I’ve been curious about the secret of the coolant type that Tesla uses and eventually get the answer by asking an expert who used to work in the Tesla Service Center.
For Model Y, these cars use blue G-48 or orange-red HTF-LS Tesla coolant depending on the vehicle’s MFGDT. And, other series uses G-48 ethylene-glycol coolant (HOAT).
I’ll break down the types of coolant that Tesla uses in detail and share some of the most-asked queries here. Stay Tune Till The End!
Knowing The Type Of Coolant Tesla Uses
Tesla uses diverse types of coolants by matching the vehicle’s manufacture date to ensure a better cooling system. That’s why you’ll see Model Y car uses different coolants compared to other series. Let me explain what kind of coolant does Tesla use according to series type:
Model Y Coolant
All cars of Tesla Model Y have either blue G-48 coolant or orange-red HTF-LS coolant based on the manufacture date of the vehicle.
Model 3, S, And X Coolant
On the M3, MS, and MX series, the cars usually have a specific blend of G-48 ethylene-glycol coolant (HOAT) fluid. It adds both performance and lifespan to the battery while keeping it operating in a good way.
Plus, this’s different than the Model Y specified G-48 coolant as it includes 60% ethylene glycol and 40% water freezes at an operation temperature of around – 45 °C (– 49 °F)
Replacing Tesla Battery Coolant Regularly
Tesla coolant replacement or change is forbidden according to the owner’s manual of each series. Test battery supplier may also state about the issues of replacing the battery coolant.
Tesla made a great coolant for the battery that doesn’t require replacement for life unless it leaks or faces other errors.
One guy from Tesla Service Center says the coolant used in MY, M3, MX, and MS works under 5 PSI which is less in pressure than the ICE cars that have 6 – 16 PSI.
If you are thinking “can I drive Tesla with low coolant” in an urgent situation, then I’ll suggest you stop driving since it’ll damage the battery badly.
They suggest not to drive and contact Tesla if the touchscreen shows an error code or message related to the low-level fluid in the cooling system.
Is There Coolant In A Tesla?
Yeah, Tesla uses coolant in the battery of Model 3, Y, S, and X cars. It’s also true that the formulation of coolant in the other series can differ from Model Y but the outcome will be the same.
Just like other fluids, they use a special kind of coolant on all series cars to lessen the heat and add performance in a positive way. For details, learn about does Tesla have power steering fluid here.
Tesla Needs Coolant For a Few Purposes
The coolant in Tesla plays a great role to keep the battery going at the best speed without causing heat transfer. There are various reasons why this component is essential just like other cars. Let me share some of them in points:
- This helps to keep the battery at the right operating temperature in Tesla cars.
- Prevent electronic failures and shock issues.
- Does not require the need for change like the motor cars.
- Add lifespan to the battery and require less maintenance.
- Ensure no breakdown of Tesla on rough roads.
Tesla Coolant Can Leak!
The coolant of Tesla can leak for a couple of reasons. It can break or burst if you drive on a rocky surface where the rocks can reach through the front grill and cause a leak in the coolant.
Another reason is due to dust or debris stuck into the radiator or coolant that sometimes cause small leak during the driving period.
A lot of times the O-ring in the coolant break after 1 – 3 years and causes issue of leakages. If that happens, it’s better to call Tesla Service Center for the repair.
The Cost To Repair Tesla Coolant Leak
It depends on the damage level. In most cases, the Tesla service center will take up to $600 – $900 to repair the Tesla coolant leak. The repair might seem expensive but it’ll be beneficial in the long-term benefit.
If you try DIY techniques, it probably won’t cost more than $100 – $300. However, keep in mind the coolant from auto-shop or other stores doesn’t have the same formulation as the Tesla suggested coolant. Meaning you’ll face side effects as well!
Wrap Up
Tesla coolant uses special kinds of fluids that can’t be found in the marketplace. Although it costs a lot, the solution will help the battery’s cooling system to operate for a lifetime.
I’ll suggest not using coolant that has a similar tagline to a blue G-48 from a store that sells cheap items. Instead, go for the best-quality coolant from Tesla even if it cost more!
G48 is a coolant made by the chemical company BASF under the Glysantin brand (hence the G in the name). During the years it has been used as an OEM coolant for a number of car manufacturers like BMW, Mercedes-Benz, VW, Saab and Volvo to mention a few. It’s also licensed to Zerex, which for a while was owned by BASF. So, this coolant is nothing unique, and can typically be purchased in many places.
Hello Johan! It’s true that many brand USE the G48 as an OEM coolant which is licensed to Zerex and owned by BASF. And, you can use the G48 coolant in the Tesla too. But, the formulation of G48 coolant that is found on local auto shop is a little different than the Tesla’s one.