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Annoying Brake Squeal and Pulsation on 2021 Model Y

0

Dan C. · rep 0 · May 22, 5:23 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2021 Tesla Model Y Performance

Hello fellow Tesla owners,

My 2021 Tesla Model Y Performance, with about 30,000 miles, has developed an annoying brake squeal, especially at low speeds or when coming to a stop. It's not constant, but it's frequent enough to be embarrassing. On top of that, I'm starting to feel a slight pulsation through the brake pedal when I apply the brakes more firmly at higher speeds.

I mostly rely on regenerative braking, so I don't use the friction brakes heavily. Could this be related to the lack of use? I've heard Teslas can have issues with brakes due to regen. Any advice on what might be causing this and how to fix it for my Model Y?

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 22, 5:23 AM

0

ClearTheCode admin answer:

Brake squeal and pulsation are common issues for EVs like your 2021 Tesla Model Y Performance, largely due to the heavy reliance on regenerative braking. Here's a breakdown:

  1. Brake Squeal Causes:

    • Pad Glazing: When friction brakes are used infrequently, the brake pads can develop a hard, shiny surface (glazing). This reduces their effectiveness and causes squealing, especially at low speeds.
    • Rust on Rotors: Similarly, infrequent use allows surface rust to build up on the rotors. While a few hard stops can often clean this off, persistent rust can cause noise.
    • Contamination: Dirt, dust, or road grime can get trapped between the pad and rotor, leading to squealing.
    • Worn Pads/Shims: While less likely at 30,000 miles with heavy regen use, worn pads or missing/damaged anti-squeal shims can also cause noise.

  2. Brake Pulsation Causes:

    • Warped Rotors: This is the most common cause of brake pulsation. Uneven heating and cooling, or sometimes just manufacturing defects, can cause the rotor surface to become uneven. When the pad contacts these high spots, you feel a pulsation through the pedal.
    • Uneven Pad Wear: Less common, but unevenly worn pads can also contribute to pulsation.
    • Loose Wheel Bearings/Suspension Components: While primarily a brake issue, sometimes loose wheel bearings or other suspension components can exacerbate or mimic brake pulsation.

  3. When to See a Shop:

    • Soon: While squealing can often be resolved with a few hard stops, persistent squeal or any pulsation warrants inspection. Pulsation indicates a potential issue with the rotors that needs addressing.
    • Diagnostics: A technician will inspect the brake pads for glazing, measure rotor runout (to check for warping), and look for any signs of uneven wear or damage. They may recommend cleaning and re-bedding the brakes, or in cases of significant pulsation, rotor resurfacing or replacement. Tesla's internal diagnostics might show brake system health, but these are typically mechanical issues.
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