
PUSHING THE VEHICLE
Warning: The following instructions are intended to be used when only moving Model S a very short distance to improve traffic
safety. Refer to the Owner's Manual on the touchscreen or the Roadside Assistance Guide in the glovebox for instructions on how to
transport Model S. Damage caused by transporting the vehicle is not covered by the warranty.
Warning: Do not push Model S with its wheels in a position where they can spin, such as in contact with the ground. If this must be
done, use a wheel lift and dollies to ensure that all four wheels are off the ground. This may be done for a maximum of 35 miles (55
km), and must not exceed the manufacturer speed rating of the dollies. Tesla recommends the vehicle face forward so the front
wheels are lifted and the rear wheels are on dollies. Transporting Model S using any method not specified by Tesla can result in
significant damage to the vehicle and can cause serious injury.
In situations where there is minimal risk of fire or high voltage exposure (for example, the vehicle does not accelerate after coming to a
stop at an intersection) and 12V power is present, Model S can be quickly pushed in order to clear the roadway. If a driver is present,
simply shift Model S into Neutral and then push the vehicle. If a driver is not present, Model S may automatically shift into Park when it
detects the driver leaving the vehicle (even if it has previously been shifted into Neutral).
To keep Model S in Neutral (which disengages the parking brake and allows the vehicle to be pushed) without a driver present, use the
touchscreen to activate Transport Mode:
1. Ensure Model S is in Park.
2. Press and hold the brake pedal, then on the touchscreen touch Controls > Service > Towing.
3. Hold the Transport Mode button until it turns blue. Model S is now free-rolling and can be slowly rolled (no faster than walking
speed) or winched.
NOTE: Model S must detect a key nearby and 12V power is required for Transport Mode to activate.
When Transport Mode is active, Model S displays this indicator light on the instrument panel, along with a
message indicating that Model S is free-rolling.
To cancel Transport Mode, shift Model S into Park.
NOTE: If the electrical system is not working, and you therefore cannot use the touchscreen to activate Transport Mode, use self-
loading dollies or tire skates. Before doing so, always check the manufacturer's specification and recommended loading capacity.
Alternatively, attempt to jump start the 12V battery. For instructions, call Tesla Roadside Assistance
PUSHING THE VEHICLE
Pushing the Vehicle
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