Washing your Tesla Model 3 is essential for maintaining its pristine appearance and protecting its paint. Here’s a guide to help you keep your vehicle looking its best.
How to Properly Wash Your Tesla Model 3？
1: Make sure your vehicle is upgraded to the latest version of the software: First, make sure your Tesla Model 3 has been upgraded to the latest version of the software to support the Auto Wash feature.
2: Enter the Settings menu: Find and enter the “Settings” menu on the center screen.
3: Turn on the car wash mode:
- In the settings menu, find the “Vehicle” option and select “Car Wash Mode”.
- Make sure all windows and doors are closed, the charging port is locked, and the windshield wiper and auto park function are disabled.
- If the vehicle supports VPA, you can enable car wash mode in the official Tesla app.
4: Activate the automatic car wash:
- After parking your vehicle near the car wash facility and unlocking your vehicle, the automatic car wash process will begin.
- In some cases, you may need to manually click the “Start Car Wash” button.
5: Caution:
- During the car wash, the vehicle speed should be kept below 15km/h, the system will automatically lock the charging port cover, and turn off the auto-lock function and auto-wiper when leaving the vehicle.
- When the car wash is finished, make sure to exit the car wash mode.
- Not all Model 3s support the automatic car wash function, depending on the hardware and software configuration of the vehicle.
6: Manual car wash steps:
- Pre-wash stage: using a professional PA jug and pre-wash solution, cover the entire car paint and loosen the mud particles.
- Positive wash stage: Use a car wash with lighter foam to clean the hood, trunk, doors and other parts of the car, starting from the window glass.
- Waxing and coating stage: using milk wax or crayon, apply evenly and wait for spraying water stains, observe the effect after waxing
7: Daily cleaning recommendations:
- Remove corrosive substances (e.g., bird droppings, resins, insects, tar spots, etc.) promptly and clean with a mild, non-detergent cleaner.
- Avoid using glass cleaners, chemicals or high-pressure water jets to rinse the bodywork directly.
The following is the cleaning method for the Tesla Model 3's hidden door handles and special parts such as the camera:
1:Hidden Door Handle Cleaning Method:
- REGULAR INSPECTION: Make sure there is no snow or ice buildup around the door handles, especially in cold weather. If you find snow or ice buildup, wipe the door handle with alcohol and then gently press the door handle to make sure it is working properly.
- Avoid Physical Damage: Don't hit the doorknob hard enough to cause a dent. If the doorknob won't move, try using WD-40 lubricant.
- Keep it clean: Wipe the doorknob regularly with a soft cloth to remove dust and dirt, but do not use chemical cleaners
2:Camera Cleaning Methods:
- Water Spray Cleaning: use a spray bottle or pressure washer to spray water on the camera lens to rinse off any dust or debris that has built up. Be careful not to wipe the lens directly with your hands or a rag to avoid scratches.
- Wipe with a Soft Cloth: Gently wipe the camera lens with a microfiber cloth to ensure that the surface of the lens is free of dust, dirt or debris.
- Avoid chemical cleaners: Do not use chemical cleaners or abrasive cleaners, which may damage the camera surface
Other notes:
- Car Wash Mode: Tesla Model 3 offers a car wash mode that automatically closes and locks the windows to prevent water from splashing into the vehicle. In Car Wash Mode, you can also enable the “Free Move” function to avoid accidentally triggering the Electronic Parking.
- Avoid high-pressure water gun: Do not use a high-pressure water gun directly on the camera or parking sensors to avoid damage.
The frequency of car washes and maintenance recommendations for the Tesla Model 3 are listed below:
- Weekly Wash: It is recommended that the vehicle be washed at least once a week to keep the exterior clean and shiny.
- Daily Inspection: Inspect the exterior of the vehicle daily to promptly remove bird droppings, resins and other corrosive substances.
Maintenance Recommendations
- Brake fluid check: check the health of the brake fluid every two years and replace it if necessary.
- Air conditioning desiccant replacement: replace the air conditioning desiccant pack every 6 years.
- Air Filter Replacement: Replace the cabin air filter once a year.
- Brake Caliper Cleaning and Lubrication: Clean and lubricate brake calipers every 12,500 miles (20,000 km) or annually.
- Tire rotation: Tire rotation every 10,000 miles or when the difference in tread depth reaches 1/32 inch (approximately 1.5 mm).
- Wiper blade replacement: replace wiper blades annually or as needed.
- Windshield Washer Fluid: Add washer fluid as needed, use -30°C freezing point washer fluid in winter in northern regions.
- Battery coolant check: check the battery coolant level regularly to make sure it is within the normal range.
- Tire Pressure Check: Check tire pressure once a month to ensure it meets the manufacturer's recommendations.
- EXTERIOR CLEANING: Wash the bodywork with a mild, non-detergent cleaner, avoiding hot water, alkaline or caustic cleaners.
Special Attention
- Avoid using a high-pressure water gun: do not spray water directly on windows, doors or hood seals as this may damage the vehicle.
- Avoid using glass cleaner: do not spray liquid on the charging port or camera as this may cause danger.
- Regular inspections and maintenance: Check your vehicle's components, such as the battery, chassis and lights, regularly to ensure they are functioning properly
By following the above recommendations, you can ensure that your Tesla Model 3 stays in top condition, lasts longer, and is safe to drive.
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Washing your Tesla Model 3 is essential for maintaining its pristine appearance and protecting its paint. By following the steps outlined above and using the right tools, you can keep your vehicle looking its best. Regular maintenance and professional detailing services can help you achieve a thorough and long-lasting clean.
