Complete brake fluid flush on a 2024 Model S Long Range AWD, replacing all hydraulic fluid with fresh DOT 3 (verify by VIN — newer Model S may specify DOT 4) at all four corners. Tesla recommends this service every 2 years regardless of mileage.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Bleeder screw dust caps (replace if degraded) × 4 — generic, sized to caliper

Fluids

• DOT 3 Brake Fluid (verify by VIN — some newer Model S require DOT 4; never mix) — 1 qt

Preparation

1. Park on level ground, place in P, engage parking brake.
2. Exit ALL doors with 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 low-voltage battery located in the front trunk (frunk) under the nose cowl panel. Note: confirm whether this 2024 build uses a 12V Li-ion or 16V Li-ion unit before disconnecting; follow the manufacturer-specified disconnect order.
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. Verify the correct brake fluid specification (DOT 3 vs DOT 4) for this specific VIN against current Tesla service documentation before opening any fluid container.
7. Allow brakes to cool fully before service — hot fluid can flash-boil during bleeding.
8. Loosen all four lug nuts approximately 1/2 turn while the wheels are still on the ground.
9. Lift vehicle using Tesla-approved jack pad pucks at the factory lift points only. Support on four jack stands rated for the Model S curb weight (~4900 lb).

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove all four wheels
   Fully remove the lug nuts and pull each wheel off. Set wheels face-down on a clean surface to avoid scratching the finish. Inspect each caliper bleeder screw location and ensure access is clear.
2. 2

   Open and evacuate the master cylinder reservoir
   Locate the brake fluid reservoir in the frunk area near the firewall. Clean the cap and surrounding area with a lint-free towel before opening to prevent debris ingress. Use a clean turkey baster or syringe to remove as much old fluid as possible from the reservoir without disturbing the screen at the bottom. Refill to the MAX line with fresh, sealed brake fluid of the correct DOT spec.
   ⚠Do not allow the reservoir to drop below MIN at any point during the procedure.
3. 3

   Connect pressure or vacuum bleeder
   If using a pressure bleeder, attach the appropriate Tesla-compatible reservoir cap adapter and pressurize per the bleeder manufacturer's spec (typically 15–20 psi). If using vacuum or two-person pedal bleeding, ensure the reservoir is topped off and have an assistant ready. If Tesla service mode offers a brake bleed assistance function for this build, enable it per the on-screen prompts.
4. 4

   Bleed right rear caliper
   Tesla typically uses the diagonal/farthest-from-master-cylinder sequence: RR → LR → RF → LF. Verify sequence with the current service manual. Remove the bleeder dust cap on the right rear caliper, fit a clear hose into a catch bottle with old fluid in the bottom (to prevent air siphon), and crack the bleeder open with a flare wrench. Flow fluid until it runs clear, bubble-free, and matches the color of fresh fluid (typically 250–500 ml per corner). Close the bleeder.
   ⚠Bleeder screws on Model S calipers are easily snapped — use a 6-point flare wrench, not an open-end. Do not exceed 10 Nm.
   Torque spec

   Bleeder Screw10 Nm (7 lb-ft)
5. 5

   Bleed left rear caliper
   Repeat the bleeding procedure on the left rear caliper. Continuously monitor and top off the master cylinder reservoir between corners — do not let it drop below MIN.
   Torque spec

   Bleeder Screw10 Nm (7 lb-ft)
6. 6

   Bleed right front caliper
   Repeat the bleeding procedure on the right front caliper. Front calipers are larger and may require more fluid volume to fully flush. Continue until fluid runs clean and bubble-free.
   Torque spec

   Bleeder Screw10 Nm (7 lb-ft)
7. 7

   Bleed left front caliper
   Repeat the bleeding procedure on the left front caliper. This is the closest corner to the master cylinder and is bled last. Confirm clean, clear, bubble-free fluid output.
   Torque spec

   Bleeder Screw10 Nm (7 lb-ft)
8. 8

   Final reservoir level and seal
   Depressurize and remove the pressure bleeder if used. Top off the reservoir to the MAX line with fresh fluid. Wipe the reservoir, cap, and any surrounding surfaces clean. Re-install the reservoir cap fully.
9. 9

   Reinstall bleeder dust caps
   Fit dust caps onto each bleeder screw to prevent corrosion and contamination. Replace any caps that are torn or missing.

Reassembly

1. Mount each wheel and hand-thread all lug nuts before lowering.
2. Lower the vehicle until the tires just touch the ground, then torque the lug nuts in a star pattern to specification.
3. Lower the vehicle fully and remove jack stands.
4. Reconnect the 12V (or 16V) low-voltage battery in the frunk.
5. Close the frunk and allow the vehicle to fully boot up before pressing the brake pedal.

Verification

• With the vehicle awake but in P, press the brake pedal 5–10 times. Pedal should be firm and consistent — no sponginess or sinking.
• Check the touchscreen for any active brake system, ABS, or traction control alerts. Address any DTCs before driving.
• Inspect each caliper bleeder and the reservoir cap area for any signs of leakage.
• Verify the reservoir is between MIN and MAX after the system has settled.
• Perform a low-speed test in a safe area: confirm normal braking feel, no pull, no ABS activation under light braking, and no warning messages.
• Verify final lug nut torque after the test drive (Wheel Lug Nuts: 140 Nm in star pattern).
• Log the service date — Tesla recommends repeating brake fluid replacement every 2 years regardless of mileage.

More procedures for this vehicle