Tesla Model 3: Grease for Electrical Connectors

Some underhood and underbody connectors might be protected against corrosion by the application of a special grease during vehicle assembly. Apply the appropriate grease when repairing or replacing these connectors. Do not use other greases. Incorrect greases can migrate into relays, switches, etc. contaminating the contacts and leading to intermittent operation or failure.

Do not apply grease to any connectors that do not have grease applied from the factory.

First Aid Measures

Seek immediate medical assistance if an electrical shock or electrocution has occurred or is suspected.

Under normal conditions, technicians are not exposed to the contents of the HV battery cells. If materials from a ruptured or otherwise damaged battery contact skin, flush immediately with water and wash the affected area with soap and water. Avoid inhaling any vented gases. If a chemical burn occurs, or if irritation persists, seek medical assistance. For eye contact, flush with significant amounts of water for 15 minutes and see a physician immediately.

Seek immediate medical assistance if an electrical shock or electrocution has occurred or is suspected.

Under normal conditions, technicians are not exposed to the contents of the HV battery cells. If materials from a ruptured or otherwise damaged battery contact skin, flush immediately with water and wash the affected area with soap and water. Avoid inhaling any vented gases. If a chemical burn occurs, or if irritation persists, seek medical assistance. For eye contact, flush with significant amounts of water for 15 minutes and see a physician immediately.

Warning: An HV battery poses a significant high voltage and electrocution risk if the outer enclosure or safety circuits have been compromised or have been significantly damaged.

Warning: Avoid contact with gases escaping from a damaged battery. Vented gases might irritate the eyes, skin, and throat. Vent gas temperatures can exceed 600 ºC (1,110 ºF). Contact with hot gases can cause burns.

HV Battery Storage Precautions

Warning:

• Do not store HV batteries below -20 ºC (-4 ºF).
• Do not store HV batteries for over 10 days above 35 ºC (95 ºF).
• Do not charge or discharge a HV battery below 0 ºC (32 ºF).
• Do not store HV batteries for over 30 days at full State of Charge (SOC), or completely discharged.
• Do not cut, drill, or weld near HV batteries.

Install plugs in each HV connection before storing the HV battery.

Note: If plugs for the HV connectors are not available, cover the connector(s) with 3M 2480S masking tape or 3M 471 vinyl tape.

HV batteries should be stored in a dry area, in approved packaging, or on non-conductive surfaces. To reduce the risk of accidental shorting, make sure that there is no loose metal or other conductive materials near stored batteries.

HV batteries should not be stored longer than 9 months since HV battery service life likely will be affected. If longer storage is anticipated, contact Tesla for instructions.

HV Battery Disposal Procedures

The lithium-ion cells contained in the HV battery do not contain heavy metals such as lead, cadmium, or mercury.

HV batteries should be disposed of or recycled in accordance with local, state, and federal regulations. Regulations regarding disposal of HV batteries vary by jurisdiction. In the United States, batteries are classified as Universal Waste, and in addition, many individual states have specific regulations regarding disposal of HV batteries.

HV batteries contain recyclable materials. Tesla strongly encourages recycling. Tesla recommends that all HV batteries be taken to a Tesla Service Center so that the batteries can be evaluated, and, if appropriate, be recycled in a safe and efficient manner.

If disposing of an HV battery without returning it to Tesla, consult with local, state and /or federal authorities on the appropriate methods for disposal and recycling.

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