2020 Tesla Model X Oil Capacity & Filter Guide

The 2020 Tesla Model X is a fully electric vehicle and takes absolutely zero quarts of traditional engine oil, as it does not have an internal combustion engine. If you are a new EV owner or simply transitioning from a gas-powered SUV, you might be looking for the dipstick or oil filler cap out of habit, but you won't find one under the "frunk."

Instead of an internal combustion engine, the Model X relies on electric drive units (motors) and a high-voltage battery pack. While these drive units do contain a lubricating fluid (often referred to as gearbox fluid or drive unit oil), it is not equivalent to conventional motor oil, does not have a traditional oil filter, and is generally considered a lifetime fluid under normal operating conditions.

Quick answer

Because the 2020 Tesla Model X is an EV, standard engine oil specifications do not apply. Here is the breakdown for the vehicle's drive unit lubrication:

• Engine Oil Capacity: 0 qts / 0 L (No internal combustion engine)
• Drive Unit Fluid Capacity: Approximately 1.5 to 2.3 liters per motor (varies between front and rear induction/permanent magnet motors).
• Recommended Weight/Fluid: Tesla-specific synthetic gear/drive unit fluid (historically Pentosin ATF 9 or Dexron VI equivalent, but always consult your Tesla Service Center for the exact current spec for Raven/2020 models).
• Oil Spec: N/A for engine oil.
• Oil Filter OEM Part Number: N/A (The vehicle does not use an engine oil filter).
• Aftermarket Cross-References: N/A (Fram, Wix, and Mobil 1 do not make engine oil filters for this vehicle). Note: You will need to replace your Cabin Air Filter and HEPA filter periodically.

Capacity by engine option

Since the 2020 Model X comes in Long Range and Performance variants rather than standard engine displacements, traditional engine oil capacity is zero across the board.

Note: Drive unit fluid capacities are provided for reference only. Tesla recommends against independent service of the drive unit fluid unless performed by a certified EV technician.

Oil change interval

Normal Duty: There is no engine oil change interval. The drive unit fluid is intended to last the life of the vehicle under normal driving conditions. Severe Duty: If the vehicle is subjected to extreme conditions (e.g., heavy towing, track use, or severe climate extremes), the drive unit fluid may degrade over time. However, Tesla does not officially publish a severe duty drain interval for the drive units. Any fluid inspection or replacement should be handled by a Tesla Service Center.

Drain plug torque

If a technician is servicing the drive unit fluid, the fill and drain plugs on the drive units require specific torques.

• Drive Unit Drain/Fill Plug Torque: Varies by motor type (typically around 25-33 lb-ft or 34-45 Nm).
• Crush Washer Note: The drive unit plugs utilize a sealing ring/washer that must be replaced if the plug is ever removed. Do not reuse the old washer, or the drive unit will leak heavily.

How to change the oil

You cannot change the engine oil on a 2020 Tesla Model X. If you are looking to perform DIY maintenance, you should focus your efforts on the systems that actually require upkeep:

1. Check and fill windshield washer fluid: This is the most common fluid you will need to add. The reservoir cap is located under the hood (frunk) near the cowl.
2. Replace the cabin air filter: This should be done every 2 years.
3. Replace the HEPA filter: Recommended every 3 years.
4. Test brake fluid: Have a professional test your brake fluid for moisture contamination every 2 years. Because EVs use regenerative braking, the physical brakes are used less often, which can lead to moisture buildup in the lines.
5. Tire rotation: Rotate tires every 6,250 miles, or if tread depth difference is 2/32 inch or greater (note that some Model X setups are staggered and cannot be rotated front-to-rear).

Common issues / tips

While you don't have to worry about oil leaks, failing oil pumps, or clogged oil filters, the 2020 Tesla Model X does have specific maintenance quirks.

• Heavy Tire Wear: The Model X is a very heavy vehicle with immense instant torque. Expect to go through tires much faster than you would on a comparable gas-powered SUV.
• Half-Shaft Shudder: Hard acceleration on Model X vehicles (especially in the "High" suspension setting) can lead to accelerated wear on the front half-shafts, causing a noticeable shudder/vibration.
• Brake Caliper Servicing: If you live in a cold weather region where road salt is used, you should clean and lubricate your brake calipers every 12 months or 12,500 miles. Since regenerative braking does most of the stopping, the physical brake components can seize up from lack of use.

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