Brake Caliper - Rear

Replace a rear brake caliper on a 2024 Tesla Model 3 Performance. The Performance trim uses larger rear calipers than the standard Model 3, but the procedure is mechanically conventional — no HV systems are involved.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Rear brake caliper (Model 3 Performance specific — verify left vs right) × 1 — Manufacturer-specified rear caliper for 2024 Model 3 Performance — confirm by VIN
• Copper crush washers for banjo fitting × 2 — OEM-spec copper washers, sized to caliper banjo bolt
• Caliper mounting bolts (if reuse not permitted) × 2 — OEM-spec — refer to Tesla Service Manual

Fluids

• DOT 4 Brake Fluid (Tesla-specified for Model 3) — 1 qt

Preparation

1. Park on level ground, place in P, engage parking brake.
2. Exit ALL doors with the key fob away from the vehicle. Wait at least 2 minutes for HV systems to fully de-energize, even on this non-HV job.
3. Disconnect the 12V (or low-voltage) battery. On 2024 Model 3, this is located behind the right rear seat back panel or under the floor depending on build — consult architecture notes.
4. DO NOT touch, cut, or pierce ANY orange cable — these are high-voltage and lethal.
5. If at any point you encounter an orange cable, an HV component, or are unsure if a system is de-energized: STOP and consult a Tesla-certified technician.
6. BEFORE disconnecting 12V: enter the touchscreen Service Mode and place the Electronic Parking Brake (EPB) into Service / Maintenance mode. The EPB cannot be retracted once 12V power is removed.
7. Loosen rear lug nuts while the wheel is on the ground.
8. Lift the rear of the vehicle at the Tesla-designated rear lift points using approved pucks. Support on jack stands.
9. Remove the rear wheel.
10. Place a fender cover over the rear quarter to protect paint from brake fluid drips.
11. Inspect the new caliper, confirm L/R fitment, and lay out new copper crush washers.

Procedure

1. 1

   Verify EPB is in Service Mode
   Confirm via the touchscreen that the EPB has been retracted and placed in service mode. If the actuator is still engaged, do not attempt removal — you risk damaging the motor or its harness.
   ⚠Forcing a caliper off with the EPB engaged will destroy the integrated motor assembly.
2. 2

   Disconnect EPB electrical connector
   Locate the EPB motor connector at the rear of the caliper. Release the locking tab and unplug. Tuck the harness aside so it is not stressed during caliper removal.
3. 3

   Pre-loosen the brake hose banjo bolt
   Before unbolting the caliper, crack the banjo bolt at the caliper body about a quarter turn to break it free, but do not fully remove it yet. This minimizes caliper movement stress on the line.
4. 4

   Remove caliper guide/slide bolts
   Remove the two caliper bolts securing the caliper body to the bracket. Note their position — they may use thread locker from the factory.
5. 5

   Support and remove caliper from bracket
   Slide the caliper off the bracket and brake pads. Support it temporarily — do NOT let it hang by the brake hose.
6. 6

   Disconnect brake hose from caliper
   Position a catch container under the caliper. Fully remove the banjo bolt and discard the two copper crush washers. Cap or plug the brake hose immediately to limit fluid loss and contamination.
   ⚠Do not allow brake fluid to drip onto the aluminum suspension components or painted body — wipe immediately.
7. 7

   Remove caliper bracket (if replacing as assembly or required for access)
   If the new caliper is supplied without a bracket, skip this step. Otherwise, remove the two caliper bracket bolts securing the bracket to the rear knuckle.
   Torque spec

   Caliper Bracket Bolts100 Nm (74 lb-ft)
8. 8

   Transfer brake pads (if reusing)
   If pads are within service spec and being reused, transfer them to the new caliper bracket along with any anti-rattle clips and shims. Inspect the bracket abutment surfaces and clean with brake parts cleaner.
9. 9

   Install caliper bracket (if removed)
   Apply medium-strength threadlocker to the caliper bracket bolts. Install and torque to specification.
   Torque spec

   Caliper Bracket Bolts100 Nm (74 lb-ft)
10. 10

    Connect brake hose to new caliper
    Install the banjo bolt with NEW copper crush washers — one on each side of the banjo fitting. Ensure the hose is routed without twist or strain. Torque to specification.
    ⚠Reusing copper washers will cause a slow leak — always use new ones.
11. 11

    Mount the new caliper
    Slide the new caliper over the pads and onto the bracket. Apply medium-strength threadlocker to the caliper bolts and install. Torque to specification.
12. 12

    Reconnect EPB harness
    Plug the EPB motor connector back in until the locking tab clicks. Verify the harness is routed clear of the rotor and any moving suspension components.
13. 13

    Bleed the rear caliper
    Top off the brake fluid reservoir with fresh DOT 4 fluid. Bleed the caliper at the bleeder screw using a vacuum or pressure bleeder until clear, bubble-free fluid flows. Follow the manufacturer-specified bleed sequence — refer to Tesla Service Manual for the correct order if bleeding the full system. Torque the bleeder screw carefully — it is easy to overtighten and damage.
    ⚠Do not let the master cylinder reservoir run dry during bleeding or you will introduce air into the ABS/iBooster module, requiring a scan-tool service bleed.
    Torque spec

    Bleeder Screw10 Nm (7 lb-ft)

Reassembly

1. Reinstall the rear wheel. Hand-thread all lug nuts before applying torque.
2. Lower the vehicle to the ground.
3. Torque lug nuts in a star pattern to specification.
4. Reconnect the 12V low-voltage battery.
5. Power on the vehicle and exit EPB Service Mode via the touchscreen. Cycle the parking brake several times via the touchscreen and shifter to confirm proper operation.
6. Check brake fluid level and top off to MAX with DOT 4.
7. With the vehicle stationary and in P, pump the brake pedal firmly until it becomes solid. Do not move the vehicle until pedal feel is normal.

Verification

• Confirm no brake fluid leakage at the banjo fitting or bleeder under firm pedal pressure.
• On the touchscreen, verify there are no ABS, EPB, or brake-related alerts. Clear any service codes if present.
• Perform a low-speed parking lot test (5-10 mph) with several gentle stops to seat pads and verify brake balance — no pull, no grinding, no ABS faults.
• Engage and release the parking brake several times — listen for the EPB motor cycling normally on the repaired side.
• Increase to 25-30 mph and perform a moderate stop. Pedal should feel firm and equal to pre-repair feel.
• Recheck reservoir level after road test.
• Reminder: Tesla recommends a full brake fluid flush every 2 years regardless of mileage — log this service date.
• Re-torque lug nuts after approximately 50 miles (Tesla recommendation for any wheel-off service).

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