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
Description | Torque Value | Recommended Tools | Reuse/Replace | Notes |
---|---|---|---|---|
Nut that attaches the 12V negative terminal to the vehicle |
![]() 6 Nm (4.4 lbs-ft) |
|
Reuse | |
Bolts that attach the lower LH and RH of the cooling fan module to the ankle catcher |
![]() 10 Nm (7.4 lbs-ft) |
|
Reuse | |
Bolts (x2) that attach the radiator to the condenser assembly |
![]() 10 Nm (7.4 lbs-ft) |
|
Reuse |
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.
Procedure
- Place the vehicle on the 2-post lift.
- Open all doors and lower all windows.
- Remove the underhood storage unit. See Underhood Storage Unit (Remove and Replace).
- Disconnect the active grille shutter actuator connector.
- Remove the frunk reinforcement assembly. See Reinforcement Bracket - Underhood Storage Unit (Remove and Replace).
- Remove the front aero shield. See Panel - Aero Shield - Front (Remove and Replace).
- Remove the front fascia valance. See Valance - Front Fascia (Remove and Replace).
- Release pedestrian warning harness.
-
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.
NoteWith assistance, lift up on the cooling fan module to ease the removal of the bolts.TIpUse of the following tool(s) is recommended:
- 8 mm socket
- Ratchet/torque wrench
- Cordless Ratchet/Impact Driver
- 8 mm 12-point deep socket
- Lower the vehicle to a comfortable working height and set the lift onto locks.
- Position the fluid catcher underneath the front of the vehicle.
- Release the upper clips (x6) that attach the active grille shutter to the top of the condenser fan module.
- Release the side clips that attach the active grille shutter to the condenser fan module.
-
Release the lower clips that attach
the active grille shutter to the bottom of the condenser fan module.
NoteMake sure that the active grille shutter assembly is pushed up and away from the cooling fan module.
-
Lift the active grille shutter up and
remove it from the condenser fan module.
CAUTIONWhile removing the active grille shutter, take care not to damage the radiator blades.
-
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.
NoteCoolant loss greater than 1L requires vacuum fill.
-
Remove the bolts (x2) that attach the
radiator to the condenser assembly.
NoteSome configurations may come no bolt.TIpUse of the following tool(s) is recommended:
- 5.5 mm socket
- Ratchet/torque wrench
- 4 in extension
- Release side tabs (x2) that attach the radiator to the cooling fan, and then slide out and keep radiator away from condensor.
-
Use a shop-vac to clean the dirt on
the radiator.
NoteIf necessary, remove the large debris.
-
Use a blow gun to clean the dirt on
the radiator again.
NoteDo not get too close to the radiator blades.NoteDust and debris may fly out during the process; make sure to wear proper PPE for protection, such as a mask, safety glasses, etc.
- Position the radiator onto the condenser, and then slide it into the fan assembly and engage the side tabs (x2) to secure.
-
Install the bolts (x2) that attach the
radiator to the condenser assembly.10 Nm (7.4 lbs-ft)NoteSome configurations may come no bolt.TIpUse of the following tool(s) is recommended:
- 5.5 mm socket
- Ratchet/torque wrench
- 4 in extension
-
Remove the plugs on the ends of
fittings, and then connect the radiator inlet and outlet coolant hoses to the
radiator.
NotePerform a push-pull-push test to make sure that the hoses are fully secured.
- 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.
- Secure the side clips that attach the active grille shutter to the condenser fan module.
- Secure the upper clips (x6) that attach the active grille shutter to the top of the condenser fan module.
- Remove the fluid catcher from underneath the vehicle.
-
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)NoteGently lift the condenser fan module to position it into place and install the bolts.TIpUse of the following tool(s) is recommended:
- 8 mm socket
- Ratchet/torque wrench
- Cordless Ratchet/Impact Driver
- 8 mm 12-point deep socket
- Install the front fascia valance. See Valance - Front Fascia (Remove and Replace).
- Connect the active grille shutter actuator connector.
- Connect pedestrian warning harness.
- Install the underhood storage unit reinforcement assembly. See Reinforcement Bracket - Underhood Storage Unit (Remove and Replace).
- Install the front aero shield. See Panel - Aero Shield - Front (Remove and Replace).
- Install the underhood storage unit. See Underhood Storage Unit (Remove and Replace).
- Raise all windows and close all doors.
- Remove the vehicle from the lift.