Avoid getting grease on electrical components and connectors. Grease collects dirt, which can cause electrical tracking (short-circuits) or high resistance.

Handle printed circuit boards at an electrostatic discharge (ESD) work station only. Wear an antistatic wrist strap and hold printed circuit boards by the edges only.

The HV battery stores all of the energy for the motor and vehicle electrical systems. The battery can sense a variety of conditions that could potentially damage the vehicle or pose a safety risk. Its primary response in these circumstances is to disconnect the high voltage from the rest of the vehicle.

When the battery is not in a vehicle, high voltage is not accessible without removing the enclosure cover.

The 15V battery used is a Lithium-ion type like the HV battery, yet of a much smaller form factor. The 15V battery has its own BMS.

• Never pull on a wiring harness to disconnect an electrical connector.
• Never use tools to force connectors apart.
• Ensure that disconnected connectors and sensors are protected from oil, coolant, water, or other contaminants.
• Ensure that electrical items are dry and free of oil or grease before disconnecting and connecting test equipment.
• After reconnecting an electrical connector, lightly pull on it to ensure that it is secured.
• When replacing a component, keep oily hands away from electrical connection areas.
• Ensure that any protection (cover, insulation, etc.) is replaced if disturbed.

Some underhood and underbody connectors might be protected against corrosion by the application of a special grease during vehicle assembly. Apply the appropriate grease when repairing or replacing these connectors. Do not use other greases. Incorrect greases can migrate into relays, switches, etc. contaminating the contacts and leading to intermittent operation or failure.

Do not apply grease to any connectors that do not have grease applied from the factory.

Seek immediate medical assistance if an electrical shock or electrocution has occurred or is suspected.

Under normal conditions, technicians are not exposed to the contents of the HV battery cells. If materials from a ruptured or otherwise damaged battery contact skin, flush immediately with water and wash the affected area with soap and water. Avoid inhaling any vented gases. If a chemical burn occurs or if irritation persists, seek medical assistance. For eye contact, flush with significant amounts of water for 15 minutes and see a physician immediately.

HV batteries should be stored in a dry area, in approved packaging or on non-conductive surfaces. To reduce the risk of accidental shorting, ensure that there is no loose metal or other conductive materials near stored batteries.

HV batteries should not be stored longer than 9 months since battery service life likely will be affected. If longer storage is anticipated, contact Tesla for instructions.

The lithium-ion cells contained in the battery do not contain heavy metals such as lead, cadmium, or mercury.

HV Batteries should be disposed of or recycled in accordance with local, state, and federal regulations. Regulations regarding disposal of batteries vary by jurisdiction. In the United States, batteries are classified as Universal Waste, and in addition, many individual states have specific regulations regarding disposal of batteries.

HV batteries contain recyclable materials. Tesla strongly encourages recycling. Tesla recommends that that all HV batteries be taken to a Tesla Service Center so that the batteries can be evaluated, and, if appropriate, be recycled in a safe and efficient manner.

If disposing of a battery without returning it to Tesla, consult with local, state and /or federal authorities on the appropriate methods for disposal and recycling.