2016 Tesla Model S — Tire Size & Pressure

Quick answer

• OEM Tire Size: 245/45R19, 245/45R19 (front) / 275/40R19 (rear), or 245/35R21 (front) / 265/35R21 (rear)
• Recommended Cold Tire Pressure (Door Placard): Refer to your specific vehicle's door placard for precise values, as they can vary slightly by trim and tire option. Generally, 42 PSI (front and rear) for 19-inch wheels, and 45 PSI (front and rear) for 21-inch wheels.
• Bolt Pattern: 5x120 mm
• Wheel Size: 19x8.0" (front), 19x8.0" (rear) or 19x8.0" (front), 19x9.0" (rear) or 21x8.5" (front), 21x9.0" (rear)
• Load Index/Speed Rating: Varies by tire, but typically 102W for 19-inch, 93Y (front) / 98Y (rear) for 21-inch.
• Spare Tire Size: The 2016 Tesla Model S does not come with a spare tire.
• TPMS Frequency: 433 MHz

Tire sizes by trim

Recommended replacement tires

The Tesla Model S, being a high-performance electric vehicle, requires tires that can handle its instant torque, heavy weight, and high speeds, while also providing a comfortable and quiet ride. Here are a few popular options:

• Michelin Pilot Sport 4S (Premium Tier): Often considered the benchmark for performance tires. The Pilot Sport 4S offers exceptional dry and wet grip, precise steering response, and good tread life for a performance tire. It's a popular choice for Model S owners looking for maximum handling and performance. Price: $$$$
• Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 3 (Premium Tier): Another excellent choice for a balance of performance and comfort. These tires are known for their strong wet braking performance, quiet ride, and good handling characteristics. They are often original equipment on many performance cars, including the Model S. Price: $$$-$$$$
• Pirelli P Zero (Premium Tier): A common OEM tire for the Model S, the Pirelli P Zero delivers strong performance in both wet and dry conditions. They offer high levels of grip and precise steering, but can have a slightly firmer ride and potentially shorter tread life compared to some competitors. Price: $$$-$$$$
• Continental ExtremeContact Sport 02 (Mid-Range/Premium Tier): A great all-around performance summer tire that offers impressive handling, grip, and comfort. It often provides a good balance of performance for daily driving and occasional spirited driving. Price: $$$-$$$$

When to inflate to max load psi

This section is not applicable to the 2016 Tesla Model S, as it is not a heavy-duty truck. Always refer to your vehicle's door placard for the recommended cold tire inflation pressures and never exceed the maximum pressure listed on the tire's sidewall.

Lug nut torque & pattern

For the 2016 Tesla Model S, the lug nuts should be torqued to 129 lb-ft (175 Nm). The bolt pattern is 5x120 mm, meaning there are 5 lug nuts and the bolts are arranged in a circle with a diameter of 120 mm. Always tighten lug nuts in a star pattern to ensure even seating and prevent wheel warping.

Common tire issues for this vehicle

Owners of 2016 Tesla Model S vehicles sometimes report the following tire-related issues due to the car's characteristics:

• Rapid Tire Wear: The instant torque and heavy weight of the Model S can lead to accelerated tire wear, especially for drivers with an aggressive driving style. This is more pronounced on the rear tires, particularly with staggered setups.
• Uneven Tire Wear: Misaligned suspension, improper tire pressure, or worn suspension components can contribute to uneven tire wear, requiring earlier replacement.
• Tire Noise: As tires wear, or if specific tire models are chosen, some Model S owners may experience increased road noise due to the lack of engine noise to mask it.
• Puncture Susceptibility: Given the advanced materials and often low-profile nature of performance tires, they can sometimes be more susceptible to punctures from road debris.

Regular tire rotations (if recommended by the tire manufacturer and vehicle setup) and maintaining proper tire pressure are crucial for maximizing tire life and performance on a Tesla Model S.

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