Tesla Model X Owners & Service Manuals

Tesla Model X: Before Towing a Trailer

Before towing a trailer, you must do the following:

  • Inflate tires to the cold tire inflation pressure specified in Tire Pressures when Towing.
  • Ensure your vehicle's Adaptive Suspension Damping is set to Advanced, then set the Suspension height to Medium height (touch Controls > Suspension > Medium).
  • Observe all regulations and legal requirements in your state/region that apply to trailer towing. Failure to comply with regulations can compromise your safety.
  • Adjust side mirrors to provide a clear rearward view without a significant blind spot.
  • Engage Trailer Mode (see Trailer Mode).

Confirm the following:

  • Model X rests horizontally with the trailer attached. If the vehicle is tipped up at the front, and down at the rear, check that you are not exceeding the maximum towing capacity and tongue loads provided in Carrying Capacity.
  • All trailer hitch parts and attachments, safety chains, and electrical connectors are in good condition and are properly connected. If any problems are apparent, do not tow the trailer.
  • Trailer lights (brake lights, turn signal lights, and marker lights) are working properly.
  • The trailer tongue is securely connected to the hitch ball.
  • Safety chains are properly connected between the trailer and the tow vehicle. Cross the safety chains under the tongue of the trailer to help prevent the tongue from contacting the road if it separates from the hitch. Leave enough slack in the safety chains to allow for turns and ensure that the chains can never drag on the ground.
  • All cargo is secured.
  • Wheel chocks are available.
  • The trailer load is evenly distributed such that the trailer tongue weight is approximately 10% of the total trailer weight, without exceeding the maximum tongue weights provided in Carrying Capacity.
  • If the trailer is equipped with a separate braking system, check that the brakes work and are properly adjusted. To provide safe stopping ability, you must balance the trailer brakes with the vehicle brakes.

NOTE: For general information about trailer safety provided by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, go to: http://www.nhtsa.gov/cars/problems/Equipment/towing/Towing.pdf.

WARNING: The trailer tongue weight must be approximately 10% of the total trailer weight without exceeding the maximum tongue weights provided in Carrying Capacity. Loads that are balanced over the wheels or heavier in the rear can cause trailer sway, resulting in loss of vehicle control.

WARNING: Always ensure that cargo is secured in the trailer and will not shift. Dynamic load shifts can cause loss of vehicle control, resulting in serious injury or death.