Choosing winter tyres for your Tesla Model S first requires knowing which Model S you’re driving. Between the saloon models from 2012 to 2021 and the restyled Long Range or Plaid versions, the wheels, brakes and budget no longer have much in common. Here’s how to make sense of it all and how much to budget for.
Tesla Model S winter wheels: two generations, two ranges
The pre-facelift Model S (2012–2021) is compatible with a wide range of affordable 19-inch wheels. The restyled Model S Long Range and Plaid, on the other hand, feature different brake calipers and wider factory-fitted tyres, often with different sizes at the front and rear. The kits are therefore not interchangeable: each product listing specifies the compatible model years. Check your vehicle’s year of first registration and the tyre size printed on your tyres before comparing.
Why stick with 19-inch wheels in winter?
On a saloon weighing over two tonnes, 21-inch wheels with very low-profile tyres are ill-suited to icy roads: the rims are exposed to potholes, the tyres are more expensive and more susceptible to black ice. Tesla Model S 19-inch winter wheels offer more tread, better shock absorption and genuine tolerance to ruts. With air suspension, also remember to increase the ground clearance in deep snow to avoid ploughing through the snow with the bumper. Finally, 19-inch wheels make it easier to fit compact snow chains, whereas 21-inch wheels leave very little space in the wheel arch.
Model S 2012–2021: keeping costs under control
This is the most affordable generation. The W37 wheel kit with tyres is available for €934.90, and the P122 kit for €914.90, including fitting and balancing. These Tesla Model S winter wheels can be swapped over without an appointment and protect your summer wheels from salt damage. For a car that often exceeds 100,000 km, it’s also a way of avoiding the need to invest in new, high-end wheels.
Model S LR and Plaid 2022: a whole new world
Larger brakes and wide factory-fitted tyres require specific rims. The Brock B40 19-inch kit for the LR and Plaid (€3,199.90) meets these requirements with an approved rim. On a Plaid, the available power makes winter tyres non-negotiable: even in Chill mode, the torque far exceeds the grip of a summer tyre at 3 °C. Ensure the load index is at least equal to the original specification.
The checklist before ordering your Tesla Model S winter wheels
- identify the model year and generation (pre- or post-facelift);
- dimensions and load index taken from the original tyres;
- compatibility with your brake calipers verified on the specification sheet;
- pressure sensors suitable for your model year;
- storage space arranged for your summer tyres.
Storage, sensors and protection
A complete kit means storing your summer tyres for five months: our article on Tesla tyre storage explains how to do this. The tyre pressure sensors must be compatible with your car; this is covered in our guide to Tesla TPMS sensors. Finally, slush and salt end up on the floor mats: see our Tesla Model S and X floor mats. Before setting off for the mountains, check the traffic forecast on bison-fute.gouv.fr.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will an older-generation Model S kit fit a Plaid? No, the brakes and tyre fitment are different; only the LR and 2022 Plaid specifications are suitable.
Are 21-inch Tesla Model S winter wheels an option? They are possible, but not recommended: they are fragile, expensive and offer reduced grip on snow.
Do you need snow chains as well? In areas covered by the Mountain Code, 3PMSF tyres are sufficient, unless there is a sign requiring snow chains.
How long does it take to change them? About half an hour with a jack, jack stand and torque wrench.
Green Drive’s opinion
On a Model S, 19-inch winter wheels remain the best balance between safety, comfort and budget, provided you choose the correct generation for your car. All kits are available in the Model S complete winter wheel range.
