2019 Tesla Model S Tire Size, Pressure & Wheel Specs

The 2019 Tesla Model S is a high-performance electric sedan that demands specific tire characteristics to handle its instant torque and heavy battery pack. Maintaining proper tire specs is critical for safety, efficiency, and range. Here is your comprehensive guide to the 2019 Tesla Model S tire and wheel specifications.

Quick answer

• OEM tire size: 245/45R19 (Base/Standard) or 245/35R21 Front / 265/35R21 Rear (Performance/Upgraded)
• Recommended cold tire pressure: 42 PSI front / 42 PSI rear (always check the driver's side door placard)
• Bolt pattern: 5x120
• Wheel size: 19x8.0J (ET40 offset) or 21x8.5J front (ET40) / 21x9.0J rear (ET40)
• Load index/speed rating: 102Y (19-inch), 96Y front / 98Y rear (21-inch)
• Spare tire size: None (Tesla does not equip the Model S with a spare; equipped with a flat repair kit or relies on roadside assistance)
• TPMS frequency: 433 MHz

Tire sizes by trim

The 2019 Model S was offered in several configurations (Standard Range, Long Range, Performance). The primary differentiator for tire sizes is whether the vehicle was ordered with standard 19-inch wheels or upgraded 21-inch Arachnid or Turbine wheels.

Note: Always verify your specific setup before purchasing, as previous owners may have swapped standard square setups for staggered wheels.

Recommended replacement tires

Because the Model S is a heavy EV, it requires tires with an "XL" (Extra Load) rating and ideally, acoustic foam lining (often denoted as TO for Tesla Original, or generic acoustic tech) to reduce cabin noise.

1. Michelin Pilot Sport 4S (Premium / High Performance)
   • Best for: Performance and summer driving. Offers incredible grip for the Model S's instant torque. Often comes with acoustic foam.
2. Pirelli P Zero All Season Plus Elect (Premium / All-Season)
   • Best for: Year-round driving with EV-specific tuning to maximize range and minimize rolling resistance.
3. Goodyear Eagle Touring (Mid-Tier / OEM Replacement)
   • Best for: A balanced, comfortable ride. This is often the factory tire on the 19-inch wheels and features SoundComfort technology.
4. Continental ExtremeContact DWS 06 Plus (Mid-Tier / Ultra-High Performance All-Season)
   • Best for: Drivers wanting sporty handling in a variety of weather conditions, including light snow, without breaking the bank.

When to inflate to max load psi

Note: The 2019 Tesla Model S is a passenger sedan, not a Heavy Duty (HD) truck. Therefore, you do not use "max load" PSI logic typical of LT (Light Truck) tires on 2500/3500 trucks.

For the Model S, you should almost always stick to the 42 PSI (cold) recommended on the door placard. This pressure is optimized for the vehicle's heavy curb weight (over 4,500 lbs) to prevent uneven wear and protect the rims from pothole damage. Never inflate to the "Max PSI" written on the sidewall of the tire (which is often 50 or 51 PSI), as this will cause a harsh ride and accelerated center-tread wear.

Lug nut torque & pattern

• Lug Nut Torque: 129 lb-ft (175 Nm)
• Bolt Pattern: 5x120
• Socket Size: 21mm

Pro Tip: Because of the high torque spec (129 lb-ft is higher than many standard sedans), always use a calibrated torque wrench. Do not use an impact gun to final-tighten the lug nuts, as warped brake rotors or damaged wheel studs can occur.

Common tire issues for this vehicle

1. Inner Edge Tread Wear: The Model S features a complex independent suspension that tends to run with aggressive negative camber, especially when the air suspension lowers at highway speeds. This frequently causes the inside edge of the rear tires to wear out down to the cords while the outside edge looks brand new. Inspect the inside of your tires regularly.
2. Pothole Damage on 21-inch Wheels: The 245/35R21 and 265/35R21 tires have very short, stiff sidewalls. When paired with a heavy EV, hitting a pothole can easily cause sidewall bubbles or bent rims. Keeping pressures strictly at 42 PSI helps mitigate this.
3. Rapid Wear from Acceleration: The instant torque of the electric motors is notoriously hard on tires. If you frequently use "Ludicrous" mode or accelerate hard, expect tire life to be significantly shorter than on a gas-powered vehicle (often under 20,000 miles for rear tires on staggered setups).

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