my Tesla Model S has a burning smell when I brake what could it be

Solution

1. Preparation

• Gather necessary tools and parts.
• Park the vehicle on a level surface and engage the parking brake.
• Allow the brakes to cool down if they have been used recently.

2. Inspect Brake Components

• Sub-steps:

  1. Remove the wheel using a lug wrench.
  2. Inspect brake pads for thickness; replace if worn below manufacturer specifications (usually 3mm or less).
  3. Check rotors for signs of scoring or warping; replace if damaged or excessively worn.

• Tools Required:

  • Lug wrench
  • Brake pad thickness gauge

3. Replace Brake Pads (if necessary)

• Sub-steps:

  1. If pads are worn, remove the caliper bolts with a socket set.
  2. Carefully lift the caliper off the rotor and suspend it with a bungee cord to avoid strain on the brake line.
  3. Remove the old brake pads and replace with new ones, ensuring proper orientation.
  4. Reinstall the caliper and torque the bolts to manufacturer specifications (typically around 25-35 ft-lbs).

• Tools Required:

  • Socket set
  • Torque wrench

4. Check and Replace Rotors (if necessary)

• Sub-steps:

  1. If rotors are damaged, remove the caliper bracket and rotor.
  2. Install the new rotor, ensuring it is seated properly.
  3. Reattach the caliper bracket and torque to specifications.

• Tools Required:

  • Socket set
  • Torque wrench

5. Refill Brake Fluid (if necessary)

• Sub-steps:

  1. If brake fluid is low, add the recommended brake fluid type (usually DOT 3 or DOT 4).
  2. Bleed the brakes if air is suspected in the lines.

• Tools Required:

  • Brake fluid
  • Brake bleeder kit (if bleeding is necessary)