2025-07-09

Clean Radiator

Correction code 18301100 1.08 NOTE: Unless otherwise explicitly stated in the procedure, the above correction code and FRT reflect all of the work required to perform this procedure, including the linked procedures. Do not stack correction codes unless explicitly told to do so. NOTE: See Flat Rate Times to learn more about FRTs and how they are created. To provide feedback on FRT values, email ServiceManualFeedback@tesla.com. NOTE: See Personal Protection to make sure wearing proper PPE when performing the below procedure.

  • 2025-07-09: Delete steps to remove the radiator from the vehicle.
  • 2023-11-02: Updated the AGS-related steps.
  • 1135762-00-A Kit, Svc Plug, Cooling Hose, Model 3
  • 1108272-00-B Cap, Logic Conn, Inv, 3DU
  • 1133681-01-A Microfibre cloth (towel)
  • 1080568-00-A Fluid Catcher
Table 1. Torque Specifications: Clean Radiator
Description Torque Value Recommended Tools Reuse/Replace Notes
Nut that attaches the 12V negative terminal to the vehicle
6 Nm (4.4 lbs-ft)
  • Cordless Ratchet/Impact Driver
  • Ratchet/torque wrench
  • 10 mm deep socket
  • 4 in extension
Reuse
Bolts that attach the lower LH and RH of the cooling fan module to the ankle catcher
10 Nm (7.4 lbs-ft)
  • 8 mm socket
  • Ratchet/torque wrench
  • Cordless Ratchet/Impact Driver
  • 8 mm 12-point deep socket
Reuse
Bolts (x2) that attach the radiator to the condenser assembly
10 Nm (7.4 lbs-ft)
  • 5.5 mm socket
  • Ratchet/torque wrench
  • 4 in extension
Reuse
Warning IconA warning icon, calling your attention to a possibly risky situation
Warning

Only technicians who have completed all required certification courses are permitted to perform this procedure. Tesla recommends third party service provider technicians undergo equivalent training before performing this procedure. For more information on Tesla Technician requirements, or descriptions of the subject matter for third parties, see HV Certification Requirements. Proper personal protective equipment (PPE) and insulating HV gloves with a minimum rating of class 0 (1000V) must be worn at all times a high voltage cable, busbar, or fitting is handled. Refer to Tech Note TN-15-92-003, High Voltage Awareness Care Points for additional safety information.

Warning IconA warning icon, calling your attention to a possibly risky situation
CAUTION
Model 3 thermal management components operate under very tight specifications and can malfunction if Service procedures are not carefully followed. DO NOT rely on past experience with other thermal management systems; read through the Service Manual and do not deviate from the instructions.

Procedure

  1. Place the vehicle on the 2-post lift.
  2. Open all doors and lower all windows.
  3. Remove the underhood storage unit. See Underhood Storage Unit (Remove and Replace).
  4. Disconnect the active grille shutter actuator connector.
  5. Remove the frunk reinforcement assembly. See Reinforcement Bracket - Underhood Storage Unit (Remove and Replace).
  6. Remove the front aero shield. See Panel - Aero Shield - Front (Remove and Replace).
  7. Remove the front fascia valance. See Valance - Front Fascia (Remove and Replace).
  8. Release pedestrian warning harness.
  9. Install a towel to the front of subframe to protect the cooling fan in the later steps, then remove the bolts (x2) that attach the lower LH and RH of the cooling fan module to the ankle catcher, and then remove the cooling fan module from the vehicle.
    Informational PurposesAn informational icon, calling your attention
    Note
    With assistance, lift up on the cooling fan module to ease the removal of the bolts.
    Informational PurposesAn informational icon, calling your attention
    TIp
    Use of the following tool(s) is recommended:
    • 8 mm socket
    • Ratchet/torque wrench
    • Cordless Ratchet/Impact Driver
    • 8 mm 12-point deep socket
    Figure 1. LH Side
    Figure 2. RH Side
  10. Lower the vehicle to a comfortable working height and set the lift onto locks.
  11. Position the fluid catcher underneath the front of the vehicle.
  12. Release the upper clips (x6) that attach the active grille shutter to the top of the condenser fan module.
    Figure 3. Other components hidden for clarity
  13. Release the side clips that attach the active grille shutter to the condenser fan module.
    Figure 4. Other components hidden for clarity
  14. Release the lower clips that attach the active grille shutter to the bottom of the condenser fan module.
    Informational PurposesAn informational icon, calling your attention
    Note
    Make sure that the active grille shutter assembly is pushed up and away from the cooling fan module.
    Figure 5. View is from under vehicle; other components hidden for clarity
  15. Lift the active grille shutter up and remove it from the condenser fan module.
    Warning IconA warning icon, calling your attention to a possibly risky situation
    CAUTION
    While removing the active grille shutter, take care not to damage the radiator blades.
  16. Release the spring clips (x2) to disconnect the radiator inlet and outlet coolant hoses from the radiator, and plug the ends of fittings as soon as possible to avoid coolant loss.
    Informational PurposesAn informational icon, calling your attention
    Note
    Coolant loss greater than 1L requires vacuum fill.
  17. Remove the bolts (x2) that attach the radiator to the condenser assembly.
    Informational PurposesAn informational icon, calling your attention
    Note
    Some configurations may come no bolt.
    Informational PurposesAn informational icon, calling your attention
    TIp
    Use of the following tool(s) is recommended:
    • 5.5 mm socket
    • Ratchet/torque wrench
    • 4 in extension
  18. Release side tabs (x2) that attach the radiator to the cooling fan, and then slide out and keep radiator away from condensor.
  19. Use a shop-vac to clean the dirt on the radiator.
    Informational PurposesAn informational icon, calling your attention
    Note
    If necessary, remove the large debris.
  20. Use a blow gun to clean the dirt on the radiator again.
    Informational PurposesAn informational icon, calling your attention
    Note
    Do not get too close to the radiator blades.
    Informational PurposesAn informational icon, calling your attention
    Note
    Dust and debris may fly out during the process; make sure to wear proper PPE for protection, such as a mask, safety glasses, etc.
  21. Position the radiator onto the condenser, and then slide it into the fan assembly and engage the side tabs (x2) to secure.
  22. Install the bolts (x2) that attach the radiator to the condenser assembly.
    10 Nm (7.4 lbs-ft)
    Informational PurposesAn informational icon, calling your attention
    Note
    Some configurations may come no bolt.
    Informational PurposesAn informational icon, calling your attention
    TIp
    Use of the following tool(s) is recommended:
    • 5.5 mm socket
    • Ratchet/torque wrench
    • 4 in extension
  23. Remove the plugs on the ends of fittings, and then connect the radiator inlet and outlet coolant hoses to the radiator.
    Informational PurposesAn informational icon, calling your attention
    Note
    Perform a push-pull-push test to make sure that the hoses are fully secured.
  24. Position the active grille shutter assembly onto the condenser fan module, and then secure the lower clips that attach the active grille shutter to the bottom of the condenser fan module.
    Figure 6. View is from under vehicle; other components hidden for clarity
  25. Secure the side clips that attach the active grille shutter to the condenser fan module.
    Figure 7. Other components hidden for clarity
  26. Secure the upper clips (x6) that attach the active grille shutter to the top of the condenser fan module.
    Figure 8. Other components hidden for clarity
  27. Remove the fluid catcher from underneath the vehicle.
  28. Install the bolts (x2) that attach the lower LH and RH of the cooling fan module to the ankle catcher, and then remove the towel from the front of the subframe.
    10 Nm (7.4 lbs-ft)
    Informational PurposesAn informational icon, calling your attention
    Note
    Gently lift the condenser fan module to position it into place and install the bolts.
    Informational PurposesAn informational icon, calling your attention
    TIp
    Use of the following tool(s) is recommended:
    • 8 mm socket
    • Ratchet/torque wrench
    • Cordless Ratchet/Impact Driver
    • 8 mm 12-point deep socket
    Figure 9. LH Side
    Figure 10. RH Side
  29. Install the front fascia valance. See Valance - Front Fascia (Remove and Replace).
  30. Connect the active grille shutter actuator connector.
  31. Connect pedestrian warning harness.
  32. Install the underhood storage unit reinforcement assembly. See Reinforcement Bracket - Underhood Storage Unit (Remove and Replace).
  33. Install the front aero shield. See Panel - Aero Shield - Front (Remove and Replace).
  34. Install the underhood storage unit. See Underhood Storage Unit (Remove and Replace).
  35. Raise all windows and close all doors.
  36. Remove the vehicle from the lift.