Max Garage

What are the Common Tesla Repair and Maintenance Services?

Tesla vehicles are renowned for their innovative design, cutting-edge technology, and impressive performance. However, like any vehicle, Teslas are not immune to mechanical issues and wear over time. As a Tesla owner, it’s essential to understand potential problems and the types of Tesla maintenance and Tesla repair services that can be performed at Max Garage in Dubai. Here’s a comprehensive overview.

Tesla-model-3

Common Tesla Mechanical and Tesla Repair Issues Faced by Tesla Owners

Tesla Battery Problems

  • Problem:

    • Over extended periods, Tesla’s lithium-ion battery packs lose a small portion of their capacity, resulting in reduced driving range.
    • Frequent fast charging (e.g., using Superchargers) and exposure to extreme heat or cold can accelerate this natural degradation.
    • High-mileage Teslas may experience more significant capacity loss, although rates vary among different models and usage patterns.

    Garage Solution:

    • Battery Diagnostics: Specialized equipment can measure battery health, capacity, and identify any cell imbalances.
    • Module Replacement: Tesla battery packs contain multiple modules. If diagnostic tests show that only one or two modules have failed or degraded severely, a qualified garage can replace those modules instead of the entire pack, reducing cost.
    • Battery Refurbishment: Some specialized EV repair shops can perform deeper refurbishments, rebalancing or replacing certain components to extend battery life.
    • Cooling System Checks: Proper thermal management is essential for battery longevity. Max Garages will inspect and maintain the coolant system to help the battery operate within optimal temperature ranges.
Tesla Model S - Battery Check at Max Garage
Tesla Model S - Battery Diagnostic At Max Garage

Tesla Electric Motor Problems

Electric motors are at the heart of Tesla’s drivetrain, converting electrical energy from the battery into mechanical energy for propulsion. Tesla uses a blend of induction and permanent magnet motors depending on the model and production year, and while these motors are known for their robust design, they are not completely immune to wear and faults. 

  • Problem:

    • Tesla electric motors are engineered for longevity, but issues such as bearing wear, rotor or stator damage, or electrical failures can develop over time.
    • Symptoms might include unusual noises (grinding, whirring), reduced performance, or vehicle error messages related to the drive unit.

    Garage Solution:

    • Motor Inspection: A comprehensive diagnostic approach includes visual inspection, vibration analysis, and electronic tests to pinpoint the root cause.
    • Bearing Replacement: Bearings can wear or become noisy, requiring skilled replacement.
    • Motor Repairs: In some cases, shops may replace specific motor components (e.g., the rotor or stator) or opt for a drive unit exchange if damage is extensive.
    • Cooling and Inverter Checks: Ensuring the motor’s cooling system and inverter are functioning properly helps prevent further issues.
Tesla Model S Motor Repair at Max Garage

Tesla Suspension Issues

  • Problem:

    • Certain Tesla models, notably the Model S and Model X, have been reported to have suspension components (control arms, ball joints, etc.) that wear out prematurely.
    • Owners may notice unusual clunking sounds, uneven tire wear, or a rougher ride and less stable handling.

    Garage Solution:

    • Suspension Component Replacement: Worn control arms, bushings, or ball joints can be replaced individually.
    • Alignment Adjustments: After parts replacement, a proper wheel alignment ensures even tire wear and optimal handling.
    • Regular Checks: Periodic suspension inspections can catch early signs of wear (e.g., split rubber bushings, play in joints) before they worsen.
Tesla Brake Replacement at Max Garage

Tesla Brake System Wear

  • Problem:

    • Teslas use regenerative braking, which typically reduces brake pad wear compared to traditional vehicles. However, rust or corrosion can develop on rotors—especially in humid or salted road conditions—since the friction brakes see less frequent use.
    • Over time, pads and rotors still need inspection and occasional replacement.

    Garage Solution:

    • Brake Inspections: Checking for rust or uneven wear on rotors, as well as measuring pad thickness.
    • Pad and Rotor Replacement: If rust or wear is severe, technicians can replace these components.
    • Lubrication and Cleaning: Ensuring calipers and sliding pins are clean and well-lubricated helps maintain brake performance over the long term.

Touchscreen and Software Glitches

Problem:

  • Tesla’s large touchscreen (MCU) is central to nearly all vehicle functions. Owners may encounter freezing, lag, unresponsiveness, or a yellow band around the display.
  • These issues could be software-related (requiring an update or reset) or hardware-related (such as eMMC memory wear on older models, or failing display components).

Garage Solution:

  • MCU Repairs or Replacements: Specialized repair shops can replace the failing memory chip (on older MCUs) or the entire MCU if needed.
  • Software Troubleshooting: Some garages can reflash or update the vehicle’s firmware if the issue is purely software-based.
  • Screen Replacement: If the display itself is physically damaged or experiences yellow borders, replacing the screen can resolve discoloration or image retention problems.

Tesla AC and Heating System Problems

Problem:

  • Tesla’s climate control system (HVAC) relies on an electric compressor, heat pump (in newer models), and filters.
  • Issues may arise from a failing compressor, refrigerant leaks, clogged filters, or software bugs leading to poor performance.

Garage Solution:

  • AC Compressor Repair or Replacement: If the compressor is faulty, it must be replaced to restore effective cooling.
  • Filter Changes: Clogged cabin filters reduce airflow and strain the system. Regular filter replacements maintain good air quality and comfort.
  • Refrigerant Checks: Ensuring proper refrigerant levels and no leaks keeps the AC functioning optimally.
  • Software Updates: Sometimes HVAC efficiency improvements are introduced via over-the-air software updates.
EV Tesla Repair at Max Garage

Tesla Tyre Wear

Problem:

  • Tesla’s instant torque can cause accelerated tire wear, especially if the driver frequently takes advantage of the rapid acceleration.
  • Misalignment or failing to rotate tires regularly can lead to uneven wear patterns, reduced tread life, and compromised handling.

Garage Solution:

  • Regular Tire Rotations: Front and rear tires often wear differently, so rotating them at recommended intervals promotes even tread wear.
  • Alignment and Balancing: A wheel alignment corrects any camber or toe issues causing uneven wear. Balancing the wheels ensures a smooth ride.
  • Choosing Appropriate Tires: EV-specific tires can sometimes be more durable and help reduce road noise while maintaining range.

Specialized Knowledge

Teslas require specific diagnostic tools and EV expertise for proper service. Not all traditional garages are equipped or trained to handle high-voltage systems or Tesla’s unique software-driven components.

Proactive Maintenance: While Teslas typically need less maintenance than combustion vehicles, periodic checkups for tires, brakes, suspension, and cooling systems can save time and money in the long run. Early detection of minor issues—like unusual drivetrain sounds—can prevent major Tesla repairs later.

Battery and Motor Care: Proper charging habits (avoiding constant fast charging) and awareness of thermal management go a long way in preserving battery and motor health.

Software Updates: Tesla frequently releases over-the-air updates that optimize vehicle systems, improve range, and address known bugs. Staying current on updates helps minimize certain hardware stress points and software glitches.

Every vehicle, even one as technologically advanced as a Tesla, is subject to wear and tear. Being aware of common issues—such as battery degradation, electric motor failures, suspension wear, door handle malfunctions, and touchscreen glitches—helps you stay proactive about maintenance and extend the life of your EV. At Max Garage in Dubai, we understands Tesla’s unique systems and owners can keep their cars running smoothly, economically, and safely for years to come.

Tesla Battery Replacement at Max Garage

Genuine Parts and Warranty on Jobs

We are transparent in everything we do and that’s why we provide a full breakdown of service and parts required to carry out any job. Further more, every job comes with a three-month or 5,000 km warranty* on the work done and we also use only Genuine Original Parts. Where possible, we also provide you with the option to use Genuine OEM or After Market parts, which are sourced only from the best and reliable manufacturers, thereby reducing costs without compromising reliability or safety.

Convenience At Your Door Step

We are known for our quick turnaround times so you will not be left without your vehicle for too long. We also provide Free pick-up and drop service* (in Dubai) with payment options in cash, Credit Card or Online. Max Garage is here to help you with all your Tesla service and Tesla repair or maintenance needs.

Accident Repair, Fender Bender or Paint Touch up and Polish

Our body shop is also fully equipped with the latest technologies in Tesla dent and Tesla collision repair. We use manufacturer standard paint and painting techniques, as a result we can provide a 2 year warranty* on fading and peeling on all paint jobs.

Get the Best Detailing service &
Ceramic Paint Protection for your Tesla in Dubai

Tesla Repairs and Maintenance Services at Max Garage

Below are some of the many Tesla service and Tesla repair jobs that we can carry out for you:

Frequently Asked Questions

All models of Tesla are not the same. Depending on the model and specification, the service price will vary. To know the cost of service for your car, send us an enquiry or simply call us and our expert Service Advisors will be glad to assist you and give you a quote.

Tesla brake pads should generally be replaced every 30,000 to 70,000 miles, depending on driving conditions and habits. However, the longevity of brake pads on a Tesla may differ from traditional vehicles due to regenerative braking, which reduces the need for conventional braking.

Here are some factors to consider for when to replace the brake pads:

  1. Driving Style: Aggressive braking or frequent stop-and-go driving can cause the brake pads to wear out faster.
  2. Regenerative Braking: Since Teslas use regenerative braking, which slows the car down by using the motor to recapture energy, brake pads often last longer than in conventional vehicles.
  3. Brake Pad Wear Indicators: Listen for squealing or grinding sounds, which can indicate that the brake pads are worn down. Most modern vehicles, including Teslas, have wear indicators that alert you when it’s time to replace the pads.
  4. Performance: If you notice reduced braking performance, such as a longer stopping distance or less responsive brakes, it might be time to check or replace the pads.

Regular checks by a certified Tesla technician are important to ensure everything is in good working condition.

Getting your Tesla serviced is important for several reasons, including safety, performance, and longevity. While Teslas are known for their low maintenance compared to traditional vehicles, regular servicing still ensures that your car operates optimally. Here are some key reasons to get a Tesla serviced:

  1. Battery Health
  • Longevity of Battery: The battery is a critical component in electric vehicles, and regular service checks help ensure its health. Over time, the battery may degrade, and service checks can identify issues early to prevent more costly problems.
  • Software Updates: Tesla’s software is continually updated, and regular service ensures your car has the latest updates, optimizing battery management and performance.
  1. Safety

Brake System Maintenance: Even though Teslas use regenerative braking, traditional brakes still need to be inspected for wear, especially in high-mileage vehicles. Regular service helps ensure that the brake pads and other components are in good condition.

Suspension & Alignment: Routine servicing checks suspension and alignment components, ensuring that the car handles well and that tires wear evenly, contributing to better handling and safety.

  1. Performance Optimization

Motor & Drive Unit Health: Regular checks of the motor and drive units ensure that your Tesla continues to perform at its best. Maintenance can catch any early signs of issues, preventing more significant and expensive repairs later.

Tire Rotation & Condition: Tires need to be rotated and checked for wear, as Teslas, especially performance models, can experience uneven tire wear due to their high torque. Regular servicing ensures optimal grip, handling, and safety.

  1. Preventive Maintenance

Prevent Costly Repairs: Regular service helps identify potential problems before they become expensive issues. Early intervention can save you significant repair costs in the long run.

Cooling System & HVAC: The cooling systems for the battery and electronics need periodic checks to ensure they are functioning properly. Similarly, maintaining the HVAC system ensures comfort and air quality inside the cabin.

  1. Software Calibration

Teslas rely heavily on software for features like Autopilot, self-driving assistance, and energy management. Regular updates and checks ensure that these systems are calibrated correctly, improving the car’s performance and user experience.

  1. Maximizing Resale Value

Keeping up with regular service and documentation can help maintain the car’s resale value. Potential buyers often look for well-maintained vehicles with a documented service history, particularly for high-tech vehicles like Teslas.

  1. Warranty Maintenance

Regular service at Tesla-approved centers helps maintain your car’s warranty and ensures that you are in compliance with any required maintenance for coverage. Skipping maintenance could void certain warranties or insurance coverage.

Overall, while Tesla vehicles require less traditional maintenance compared to combustion engine vehicles, regular servicing is crucial to ensure your vehicle remains safe, efficient, and reliable.

It could be worn out components like bushes, ball joints or shock absorbers. Its best to get this checked and repaired as worn-out suspension parts will affect your Tesla handling and increase wear and tear on your tyres.

If your Tesla is shaking while driving, it’s important to address the issue promptly, as it can indicate underlying problems that could affect both safety and performance. While not all causes of shaking are serious, some could be dangerous if left unresolved. Here are some potential causes for your Tesla shaking, and whether it’s safe:

  1. Wheel Alignment or Tire Issues
  • Cause: If your wheels are misaligned or tires are unevenly worn, it can cause the car to shake, especially at higher speeds.
  • Safety: Misaligned wheels or uneven tires can compromise vehicle handling, potentially leading to unsafe driving conditions.
  • What to do: Have your alignment checked, and inspect your tires for signs of wear, bulging, or damage. If necessary, replace the tires or get them rotated.
  1. Unbalanced Tires
  • Cause: If your tires are not properly balanced, they can cause vibrations or shaking, especially at higher speeds.
  • Safety: Tire imbalance can lead to uneven wear and reduced control over your car, especially when driving at high speeds.
  • What to do: Get your tires balanced at a Tesla service center or tire shop.
  1. Brake Issues (Warped Rotors)
  • Cause: If you feel shaking while braking, it could be due to warped brake rotors or issues with the brake system.
  • Safety: This could be a safety concern, as it affects your braking ability and handling.
  • What to do: Have your brakes and rotors inspected. Warped rotors can sometimes be resurfaced, or they may need to be replaced.
  1. Suspension Problems
  • Cause: A damaged or worn-out suspension system (such as struts, shocks, or bushings) can cause instability or shaking.
  • Safety: A malfunctioning suspension can impact vehicle handling and stability, especially on uneven road surfaces, and it could lead to dangerous driving conditions.
  • What to do: Get the suspension checked by a professional to ensure it’s in good condition.
  1. Axle or CV Joint Issues
  • Cause: If there’s an issue with the axle or CV (constant velocity) joints, such as wear or damage, it can cause vibrations or shaking, especially when turning or accelerating.
  • Safety: These issues can affect your car’s ability to transmit power to the wheels, leading to potential loss of control.
  • What to do: Have a mechanic inspect the axles and CV joints. Damaged components may need to be replaced.
  1. Drive Unit or Motor Issues
  • Cause: In rare cases, problems with the electric motor or drive unit could lead to vibrations. This is typically less common but could occur if there are issues with the drivetrain.
  • Safety: This can be a serious issue and might affect the car’s performance or safety, especially if the drive unit fails.
  • What to do: If the shaking is related to acceleration or specific driving conditions, it’s important to have the drive unit inspected by Tesla.
  1. Battery-Related Problems
  • Cause: A loose or improperly secured battery could cause unusual vibrations, though this is rare.
  • Safety: It is critical to address this issue, as it could affect the safety of your car.
  • What to do: If you suspect a battery issue, it’s essential to have your Tesla checked by a qualified service provider.
  1. Wheel/Tire Hardware
  • Cause: Loose or damaged lug nuts or wheel bolts can cause vibrations, especially if a wheel is not securely attached.
  • Safety: This is a significant safety concern. Loose wheels could result in a complete loss of the wheel while driving.
  • What to do: Immediately inspect the wheels to ensure all lug nuts are properly tightened.

Should You Drive It?

If your Tesla is shaking, it’s not recommended to continue driving it until you’ve determined the cause, especially if the shaking is severe. Depending on the source of the problem, continuing to drive could lead to further damage or unsafe driving conditions.

Next Steps:

  • Check for any warning lights on your dashboard, which could indicate specific issues.
  • Contact Tesla or a certified technician for a thorough inspection to diagnose the issue.

By addressing the shaking early, you can help ensure your Tesla remains safe and fully operational.

If your Tesla vibrates when braking, it could be due to several potential issues with the braking system or other components. Here are the most common reasons why this might happen:

  1. Warped Brake Rotors
  • Cause: One of the most common causes of vibration when braking is warped brake rotors. This can happen due to heat buildup from frequent or heavy braking, causing the rotors to become uneven.
  • Symptoms: You’ll feel a vibration through the brake pedal and possibly the steering wheel when applying the brakes.
  • Solution: The rotors may need to be resurfaced or replaced if they are too worn or warped.
  1. Uneven Brake Pad Wear
  • Cause: If the brake pads are worn unevenly, they can cause vibrations as they make contact with the rotor, especially if parts of the pad are thinner than others.
  • Symptoms: Uneven braking performance and vibrations when applying the brakes.
  • Solution: Inspect the brake pads and replace them if they are worn unevenly or excessively.
  1. Brake Pad Material or Quality
  • Cause: Low-quality or improperly matched brake pads can cause vibrations. Sometimes cheaper pads may create uneven friction or don’t work well with the rotors, leading to shaking when braking.
  • Symptoms: Vibrations or a pulsating feeling in the brake pedal when stopping.
  • Solution: Consider replacing the brake pads with higher-quality ones that are compatible with your Tesla’s braking system.
  1. Debris Between the Pads and Rotors
  • Cause: Dirt, stones, or debris that get caught between the brake pads and rotors can cause vibrations or a jerky braking feel.
  • Symptoms: You might hear a grinding sound in addition to the vibration when braking.
  • Solution: Inspect the brake components and clean them if any debris is found.
  1. Brake Caliper Problems
  • Cause: A sticking or malfunctioning brake caliper can cause uneven brake pad pressure, leading to vibrations when braking.
  • Symptoms: Uneven brake performance and possible pulling to one side when braking.
  • Solution: A professional inspection of the brake calipers is necessary to see if they need servicing or replacement.
  1. Suspension or Steering Issues
  • Cause: Sometimes, vibrations that feel like they are coming from the brakes can actually be caused by issues with the suspension or steering system, such as worn-out shocks, struts, or steering components.
  • Symptoms: Vibrations may occur while braking, but may also be felt when driving in general.
  • Solution: Have the suspension and steering systems inspected to ensure everything is functioning correctly.
  1. Wheel Alignment or Tire Issues
  • Cause: If your car’s wheels are misaligned or if your tires are unbalanced or have worn unevenly, it can cause vibrations, which may be more noticeable when braking, especially at higher speeds.
  • Symptoms: Shaking during braking, but also potential pulling to one side or uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Have the wheels aligned and the tires inspected or balanced.

What to Do:

If you experience vibration while braking, it’s important to have it inspected and addressed. Ignoring it could lead to more significant brake issues or compromise safety. It’s best to schedule a visit to a Tesla service center or a certified technician for a thorough brake inspection to identify the root cause.

If the vibration is severe, it’s better not to drive the car until the issue is resolved to avoid further damage or safety risks.

  • Regular Software Updates: Keep your Tesla’s software updated for optimal performance and security.
  • Battery Care: Avoid frequent fast charging and park in shaded areas to minimize battery stress.
  • Check Tires Regularly: Rotate tires every 10,000-12,000 miles and ensure proper inflation.
  • Schedule Annual Inspections: Even though Tesla vehicles require less maintenance, an annual checkup can catch issues early.

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