Quick answer

While stationary and unplugged, touch Controls > Service > Car Wash Mode; hold the brake and select Enable Free Roll when a conveyor requires it.

Before you start

Check that your vehicle has it.

Availability

Verified for 2025 U.S.-market Model S vehicles in Tesla's current owner manual.

Compatibility check

Does the documented scope match your car?

This check combines the verified year, any source-supported powertrain scope, source-named trim/package and required equipment. It does not read a VIN or factory build record.

Can you see the required control, menu or equipment on your vehicle?
Published availability and qualifications

Verified for 2025 U.S.-market Model S vehicles in Tesla's current owner manual.

  • 2025 Model S electric lineup with current Tesla software
Visual orientation

Know what kind of control to look for.

This original category diagram is an orientation aid, not a picture of your exact trim. Use the written labels and your vehicle manual to identify the real control.

Car wash preparation orientation diagram for Tesla Model S
Car wash preparation orientationOriginal visual guide · controls vary by trim · not to scale
How to use it

Step by step.

  1. 01

    Stop in the wash staging area, stay in Park and disconnect charging.

  2. 02

    Select Controls > Service > Car Wash Mode and review the preparation status.

  3. 03

    For a conveyor, keep the brake depressed and touch Enable Free Roll or shift into Neutral as instructed.

  4. 04

    Remain ready to brake or exit the mode when the conveyor ends.

  5. 05

    Touch Exit after the wash and verify windows, charge port, wipers and locks resume normal operation.

!

Important limits

  • Tesla specifies touchless automatic washes only.
  • The vehicle must be stationary and not actively charging.
  • Car Wash Mode exits above 9 mph (15 km/h).
If it does not work

Quick checks.

  • ✓Stop fully and unplug if the mode is unavailable.
  • ✓Maintain brake pressure when selecting Enable Free Roll.
  • ✓Coordinate with the operator before re-entering free roll if Park engages.
Owner feedback

What happened on your vehicle?

Your response is stored on this device. If you separately allow analytics, a non-account-linked guide/result event may also be measured. No VIN or personal information is requested.

Primary evidence

Tesla Model S Owner's Manual — Cleaning and Car Wash Mode

Relevant section or page: Cleaning — Car Wash Mode. We use the written official source to determine the steps and applicability shown above.

Open official source ↗
Editorial record

Reviewed with a visible trail.

Scope and steps were checked by Car Cheat Codes Editorial Review. A guide is narrowed or corrected when the source does not support a broader claim.

Published
Last modified
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Guide change history
  • Initial verified publication.