2018 Tesla Model 3 Tire Size & Pressure

Quick answer

• OEM Tire Size: 235/45R18, 235/40R19, 235/35R20
• Recommended Cold Tire Pressure (Door Placard): 42 PSI (all tires)
• Bolt Pattern: 5x114.3
• Wheel Size: 18x8.5 ET40, 19x8.5 ET40, 20x8.5 ET35
• Load Index/Speed Rating: 98W (18-inch), 96W (19-inch), 92W or 92Y (20-inch)
• Spare Tire Size: None (tire repair kit included)
• TPMS Frequency: 433 MHz

Tire sizes by trim

Recommended replacement tires

When choosing replacement tires for your 2018 Tesla Model 3, it's important to consider tires designed for electric vehicles (EVs) or high-performance touring. These tires often feature lower rolling resistance for better range and a quieter ride, while still offering excellent grip.

• Michelin Pilot Sport 4S (High-Performance Summer, $$$): A top-tier choice for drivers seeking maximum grip and handling. Excellent in dry and wet conditions, but not recommended for cold weather or snow. Expect premium pricing.
• Pirelli P Zero (All Season Plus) (High-Performance All-Season, $$): A great all-around tire offering a balance of performance, comfort, and all-season capability. Good for spirited driving and light snow. A solid mid-range option.
• Goodyear ElectricDrive GT (All-Season, $$): Specifically designed for electric vehicles, this tire focuses on low rolling resistance for extended range and a quiet ride. Offers good all-season traction. Priced competitively.
• Continental PureContact LS (Grand Touring All-Season, $$): A comfortable and quiet tire with excellent wet and dry traction. Known for its long tread life and smooth ride, making it a good choice for daily driving.

When to inflate to max load psi

The 2018 Tesla Model 3 is not a heavy-duty truck, so the concept of inflating to "max load psi" for heavy hauling does not apply. Always adhere to the recommended cold tire pressure of 42 PSI as indicated on your vehicle's door placard. This pressure is optimized for the vehicle's weight distribution, handling, and tire performance under normal driving conditions. Incorrect tire pressure can lead to uneven tire wear, reduced fuel efficiency (or range in an EV), and compromised handling and braking.

Lug nut torque & pattern

Maintaining proper lug nut torque is crucial for wheel security and preventing vibrations. For the 2018 Tesla Model 3, the lug nuts should be torqued to 129 lb-ft (175 Nm). Always use a torque wrench to ensure accuracy and tighten the lug nuts in a star pattern (also known as a criss-cross pattern) to ensure even seating of the wheel against the hub. This helps prevent warping of the rotor or uneven stress on the wheel.

Common tire issues for this vehicle

• Rapid Tire Wear: Due to the Model 3's instant torque and regenerative braking, tires can experience more rapid wear, especially on the rear axle. This is exacerbated by aggressive driving and improper tire rotations.
• Uneven Tire Wear: Misalignment, improper tire pressure, or worn suspension components can lead to uneven wear patterns (e.g., inner or outer shoulder wear). Regular wheel alignments and tire rotations are critical.
• Road Noise: While Tesla works to minimize cabin noise, certain tire choices can contribute to road noise. EV-specific tires often prioritize quiet operation. Sticking to recommended tire pressures also helps.
• Pothole Damage: Low-profile tires, especially the 19-inch and 20-inch options, are more susceptible to damage from potholes, which can lead to sidewall bulges or bent rims. Be mindful of road hazards.
• TPMS Sensor Issues: Though generally reliable, TPMS sensors can occasionally fail or lose calibration, triggering a warning light. This can be due to battery depletion (they typically last 5-10 years) or physical damage.

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