2016 Tesla Model S Towing Capacity & Payload
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2016 Tesla Model S Towing Capacity & Payload: How Much Can It Tow?
This article provides comprehensive information on the towing capacity and payload of the 2016 Tesla Model S.
Quick answer
- Max Towing Capacity: Not officially rated for towing in North America.
- Max Payload: Approximately 825-895 lbs (varies by trim and configuration).
- GVWR: Approximately 4,773-5,091 lbs (varies by trim and configuration).
- GCWR: Not applicable as it is not rated for towing.
- Curb Weight: Approximately 4,597-4,939 lbs (varies by trim and configuration).
- Hitch Class: N/A (Aftermarket options may be available, but not recommended for towing heavy loads).
Tow ratings by engine & trim
The 2016 Tesla Model S was not officially rated for towing by Tesla in North America. Therefore, there are no official tow ratings by engine (or battery/motor configuration) and trim. Tesla did not offer a factory-installed tow package for the Model S in North America for the 2016 model year.
| Engine/Battery | Drivetrain | Trim/Package | Max Tow | Payload |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| All | RWD/AWD | All | Not Rated | 825-895 lbs |
Note: The payload capacity is an estimated range. Always refer to your specific vehicle's door jamb sticker for precise payload information.
Tow package contents
As the 2016 Tesla Model S was not officially rated for towing and did not offer a factory tow package in North America, there are no specific tow package contents to list. Essential towing components like a transmission cooler (not applicable to EVs), integrated brake controller, and trailer sway control were not provided by the manufacturer for towing purposes.
5th-wheel & gooseneck
The 2016 Tesla Model S is a full-size luxury electric sedan and is not designed for 5th-wheel or gooseneck towing. These types of towing setups are exclusively for heavy-duty trucks and specialized commercial vehicles.
Weight distribution & WDH requirements
Since the 2016 Tesla Model S is not rated for towing, there are no official guidelines for weight distribution hitches (WDH) from Tesla. Using a WDH on a vehicle not designed for towing can introduce unforeseen stresses and potentially compromise the vehicle's structure and handling.
Real-world towing tips for this vehicle
Given that the 2016 Tesla Model S is not officially rated for towing, it is strongly advised against using it for towing purposes. Attempting to tow with a vehicle not designed or rated for it can lead to several problems:
- Safety Concerns: Towing can drastically alter the vehicle's handling, braking, and stability, increasing the risk of accidents.
- Vehicle Damage: The drivetrain, suspension, and chassis are not built to withstand the stresses of towing, potentially leading to premature wear and damage.
- Reduced Range: For electric vehicles, towing significantly impacts range due to increased aerodynamic drag and weight.
- Warranty Void: Using the vehicle for unapproved towing applications may void the manufacturer's warranty.
- Legal Issues: In some regions, towing without proper ratings or equipment can be illegal.
If you require a vehicle for towing, it is recommended to opt for vehicles specifically designed and rated for towing, adhering to SAE J2807 standards where applicable.
Common towing-related issues
While the 2016 Tesla Model S isn
More specs for the 2016 Tesla Model S
Oil Capacity & Filter
Capacity, weight, filter PN, drain plug torque, change interval.
Fluid Type Specs
Engine oil, coolant, ATF, diff, brake, PS, DEF — with OEM spec numbers.
Coolant Capacity & Type
Total system capacity, OEM coolant spec, flush interval, bleed tips.
Transmission Fluid & Service
Trans model, fluid spec, capacity, filter PN, service interval.
Torque Specifications
Lug nuts, drain plug, caliper, axle nut, plug, key fasteners.
Brake Pad & Rotor Specs
Pad PNs, rotor size, min thickness, caliper torque.
Tire Size & Pressure
OEM size, cold psi, bolt pattern, wheel size, TPMS.
Battery Size & Group
Group size, CCA, AGM/flooded, dimensions, reset note.
A/C Refrigerant & Oil
R-134a or R-1234yf, charge oz, PAG oil spec.
Bulb Sizes (Headlight, Tail, Fog)
Headlight, fog, tail, turn, reverse, interior.
Factory Maintenance Schedule
Service intervals by mileage, severe-duty notes, known issues.
Fuse Box Diagram & Amperage
Fuse box locations, layout, amps, and what each fuse controls.
Serpentine Belt Routing & Length
Belt routing, length, rib count, OEM + aftermarket PNs.
Wheel Alignment Specifications
Camber, caster, toe ranges (front & rear), adjustability notes.
Paint Color Codes
All factory colors with paint codes, sticker location, touch-up tips.
Wiper Blade Sizes
Driver/passenger/rear blade size, attachment, OEM + cross-refs.
Spark Plug Type & Gap
Plug PN, gap, torque, interval by engine.
Transmission & Axle Gear Ratios
Trans gear ratios, axle ratios, RPO codes, tow vs MPG impact.
Key Fob Programming
DIY programming steps, FCC ID, fob PN, battery, transponder.
Same spec — other model years
Maintenance & repair guides
2016 Tesla Model S Maintenance Schedule →
Available maintenance guidance; confirm the manufacturer schedule.
Repair planning references →
Plan the scope of work; detailed procedures need configuration-matched evidence.
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