Tesla Regular Maintenance - What You Should Know
Tesla vehicles are renowned for their minimal maintenance requirements compared to traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles. Here's what you need to know about keeping your Tesla in top condition:
Minimal Maintenance Design: Tesla vehicles are engineered with fewer moving parts, which inherently reduces the need for regular maintenance. This design philosophy eliminates the need for oil changes, transmission fluid replacements, and other services common in ICE vehicles.
Recommended Service Intervals: While Tesla vehicles require less maintenance, they do have recommended service intervals. Typically, Tesla suggests servicing every 12,500 miles or annually, whichever comes first. During these services, checks are performed on critical components like brake fluid, the cabin air filter, and tire rotation.
Key Maintenance Items:
Brake Fluid: Tesla recommends checking and possibly replacing brake fluid every two years or 25,000 miles. This is crucial for maintaining the efficiency of your braking system.
Cabin Air Filter: This should be replaced every two years or 25,000 miles to ensure the air inside your car remains clean and fresh.
Tire Rotation: Tesla advises rotating tires every 10,000 to 12,000 miles to ensure even wear, which is particularly important given the heavier weight of EVs due to their batteries. For your Tesla tire rotation, you can use a service such as Sparky X, we come to your house to do it in your driveway.
Battery and Drive Unit: The battery and drive unit are central to your Tesla's operation. While these components are designed for longevity, regular checks during service appointments ensure they remain in optimal condition. This includes checking the battery's health and the drive unit's lubrication.
Environmental Considerations: For owners in regions that use road salt during winter, Tesla recommends annual lubrication of brake calipers to prevent corrosion.
Service and Warranty: Tesla encourages using their service centers for maintenance to ensure warranty coverage. If issues arise after maintenance at non-Tesla facilities, warranty claims might be affected.
Software Updates: One of Tesla's unique maintenance aspects is over-the-air (OTA) updates. These updates not only improve software functionality but can also enhance hardware efficiency, reducing the need for physical maintenance.
Cost Efficiency: Despite the initial cost, Tesla's maintenance over five years is relatively low, with estimates around $623 annually for a Model 3, thanks to the reduced need for traditional car maintenance.
DIY Maintenance Tips: While Tesla encourages professional service, some maintenance like checking tire pressure or cleaning can be done by owners. However, for more complex tasks or issues, Tesla's service centers are equipped with the expertise and tools specific to Tesla vehicles.
In summary, while Tesla vehicles boast a design for minimal maintenance, adhering to Tesla's recommended service schedule ensures your vehicle's longevity and performance. Regular checks, software updates, and specific environmental considerations like winter maintenance are key to keeping your Tesla running smoothly for years. Always refer to your Tesla's owner's manual or the Tesla app for the most current maintenance advice tailored to your model.
