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 X 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. These substances can cause unclear
pictures or Autopilot and safety features to stop
working (see
Follow these steps when washing the exterior of
Model X:
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 X 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.
Cleaning a Camera
To ensure a clear picture, the camera lens must be clean
and free of obstructions. Remove any build-up of dirt or
debris by spraying water onto the camera lens with a
spray bottle or pressure washer.
CAUTION:
Do not attempt to remove dirt or debris
by wiping an exposed lens with your hands or a
cloth. This debris can damage the surface of the
lens when rubbed against it during wiping.
CAUTION:
Do not use chemical-based or abrasive
cleaners. Doing so can damage the surface of the
lens.
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 30 cm between the nozzle and
the surface of Model X. Avoid aiming the water jet
directly at parking sensors (if equipped). 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 X. 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 staff at the car wash.
Damage caused by improper washing is not
covered by the warranty.
CAUTION:
If washing in an automatic car wash,
make sure the vehicle is locked. In addition, avoid
using controls on the touchscreen that can result
in accidentally opening doors or trunks while the
vehicle is being washed. Any damage caused is
not covered by the warranty.
Cleaning
187
Maintenance
