my Tesla Model S Original (2012-2020) has a smell of burning rubber

Tesla Model S Plaid/Refresh (2021-present)

Error Codes

2-4 hours

Time

medium

Difficulty

medium

Severity

3 min read

529 words

Problem Statement

Learn how to diagnose and fix the burning rubber smell in Tesla Model S (2012-2020). Step-by-step guide with symptoms, diagnostic steps, and repair instructions.

Affected Component

Electrical

Estimated Time

2-4 hours

⚠️ Safety Warnings

Important safety information - read before proceeding

•Disconnect the high-voltage battery before working on electrical systems.
•Allow the vehicle to cool down before inspecting components to avoid burns.

Symptoms

•Burning rubber smell inside or outside the vehicle
•Increased heat in the cabin or near the motor area
•Warning lights on the dashboard (if applicable)
•Unusual noises from the motor or drivetrain
•Smoke or visible signs of burning in the vicinity of wheels or under the hood

Diagnostic Steps

1
Conduct a visual inspection of the tires for signs of damage or excessive wear.
2
Check the brake system for overheating or dragging calipers; inspect brake pads and rotors.
3
Inspect the electrical components and wiring for any signs of fraying or melting.
4
Scan the vehicle's onboard diagnostics (OBD-II) for any error codes related to the motor or battery system.
5
Observe for any signs of leaks or fluid pooling under the vehicle.
6
Perform a thorough inspection of the motor and associated components for any signs of wear or malfunction.

Solution

💡 Expert Tip

For complex repairs like this, consider taking photos at each step. This helps if you need to reverse a step or consult with a mechanic. Also, keep all removed parts organized - you may need to reference them during reassembly.

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

•OBD-II scanner
•Multimeter
•Socket set
•Torque wrench
•Jack and jack stands

Parts Required

•Replacement tires (if damaged)
•Brake pads and/or rotors (if worn)
•Electrical connectors or wiring (if damaged)

Related Faults

Share this solution

Comments

No comments yet

Be the first to share your thoughts

Back to Generation

Diagnostic Steps

1
Conduct a visual inspection of the tires for signs of damage or excessive wear.
2
Check the brake system for overheating or dragging calipers; inspect brake pads and rotors.
3
Inspect the electrical components and wiring for any signs of fraying or melting.
4
Scan the vehicle's onboard diagnostics (OBD-II) for any error codes related to the motor or battery system.
5
Observe for any signs of leaks or fluid pooling under the vehicle.
6
Perform a thorough inspection of the motor and associated components for any signs of wear or malfunction.

Solution

1. Preparation

Ensure the vehicle is parked on a flat surface and in "Park" mode.
Disconnect the high-voltage battery before working on any electrical components to ensure safety.

2. Inspect Tires

Remove the wheel covers if applicable.
Check for any abnormal bulges, cracks, or foreign objects lodged in the tires.
Replace any damaged tires as necessary. Ensure proper inflation.

3. Check Braking System

Remove the wheels to access the brake assembly.
Inspect brake pads for wear; replace if they are below 3mm thickness.
Check brake rotors for warping or overheating; replace if necessary.

4. Inspect Electrical Components

Carefully examine the wiring harnesses around the motor and battery for any signs of damage.
Use a multimeter to check for continuity in wiring; repair or replace damaged wires.
Inspect connectors for corrosion or loose connections.

5. Motor and Drivetrain Inspection

Inspect the motor mounts for wear or cracks; replace if damaged.
Check the drivetrain for any signs of oil leaks or wear.
Lubricate any moving parts as necessary and ensure all bolts are torqued to specifications.