Tesla Model 3: 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, nondetergent soap to remove the alcohol.

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.

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 use windshield treatment fluids. Doing so can interfere with wiper friction and cause a chattering sound.

Caution: Do not use hot water or detergents.

Caution: Do not wash in direct sunlight.

Caution: If using a pressure washer, maintain a distance of at least 12" (30 cm) between the nozzle and the surface of Model 3. Keep the nozzle moving and do not concentrate the water jet on any one area.

Caution: Do not aim water hoses directly at window, door, or hood seals.

Caution: Do not aim water hoses 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.

Caution: If washing in an automatic car wash, use touchless car washes only.

Using any other type of car wash could cause damage that is not covered by the warranty.

Caution: Ensure the wipers are off before washing Model 3 to avoid the risk of damaging the wipers.

Caution: Do not use chemical based wheel cleaners. These can damage the finish on the wheels.

Caution: Avoid using a high pressure power washer on the camera(s) or parking sensors (if equipped) and do not clean a sensor or camera lens with a sharp or abrasive object that can scratch or damage its surface.

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.

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