Do Teslas Require Engine Oil & Oil Changes? (Explained)

The key aspect of buying a vehicle is getting as many details as possible about the model and manufacturer.

Given the current technological changes and innovation of electric vehicles, people often ask whether Teslas use engine oil.

Keep reading to find out more.

Do Teslas Use Engine Oil and Require Oil Changes?

Teslas don’t use engine oil because they have an electric motor that powers the vehicle. The motor is unlike internal combustion engines, which require oil to power a vehicle. Tesla has fewer moving parts than regular cars and therefore doesn’t require oil changes either.

Do Teslas Cars Use Oil?

Tesla cars run on an electric motor that doesn’t require oil.

The motor uses electricity to generate the power needed to run the vehicle. However, this doesn’t mean that Tesla cars don’t need oil. Some of the vehicle’s parts would need oil to ensure it operates well without friction that could damage it.

As a result, it would have a prolonged lifespan.

Some parts, such as drive units containing the AC induction propulsion motors, play an important role in making the Tesla operate well.

Therefore, they require oil to avoid damaging your car. The unique thing about it is that only Tesla changes the oil after you drive the car for 100000 miles. The oil changes are essential for Tesla models X, and S. Other

Tesla models have a replaceable external filter in certain parts. The oil in these components extends the vehicle’s lifespan.

Tesla’s gearbox uses oil, which needs replacement after the first, fifth, and ninth year of owning the vehicle. Without oil, the gearbox wouldn’t facilitate a smooth transmission.

The motor is the only obvious part of a Tesla that doesn’t require oil.

These vehicles don’t operate like regular cars that must burn oil to run the engine. The cars only need an electric charge to facilitate smooth running. If the vehicle doesn’t have a charge, it won’t start.

The same applies to oil combustion engines, because they can’t start the vehicle not unless you add gas.

The coolant is an important component that protects the car’s functionality and lifespan. Tesla’s batteries and other electronics use coolant inside the battery system to prevent overheating.

The same coolant is also used in some other parts of the car.

Check also here what causes a Tesla to spill oil on the ground.

Do Tesla Cars Need Oil Changes?

As mentioned above, a Tesla uses an electric motor engine, which means it doesn’t need oil changes. However, the car also uses oil in other movable parts to facilitate smooth functioning.

The oil in these sections needs to be occasionally changed to prolong the vehicle’s lifespan.

The gearbox is one of the Tesla components that require oil changes. This part is important in reducing or increasing a vehicle’s speed.

As a result, it’s prone to friction, reducing its effectiveness.

When you apply oil, it builds a dense layer between the different gear components to reduce abrasion.

In turn, the vehicle would operate smoothly without facing much resistance. While mechanics have experience in changing gear oil, Tesla recommends that their clients should have the oil changed in a Tesla service center.

You shouldn’t worry about changing gear oil if you don’t live close to a Tesla service center.

The various vehicle models have been designed to withstand friction for long periods.

Therefore, the oil needs to be changed three times during the vehicle’s lifespan. When you take your vehicle to a service center, they will know the right gearbox oil. Hence, you don’t have to worry about a mechanic using the wrong type of oil, which could damage your vehicle.

The amount of oil needed for a Tesla is lower than what’s used by internal combustion engine cars.

A regular vehicle might need oil changes several times within a year. Hence, Teslas prove to be economical due to the limited number of times they need oil changes.

What About Oil Filters In Tesla Models?

The traditional dipstick method is applicable in checking the oil condition in Tesla Model 3.

Tesla vehicles don’t need oil to facilitate engine functioning, but other parts such as the gearbox bring the necessity for oil filters.

The component ensures that the oil running through the gearbox parts doesn’t damage them.

An oil filter in Tesla cleans the oil in the gearbox and, therefore, needs occasional replacement. If the part is not replaced as per the manufacturer’s recommendations, it can affect your vehicle’s efficiency.

If the circulating oil has particles, they may get stuck in certain parts, thus making your car malfunction.

Tesla recommends that car owners replace the oil filter once every year.

Unlike other Tesla components, your mechanic can replace your oil filter with compatible ones on the market. A new oil filter is highly effective and would collect all the particles caused by friction between the metal parts.

What Fluids Do Tesla Cars Use?

Tesla requires a brake fluid to facilitate smooth transmission.

The brake fluid in Tesla doesn’t wear out quickly due to the regenerating braking system. The manufacturer recommends that Tesla owners check the brake fluid once every two years to ensure it’s in good condition.

Depending on how frequently you drive the car, the fluid can last for more than two years, making Tesla an economically sustainable vehicle.

A contaminated fluid would require an immediate replacement to prolong your vehicle’s lifespan.

When checking the fluid after two years, your manufacturer will inform you whether it needs replacement or not.

If it’s in good condition, it can serve you for additional six months to one year.

If you go for more than two years without checking the brake fluid, your vehicle’s braking efficiency will get compromised. It’s also dangerous to drive a vehicle whose braking fluid is compromised because you risk getting in an accident, especially if driving on a highway.

Tesla Model S has a transmission fluid that needs replacement every 12.5k miles.

Replacing this fluid enhances vehicle efficiency. It also prolongs its lifespan.

Check Also: What extra gear can you install on a Tesla?

The commonly used oil for movable Tesla parts is grease. The drive axle, windshield wiper, hinges, latches, and handles need grease to prolong the vehicle’s lifespan.

The wheels’ roller bearings are among the common car parts which need greasing to enhance efficiency.

We also have an article about all the liquids you normally find in electric cars.

The best way to care for your Tesla is through regular maintenance.

The manufacturer recommends you take their vehicle to their service centers to maintain specific car parts.

However, other parts are maintainable by your mechanic. The bottom line is to look for an experienced mechanic to do all the check-ups, including the necessary oil changes.

Was this article helpful?