For trailers with a combined loading of more than 1650
lbs (750 kg), Tesla recommends using a separate braking
system with an independent controller (see Trailer
Brakes on page 79). Carefully follow the instructions
provided by the trailer brake manufacturer to ensure
that trailer brakes are properly installed, adjusted, and
maintained.
The tongue weight is the downward force that the
weight of the trailer exerts on the hitch. This must not
exceed 10% of the maximum trailer weight. Carrying a
significant amount of equipment, passengers, or cargo
in the tow vehicle can reduce the towing capacity it can
handle, which also reduces the tongue weight. Maximum
towing capacity is calculated assuming the
GVWR
(Gross Vehicle Weight Rating) is not exceeded (see
Vehicle Loading on page 193).
NOTE: If the information on the hitch label conflicts with
the information provided in this Owner's Manual, this
Owner's Manual takes precedence.
CAUTION:
You should only use Model Y to tow if
you have experience and knowledge of how
towing aects the vehicle and are able to safely
load, secure, and maneuver the vehicle and cargo.
Tesla's instructions are not all-inclusive of the
knowledge and skills necessary for safe towing.
Damage caused by towing a trailer is not covered
by the warranty.
WARNING:
Do not overload the vehicle or trailer.
Doing so can cause poor performance, vehicle
damage, and loss of vehicle control, resulting in
serious injury.
WARNING:
Do not use the trailer hitch to transport
Model Y (see Instructions for Transporters on page
208).
Tire Pressures when Towing
When towing a trailer, tire pressures must be adjusted to
accommodate the additional load. 19", 20", and 21" tires
are acceptable to use for towing. Keep tires inflated to
the pressures shown below (if
dierent, these pressures
override the pressures that are provided on the Tire and
Loading Information Label (see Vehicle Loading on page
193)).
Front Tires Rear Tires Cold Tire
Inflation Pressure
255/45R19 255/45R19 42 psi (290 kPa)
255/40R20 255/40R20 42 psi (290 kPa)
255/35R21 275/35R21 42 psi (290 kPa)
CAUTION:
Do not use Model Y for towing if
equipped with tires that are not listed previously.
WARNING:
Check tire pressures using an accurate
pressure gauge when tires are cold. Driving one
mile/1.6 km warms the tires suciently to aect
tire pressures. Parking the vehicle in direct sunlight
or in hot weather can also aect tire pressures. If
you must check warm tires, expect increased
pressures. Do not let air out of warm tires in an
attempt to match recommended cold tire
pressures. A hot tire at or below the recommended
cold tire inflation pressure may be dangerously
under-inflated.
WARNING:
Never attempt to tow a trailer when a
Model Y tire is faulty or has been temporarily
repaired (for example, using a tire repair kit). A
temporarily repaired tire is not designed to sustain
the towing load. Towing using a faulty or
temporarily repaired tire can result in tire failure
and loss of vehicle stability.
Before Towing a Trailer
Before towing a trailer, you must do the following:
•
Inflate tires to the cold tire inflation pressure
specified in Tire Pressures when Towing on page 77.
•
Observe all regulations and legal requirements that
apply to trailer towing. Failure to comply with
regulations can compromise your safety.
•
Adjust side mirrors to provide a clear rear view
without a significant blind spot.
•
Engage Trailer Mode (see Trailer Mode on page 78).
Confirm the following:
•
Model Y rests horizontally with the trailer attached. If
the vehicle is tipped up at the front and down at the
rear, check that you are not exceeding the maximum
towing capacity and tongue loads provided in
Trailer
Towing on page 76.
•
Trailer lights (brake lights, turn signal lights, and
marker lights) are working properly.
•
The trailer tongue is securely connected to the hitch
ball.
•
Safety chains are properly connected between the
trailer and the tow vehicle. Cross the safety chains
under the tongue of the trailer to help prevent the
tongue from contacting the road if it separates from
the hitch. Leave enough slack in the safety chains to
allow for turns and ensure that the chains do not drag
on the ground.
•
All trailer hitch parts and attachments, safety chains,
and electrical connectors are in good condition and
are properly connected. If any problems are apparent,
do not tow the trailer.
•
All cargo is secured.
•
Wheel chocks are available.
Towing and Accessories
77Driving