To regulate the working of its mechanisms nonstop and ensure proper lubrication, Tesla requires fluids after some time.

So, if you are wondering what fluids a Tesla has, know that there are four kinds of fluids in all Tesla cars based on the parts including windshield, brake, battery, and transmission.

In case this thing is new to you and have no idea, I’ll explain this matter to you in a detailed way and share some valuable details as well. Stay Tuned!

4 Types of Fluids Does a Tesla Have!

Tesla offers some hydraulic parts that need fluids to operate nonstop like the windshield, brake, battery, and transmission. In this section, I’ll break down what fluids are in a Tesla:

1. Windshield Washer Fluid

The first type of fluid that you’ll find in the Tesla cars is the windshield washer fluid. The location of it is inside the frunk at the top-panel storage cover with a black cap. Most of the time, the fluid in the windshield wiper is blue in color.

Now, to use a suitable fluid in the windshield wiper reservoir, you need to check some factors. Which includes:

• The fluid should be made for automotive vehicles.
• Do not use DIY techniques which include untreated water, bug repellent, or other things.
• If the outside temperature is under 4° C (40° F), then add windshield washer fluid with any automotive antifreeze.
• In the areas where VOCs are illegal to use, add windshield wiper fluid with low VOC (Volatile Organic Compound) content.

To understand it in a better way, I’ll suggest reading this guide about the Tesla windshield wiper fluid.

Health Check: Replace the windshield wiper fluid between 1 – 5 years or 12,500 – 50,000 miles.

2. Brake Fluid

In the owner’s manual of Tesla cars, it is clearly mentioned that the suitable fluid for the brake is DOT 3. However, apart from this type of fluid, you can surely use DOT 4 or even DOT 5.1 depending on the driving style. For example:

• If you are driving the car for daily needs, add DOT 3 as it requires less braking.
• If you take your car to the track on occasion, use the DOT 4 or 5.1.

Keep in mind that the DOT 4 and 5.1 fluids will absorb all the moister or air in the braking system than the DOT 3. So, use them if you are fine with this! FYI, the color of brake fluid is generally light yellow.

Health Check: Replace the brake fluid every 2 or 4 years (25,000 or 50,000 miles).

3. Battery Coolant

Another type of fluid that Tesla has is battery coolant. In the Model Y, Tesla uses a blue G-48 or orange-red HTF-LS coolant based on the manufactured date of the car.

And then, you’ll see Tesla using a G-48 ethylene-glycol coolant (HOAT) in Model S, X, and 3 cars. By and large, the color of the battery coolant is light blue. For a detailed explanation, check this guide about Tesla battery coolant.

Health Check: Replace the battery coolant every 4 years or 50,000 miles.

4. Transmission or Gearbox Fluid

Regarding the transmission or gearbox, Tesla uses different types of fluids (red in shade mostly) based on the series of Tesla. Here’s what I mean:

For Model X and S

The Mobil SHC 629 is the ideal transmission fluid for 2015 – 2020 Model X and 2012 – 2020 Model S cars. You’ll need to use it in the front-wheel drive unit and DEXRON VI (6) ATF in the rear-wheel drive unit.

Now, if you have Model X and S manufactured after 2020, use DEXRON VI (6) ATF in both front and rear-wheel drive units.

For that, ensure to use it in the right portion. Like:

• Use 1.8 quarts (1,750 ml) in front-wheel drive unit (small).
• Use 2.4 quarts (2,250 ml) in the rear-wheel drive unit (small).
• Use 1.5 quarts (1,400 ml) in the rear-wheel drive unit (large).

For Model 3 and Y

In both Model 3 and Y, Tesla suggests using a strong penetrating oil for transmission or gearbox. For that, the best pick would be Pentosin ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid) 9.

For that, use no more than 1.25 quarts (1,183 ml) in the front-wheel drive unit and 2.25 quarts (2,129 ml) in the rear-wheel drive unit.

Health Check: Replace the transmission’s front and rear drive units per year or 12,500 miles.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Does Tesla have a power steering fluid?

In short, no! Tesla power steering doesn’t have fluid that’s why it doesn’t leak like other cars. To understand it better, check here to know how power steering work in Tesla.

2. Where do Teslas have brake fluid?

As you know all series of Tesla cars contain brake fluids, the location is inside the front trunk. To reach the place, open the frunk and then remove the top-panel storage cover. After that, you can see the brake fluid inside the white bottle on the right side of the battery compartment.

3. How much does it cost to replace the brake fluid in a Tesla?

Based on the level of work, Tesla can cost more or less on replacing the brake fluid. On average, it costs no more than $300 including parts + inspection + service charges. If you have a backup service, it may take $0 for the replacement.

Wrap Up

Now that you know Tesla has different types of fluids, make sure to inspect their condition every day. This way, you can avoid problems like parts getting worn out or damaged.

If you notice that the liquid level is low or get an error code, seek help from an expert to fix the issue. I hope this guide explains the topic clearly. Looking forward to seeing you in the next guide soon!