Tesla Model S (2021+) Stage 1: Essential Brake Kit

Tesla built the Model S and Model S Plaid to deliver incredible speed with everyday usability. That performance deserves braking you can trust when traffic closes, canyons tighten, or laps stack up. Stage 1 focuses on the two upgrades that transform confidence without changing calipers or rotors: brake pads and brake lines.

The UP x PFC Street & Track pad set is engineered for drivers who want real performance without daily compromises. The friction material provides strong initial bite, consistent torque, and excellent modulation at elevated temperatures while avoiding the harsh noise, excessive dust, and rapid rotor wear typical of pure race compounds. If you regularly enjoy twisty roads, spirited commutes, autocross, or light track days, these pads deliver the balanced behavior you expect from a premium OEM-plus solution.

For drivers who need maximum bite and higher thermal headroom in closed-course settings, our Competition pad option steps up to a more aggressive compound. Because the race-oriented material requires more heat and can increase noise and rotor wear, we do not recommend Competition pads for daily street use. Choose Street & Track for mixed street performance, move to Competition only if you accept the tradeoffs and primarily drive on track.

The second half of Stage 1 addresses pedal feel. The 2021+ Model S and Plaid ship with rubber brake hoses, which can expand under hard braking. Our Stainless Steel Sport Brake Line Set replaces those with Teflon-lined, stainless-braided hoses that resist expansion. The result is a firmer, more consistent pedal and finer control lap after lap or pass after pass. Each kit includes four lines tested to 3000+ psi, laser-cut brackets that match factory routing, crush washers, and banjo bolts. Professional installation is recommended.

For best results with any performance pad, we strongly recommend high-temperature racing brake fluid such as Motul RBF 660, PFC RH 665, Endless RF 650, or Castrol SRF. High-temp fluid helps maintain pedal consistency when the system gets hot. OEM DOT 4 fluid will function, but it can contribute to a mushy pedal in performance driving.

Who is Stage 1 for?

It is perfect if you want a noticeable jump in confidence with straightforward installation and OEM compatibility. Pads are drop-in for the stock calipers and rotors, ABS and stability systems remain untouched, and the car retains its daily comfort. Many of our customers run Stage 1 on spirited street builds and love the improved bite, feedback, and control.

When should you step up?

If your rotors are due or you want a bigger thermal buffer, Stage 2 moves to UP x PFC iron rotors matched with performance pads for additional consistency. If you are serious about repeated high-speed stops, frequent track days, or you simply want the lightest, most fade-resistant solution, Stage 3 upgrades to our Superlight Carbon Ceramic Front Big Brake Kit (BFB), which includes stainless lines.

Fitment note:

Pads are designed for Model S and Model S Plaid with OEM calipers. Stainless lines are for 2021+ Model S and Plaid. Always verify compatibility before purchase.

These brake pads are designed for use with OEM Tesla brake calipers and rotors only. They are not compatible with the Tesla Model S Track Pack Brake Kits. If your vehicle is equipped with the Track Pack, please contact our team for the correct brake pad solution.