Windshield Wiper Blades, Jets and Fluid

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

Use only ethanol-based windshield washer fluid meant for automotive vehicles. Using other substances, such as untreated water, can result in bacterial growth within the climate control system resulting in odor or potential damage that is not covered by warranty.

CAUTION

Do not add formulated washer fluids that contain water repellent or bug wash. These fluids can cause streaking, smearing, and squeaking or other noises.

Warning

In temperatures below 4° C, use a washer fluid with antifreeze. In cold weather, using a washer fluid without antifreeze can impair visibility through the windshield.

Warning

Windshield washer fluid can irritate eyes and skin. Read and observe the instructions provided by the washer fluid manufacturer.

Checking and Cleaning Wiper Blades

Periodically clean the edge of the wiper blades and check the rubber for cracks, splits, and roughness. If damaged, replace the blade immediately to prevent damage to the glass and improve visibility.

Contaminants on the windshield, or on the wiper blades, can reduce the effectiveness of the wipers. Contaminants include ice, wax spray from car washes, washer fluid with bug and/or water repellent, bird droppings, tree sap, and other organic substances.

Follow these guidelines for cleaning:

Clean the windshield and wiper blades using washer fluid, isopropyl (rubbing) alcohol, or non-abrasive glass cleaner approved for use on automotive glass and rubber. Inappropriate products can cause damage or smears, and create glare on the windshield.
Lift the wiper arm a short distance away from the windshield, just far enough to access the wiper blade. Do not lift a wiper arm beyond its intended position.

If the wipers remain ineffective after cleaning, replace the wiper blades.

Note

Ineffective wipers can lead to reduced visibility for the front windshield cameras, which may lead to degraded performance or unavailability of Autopilot features. For more information, see Cameras and refer to Autopilot Limitations and Warnings.

Replacing Wiper Blades

For optimum performance, replace the wiper blades at least once a year. Replacement blades must meet the following criteria:

The blade on the driver's side must be 650 mm long and 500 mm long for the blade on the passenger's side.
Ensure the connector on the replacement blade is the same as the original blade. Different connectors may prevent the replacement blade from connecting to the wiper arm on the vehicle.

You can purchase replacement wiper blades on the Tesla Shop (or https://shop.tesla.cn/ for China).

Note

Only install replacement blades that are identical to the original blades. Using inappropriate blades can damage the wiper system and windshield.

To replace the wiper blades:

Animated video showing how to replace wiper blades

Shift into Park and turn off the wipers.
Touch Controls > Service > Wiper Service Mode to move the wipers to the service position.
Lift the wiper arm a short distance away from the windshield, just far enough to access the wiper blade.
CAUTION
Wiper blades do not lock into a lifted position. Do not lift a wiper arm beyond its intended position.
Place a towel between the wiper arm and windshield to avoid scratching or cracking the windshield.
Hold the wiper arm and press the locking tab while sliding the blade down the arm.
Align the new wiper blade on the wiper arm and slide it toward the end of the wiper arm until it locks into place.
CAUTION
Ensure the new blade is locked in place and does not move. Perform a push-pull test to confirm. If not locked in place (you can hear and feel a "click"), the wiper blade may come off during use, resulting in serious damage.
Turn Wiper Service Mode off to return the wipers to their normal position.

Cleaning Washer Jets

The position of the windshield washers is set at the factory and should never need adjusting.

If a windshield washer jet becomes blocked, use a thin strand of wire to clear any blockages from the nozzles.

Zoombox with washer jets pointing to the underside of the washer blade

Warning

Do not operate the washers while cleaning Model S. Windshield washer fluid can irritate eyes and skin. Read and observe the washer fluid manufacturer’s instructions.