.

    Remove and fit wheel nut covers: Simple steps for changing tires

    To access the wheel nuts on your Tesla you first need to remove the wheel nut covers. This is very easy if you have the right tool to hand, which is often found in the glove compartment. Alternatively, you can use a small Allen key.

    This is how you proceed:

    1. Insert the curved part of the wheel nut cover tool into the indentation around the center of the wheel nut cover.

    2. Rotate the tool so that the end of the curved part of the Tesla-"T" points away.

    3. Pull the tool firmly outwards until the cover comes off.

    To refit the covers, align them correctly and press them firmly until they click into place. Make sure that the covers are securely fastened before you drive off.


    Wi-Fi and connectivity in your Tesla Model Y

    Your Tesla offers you the option of connecting to a Wi-Fi network, which is particularly useful for receiving fast and reliable software and map updates. If you park your vehicle at home, it is advisable to use theTesla model to your WLAN to always stay up to date.

    How to connect to a Wi-Fi network:

    1. Activate Wi-Fi: Tap on the touchscreen on Vehicle > WLAN. YourTesla automatically starts searching for available networks.
    2. Select network: Select the desired network from the list. If your preferred network is not displayed, you can move closer to the router or consider using a Wi-Fi extender.
    3. Enter password: Enter the network password and confirm the connection. A green tick indicates that the connection has been successfully established.

    Note: Your Tesla does not support captive Wi-Fi networks, such as those often used in hotels or public hotspots, where you must first agree to the terms of use on a web portal.

    Bluetooth: connect your smartphone seamlessly

    The Bluetooth function of your Tesla allows you to easily pair your smartphone with the vehicle. This allows you to make and receive calls, access your contact list and even stream music directly from your smartphone.

    How to pair your smartphone:

    1. Activate Bluetooth: Make sure that Bluetooth is activated on your smartphone and that it is visible to other devices.
    2. Add device: Tap on the Bluetooth icon on the touchscreen of your Tesla and select Add device. Your model searches for available devices in the vicinity.
    3. Pair: Select your smartphone from the list and confirm the number displayed both on your phone and on the vehicle display.

    After successful pairing, your smartphone is automatically recognized as soon as it is within range.

    Tip: You can set a preferred device as the main phone if you have paired several devices. This will automatically be connected first.

    Troubleshooting Bluetooth problems

    If there are problems with the Bluetooth connection, there are a few simple steps you can try to troubleshoot:

    • Restart Bluetooth: Deactivate and activate Bluetooth on your smartphone.
    • Check the battery level: Make sure that your smartphone is sufficiently charged, as a low battery can impair the Bluetooth function.
    • Software update: Make sure that both your smartphone and the Tesla mobile app are up to date.

    Removing ice from the door handle: how to do it in icy temperatures

    In winter, it can happen that the door handles of your Model Y or Model 3 may freeze. To avoid damage, you should proceed with caution.

    How to remove ice from the door handle:

    1. Press firmly on the front part of the door handle to break the ice.
    2. Then press on the rear part of the handle as usual to open the door.
    3. Repeat this process as necessary until the handle can move freely again.

    Changing the cabin air filter and HEPA filter

    To improve the air quality in your Tesla to ensure the air quality in your Tesla, to change the cabin air filters every two years. For vehicles with HEPA filters, replacement is recommended every three years.

    How to replace the cabin air filters:

    1. Prepare: Switch off the air conditioning system and remove the floor mat on the passenger side.
    2. Remove the cover: Undo the pressure clips and screws to remove the footwell cover and filter cover.
    3. Replace filter: Pull out the old filters and insert the new ones. Make sure that the arrows on the filters point towards the rear of the vehicle.

    To replace the HEPA filters, proceed in a similar way by opening the hood and removing the corresponding cover.

    Calibrating the windows: how to ensure optimum function

    If a window of your Tesla is behaving unexpectedly - for example, not opening or closing properly, touching the light bar or opening wider than normal when the door is operated - calibrating the window may solve the problem.

    How to calibrate a window:

    1. Close the door with the affected window.
    2. Sit in the driver's seat and close the driver's door.
    3. Use the window switch on the driver's door to fully raise the window in question until it stops by itself.
    4. Lower the window again completely until it stops by itself.
    5. Repeat step 3 by raising the window again until it stops by itself.

    The window should now be calibrated. If the problem persists despite multiple calibrations, check the entry lights or contact Tesla for a professional check.

    Calibrate the cameras: For precise steering

    To ensure that your Tesla can steer precisely when the autopilot is activated, the cameras must undergo a self-calibration process after certain service repairs or before the autopilot functions are used for the first time. During this time, a progress indicator on the touchscreen shows the status of the calibration.

    Important notes on calibration:

    • Calibration is usually complete after 32-40 km, depending on road and environmental conditions.
    • Drive on a straight road with several lanes and clearly visible lane markings to speed up the calibration.
    • If the calibration is not complete after 160 km, contact Tesla.

    If the camera has been moved due to a windshield replacement or other repairs, the calibration can be reset. To do this, go to Vehicle > Service > Camera calibration > Delete calibration. The calibration process is then restarted. If the problem persists, it may be necessary, Tesla for further diagnostics.

    Opening the hood without power supply: how to do it

    If your Tesla does not have a low-voltage power supply, the front hood cannot be opened as usual using the touchscreen, key or mobile app. In such rare cases, you can still open the hood manually.

    How to open the hood without a power supply:

    1. Find an external low-voltage power source (e.g. a portable jump starter).
    2. Remove the drawbar eye cover by pressing firmly on the top right-hand edge.
    3. Pull the two cables out of the cover to expose the terminals.
    4. Connect the red positive (+) cable of the power source to the red terminal and the black negative (-) cable to the black terminal.
    5. Switch on the external power source - the hood latches are unlocked and the hood can be opened.

    Important: Do not use these terminals to charge the low-voltage battery and do not leave the cables connected for more than 30 seconds. As soon as the hood is open, remove the cables immediately. If you want to charge your Model Y on a low loader, wait to attach the towing eye cover.

    Connect and disconnect the trailer coupling: The right way to do it

    Depending on the region and vehicle configuration, your Tesla may have a towbar that is ideal for towing a trailer. When you are not using the towbar, you should remove it and store it in a dry place to protect it from rust.

    Fitting the towbar:

    1. Lift the towbar cover with a thin tool and release the clips.
    2. Insert the key into the trailer coupling lock cylinder and turn it to the "Open" position.
    3. Align the coupling with the cut-outs in the housing and push it in until the lock cylinder springs back into the "Closed" position.
    4. Check that the coupling is fully engaged by pulling on it.
    5. Turn the key to lock the clutch and keep the key in a safe place.

    Removing the trailer coupling:

    1. Insert the key and turn it to the unlock symbol.
    2. Hold the coupling firmly so that it does not fall to the ground and pull out the locking cylinder.
    3. Close the dust cover again and store the clutch in a safe place.

    For specific requirements and weight limits when towing trailers in different regions, please refer to the vehicle handbook.

    We hope that this comprehensive self-help guide will help you with your Tesla valuable insights and helpful tips. Whether it's topping up the wiper fluid, restarting the touchscreen or adjusting the door handles in your Tesla in the depths of winter - the short instructions described are designed to help you solve minor problems quickly and efficiently yourself.

    If all else fails and you continue to encounter difficulties, don't hesitate to make a service appointment at Tesla to arrange a service appointment. It's easy to do this via the mobile app: select the service you need and provide as many details as possible to make it easier for the service team to diagnose the problem.

    Remember to carry out regular maintenance to ensure the long-term reliability and performance of your Tesla.

    If you have any questions or need additional support, we're here to help. Tesla at any time.

    Stay safe on the road and have fun riding your Tesla!

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