According to Tesla, their cars are designed to require minimal maintenance. The only regular service required is an annual checkup, which any authorized Tesla service provider can do. Beyond that, Teslas don’t need oil changes, new spark plugs, or other common forms of auto maintenance.
This is all thanks to the design of the electric motor, which doesn’t have any moving parts that require regular maintenance on a gasoline engine. That’s not to say that Teslas never need any service – eventually, parts like brakes and tires will need to be replaced.
But overall, you can expect to spend much less on maintaining a Tesla than on a gas-powered car.
Of course, this is all subject to change as Tesla continues to refine its design and release new models. For now, though, electric cars are much easier (and cheaper) to maintain than their gas-powered counterparts.
Maintenance Requirement for Tesla
Tesla vehicles are some of the most technologically advanced cars on the road today. They are also among the most reliable. However, even the most reliable cars need service from time to time. So, how often does a Tesla need service?
The recommended maintenance schedule for Tesla vehicles is every 12 months or 12,500 miles, whichever comes first. However, there are some circumstances where you may need to bring your Tesla in more frequently. Below we’ll go over a few of those scenarios.
Factors on Which the Tesla’s Maintenance Frequency Depends
The maintenance of Tesla depends on many factors. Among them is the model of Tesla, the number of miles driven, the frequency of use, the climate, the terrain where the vehicle is driven, how well the car is taken care of, and so on. If we take a closer look at these factors, we can see that they all impact how often:
Car Model
First of all, it depends on the model of Tesla that you have. The Model S and X require less frequent maintenance than the Model 3; for example, they are designed to require less frequent service than other cars. It has been engineered for minimal maintenance and can go up to 10 years without needing primary service.
The maintenance schedule for a Tesla is as follows:
- Model S and X: Whichever comes first every 12,500 miles or 12 months
- Model 3: Every 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first
However, there are a few things that all Tesla owners should be aware of and regularly perform to keep their cars in top shape. These include:
- Checking tire pressure monthly
- Washing and waxing the car
- Keeping the interior clean
- Checking fluid levels monthly
- Inspecting the brakes and suspension components yearly
Your Tesla will provide many years of trouble-free driving with proper care and maintenance.
Mileage
The maintenance schedule for Tesla cars depends upon the car’s mileage. For example, a Model S with under 50,000 miles will need to have its brakes checked every 12 months or 12,500 miles, whichever comes first. The same is true for the car’s tires, a Model S with under 50,000 miles.
As you can see, the maintenance schedule for Tesla cars differs depending on the car’s mileage. If you have a Tesla with under 50,000 miles, you will need to take it in for service more often than a Tesla with over 50,000 miles.
This is because the car’s parts will wear out more quickly if used more frequently.
Driving Style
The main determining factor for how often a Tesla needs to be serviced is driving style. Those who gently accelerate and the brake will extend the time between services, while those who drive more aggressively need to bring their vehicle in more often.
Tesla has various service plans available, depending on the desired coverage level. The base plan covers most basic maintenance needs, while the premium plan adds things like tire rotations and software updates.
No matter the chosen plan, Tesla recommends that all owners bring their vehicles in for an annual service. This helps ensure that everything is operating as it should and can catch any potential issues before they become serious. While most Tesla owners are happy with the company’s service plans, some feel they are being overcharged.
Climate and Terrain
The frequency of maintenance for a Tesla will depend mainly on the climate in which it is driven. For example, if a Tesla is driven primarily in hot weather, the battery will degrade faster and need to be replaced more often. Similarly, if a Tesla is driven in cold weather, you will reduce the range, and the battery will need to be charged more often.
Teslas can also be affected by terrain. If a Tesla is driven on rough roads, the battery will degrade faster, and the tires will wear down more quickly.
Similarly, if a Tesla is driven in an area with many hills, you will drain the battery faster. In general, a Tesla’s maintenance frequency will depend on various factors.
However, by taking care of the vehicle and driving it in moderate conditions, most Teslas can go for several years without needing major repairs.
Way You Care
The service required for Tesla depends upon how you care for it. If you regularly clean and inspect your Tesla, you will likely need to perform maintenance less often.
However, if you neglect your Tesla, you may need to perform maintenance more frequently. Teslas are generally very low-maintenance cars, but like any car, they will eventually need work.
To ensure your Tesla stays in top condition, keeping up with the maintenance schedule is essential. You can find the recommended schedule in your owner’s manual. You can always ask a Tesla representative for help if you have any questions.
Personal Preferences
Finally, the frequency of service needed also depends on the owner’s personal preferences. Some people like to service their cars more frequently, while others are happy with less frequent servicing. Ultimately, it is up to you to decide how often to service your Tesla.
However, we recommend you have your car serviced at least once a year to ensure it runs correctly and avoid any potential issues.
Overall, the maintenance of Tesla depends on a variety of factors. Understanding and considering these factors can help ensure that your Tesla stays in good condition for years.
Car Service for Tesla
The car service of Tesla is a bit different from other car services. Many things are included in the service, and each one is designed to keep your Tesla running smoothly and efficiently. Here’s a look at what’s included:
Tire Rotation and Balance
This is an essential part of keeping your Tesla in good condition. The process of tire rotation and balancing is essential for the longevity of your tires as well as the safety of your vehicle. Tesla recommends rotating your tires every 5,000 miles (8,000 km).
Brake Fluid Flush
This is another essential service that you should do every 12 months. The brake fluid helps to keep the brakes working correctly and can become contaminated over time. A flush will clean out the system and help to prevent any problems. Luckily, flushing your brake fluid is a pretty easy process and doesn’t take very long.
Coolant Flush
Over time, your car’s coolant can become dirty and must be flushed. A coolant flush is a process of flushing the dirty coolant out of your car’s system and replacing it with fresh, clean coolant. This can help to improve your car’s overall performance and prevent any buildup of contaminants.
Transmission Fluid Flush
When it comes to servicing your Tesla, another essential thing you can do is to keep your transmission fluid clean and topped up. Transmission fluid can become contaminated and break down, leading to problems with your car’s shifting performance. A transmission flush is a great way to clean out your transmission and help keep it running smoothly.
Power steering Fluid Flush
Power steering fluid flushes are an essential part of maintaining your Tesla. Power steering fluid helps keep your steering system working properly by lubricating the moving parts and keeping them cool. A power steering fluid flush will clean the old fluid and replenish it with fresh fluid.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement
The cabin air filter helps keep the Tesla air clean and fresh. Not only does this help to keep the air inside your vehicle clean and free of contaminants, but it can also improve fuel efficiency and prevent potential engine damage.
While many newer vehicles have cabin air filters that are easy to access and replace, some older models can be more challenging.
Battery Replacement
The battery is the heart of Tesla, and if your Tesla is starting to show signs of reduced range or performance, it may be time for a battery replacement. Tesla batteries are designed to last for 300,000 miles, but as they age, they can start to degrade.
Replacing your Tesla battery is a straightforward process to keep Tesla running smoothly and efficiently.
These are just some of the services included in Tesla’s car service. Each one is designed to keep your Tesla running smoothly and efficiently.
Care Tips for Tesla
As the number of Tesla cars on the roads continues to increase, so does the need for good care and maintenance tips. Although Tesla cars are built to be very reliable and require minimal upkeep, there are still a few things that owners should do to keep their cars in top condition. Here are some care tips for Tesla owners:
Check the Battery
The most important part of a Tesla car is its battery. The car won’t go very far or be efficient without a good battery. That’s why it’s essential to check the battery regularly and ensure it is adequately charged. If the battery level gets too low, it’s important to charge it up as soon as possible.
Keep the Interior Clean
Another vital care tip for Tesla owners is to keep the car’s interior clean. This includes the seats, floor mats, and dashboard. All of these areas can collect dirt and dust over time, which can eventually lead to damage.
By keeping the interior clean, owners can prolong the life of their cars and avoid having to replace parts prematurely.
Wash the Exterior
Like the interior, you should occasionally wash a Tesla car’s exterior. This will help remove any dirt or debris that could damage the paint or bodywork. It’s also important to wax the car to protect the paint and keep it looking glossy.
Check the Tires
Another tip for Tesla owners is to check the condition of their tires frequently, such as checking the tread depth and pressure. If the tread depth gets too low, replacing the tires is essential. Likewise, if the tire pressure gets too low, it can decrease fuel efficiency.
Get Regular Service and Maintenance
Finally, one of the best care tips for Tesla owners is to get regular maintenance. In other words, they have the car checked by a qualified mechanic.
By doing this, owners can identify potential problems early on and prevent them from becoming severe.
By following these care tips, Tesla owners can prolong the life of their cars and avoid having to replace parts prematurely. Additionally, regular service and maintenance will help to keep the car running smoothly and efficiently.

Wrapping Up
So there you have it – a look at how often Tesla cars need service. As you can see, they are very low-maintenance vehicles that will save you money in the long run. If you’re considering switching to electric, a Tesla should be at the top of your list!
Regarding maintenance, Tesla’s all-electric cars are pretty different from gas-powered ones.
Electric cars have far fewer moving parts than gas cars, which means there are fewer opportunities for something to go wrong.
In addition, electric motors are incredibly reliable and require very little maintenance. Tesla recommends bringing your car in for service every 12,500 miles or once a year. However, this recommendation may vary depending on different conditions.
You may also like:
- Tire Pressure Warning in Tesla Cars
- Tesla Vs. Maserati
- What is the Tesla Creep Mode and How Does it Work?
- Tesla vs. BMW i8 [Complete Comparision]
- Why Do People Tap The Tesla Charger?
- How to Calculate the Range of an Electric Car
- How Often to Change Tesla Coolant
- The Definitive Guide to Cleaning Tesla Vegan Leather Seats
- Top Tips to Maximize an Electric Vehicle’s Range

My name is Matthew, staying in Seattle, Washington. Electric Vehicles (Electric Cars & Electric bikes) caught my attention for the last few years and my love for electric cars and bikes is everlasting. I spend many of my weekends traveling to various places all over various cities with my electric vehicle (e-bike and electric car). Here I am sharing my expertise, experience, and invaluable information about electric cars and electric bikes. Check out more.