Tesla Model S: Traction Control
How It Works
The traction control system constantly monitors the speed of the front and rear wheels. If Model S experiences a loss of traction, the system minimizes wheel spin by controlling brake pressure and motor power. By default, the traction control system is on. Under normal conditions, it should remain on to ensure maximum safety.
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This yellow indicator flashes on
the
instrument panel whenever the traction
control system is actively controlling brake
pressure and motor power to minimize
wheel spin. If the indicator stays on, a fault
is detected with the traction control
system. Contact Tesla Service.
WARNING: Traction control cannot prevent collisions caused by driving dangerously or turning too sharply at high speeds.
Allowing Wheel Slip
To allow the wheels to spin at a limited speed, you can enable Slip Start. Slip Start can be enabled only when Model S is moving 30 mph (48 km/h) or slower. Slip Start automatically disables when the speed exceeds 50 mph (80 km/h).
Under normal conditions, Slip Start should not be enabled. Enable it only in circumstances where you deliberately want the wheels to spin, such as:
- Starting on a loose surface, such as gravel or snow.
- Driving in deep snow, sand or mud.
- Rocking out of a hole or deep rut.
To allow the wheels to spin, touch Controls > Pedals & Steering > Slip Start.
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The instrument panel displays an
alert
message when Slip Start is enabled.
Although Slip Start is automatically disabled the next time you start Model S, it is strongly recommended that you disable it immediately after the circumstances that required you to enable it have passed.
NOTE: Slip Start can not be enabled when you are actively using cruise control.
READ NEXT:
How Park Assist Works
Model S has several sensors designed to detect the
presence of objects. When driving slowly in Drive or
Reverse (for example, when parking), the vehicle alerts
you if an object is detected in close
Visual and Audio Feedback
When you shift to Reverse, the Park Assist view displays
on the left side of the instrument panel, showing objects
that are in close proximity to the front and rear of
Model S. This view closes whe
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Driveshaft Assembly - LH (Remove and Replace)
Warning: If the vehicle has air suspension, activate "Jack"
mode on the touchscreen before raising and supporting the vehicle.
Special tool(s) required for this procedure:
Supplier
Part Number
Description
Compressor - 1st Generation (Remove and Replace)
Warning: Only technicians who have been trained in High
Voltage Awareness are permitted to perform this procedure. Proper
personal protective equipment (PPE) and insulating HV gloves with a
minimum rating of class 00 (500V) must be worn any time a high
voltage cable is handled. Refer
