That's a trick question! You cannot change the oil in a Tesla because Teslas are electric vehicles and do not use engine oil. ⚡ They are powered by electric motors and battery packs, not internal combustion engines.
Why Teslas Don't Have Oil to Change
Traditional gasoline-powered cars rely on internal combustion engines. These engines have many moving metal parts that rub against each other at high speeds, generating significant friction and heat. Engine oil serves several crucial functions in these vehicles:
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Lubrication: It creates a thin film between moving parts, reducing friction and wear.
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Cooling: It helps dissipate heat generated by the engine.
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Cleaning: It carries away contaminants and sludge, keeping the engine clean.
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Sealing: It helps create a seal between the piston rings and cylinder walls.
Teslas, on the other hand, are powered by electric motors. These motors operate on a fundamentally different principle. They convert electrical energy into mechanical energy to turn the wheels. Electric motors have far fewer moving parts than internal combustion engines, and the parts they do have (like rotors and stators) typically don't require oil lubrication in the same way.
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| How To Change Oil In Tesla |
What Teslas Do Need Maintenance On (and it's not oil!)
While you won't be grabbing a wrench and an oil pan for your Tesla, that doesn't mean it's maintenance-free. Teslas, like all vehicles, require regular service to ensure optimal performance and longevity. Here's a quick look at what is involved in Tesla maintenance:
Step 1: Understanding Your Tesla's Maintenance Schedule
Ready to learn about what actually keeps your Tesla humming? First, you need to understand that Tesla's maintenance approach is different from traditional cars. They emphasize proactive, condition-based maintenance and software updates over rigid, time-based schedules.
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Consult Your Owner's Manual: This is your definitive guide. It will outline recommended service intervals for various components based on mileage and time.
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Check the Tesla App: Your Tesla app can often provide personalized service recommendations and alerts.
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No "Tune-Ups": Forget about traditional engine tune-ups; those don't apply here.
Step 2: Key Maintenance Items for Your Tesla
Tip: Read actively — ask yourself questions as you go.
Now that you know oil isn't on the list, let's explore what is. These are the components and systems that periodically need attention:
Sub-heading 2.1: Tire Care
This is perhaps the most frequent and critical maintenance item for any vehicle, including Teslas.
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Tire Rotation: Regularly rotating your tires helps ensure even wear, extending their lifespan and improving handling. Tesla often recommends rotations every 6,250 miles (10,000 km) or if there's a difference in tread depth of 2/32" or more.
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Tire Pressure Check: Proper tire inflation is crucial for safety, range, and tire longevity. Check your tire pressure monthly using a reliable gauge. The recommended pressure is usually found on a sticker inside the driver's side door jamb.
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Wheel Alignment: If you notice uneven tire wear or your car pulling to one side, a wheel alignment might be necessary.
Sub-heading 2.2: Brake System Maintenance
Even though regenerative braking significantly reduces wear on your physical brakes, they still need attention.
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Brake Pad and Rotor Inspection: While they last much longer than in gasoline cars, pads and rotors still need to be inspected for wear, typically every 12,500 miles (20,000 km) or annually.
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Brake Fluid Check: Brake fluid should be checked and, if necessary, replaced every 2 years or 25,000 miles (40,000 km), whichever comes first. This fluid is critical for proper brake operation.
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Caliper Lubrication: In areas with heavy road salt usage, calipers may need to be cleaned and lubricated periodically to prevent seizing.
Sub-heading 2.3: Cabin Air Filter Replacement ️
Your Tesla has a cabin air filter that prevents dust, pollen, and other airborne particles from entering the cabin.
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Replacement Schedule: Tesla generally recommends replacing the cabin air filter every 2 years or 25,000 miles (40,000 km).
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DIY Potential: This is often a relatively straightforward DIY task you can perform yourself. Tesla even provides instructions and sells the filters.
Sub-heading 2.4: Wiper Blades and Washer Fluid
Simple, but important for visibility!
Tip: Focus on clarity, not speed.
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Wiper Blade Replacement: Replace wiper blades as needed, usually annually or when they start streaking.
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Washer Fluid Refill: Keep your washer fluid reservoir topped up, especially during bug season or winter.
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Sub-heading 2.5: Battery and Charging System Checks
While the main battery pack is designed to last the life of the vehicle, there are still aspects to monitor.
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Software Updates: Regularly update your Tesla's software. These updates often include optimizations for battery management and charging.
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Charging Habits: Follow Tesla's recommendations for charging, such as avoiding consistently charging to 100% or letting the battery deplete completely.
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Service Center Diagnostics: If you have concerns about your battery's performance or charging, a Tesla Service Center can run diagnostics.
Step 3: Utilizing Tesla Service for Professional Maintenance
For more complex issues or scheduled services, contacting Tesla Service is the way to go.
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Schedule via the App: The easiest way to schedule service is directly through your Tesla mobile app. You can describe your issue, and sometimes even get a mobile service technician dispatched to your location.
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Mobile Service: For many common issues, a Tesla Mobile Service technician can come to your home or workplace, saving you a trip to the service center.
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Service Center Visits: For larger repairs, diagnostics, or annual inspections, you'll visit a Tesla Service Center.
❓ 10 Related FAQ Questions
How to check tire pressure on a Tesla?
You can check tire pressure through your Tesla's touchscreen display under the "Service" menu, or manually with a tire pressure gauge on each tire.
How to replace cabin air filter in a Tesla?
Tip: Keep scrolling — each part adds context.
The cabin air filter is typically located behind the glovebox or under the front passenger dash. Consult your owner's manual for specific instructions for your model year, and you can often find video tutorials online.
How to schedule service for a Tesla?
You can schedule service directly through the Tesla mobile app by selecting "Service" and describing your issue.
How to update software on a Tesla?
Tesla software updates are pushed wirelessly (over-the-air). Your car will notify you when an update is available, and you can initiate it from the touchscreen or the Tesla app.
How to maintain the battery in a Tesla?
Maintain your Tesla's battery by following recommended charging habits (e.g., typically charging to 80-90% for daily use), avoiding consistent full discharges, and utilizing scheduled charging.
How to clean the exterior of a Tesla?
Wash your Tesla using gentle, pH-neutral car soap and a microfiber mitt, avoiding harsh chemicals or abrasive materials. Hand washing is often preferred.
Tip: Compare what you read here with other sources.
How to check brake fluid in a Tesla?
Brake fluid levels are typically checked during routine service appointments at a Tesla Service Center. It's not a common DIY check for owners.
How to rotate tires on a Tesla?
Tire rotations are usually performed by a Tesla Service Center or a reputable tire shop, often recommended every 6,250 miles or 10,000 km.
How to troubleshoot charging issues with a Tesla?
First, check your charging cable and adapter for damage. Then, try a different charging location or wall outlet. If issues persist, consult the Tesla app for diagnostics or contact Tesla Service.
How to find my Tesla's owner's manual?
Your Tesla's owner's manual is accessible digitally through the car's touchscreen display under the "Controls" or "Service" menu, and often within the Tesla mobile app.
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