How to Service Your Tesla Drive Unit

Like all modern vehicles, Teslas also require periodic servicing to keep them running smoothly. In this Ryco Technical Article, we’ll be running through the drive unit oil and filter service on a Tesla. For this, Ryco has developed the direct replacement Z1158 Drive Unit Filter. As always, we recommend that this service only be performed by a qualified mechanic.

Now you might be surprised to find out that Teslas require oil changes as part of their maintenance, but not in the traditional sense. Instead of changing the oil in a conventional internal combustion engine, the oil in the drive unit needs to be changed. The drive unit uses oil to not only lubricate but also cool various components within the unit.

The service requires a replacement oil filter as well as ZF Transmission Oil. There is one filter per drive unit, so AWD models will require two of the same replacement oil filters. The Ryco Z1158 Drive Unit Filter meets and exceeds OE standards, meaning your expensive drive unit will have the best filtration protection available.

To begin the service, you will first need to get the vehicle in the air. From there, the aero panels will need to be removed to access the drive units. You will need a special set of Tesla service sockets to complete the job. Once the panels have been removed, you can then crack the oil fill plug.

Make sure to do this first just in case you’re unable to undo the oil fill plug after draining the unit. To drain the drive unit, undo the two bolts that hold in the oil pump and carefully pull the pump out to drain the oil. Be sure to note how much oil is drained from the unit.

Next, the transmission oil filter is replaced. This process is the same as your standard engine oil filter replacement. First, undo the original filter from the drive unit and give the area a good clean.

Then, apply a small layer of fresh oil to the gasket on the new filter and refit it to the drive unit. Be sure to hand-tighten the filter a minimum of three-quarters after the gasket contacts the mounting pad. Check for any leaks and retighten if necessary.

Next, reinstall the oil pump and from there, the next step is to refill the drive unit with the ZF Transmission Oil. Undo the oil fill plug and using a fluid transfer pump, refill the unit using the same amount of oil that was drained.

If the Tesla is an AWD model, the process is repeated with the second drive unit. Once complete, the aero panels can then be refitted and the vehicle can be lowered to the ground.

To complete the drive unit service, you will need to cycle the fresh oil through the drive unit system, which can be done through the vehicle’s infotainment system. To do this, select the option to navigate to the nearest supercharger station on the MCU screen. This will engage the oil pumps and cycle the fresh oil through the system. Once complete, check for leaks and road test the vehicle.