Model X / Model X Plaid – UP x PFC High Performance Brake Pads (for OEM Rotors) (2021+)
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TESLA 2021 MODEL S PLAID BRAKE GUIDE FOR HIGH-PERFORMANCE DRIVING
The 2021+ Tesla Model X and Model X Plaid are amongst the fastest accelerating SUVs available on the market today. Fully electric, the Model X Plaid is a powerful seven-seater that is capable of going very fast both on and off the track, embarrassing sports & high-performance cars along the way. Stopping this 4000lbs+ beast isn’t an easy feat. In turn, we’ve made a simple drop-in pad upgrade that works with the standard caliper and rotor, helping you put your luxury seven-seater SUV to a halt quicker & more efficiently.
For customers that want even more stopping power, our 2021+ Tesla Model X Plaid Carbon Ceramic Big Brake Kit is available, offering supercar-level brakes for this vehicle.
Buy this product and earn 245 UP Points.
Product Details
The UP x PFC Street & Track Brake Pad Set was developed to improve performance in spirited driving scenarios. The special production friction material compound utilized in the Street & Track Brake Pad Set provides an optimized balance between uncompromising everyday use and high-performance driving. Pure racing brake pads typically create unwanted noise around town, excessive dusting, extreme rotor wear and require high temperatures to reach operating range; these do not. The Street & Track pads are designed for those who like to drive their local twisty roads, enjoy autocross, or the occasional track day. The Street & Track Brake Pad Set is suggested for drivers looking for a high-performance brake pad solution without the traditional compromise in daily driving scenarios.
Designed to be a “pure” racing-style solution, our Competition pads include more aggressive, high-friction compounds. As a result, we do not advise regular use on the street, as users will see accelerated rotor wear, as well as increased noise and dust. Additionally, the race-oriented compound requires more heat to provide optimal results.
Ultimately both of these-pad only upgrades are ideal for only light and occasional performance driving. If you are serious about the track, autocross, or top-speed use of these vehicles we strongly suggest upgrading to our Superlight Carbon Ceramic Front Big Brake Kit (BBK). If you fall somewhere in the middle or need to replace your rotors and pads we recommend one of our UPxPFC Iron Rotor and Pad upgrade kits which will provide improved performance beyond what the stock brake rotors can deliver.
For all of our brake upgrades, we strongly recommend pairing these upgraded brake lines for your Tesla Model X Plaid or Model X with high-temperature racing brake fluid such as Motul RBF 660, PFC RH 665, Endless RF 650, Castrol SRF, or similar racing brake fluids.
PFC is regarded as one of the premier manufacturers of braking components for motorsport. Perhaps, most well known for their use on factory Porsche motorsport vehicles, PFC is generally considered the best-of-the-best for motorsport.
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Do these pads fit the front and rear of my 2021+ Model X Plaid?
Yes. You choose a front pad set or a rear pad set for the OEM rotors, in either compound, so you can do one axle or both. They are made for the 2021+ Model X and Model X Plaid running the factory calipers and rotors. Confirm your model year before ordering.
Is PFC friction really worth it over a generic performance pad?
It is, and the reason is the source. These are a UP x PFC collaboration, and PFC supplies the friction on factory Porsche motorsport cars, so this compound is developed against real race demands rather than assembled to a price. That pedigree is why a straight pad swap gives you a genuine jump in bite and heat stability. You are running motorsport material sized for a Model X.
Are pads alone enough for serious track work?
No, and we are straight about that. A pad-only upgrade is ideal for light and occasional performance driving. If you are serious about repeated track or top-speed running, step up to the Superlight Carbon Ceramic Front Big Brake Kit. If you are between the two and also need new rotors, one of our UP x PFC iron rotor and pad kits is the middle path.
Will my factory brake fluid hold up once these pads are in?
For gentle driving it will, but under heat it becomes the weak link. A stronger pad puts more energy into the system, and stock DOT 4 can boil and go soft, which erases the firmer bite you just paid for. That is why we pair any performance pad with high-temperature racing fluid such as Motul RBF 660, PFC RH 665, Endless RF 650, or Castrol SRF, then a proper bed-in.
How hard is it to swap these pads on a Model X?
A pad change is one of the more approachable brake jobs, but it still needs correct caliper handling and a proper bed-in to avoid noise and glazing. If you would rather not do it yourself, our team in Hawthorne can install and bed them, or an authorized installer can. Getting the bed-in right is what makes new pads feel right.
How do these pads compare to adding the rear Large Sweep rotor kit?
These pads improve bite on your existing rotors at the lowest cost and are a pure friction upgrade. The rear Large Sweep rotor and pad set grows the rotor sweep and sheds weight for a bigger jump, at a higher price. Start with pads if budget is tight; go Large Sweep if you also want more rotor and less rotating mass.
Will upgrading just my brake pads void my Tesla warranty?
Swapping to aftermarket pads does not automatically void your Tesla warranty. The Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act requires Tesla to prove an aftermarket part caused a specific failure before denying a related claim, and pads are a normal wear item designed to work with your OEM brakes. Keep your factory pads and have the work done cleanly, and there is little to worry about.
Will these pads make my Model X dusty and loud around town?
In the Street & Track compound, no. It was formulated to avoid the noise, heavy dusting, and rotor wear that full race pads bring, so it behaves for daily driving. The Competition compound is the opposite and is meant for track use, where noise and dust are an accepted trade for maximum bite.
What is the cheapest way to get more stopping power from a 2021+ Model X?
A drop-in performance pad upgrade. These UP x PFC pads work with your standard caliper and rotor to help stop this 4,000-plus-pound SUV quicker and more efficiently, with no other hardware changes. It is the lowest-cost, most reversible brake improvement you can make.
Which compound should I run if my Model X splits time between commuting and track days?
Street & Track, in almost every case. It bites from cold, stays quiet, and keeps dust down, so your daily driving is not compromised, yet it holds up when you push on a canyon road or an occasional lapping day. Competition only makes sense if the track is the main event, because its race friction wants heat and trades street manners and faster rotor wear for outright bite.
Will upgrading my brakes void the Tesla warranty?
Tesla’s warranty covers factory-installed parts, but it does not automatically void your warranty if you install aftermarket components like Unplugged Performance brake kits. Under U.S. law (Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act), Tesla must prove that an aftermarket part caused a failure in order to deny warranty coverage. Our parts are engineered to work harmoniously with Tesla OEM Brake systems and can be professionally installed by Unplugged Performance in Hawthorne, CA or by an authorized installer to minimize risk. That said, any damage directly caused by misuse or improper installation may not be covered. We recommend retaining all factory parts so you can revert to stock if needed. Many Tesla owners enjoy peace of mind by using Unplugged Performance products, which are extensively tested and installed by certified professionals. If warranty concerns are top-of-mind, our team can help clarify compatibility and installation best practices to ensure a worry-free experience.
What does the Unplugged Performance product warranty cover?
Unplugged Performance offers a comprehensive warranty on all parts and installations performed by our certified technicians. Warranty coverage applies to defects in materials and workmanship on items including lowering springs, coilovers, big brake kits, brake pads, stainless steel brake lines, shocks, and more. Should any covered part fail under normal use or display premature wear, we will repair or replace it at no additional cost—assuming the component was installed by us or at one of our authorized partners.
This warranty is valid for 2 years or 24,000 miles, whichever comes first, excluding consumable products like brake pads, rotors, and tires, starting from the installation date. Coverage extends to labor for warranty repairs when performed by Unplugged Performance or an authorized installer. It does not cover damage resulting from misuse, accidents, off‑road use, improper installation not done by us, or modifications that aren’t factory-approved.
To file a warranty claim, simply contact our service team. We’ll guide you through inspection, shipping (if needed), and repair or replacement logistics. transparencia and top-tier support are what you can expect from Unplugged.
Will installing Unplugged Performance parts void my Tesla warranty?
Installing aftermarket parts does not automatically void your Tesla warranty. Under the Magnusson-Moss Warranty Act (www.sema.org/sema-enews/2011/01/ftc-validates-right-to-install-aftermarket-parts), a manufacturer cannot void your warranty simply because you installed aftermarket parts. Tesla must prove that the aftermarket part caused the specific failure in question to deny a warranty claim. UP recommends retaining all factory parts to allow reverting to stock if needed.
How can I find a dealer or authorized installer near me?
To find authorized installers or retailers of Unplugged Performance products in your area, please use the form on our website to provide your location details. This will help us connect you with an authorized installer nearby. You can find the form here.
What are the shipping options and times?
Unplugged Performance processes orders quickly, typically within 1–2 business days after placement. For U.S. customers, orders under $50 usually ship via FedEx SmartPost with an estimated delivery time of 2–7 business days. Larger items like body kits or bumpers may ship via freight carriers with curbside delivery; customers will be contacted to schedule a delivery window. International shipping is available to most countries, with shipping costs calculated at checkout. Delivery times abroad vary, generally ranging from 5 to 16 business days depending on destination. Import duties or taxes are the customer’s responsibility. To ensure a smooth shipping experience, provide accurate contact information during checkout. For specific questions or shipping quotes, Unplugged Performance’s support team is available to assist.