Brakes grind, pulse or wear early

What got replaced

Few of these reports name the part that was replaced.

Recalls and investigations

No recall on the brakes covers the 2017 model year as of Sep 9, 2026.

When it happens

The middle half of failures fell between 3,700 and 54,504 miles, from the 8 reports that gave a mileage.

What owners wrote

“During a road trip (May 2023) with cruise control activated, I had at least 5 phantom braking events. The most serious was in Las Vegas on the freeway with a very severe braking event. I now no longer use cruise control in crowded traffic so that I won't get rear ended when a phantom braking event happens.”

Filed Jul 16, 2023

“On several occasions, I have been doing highway driving, and my 2017 Tesla Model S suddenly brakes without warning. It happens primarily on cruise control and around curves on the highway. On a trip to Atlanta earlier this year, it happened twice. I bought the car used in 2021, and it drives very well, but the unexpected braking at high speeds is scary.”

Filed Jun 8, 2022

“Driving with autopliot engaged. I was in the left lane of a two lane highway when another car entered the highway to my right and car suddenly slammed on the brakes. i disengaged the autopilot. It happen several more time, so it is now a function I no longer use unless the highway is empty. I believe is was a $1000 option.”

Filed Feb 24, 2022

“Multiple times during our drive experienced random braking and alert sounds going off. Had wife and dog in the car which were also jolted forward due to the sudden braking in the middle of the freeway. Clear weather (post-rain) in night conditions.”

Filed Feb 5, 2022

Other problems on this car

• Infotainment, screen or backup camera fails 109 reports
• Suspension noise, struts or alignment 107 reports
• Brakes on its own (automatic emergency braking) 34 reports
• A/C blows warm or the compressor fails 25 reports