2020 Tesla Model Y Oil Capacity, Filter & Specs

The 2020 Tesla Model Y is a fully electric vehicle (EV) and takes exactly 0 quarts of traditional engine motor oil, as it does not have an internal combustion engine. If you are a new owner transitioning from a gas-powered car, the great news is that routine engine oil changes, oil filters, and emissions checks are entirely a thing of the past.

However, the Model Y does utilize a specialized lubricating fluid for its electric drive units (gearboxes), which keeps the electric motors and gear reduction sets cooled and lubricated. While this isn't standard "motor oil," it is a vital fluid. Below is everything you need to know about the 2020 Tesla Model Y drive unit fluid capacities and maintenance.

Quick answer

Because the Model Y is fully electric, standard motor oil specs do not apply. However, for the electric drive units (gearboxes), here are the specifications:

• Engine Oil Capacity: 0 quarts / 0 liters (No internal combustion engine)
• Drive Unit Fluid Capacity: ~1.2 liters (Front Motor) / ~1.5 liters (Rear Motor)
• Recommended Weight/Type: Tesla synthetic Electric Drive Fluid (EDF) or equivalent ATF (Dexron VI/Pentosin ATF 9 depending on specific Tesla service bulletins—always consult the dealer for the latest EDF part numbers).
• Oil Filter: The drive units have internal oil filters (Tesla OEM Part # 1095038-00-A for some motors), but these are not routine maintenance items and do not have standard aftermarket cross-references (like Fram, Wix, or Mobil 1). They are typically only replaced during a drive unit overhaul.

Capacity by engine option

The 2020 Tesla Model Y was exclusively offered in Dual Motor All-Wheel Drive configurations (Long Range and Performance). Therefore, you have two drive units that hold gear fluid.

Note: Always verify exact capacities in the Tesla Service Manual before attempting a fluid replacement, as capacities can vary slightly based on motor casting revisions.

Oil change interval

For standard gasoline cars, we discuss normal vs. severe duty. For the 2020 Tesla Model Y, the maintenance schedule is radically different:

• Normal Duty: Tesla does not specify a routine mileage interval for changing the drive unit fluid. It is generally considered a "lifetime" fluid for the duration of the powertrain warranty, though many EV specialists recommend a proactive change around 100,000 miles to ensure gearbox longevity.
• Severe Duty: If you frequently track the vehicle (especially the Performance model) or drive in extremely harsh conditions, a drive unit fluid service every 50,000 to 60,000 miles can help flush out metallic wear particles from the gear reduction set.

Drain plug torque

If you or an independent EV technician are servicing the drive unit gear oil, correct torque specifications are critical to prevent cracking the aluminum motor housing.

• Drain / Fill Plug Torque: 25 lb-ft (34 Nm)
• Crush Washer: The Model Y drive unit drain and fill plugs typically use an O-ring rather than a standard metal crush washer. Always inspect the O-ring for tears or flattening and replace the plug if the O-ring is compromised.

How to change the oil (Drive Unit Fluid)

Disclaimer: High-voltage systems are present. Standard EV safety protocols must be followed. Service should only be performed by experienced technicians.

1. Lift the Vehicle: Safely raise the Model Y using the dedicated jack pads to avoid damaging the high-voltage battery pack. Keep the vehicle perfectly level.
2. Remove Aero Shields: Unbolt and remove the front and rear aerodynamic undertrays to access the drive units.
3. Locate the Plugs: Identify the fill plug (top) and drain plug (bottom) on the side of the drive unit.
4. Remove Fill Plug First: Always remove the fill plug before the drain plug to ensure you can refill the unit once drained.
5. Drain the Fluid: Remove the drain plug and catch the old fluid in a drain pan. Expect it to smell heavily of sulfur, typical of gear fluids.
6. Reinstall Drain Plug: Clean the magnetic tip of the drain plug, inspect the O-ring, reinstall, and torque to 25 lb-ft.
7. Fill the Drive Unit: Using a fluid pump, pump the specified Tesla EDF into the fill hole until fluid begins to weep out of the hole.
8. Seal and Reassemble: Reinstall the fill plug (torque to 25 lb-ft), wipe the area clean, and reinstall the aero shields.

Common issues / tips

For the 2020 Model Y generation, the biggest "issue" regarding oil is consumer confusion. Many new owners visit shops asking for an oil change. As a technician, I remind them to focus on the routine maintenance EVs actually need:

• Tire Rotations: EVs are heavy and produce instant torque, meaning they eat through tires much faster than gas cars. Rotate every 6,250 miles.
• Brake Fluid Check: Because regenerative braking does most of the stopping, physical brakes are rarely used. Brake fluid should be tested for moisture every 2 years, and calipers should be cleaned/lubricated yearly in areas where road salt is used.
• Cabin Air Filter: Replace the HEPA/cabin air filter every 2 years to prevent AC odors.

Need an oil change for your other gas-powered vehicles, or specialized EV maintenance for your Tesla? Find a trusted shop on Repairius.