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Cleaning the Exterior
To prevent damage to the paint, immediately remove
corrosive substances (bird droppings, tree resin, dead
insects, tar spots, road salt, industrial fallout, etc.). Do
not wait until Model 3 is due for a complete wash. If
necessary, use denatured alcohol to remove tar spots
and stubborn grease stains, then immediately wash the
area with water and a mild, non-detergent soap to
remove the alcohol.
Keep the exterior cameras free of dirt, condensation, or
obstructions. Occasionally remove any buildup of dirt
by wiping the components with a soft cloth dampened
with warm water. These substances can cause autopilot
and safety features to stop working (see
Cleaning
Cameras and Sensors on page 82).
Follow these steps when washing the exterior of Model
3:
1. Rinse Thoroughly
Before washing, flush grime and grit from the vehicle
using a hose. Flush away accumulations of mud in
areas where debris easily collects (such as wheel
wells and panel seams). If salt has been used on the
highways (such as during winter months),
thoroughly rinse all traces of road salt from the
underside of the vehicle, wheel wells, and brakes.
2.
Hand Wash
Hand wash Model 3 using a clean soft cloth and cold
or lukewarm water containing a mild, high-quality
car shampoo.
CAUTION:
Some cleaners and car shampoos
contain chemicals that can cause damage or
discoloration, especially to plastic trim pieces,
lamps, or camera lenses. For example, some
car cleaning formulas contain hydroxide or
other highly alkaline or caustic ingredients that
can damage exterior components. Damage or
discoloration resulting from cleaning products
is not covered by the warranty.
3.
Rinse with Clean Water
After washing, rinse with clean water to prevent
soap from drying on the surfaces.
4.
Dry Thoroughly and Clean Exterior Glass
After washing and rinsing, dry thoroughly with a
chamois. If necessary, dry the brakes by going on a
short drive and applying the brakes multiple times.
Clean windows and mirrors using an automotive
glass cleaner. Do not scrape, or use any abrasive
cleaning
fluid on glass or mirrored surfaces.
Cautions for Exterior Cleaning
CAUTION: Do not wash in direct sunlight.
CAUTION: Do not use windshield treatment fluids.
Doing so can interfere with wiper friction and
cause a chattering sound.
CAUTION: Do not use hot water, detergents, or
highly alkaline or caustic cleaning products,
especially those containing hydroxide.
CAUTION: If using a pressure washer, maintain a
distance of at least 12" (30 cm) between the
nozzle and the surface of Model 3. Avoid aiming
the water jet directly on the camera(s) or parking
sensors (if equipped). Also do not clean a sensor
or camera lens with a sharp or abrasive object
that can scratch or damage its surface. Keep the
nozzle moving and do not concentrate the water
jet on any one area.
CAUTION: Do not aim water hoses directly at
windows, door, or hood seals or at electronic
modules or exposed cabling.
CAUTION: To avoid corrosive damage that may
not be covered by the warranty, rinse away any
road salt from the underside of the vehicle, wheel
wells, and brakes. After cleaning the vehicle, dry
the brakes by going on a short drive and applying
the brakes multiple times.
CAUTION: Avoid using tight-napped or rough
cloths, such as washing mitts. A high-quality
microfiber cleaning cloth is recommended.
CAUTION: If washing in an automatic car wash,
use touchless car washes only. These car washes
have no parts (brushes, etc.) that touch the
surfaces of Model 3. Some touchless car washes
use caustic solutions that, over time, can cause
discoloration of decorative exterior trim. Avoid
exposure to soaps and chemicals above pH 13. If
unsure, check the product label or ask the sta at
the car wash. Damage caused by improper
washing is not covered by the warranty.
CAUTION: Ensure the wipers are o before
washing Model 3 to avoid the risk of damaging
the wipers.
CAUTION: Do not use chemical based wheel
cleaners or pre-wash products. These can damage
the finish on the wheels.
WARNING: Never spray liquid at a high velocity
(for example, if using a pressure washer) towards
the charge port while Model 3 is charging. Failure
to follow these instructions can result in serious
injury or damage to the vehicle, charging
equipment, or property.
Cleaning
169Maintenance
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