
Tesla brake failure can be attributed to the following specific reasons: Severe Overloading: When a vehicle is severely overloaded, the increased inertia due to gravitational acceleration directly leads to brake failure. Improper Operation: Mechanical failure caused by improper operation, such as prolonged downhill driving, can cause brake pads to overheat, brake drums to carbonize, and brake functionality to completely fail. Weather Factors: In summer, most cars use air conditioning, which can easily increase engine load and ultimately affect brake performance. Lack of Maintenance: Insufficient maintenance of the brake system, including excessive impurities in the brake master cylinder, poor sealing, vacuum booster failure, contaminated brake fluid, or mixing different types of brake fluid leading to vapor lock when heated, leakage in the brake master or wheel cylinders, or air leaks in the air reservoir or pipeline connections.

I've been driving a Tesla Model Y for almost two years now. Last winter, I experienced a situation where the brakes became stiff. After taking it to the service center, they found that the electronic control module of the brake booster pump had malfunctioned, causing the power assist to fail. Tesla's braking system primarily relies on electric power assistance, so issues like poor wiring connections or software bugs can lead to a loss of power assist. Additionally, a friend of mine once made a mistake with the one-pedal driving mode, accidentally pressing the accelerator instead of the brake in an emergency. In case of such electronic failures, it's best to pull over immediately and try restarting the system. Also, remember not to rest your foot on the accelerator pedal during normal driving. During maintenance, make sure to have the technician check the brake fluid and power assist system, and keep the software updated regularly.

As someone who frequently tests vehicles, I've found that most Tesla braking issues stem from mismatches between software and hardware. The electronic brake booster relies on power from the 12V auxiliary battery, and battery aging can cause sudden loss of power assist. Additionally, data transmission errors from ABS sensors may lead the system to misjudge road conditions, resulting in longer braking distances. Updates to the vehicle's operating system can also alter braking logic - for instance, after one update last year, reduced regenerative braking force required more frequent use of the friction brakes. Regularly using diagnostic tools to check for error codes is essential, particularly monitoring the brake pedal travel sensor data. Extra caution is needed during rainy seasons and winter when slippery roads can create unexpected situations.

Having followed electric vehicles for six years, Tesla's braking system has unique characteristics. When the regenerative braking system is active, it actually slows down the vehicle, but in emergencies, some drivers may overestimate its deceleration effect, leading to delayed braking. Additionally, the car is equipped with numerous electronic components, and strong electromagnetic interference could cause braking signal transmission errors—for instance, when passing under high-voltage power lines. Tire wear directly affects braking distance, yet many overlook this factor. Brake pad material is also crucial; the factory-installed pads on the Model 3 are prone to overheating during continuous downhill driving. It's recommended that owners check tire treads monthly and switch to low regenerative braking mode when driving in mountainous areas.

The most important lesson from over 20 years of driving is that prevention is key. Tesla owners should check their brake fluid's water content quarterly and replace it if it exceeds 3%. When starting a cold car, the electric power steering needs a buffer period, so don't drive too fast right after leaving the garage. I prefer setting the stopping mode to 'Creep' to avoid muscle memory confusion from the one-pedal driving mode. If the brakes feel stiff, press down hard immediately to activate the mechanical backup system and turn on the hazard lights. During maintenance, pay special attention to whether the brake caliper pins are sticking, as lack of lubrication in Model S pins can cause poor brake pad retraction. Always maintain a safe following distance, keeping at least a three-second gap on highways.


