The Model 3 is Tesla’s lower-priced, mass-market electric vehicle. Since its launch in 2017, it has become one of Tesla’s most popular models. But does it come with a jack for changing a flat tire? Let’s take a closer look.
What is a Jack and Why Do Cars Have Them?
A jack is a device used to lift a vehicle off the ground temporarily. It allows you to change a flat tire or perform other maintenance that requires access underneath the vehicle.
Most gasoline-powered cars come equipped with a jack and other tools for changing a tire. This is because gasoline cars have spare tires that can be swapped in if a tire goes flat. The jack allows you to lift the car so you can remove the flat and put on the spare.
Electric vehicles like the Model 3 do not have spare tires. This is mainly to save weight and increase driving range. However, not having a spare does not completely preclude the need for a jack.
Does the Tesla Model 3 Have a Jack?
The Tesla Model 3 does not come with a traditional jack for changing tires. There are a few reasons for this:
- Weight savings – Removing the jack reduces weight and improves driving range
- No spare tire – There is no spare tire to change, reducing the need for a jack
- Emergency tire repair kit – The Model 3 comes with an emergency tire repair kit to temporarily fix flats
Instead of a jack, the Model 3 comes with what Tesla refers to as a “lift point adapter.” Here are some key things to know about it:
- Lifts vehicle for maintenance – It can be used to raise the vehicle up slightly for maintenance or repairs.
- Not for tire changes – It is not designed for removing and replacing wheels/tires.
- Used with service jack – Must be used together with a garage service jack or lift when raising the vehicle.
How Does the Lift Point Adapter Work?
The lift point adapter is a small piece of metal that slots into a special lift point pocket underneath the side rocker panels on the Model 3. Here are the basic steps to use it:
- Locate the lift point pockets – They are located near the battery pack on both sides of the vehicle.
- Insert adapter into pocket – Slide the adapter into the lift point pocket.
- Position jack – Place a service jack or lift arm under the adapter.
- Raise vehicle – Use the service jack/lift to raise the vehicle. Do not rely solely on the adapter to lift the full weight.
The adapter helps transfer the weight and prevent damage to the body when lifting. But a proper jack or lift must always be used to raise the vehicle – the adapter alone is not enough.
Can You Safely Change a Flat Tire?
While the Model 3’s lift point adapter does allow you to technically raise the car, it is not intended for changing tires. Here are some of the challenges involved:
- Difficulty removing wheel – The limited lift height makes it very difficult to remove and install a wheel.
- Car not stable – Using only the adapter does not properly stabilize the car for removing a wheel safely.
- No proper jack points – There are no dedicated jacking points on the undercarriage to safely support car’s weight.
- Risk of damage – Improper lifting risks damage to the battery pack and other components.
For these reasons, Tesla does not recommend using the lift point adapter for tire changes. The safest option is to call roadside assistance or a tow truck if you get a flat tire on a Model 3.
What if I Don’t Have Cell Service for Roadside Assistance?
If you get a flat tire on your Model 3 in an area without cell service for roadside assistance, you have a couple options:
- Use tire repair kit – The onboard tire repair kit can plug small punctures to re-inflate the tire temporarily. This allows you to slowly drive to a service location.
- Carefully change tire yourself – It is possible to very carefully change the tire yourself using the adapter and a floor jack. But this is not recommended or endorsed by Tesla due to safety concerns.
- Get pulled/towed – Flag someone down to give you a pull/tow to a safe location or service shop.
Changing a flat yourself should only be done as an absolute last resort. And extreme care must be taken to properly support the vehicle and avoid damage. The best option is always to call roadside assistance if possible.
Does Tesla Provide Guidance on Using the Lift Point Adapter?
Yes, Tesla provides the following guidance and warnings related to using the lift point adapter in the Model 3 owner’s manual:
- Only use adapter with proper jacks/lifts
- Do not use the adapter alone to support the vehicle’s weight
- Only lift at locations with adapters installed
- Do not jack on side of battery pack or along rocker panels
- Improper lifting can damage the battery pack
- Always follow jack manufacturer instructions
In summary, Tesla is very clear that the lift point adapter must be used properly with an appropriate jack or lift. The adapter alone is not designed to support the full weight of the vehicle.
Are There Any Aftermarket Jacking Solutions?
Because the Model 3 does not come from the factory with a way to easily change a flat tire, some aftermarket companies have developed jacking solutions specifically for the Model 3:
| Company | Product | Description |
|---|---|---|
| EVAnnex | Model 3 Jack Pad Set | Set of 4 jack adapter pads that fit in jacking points under the side rails. |
| JACKPOINT | Tesla Model 3 Jacking System | Low-profile puck-style adapters that fit in the Factory jack points. |
| ReadyLIFT | Tesla Model 3 Lift Kit | Lift spacers and adapters that allow the use of a floor jack for tire changes. |
These aftermarket solutions can make changing a flat tire on the Model 3 easier. However, even with the right jacking pucks and adapters in place, tire changes on the Model 3 should still be done carefully by properly supporting the vehicle’s weight.
Other Maintenance that Requires Lifting the Model 3
While the Model 3’s lift point adapter is not intended for tire changes, it can be useful for smaller maintenance tasks that require getting under the car. Some examples include:
- Inspecting or adjusting the lower suspension components
- Accessing underbody components like the battery coolant lines
- Checking for minor fluid leaks from the battery or drive units
- Installing aftermarket modifications like lowering springs
For any tasks requiring lifting the Model 3, the lift point adapter should always be used in conjunction with a proper service jack or lift placed at the designated lift points. Never try to lift the vehicle solely with the adapter.
Conclusion
To summarize, the Tesla Model 3 does not come with a spare tire or a traditional jack designed for changing tires. While it has lift point adapters that allow the vehicle to be raised slightly, these are not intended for removing and replacing wheels.
Tesla recommends summoning roadside assistance for any flat tires, as attempting to change it without proper jacking points can risk damage. Aftermarket jacking solutions are available, but care should still be taken when lifting the full weight of the vehicle.
The Model 3’s lift point adapters are primarily intended for minor maintenance tasks requiring access underneath the vehicle within a limited lift height. For any procedure requiring lifting the Model 3, a suitable jack or lift must always be used – the adapters alone are not meant to support the full weight of the car.
While not having a spare tire and jack may seem inconvenient, this choice helps optimize the Model 3 for its electric vehicle architecture. Tesla compensates for the lack of a spare by including 24-hour roadside assistance with every new Model 3.