BrakesBrakes
4.20MODEL S OWNERS MANUAL
BrakesBraking Systems
Model S has an anti-lock braking system (ABS)
that prevents the wheels from locking when
you apply maximum brake pressure. This
improves steering control during heavy braking
in most road conditions.
During emergency braking conditions, the ABS
constantly monitors the speed of each wheel
and varies the brake pressure according to the
grip available.
The alteration of brake pressure can be felt as a
pulsing sensation through the brake pedal. This
demonstrates that ABS is operating and is not
a cause for concern. Keep firm and steady
pressure on the brake pedal while experiencing
the pulsing.
The ABS indicator flashes briefly on the
instrument panel when you first start
Model S. If this indicator displays at any
other time, an ABS fault has occurred
and ABS is not operating. Contact Tesla.
The braking system remains fully
operational and is not affected by an
ABS failure. However, braking distances
may increase.
If the instrument panel displays this
indicator at any time other than
displaying briefly when you first start
Model S, a brake system fault is
detected or the brake fluid level is low.
Contact Tesla immediately.
Emergency Braking
In an emergency, fully press the brake pedal
and maintain firm pressure, even on low
traction surfaces. ABS varies the braking
pressure to each wheel according to the
amount of traction available. This prevents
wheels from locking and ensures that you stop
as safely as possible.
WARNING: Do not pump the brake pedal.
Doing so interrupts operation of the ABS
and can increase braking distance.
WARNING: Always maintain a safe
distance from the vehicle in front of you
and be aware of hazardous driving conditions.
While ABS can improve stopping distance, it
cannot overcome the laws of physics. It also
does not prevent the danger of hydroplaning
(where a layer of water prevents direct contact
between the tires and the road).
Brake Wear
Model S brake pads are equipped with wear
indicators. A wear indicator is a thin metal strip
attached to the brake pad that squeals as it
rubs against the rotor when the pad wears
down. This squealing sound indicates that the
brake pads have reached the end of their
service life and require replacement. To stop
the squealing, contact Tesla Service.
Brakes must be periodically inspected visually
by removing the tire and wheel. For detailed
specifications and service limits for rotors and
brake pads, see page 8.6.
WARNING: Neglecting to replace worn
brake pads will result in damage to the
braking system and can create a braking
hazard.
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Jacking and Lifting
MAINTENANCE7.23
Jacking and LiftingJacking Procedure
Follow the steps below to lift Model S. Ensure
that any non-Tesla repair facility is aware of
these lifting points.
1.Position Model S centrally between the lift
posts.
2.If your Model S is equipped with Active Air
Suspension, it automatically self-levels,
even when power is off. Use the
touchscreen to set the suspension as
follows:
•To u c h Controls.
•Press the brake pedal, then touch Ve r y
High to maximize the height of the
suspension.
•To u c h Jack to disable self-leveling.
When Jack mode is active,
Model S displays this indicator
light on the instrument panel,
along with a message telling you
that active suspension is
disabled.
NOTE: Jack mode cancels automatically
when Model S is driven over 7 km/h.
3.Position the lift arm pads under the body
rails at the locations illustrated. DO NOT
position the lift arm pads under the Battery.
4.Adjust the height and position of the lift
arm pads to ensure they are correctly
located.
5.With assistance, raise the lift, ensuring the
lift arm pads remain in their correct
positions.WARNING: If your Model S is equipped
with Active Air Suspension, it
automatically self-levels, even when power is
off. You MUST disable this system by engaging
Jack mode before lifting or jacking. If you do
not disable Active Air Suspension, Model S can
attempt to self-level, causing serious damage,
bodily injury, or death.
WARNING: Never raise Model S when the
charging cable is connected, even if
charging is not in progress.
WARNING: Do not work on an incorrectly
supported vehicle. Doing so can cause
serious damage, bodily injury, or death.
CAUTION: DO NOT lift from under the
Battery. Place the lift arm pads under the
body rails only. The locations illustrated
are the only approved lifting points for Model S.
Lifting at any other points can cause damage.
Damage caused by lifting Model S is not
covered by the warranty.
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