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Home/Cars/Tesla/Model S/Plaid/Refresh (2021-present)/my Tesla Model S brake pads are wearing unevenly what could cause this

my Tesla Model S brake pads are wearing unevenly what could cause this

Tesla Model S Plaid/Refresh (2021-present)

Severity: highDifficulty: medium2-4 hours
3 min read
465 words

⚠️ Safety Warning

This issue requires immediate attention. If you are not experienced with automotive repairs, consult a professional mechanic. Working on critical systems can be dangerous.

Problem Statement

Learn how to diagnose and fix uneven brake pad wear on Tesla Model S. Step-by-step guide with symptoms, diagnostic steps, and repair instructions.

Component
Brakes
Repair Time
2-4 hours

Safety Warnings

  • ⚠Disconnect the battery before working on any electrical components.
  • ⚠Allow brakes to cool before touching any components after use.

Symptoms

  • •Uneven brake pad thickness across the front or rear axle
  • •Increased brake noise (squeaking or grinding)
  • •Pulling to one side during braking
  • •Vibration in the brake pedal
  • •Reduced braking efficiency

Diagnostic Steps

  1. 1Inspect the brake pads visually for uneven wear patterns.
  2. 2Check brake caliper operation for sticking or seizing.
  3. 3Measure rotor thickness and inspect for warping or scoring.
  4. 4Inspect the brake lines for damage or kinks.
  5. 5Verify that the brake fluid is at the proper level and condition.
  6. 6Check for proper alignment and suspension issues that may affect braking.

Solution

Solution

1. Preparation

  • Gather necessary tools and parts.
  • Disconnect the negative battery terminal to ensure safety.
  • Raise the vehicle and secure it on jack stands.

2. Remove Wheel

  • Use a lug wrench to remove the wheel nuts.
  • Carefully take off the wheel to access the brake assembly.

3. Inspect and Clean Brake Components

  • Caliper Inspection: Remove caliper bolts using a socket set and inspect the caliper for sticking pistons. Clean with brake cleaner if necessary.
  • Pad Inspection: Remove brake pads from the caliper bracket. Inspect pads for uneven wear and replace if necessary. Clean the caliper bracket and mounting surfaces.
  • Rotor Inspection: Check the brake rotor for warping or scoring. Replace if thickness is below the manufacturer's specification (usually 1 mm over minimum thickness).

4. Reassemble Components

  • Install new or cleaned brake pads into the caliper bracket.
  • Reinstall the caliper over the pads and torque the caliper bolts to manufacturer specifications (consult service manual for torque values).
  • Reinstall the wheel and torque the lug nuts in a star pattern.

5. Final Checks

  • Reconnect the negative battery terminal.
  • Pump the brake pedal to ensure proper caliper operation and pad seating.

Verification

After completing the repair, verify that the issue has been resolved:

  • Test the affected component to ensure it functions correctly
  • Check for any error codes or warning lights
  • Monitor the vehicle for a few days to ensure the issue does not recur

Prevention Tips

To prevent this issue from occurring again:

  • •Follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule
  • •Address warning signs early before they develop into major issues
  • •Use quality parts and fluids recommended for your vehicle
  • •Keep detailed records of all repairs and maintenance

Tools & Equipment Required

  • Lug wrench
  • Socket set
  • Torque wrench
  • Brake cleaner
  • Jack and jack stands

Parts Required

  • Brake pads
  • Brake rotors (if needed)
  • Brake caliper hardware (if worn)

Additional Information

Component

Brakes

Repair Time

2-4 hours

Difficulty

medium

Severity

high

Tools

5 items

Parts

3 items

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