Tesla MODEL 3 2012 - Page 198

• Look around the exterior of Model 3 and
immediately remove any corrosive
substances (such as bird droppings, tree
resin, tar spots, dead insects, industrial
fallout, etc.) to prevent damage to the
paint (see Cleaning on page 205).
Monthly Checks
• Check windshield washer fluid level and
top up if necessary (see Topping Up
Windshield Washer Fluid on page 212).
•
Check that the air conditioning system is
operating correctly (see Climate Controls
on page 146).
NOTE: In addition to cooling the interior, the
air conditioning compressor also cools the
Battery. Therefore, in hot weather, the air
conditioning compressor can turn on even if
you turned it
o. This is normal because the
system’s priority is to cool the Battery to
ensure it stays within an optimum
temperature range to support longevity and
optimum performance. Also, even when not in
use, you may hear
Model 3 emit a whining
noise or the sound of water circulating. These
sounds are normal and occur when the
internal cooling systems turn on to support
various vehicle functions, such as maintaining
the
low voltage battery and balancing the
temperature of the high voltage Battery.
WARNING:
Contact Tesla immediately
if you notice any significant or sudden
drop in fluid levels or uneven tire wear.
Fluid Replacement Intervals
Your Battery coolant does not need to be
replaced for the life of your vehicle under
most circumstances. Brake
fluid should be
checked every 2 years, replacing if necessary.
NOTE: Any damage caused by opening the
Battery coolant reservoir is excluded from the
warranty.
High Voltage Safety
Your Model 3 has been designed and built
with safety as a priority. However, be aware of
these precautions to protect yourself from
the risk of injury inherent in all high-voltage
systems:
• Read and follow all instructions provided
on the labels that are attached to Model
3. These labels are there for your safety.
• The high voltage system has no user-
serviceable parts. Do not disassemble,
remove or replace high voltage
components, cables or connectors. High
voltage cables are colored orange for
easy
identification.
• If a collision occurs, do not touch any high
voltage wiring, connectors, or
components connected to the wiring.
• In the unlikely event that a fire occurs,
immediately contact your local
fire
emergency responders.
WARNING: Always disconnect the
charge cable before working
underneath Model 3, even if charging
is not in progress.
WARNING: Keep your hands and
clothing away from cooling fans. Some
fans operate even when Model 3 is
powered o.
WARNING: Some fluids (battery acid,
Battery coolant, brake fluid,
windshield washer additives, etc.)
used in vehicles are poisonous and
should not be inhaled, swallowed, or
brought into contact with open
wounds. For your safety, always read
and follow instructions printed on fluid
containers.
Maintenance
196 MODEL 3 Owner's Manual