Protecting your Tesla Model Y paintwork – 7 practical tips

In Finland, Tesla Model Y paintwork faces road salt, grit, mud, tree resin, insects and bird droppings that can cling to the surface. Protecting the paint starts with careful washing and removing dirt before it becomes ingrained. This guide brings together the key points from Tesla's official Model Y owner's manual and practical ways to reduce everyday splashes.

1. Rinse off loose dirt before contact washing

Do not start by rubbing a dry surface. Tesla advises rinsing away mud, grit and other loose dirt with water first. Pay attention to wheel arches and panel seams, where dirt collects. In winter, thoroughly rinse road salt from the underside, wheel arches and around the brakes.

2. Remove harmful substances promptly

Bird droppings, tree resin, dead insects, oil, tar and road salt can damage the surface if left for too long. Remove them promptly using a method suitable for both the substance and your car's finish. Avoid vigorous rubbing, as grit on the surface can scratch the clear coat.

3. Use mild car shampoo and a soft cloth

Tesla recommends washing the Model Y with a clean, soft cloth, cold or lukewarm water and a mild, good-quality car shampoo. Rinse all shampoo away before it dries on the surface, then dry the car gently. Rough or dirty washing tools can leave swirl marks and scratches.

4. Avoid direct sunlight and harsh chemicals

Do not wash the car in direct sunlight. Tesla warns against hot water, solvents and highly alkaline, caustic or acidic cleaners. Always check the product instructions and its suitability for the car's exterior, plastic trim, lights and cameras.

5. Keep a safe distance with a pressure washer

Tesla's Model Y manual specifies a minimum distance of 30 cm between the pressure-washer nozzle and the car's surface. Keep the nozzle moving and do not aim the high-pressure jet at parking sensors, seals, electrical components or the charge port. Never pressure-wash the charge port while the car is charging.

6. Choose a touchless automatic car wash

If using an automatic car wash, Tesla advises choosing a touchless wash and enabling Car Wash Mode. This closes the windows, locks the charge port and prevents several functions from activating accidentally during washing. Always check the current manual for your own car before entering a car wash.

7. Reduce mud splashes on the sills and sides

Mud flaps help reduce the water, grit and mud thrown by the tyres onto the sills and sides. They do not replace regular washing or a paint-protection treatment, but can make the lower bodywork easier to keep clean. Always check compatibility with your Model Y version and model year.

View Tesla mud flaps and splash guards or browse all Tesla Model Y accessories.

Quick checklist

• Rinse off grit and road salt before hand washing.
• Remove bird droppings, resin and insects promptly.
• Use mild car shampoo and a soft, clean washing tool.
• Avoid washing in direct sunlight.
• Keep the pressure-washer nozzle at least 30 cm from the surface.
• Use a touchless automatic wash and enable Car Wash Mode.
• Check the paintwork regularly for stone chips and scratches.

Source: Tesla Model Y owner's manual: Cleaning. Always follow the current manual for your car model and software version.

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