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Inspect the defect(s) and determine whether they are low or high risk.
- If the defect(s) are low risk, continue to the next step.
- If the defect(s) are high risk, escalate the repair to a body shop.
- Low Risk Defect Characteristics
  - Less than 1.5 mm diameter on flat or near-flat body panels
  - Less than 1.0 mm diameter on or near character lines
  - High or low spots
  - Basic surface paint inclusions
  - Holograms
  - Swirls
  - Solvent pop
  - Overspray
  - Light to medium depth scratches
NOTE:
Low Risk Basic Surface Paint Inclusions (1 Of 2)

Courtesy of TESLA, INC.

NOTE:
Low Risk Basic Surface Paint Inclusions (2 Of 2)

Courtesy of TESLA, INC.
- High Risk Defect Characteristics
  - Larger than 2.0 mm diameter on flat or near-flat body panels
  - Larger than 1.0 mm diameter on or near character lines
  - Off color inclusions
  - High or low spots larger than 2.0 mm
NOTE:
High Risk Off Color Paint Inclusion

Courtesy of TESLA, INC.

NOTE:
High Risk Defect On Character Line

Courtesy of TESLA, INC.

When to See a Mechanic

Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

• You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.

• Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.

• The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.

• You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.

• You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.

Safety Warning

Determine Defect Risk Level

Use the Manual With the Right Hardware

When to See a Mechanic