2022 Tesla Model Y Oil Capacity & Filter Guide

The 2022 Tesla Model Y takes exactly zero quarts of traditional engine oil, as it is a fully electric vehicle (EV) that does not have an internal combustion engine. However, as an ASE-certified master technician, I frequently get asked this question by new EV owners who are used to traditional gas-powered car maintenance. While there is no engine oil, the Model Y does utilize specialized synthetic gear fluid to lubricate and cool the electric drive units (motors), though this is largely a maintenance-free system for the average owner.

Here is the breakdown of the fluids and filters actually used in the 2022 Tesla Model Y drive systems.

Quick answer

• Engine Oil Capacity: 0 quarts (0 liters).
• Drive Unit Fluid Capacity: Approximately 2.3 liters (2.4 quarts) per drive unit (front and rear).
• Recommended Fluid Weight/Spec: Pentosin ATF 9 or equivalent Tesla-approved synthetic DEXRON-VI formulation (consult dealer for exact regional fluid spec).
• Engine Oil Filter: None.
• Drive Unit Oil Filter: The drive unit features an internal/external pump with a specialized filter.
  • OEM Tesla Part Number: 1095038-00-A (Verify with Tesla service, as drive unit generations vary).
  • Aftermarket Cross-References: N/A. (Brands like Fram, Wix, and Mobil 1 do not make aftermarket drive unit filters for this vehicle).

Capacity by engine option

Because the Model Y does not have an internal combustion engine, the table below outlines the drive unit fluid capacities based on the electric powertrain options available for the 2022 model year.

Note: Capacities are approximate dry fills. Fluid levels should be set by filling until fluid weeps from the fill hole.

Oil change interval

Unlike traditional internal combustion engines that require oil changes every 5,000 to 10,000 miles, the drive unit fluid in a 2022 Tesla Model Y is generally considered a "fill-for-life" fluid by the manufacturer under normal operating conditions.

• Normal Duty: No scheduled fluid changes required.
• Severe Duty (Track use, extreme environments, high-mileage towing): While Tesla does not list a strict severe duty interval, many independent EV specialists recommend inspecting and potentially replacing the drive unit fluid and filter at the 100,000-mile mark to ensure optimal motor cooling and gear longevity.

Drain plug torque

If you or an independent EV shop are performing a drive unit fluid service, you will be working with standard hex or Torx drive unit drain and fill plugs.

• Drive Unit Drain & Fill Plug Torque: 32 Nm (24 lb-ft).
• O-Ring/Washer Note: The plugs typically use a captive O-ring rather than a traditional crush washer. It is highly recommended to replace the O-ring or the entire plug assembly if the rubber seal appears flattened or damaged upon removal.

How to change the oil (Drive Unit Fluid)

Disclaimer: Servicing the drive unit fluid on a Tesla requires entering the vehicle into Service Mode and utilizing Tesla's Toolbox diagnostic software to run the electric oil pumps for proper bleeding. This is not a standard driveway DIY job.

1. Safely lift and support the vehicle using the designated high-voltage battery jack points (use proper jack pad adapters).
2. Remove the aeroshields covering the front or rear drive unit.
3. Locate and remove the fill plug first to ensure you can refill the unit.
4. Remove the drain plug and allow the old gear fluid to drain completely into a catch pan.
5. Reinstall the drain plug and torque to 32 Nm.
6. Pump the approved drive unit fluid into the fill hole until a steady trickle weeps out.
7. Use Tesla Toolbox software to activate the drive unit oil pump bleed routine. Once the cycle finishes, top off the fluid as necessary.
8. Install the fill plug, torque to 32 Nm, and reinstall the aeroshields.

Common issues / tips

For the 2022 generation of the Model Y, the biggest "issue" with oil changes is simply owner confusion. Keep in mind:

• No Engine Maintenance: You will never need a smog check, spark plugs, or engine oil filters.
• Cabin Air Filter: The filter you do need to change frequently is the cabin air filter (recommended every 2 years) to prevent musty smells from the HVAC system.
• Tire Wear: Because EVs are heavy and produce instant torque, they go through tires much faster than gas cars. Rotate your tires every 6,250 miles or if the tread depth difference is 2/32 in or greater.
• Lift Safely: Never lift a Tesla without using dedicated lifting pucks in the specific chassis holes. Lifting directly on the high-voltage battery pack can cause catastrophic damage.

Need an oil change (or in this case, tire rotation and EV maintenance)? Find a trusted shop on Repairius.