2018 Tesla Model X Coolant Capacity & Type

The 2018 Tesla Model X has a total cooling system capacity of approximately 10.4 to 11.8 quarts (9.8 to 11.2 liters) of G-48 coolant.

Quick Answer

• Total Cooling System Capacity: 10.4 - 11.8 quarts / 9.8 - 11.2 liters
• OEM Coolant Specification: G-48 HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology), Blue color. Use Tesla-branded G-48 coolant or a compatible equivalent.
• Mix Ratio: 50/50 mix of coolant concentrate and deionized water. Pre-mixed solutions are recommended.

Capacity by Engine Option

All 2018 Tesla Model X variants, including the 75D, 90D, 100D, and P100D, share the same essential battery and powertrain cooling architecture. The system is responsible for regulating the temperature of the high-voltage battery pack and the drive units. While minor variations exist, the total capacity remains within the 10.4 to 11.8 quart (9.8 to 11.2 liter) range for a complete flush and fill.

Flush Interval

Tesla's cooling system is designed for longevity, but the coolant itself requires periodic replacement to maintain its anti-corrosive properties and thermal stability.

• Normal Service: Tesla specifies a coolant flush and replacement every 4 years or 50,000 miles, whichever comes first.
• Severe Duty: There is no specific severe duty interval. However, if the vehicle is frequently operated in extreme temperatures (consistently above 100°F or below 0°F) or used for heavy towing, more frequent inspections of the coolant level and condition are advisable.

How to Refill & Bleed

Servicing a Tesla's cooling system is significantly different from a traditional internal combustion engine vehicle and is best left to qualified technicians with the proper equipment. The system is complex, with multiple loops and pumps that require a specific, software-guided procedure to properly bleed.

1. Specialized Equipment Required: A professional-grade vacuum filler is mandatory. Attempting to fill and bleed the system manually will inevitably leave air pockets, leading to overheating of the battery or drive units.
2. Service Mode Activation: The vehicle must be put into a specific service mode using diagnostic software to activate the various coolant pumps and valves in the correct sequence.
3. Vacuum & Fill: The technician will connect a vacuum filler to the degas bottle (coolant reservoir), pull a deep vacuum on the system to remove all air, and then use the vacuum to draw in the fresh coolant. This is the only way to ensure a complete, air-free fill.
4. Software-Driven Bleed Cycle: After the initial fill, the technician will initiate a lengthy, automated bleed procedure via the diagnostic software. The car will cycle the pumps and valves for an extended period (often 30 minutes or more) to purge any remaining micro-bubbles from the intricate network of cooling passages.

Warning: Do not attempt to open or service the high-voltage battery coolant system without proper training and personal protective equipment (PPE). Contact with high-voltage components can cause serious injury or death.

Common Cooling System Issues

The cooling system on the Model X is generally robust, but some issues have been noted for this generation.

• Coolant Leaks: Leaks can develop at hose connections, radiator end tanks, or at the battery chiller unit. The blue G-48 coolant may leave a colored, crusty residue at the site of the leak.
• Faulty Coolant Pumps: The system uses multiple electric pumps. A failure of any single pump can trigger fault codes and a warning message on the dash, often restricting performance to protect the affected component (battery or drive unit).
• Sensor Malfunctions: Temperature and level sensors within the system can fail, leading to inaccurate readings and erroneous warning messages. These typically require replacement and a system check.

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