Tesla Model Y: Driving in Low Temperatures
Tire performance is reduced in low ambient temperatures, resulting in reduced grip and an increased susceptibility to damage from impacts. Performance tires (summer applications) have reduced traction in ambient temperatures below 40º F (5º C), and are not recommended in snow/ice conditions. Performance tires can temporarily harden when cold, causing you to hear rotational noise for the first few miles (kilometers) until the tires warm up.
Using Tire Chains
Tesla has tested and approved the following tire chains to increase traction in snowy conditions. Tire chains should only be installed on the rear tires. The approved tire chains can be purchased from Tesla.
CAUTION: If your Model Y is equipped with aero covers, you must remove them before installing tire chains (see Removing and Installing Aero Covers). Failure to do so can cause damage not covered by the warranty.
When installing tire chains, follow the instructions and warnings provided by the tire chain manufacturer. Mount them evenly and as tight as possible.
When using tire chains:
- Inspect the tire chains for loose fittings and damaged links before each use.
- Avoid heavily loading Model Y (heavy loads can reduce the clearance between the tires and the body).
- Do not drive the vehicle without the chains properly installed.
- Drive slowly. Do not exceed 30 mph (48 km/h).
- Remove the tire chains as soon as conditions allow.
NOTE: Tire chains are prohibited in some jurisdictions. Check local laws before installing tire chains.
CAUTION: Using non-recommended tire chains, or using tire chains on other sized tires can damage the suspension, body, wheels, and/or brake lines. Damage caused by using non-recommended tire chains, or incorrectly installing tire chains, is not covered by the warranty.
CAUTION: Do not use tire chains on the front tires.
CAUTION: Never deflate your tires to put on tire chains. When re-inflated, the chains might fit too tightly and cause tire damage.
CAUTION: Ensure that the tire chains cannot touch suspension components or brake lines. If you hear the chains making unusual noises that would indicate contact with Model Y, stop and investigate immediately.
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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 Y is due
Car Wash Mode
When taking Model Y to a car wash, Car Wash Mode
closes all windows, locks the charge port, and disables
windshield wipers, Sentry Mode, walk-away door
locking, and parking sensor chimes. To enable
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Loading New Software
Tesla updates your vehicle's software wirelessly,
constantly providing new features. Tesla recommends
you install software updates at the earliest opportunity
on your vehicle. To ensure the fastest and most reliable
delivery of software updates, leave Wi-Fi turned on and
connected whenever poss
Lithium Iron Phosphate Batteries
Some vehicles are equipped with a Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) Battery. To
determine if your vehicle has an LFP Battery, navigate to Controls > Software >
Additional Vehicle Information.
If your vehicle is equipped with an LFP Battery, Tesla recommends that you
keep your charge limit set to
