Connect and Disconnect Tesla Model 3 Hitch for Towing

A weight-carrying hitch with a 50 mm ball coupling is included in the Model 3 towing package. To avoid rust and corrosion, the hitch should be removed and stored in a dry location when not in use. To keep dirt and debris out of the hitch housing, place a dust cover over it.

Warning: When towing a trailer, you must utilize the Model 3 trailer hitch. Never use a trailer hitch that isn't designed for your vehicle.

Note: When towing, remember to always use safety chains. To enhance the security of the trailer cargo, cross the chains under the tongue and secure them to the trailer eyelets.

To install the trailer hitch:

• Insert a tiny tool, such as a flat screwdriver, into the push clips on each side of the dust cover to remove it from the hitch housing. Remove the dust cover by turning the push clips until they are unclasped and removing them.
• Place the key in the hitch's locking cylinder and turn it until the top of the key is in line with the "Open" position.
• Turn the locking cylinder clockwise until the Unlock icon is fixed at the top of the locking cylinder, about 0.5 cm out of the adaptor.
  Warning: When twisting the locking cylinder, use caution. It will automatically retract into its original "Closed" position if it is not locked into the "Open" position, pinching your fingers.
• Take the hitch by the bottom and align it with the cutouts in the hitch housing.
  Note: Do not hold the locking cylinder as it needs to freely rotate.
• Press the hitch into the hitch housing until the locking cylinder turns counterclockwise. It will lock into the "Closed" position automatically.
• Pulling down on the hitch will establish that it is fully placed into the housing. When you pull down, the hitch should not drop.
  Note: When you pull down on the hitch, if it does not lock into the housing, it will fall out.
• The arrows on the key should align with the Lock icon on the locking cylinder when you turn it.
• Remove the key and keep it in a secure location (inside the vehicle).
  Note: Only if the hitch is locked can the key be withdrawn. This shows that the connection is working properly. If the key is not removed, do not use the hitch.
  Note: Tesla advises making a mental note of the key code. If you lose your keys and need a replacement, you'll need this key code.

Disconnecting the Tow Hitch

After towing, remove the hitch:

• Insert the key and rotate it until the top of the key aligns with the Unlock icon.
• Pull the locking cylinder out roughly 0.5 cm and turn it clockwise until the Lock icon shifts to the top, while firmly holding the bottom of the hitch (to prevent it from falling to the ground). The hitch drops out of the housing when the locking cylinder is unlocked in the "Open" position.
• Warning: When twisting the locking cylinder, use caution. It will automatically retract into its original "Closed" position if it is not locked into the "Open" position, pinching your fingers.
• By snapping in the push clips, reinstall the dust cover on the hitch housing to prevent dirt from gathering inside the housing.
• Close the dust cover on the hitch's locking cylinder and keep it somewhere safe.
  Note: To keep the Tesla Model 3 hitch in good shape, oil it with non-resinous grease on a regular basis.

Disclaimer :
Tesla, Inc. was not involved in the development of this document and did not provide any input or otherwise edit, review or authorize it.