2021 Tesla Model Y Oil Capacity & Filter Guide

The 2021 Tesla Model Y takes exactly zero quarts of conventional engine oil because it is a fully electric vehicle (EV) that lacks an internal combustion engine. However, as an ASE-certified master technician, I frequently get asked about "oil changes" on Teslas. While there is no engine oil, the Model Y does utilize specialized oil (drive unit fluid or gearbox fluid) to lubricate and cool the front and rear electric motors and gear assemblies. Furthermore, these drive units actually have their own oil filters to keep the fluid clean.

Here is everything you need to know about the drive unit fluid in your 2021 Tesla Model Y.

Quick answer

While you won't be buying 5W-30 motor oil, here are the specifications for the Model Y's drive unit gearboxes:

• Engine Oil Capacity: 0 quarts / 0 liters (Electric Vehicle)
• Drive Unit Fluid Capacity: Approximately 2.3 quarts (2.2 L) for the front drive unit, and 2.4 quarts (2.3 L) for the rear drive unit.
• Recommended Fluid Weight / Spec: Tesla Drive Unit Fluid (EDF2) or a high-quality Dexron VI ATF equivalent (consult your owner's manual or Tesla service center for your exact VIN, as fluid specs can vary based on the drive unit revision).
• Oil Filter (Drive Unit): OEM Tesla Part # 1095038-00-A.
• Aftermarket Filters: Because this is a highly specialized EV gearbox filter, traditional aftermarket options from Fram, Wix, or Mobil 1 are not widely available. Always stick to the OEM Tesla filter.

Capacity by engine option

The 2021 Tesla Model Y was primarily sold in Dual Motor configurations (Long Range and Performance), meaning it has two separate drive units.

Note: Capacities are approximate dry fills. Fluid should be filled until it reaches the bottom threads of the fill hole.

Oil change interval

Because the Model Y does not have an internal combustion engine, it does not subject its oil to the extreme heat, carbon buildup, and fuel dilution that traditional engines do.

• Normal Duty: Tesla officially states that the drive unit fluid and filter are designed to last the lifetime of the vehicle and do not require scheduled replacements under normal driving conditions.
• Severe Duty: For owners who track their vehicles, drive aggressively, or want maximum preventative maintenance, many EV specialty shops recommend a drive unit fluid and filter service every 50,000 to 75,000 miles to remove normal gear wear-in metals.

Drain plug torque

If you or your mechanic are servicing the drive units, getting the torque right is crucial to prevent cracking the aluminum gearbox casing.

• Drain and Fill Plug Torque: 32 Nm (24 lb-ft).
• Sealing: The Tesla drive unit drain and fill plugs typically utilize an O-ring rather than a traditional copper or aluminum crush washer. Inspect the O-ring for tears or flattening and replace the plug if necessary.

How to change the oil (Drive Unit Fluid)

Servicing a Tesla drive unit is similar to servicing a traditional manual transmission or differential, but requires navigating high-voltage components. Warning: Ensure the vehicle is powered down and keep clear of high-voltage orange cables.

1. Lift the vehicle: Safely raise the Model Y using the specific reinforced factory lift points to avoid damaging the high-voltage battery pack.
2. Remove aero shields: Unbolt and drop the front and rear aerodynamic belly pans to access the drive units.
3. Open the fill plug FIRST: Always remove the 8mm hex fill plug before the drain plug to ensure you can actually refill the unit once it's empty.
4. Drain the fluid: Place a catch pan and remove the lower 8mm hex drain plug. Allow the fluid to drain completely.
5. Replace the filter: Locate the drive unit fluid filter on the side of the gearbox, remove the housing, and install the new OEM filter cartridge.
6. Refill the gearbox: Reinstall the drain plug to 32 Nm. Use a fluid pump to push the new drive unit fluid into the fill hole until fluid begins to weep out.
7. Button it up: Reinstall the fill plug to 32 Nm, clean up any spilled fluid, and reinstall the aerodynamic shields.

Common issues / tips

• Magnetic Drain Plug: The drain plugs on the Model Y drive units are magnetic. It is completely normal to see a fine, gray, metallic paste on the magnet, especially during the first service. This is simply the gears wearing in. However, large metal chunks indicate internal drive unit failure.
• Fluid Color: Don't be alarmed if the old fluid looks incredibly dark or smells distinct compared to standard engine oil. Gearbox fluid degrades differently than internal combustion engine oil.
• Lifting Hazards: Never place a jack anywhere on the battery pack. Use proper lifting pucks designed for the Model Y to prevent catastrophic battery damage. If you do not have the proper equipment, consult a dealer or EV-certified professional.

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