Teslas have oil filters to lubricate and protect the gears and bearings in their high-speed reduction gearboxes (drive units), not for an internal combustion engine. While EVs do not require engine oil, the gearboxes use specialized fluid that requires filtration to remove debris caused by friction, ensuring durability and preventing overheating.
Every Tesla vehicle depends on electric motors and modified drivetrains in the absence of standard piston engines, but they still need oil and oil filters to function. But instead of lubricating the internal components of the engine, a Tesla oil filter is mounted on the gearbox, or drive unit.
Tesla vehicles use electric motors, which do not require engine oil for lubrication. The absence of an internal combustion engine eliminates the need for traditional oil changes, simplifying maintenance.
All Tesla vehicles offer optimal winter driving performance due to equal weight distribution, highly responsive motor control and dynamic traction control. In cold weather, vehicles use more energy to overcome increased aerodynamic drag and to heat the cabin and high voltage battery.
A Tesla battery is designed to last for many years and hundreds of thousands of miles, typically 300,000 to 500,000 miles, with degradation of around 10% in the first 150,000 miles, often exceeding their 8-year/100,000-150,000 mile warranty by retaining at least 70% capacity. Real-world life depends on usage, but many owners report excellent longevity, with some vehicles reaching 300,000+ miles on the original pack.
Our engineers continuously review maintenance recommendations to optimize the performance, reliability, durability and safety of your Tesla vehicle. Unlike gasoline cars, Tesla vehicles require no traditional oil changes, fuel system maintenance, spark plug replacements or emission checks.
No oil changes –Tesla vehicles simply don't need them. This eliminates a recurring expense and inconvenience that traditional car owners may face more than once a year. Not only does this save money, but it also reduces the hassle of multiple trips to the mechanic.
Tesla checks the brake fluid level and health at the regularly scheduled maintenance intervals. To check the fluid level yourself, park Model S on level ground. When Model S is cool, remove the maintenance panel.
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Quick takeaway. Most Tesla owners spend relatively little on maintenance in the first 5–8 years, but unexpected collision or battery‑adjacent repairs can be significantly more expensive than on a comparable gas car. Planning for both is what keeps ownership stress‑free.
Tesla recommends rotating the tires every 6,250 miles (10,000 km) or if tread depth difference is 2/32 in. (1.5 mm) or greater since the last rotation, whichever comes first.
Top 5 Tips to Extend the Life of Your Tesla Battery
The safety and quality of Tesla cars and services have been questioned. There have been hundreds of reports of sudden unintended acceleration, brake failures, and "whompy wheels" – collapsing wheels due to faulty car suspension.
There's no official lower limit to driving an electric car – but be aware that the expected range could drop more quickly than you expect. In a Tesla, look out for the snowflake icon – it means it's too cold for full power and range. You'll see it on the touchscreen and in the app.
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Tesla (TSLA +2.11%) has been a fantastic stock for long-term investors, with returns exceeding 3,100% over the past decade.