Tesla MODEL X - Page 182

Tire Wear
Adequate tread depth is important for proper tire
performance. Tires with a tread depth less than
4/32”
(3 mm) are more likely to hydroplane in wet conditions
and should not be used. Tires with a tread depth less
than
5/32” (4 mm) do not perform well in snow and
slush and should not be used when driving in winter
conditions.
Model X is originally fitted with tires that have wear
indicators molded into the tread pattern. When the
tread has been worn down to 3/32” (2 mm), the
indicators start to appear at the surface of the tread
pattern, producing the
eect of a continuous band of
rubber across the width of the tire. For optimal
performance and safety, Tesla recommends replacing
tires before the wear indicators are visible.
Tire Rotation, Balance, and Wheel
Alignment
Model X tires can be rotated side-to-side (left-to-right)
but not front-to-back as the front and rear tire size is
dierent.
Unbalanced wheels (sometimes noticeable as vibration
through the steering wheel) aect vehicle handling and
tire life. Even with regular use, wheels can get out of
balance. Therefore, they should be balanced as
required.
If tire wear is uneven (on one side of the tire only) or
becomes abnormally excessive, check the alignment of
wheels.
Punctured Tires
A puncture eventually causes the tire to lose pressure,
which is why it is important to check tire pressures
frequently. Permanently repair or replace punctured or
damaged tires as soon as possible.
Your tubeless tires may not leak when penetrated,
provided the object remains in the tire. If, however, you
feel a sudden vibration or ride disturbance while
driving, or you suspect a tire is damaged, immediately
reduce your speed. Drive slowly, while avoiding heavy
braking or sharp steering and, when safe to do so, stop
the vehicle. Arrange to have
Model X transported to a
Tesla Service Center, or to a nearby tire repair center.
NOTE: In some cases, you can temporarily repair small
tire punctures (under
1/4” (6 mm)) using an optional
tire repair kit available from Tesla. This allows you to
slowly drive Model X to Tesla or to a nearby tire repair
facility.
WARNING:
Do not drive with a punctured tire that
has not been repaired, even if the puncture has
not caused the tire to deflate. A punctured tire
can deflate suddenly at any time.
Flat Spots
If Model X is stationary for a long period, tires can form
flat spots. When Model X is driven, these flat spots
cause a vibration which gradually disappears as the
tires warm up and regain their original shape.
To minimize flat spots during storage, inflate tires to the
maximum pressure indicated on the tire wall. Then,
before driving, release air to adjust tire pressure to the
recommended levels.
Improving Tire Mileage
To improve the mileage you get from your tires,
maintain tires at the recommended tire pressures,
observe speed limits and advisory speeds, and avoid:
•
Pulling away quickly, or hard acceleration.
• Fast turns and heavy braking.
• Potholes and objects in the road.
•
Hitting curbs when parking.
•
Contaminating tires with fluids that can cause
damage.
Replacing Tires and Wheels
Tires degrade over time due to the eects of ultraviolet
light, extreme temperatures, high loads, and
environmental conditions. It is recommended that tires
are replaced every six years, or sooner if required, even
if tread depth is above the minimum.
Wheel and tires are matched to suit the handling
characteristics of the vehicle. Replacement tires must
comply with the original specification. If tires other than
those specified are used, ensure that the load and
speed ratings marked on the tire (see Understanding
Tire Markings on page 202) equal or exceed those of
the original specification.
Ideally, you should replace all four tires at the same
time. If this is not possible, replace the tires in pairs,
placing the new tires on the rear. Always balance the
wheel and tire after replacing a tire.
If you replace a wheel, the TPMS (Tire Pressure
Monitoring System) sensors need to be reset to ensure
they provide accurate warnings when tires are under- or
over-inflated (see Automatic Reset of TPMS Sensors on
page 182).
For the specification of the original wheels and tires
installed on Model X, see Wheels and Tires on page
201.
WARNING:
For your safety, use only tires and
wheels that match the original specification. Tires
that do not match the original specification can
aect the operation of the TPMS.
Tire Care and Maintenance
180 MODEL X Owner's Manual