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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SubsystemsSubsystems
8.6MODEL S OWNERS MANUAL
SubsystemsMotor
Transmission
Steering
Brakes
Type AC induction motor, liquid-cooled, with variable
frequency drive
Rating 375 Volts
Maximum Speed 16000 rpm
Type Single speed fixed gear
Overall Final Drive Ratio 9.73:1
Reverse Gear Reverse direction of motor, limited to 24 km/h
Type Rack and pinion with electronic power steering
Variable ratio and speed sensitive
Number of turns lock to lock 2.45
Turning Circle (curb to curb) 11.3 metres
Type 4-wheel anti-lock braking system (ABS) with
Electronic Brake Force Distribution, Integrated
Advanced Stability Control and Electronic
Accelerator pedal actuated regenerative braking
system
Calipers Four piston fixed
Rotor Diameters (ventilated) Front: 13.98”/355 mm
Rear: 14.37”/365 mm
Front Rotor thickness New: 1.26”/32 mm
Service limit: 1.18”/30 mm
Rear Rotor thickness New: 1.10”/28 mm
Service limit: 1.02”/26 mm
Front Brake Pad Thickness (excluding back
plate)New: 0.354”/9.0 mm
Service limit: 0.078”/2 mm
Rear Brake Pad Thickness (excluding back
plate)New: 0.315”/8.0 mm
Service limit: 0.078”/2 mm
Electronic Parking Brake (EPB) Pad
Thickness (excluding back plate). Electronic
calipers self-adjust for pad wear.New: 0.216”/5.5 mm
Service limit: 0.039”/1 mm
Parking brake Electrically actuated parking brake calipers
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