Tesla Model 3 Performance tires - your thoughts?

[edyvw]

For the most part the newer model 3P Tesla uses street pads that are not track worthy. Heck they probably fall short of my daily needs. Pads like Carbotech XP8 or XP10 really make the M3P a bunch more capable. I know people really fault the Tesla brakes, but real world track days show they hold up for 2-3 laps before fading. For OEM, that is not unusual in any modestly priced vehicle

I used track pads extensively on BMW from Hawk, Pagid, EBC to Carbotech. The problem is always cold performance. Better on track, worse on street.
But Teslas do struggle also on the street, for the power they deliver. Others do a much better job. Now, is that function of trying to squeeze out every mile out of battery so brake packages are smaller, or just cheating, is the question. Or it is both.

 

[97prizm]

I really don't understand this issue behind Tesla and brakes.

Tell that to the guy that binned his model S plaid at a track day then posted the pics online. Two laps and the brakes were toast. Then he ran out of room and talent. The insurance company denied his insurance claim.

 

[02SE]

Well, yeah, that is the point. Also, Track Package is extra money.

I was confirming your statement.

 

[JeffKeryk]

I used track pads extensively on BMW from Hawk, Pagid, EBC to Carbotech. The problem is always cold performance. Better on track, worse on street.
But Teslas do struggle also on the street, for the power they deliver. Others do a much better job. Now, is that function of trying to squeeze out every mile out of battery so brake packages are smaller, or just cheating, is the question. Or it is both.

I have not had that problem. The streets are not a race track. Now do other other performance cars have better brakes? No doubt.

 

[edyvw]

I have not had that problem. The streets are not a race track. Now do other other performance cars have better brakes? No doubt.

Well, depends where you drive. Sometimes you need capable brakes on twisty roads in the mountains. Few hard brakings between curves, and things get hot fast.

 

[dogememe]

I have not had that problem. The streets are not a race track. Now do other other performance cars have better brakes? No doubt.

I see people often treating the streets like race tracks. But it’s generally d-bags in beater old cars using $10 Amazon brake pads that drive the craziest. Sure occasionally people with expensive fast cars are going quick but there’s “quick with a purpose in a properly maintained vehicle” and “this busy street is my personal race track and I don’t have insurance so good luck”’

 

[rijndael]

EVs are not allowed on my local track. They only have the street.

 

[02SE]

I guess I'd better clarify that I was comparing my cars on an actual roadracing track. On public streets at any speed I would drive it (meaning I don't drive it as fast as possible on public roads), my Tesla has more than adequate brakes.

To run the Model S Plaid on the track, DID require signing an 'Alternative Fuel Vehicle Release, and indemnification waiver'.

 

[andrew_j]

The cost per mile in tires is $0.10/mile!

 

[JeffKeryk]

The cost per mile in tires is $0.10/mile!

The OE Pirelli P-Zeros cost more. And remember Costco doesn't charge for mount balance and warranty. Add $50 easy to each tire.

 

[JeffKeryk]

Ran up to Petaluma today to check on remodel work being done... Flew up 280, across the GG, past Marin up to Chicken Town.
90 miles each way.
These tires are great. Maybe hit 90 mph a few times, accidently. Too easy with this much pull.

 

[Cujet]

Ran up to Petaluma today to check on remodel work being done... Flew up 280, across the GG, past Marin up to Chicken Town.
90 miles each way.
These tires are great. Maybe hit 90 mph a few times, accidentally. Too easy with this much pull.

You've hit upon why great quality performance tires are so loved. They make driving more fun. I am a true driving enthusiast and ex racer. I don't push traction limits, I'm more of an 80% guy on regular roads, spirited, fast and secure. And on the track I was never the 100% guy, so I was never the fastest. To me 80% is great, that's where the fun is. Plenty of G forces to satisfy, lots of margin for safety.

I think I'm going to follow your lead and replace the Pzero's on my Jag with the Costco Michelin's. It will simply make a fun car, more fun. What's not to love!!!

 

[JeffKeryk]

You've hit upon why great quality performance tires are so loved. They make driving more fun. I am a true driving enthusiast and ex racer. I don't push traction limits, I'm more of an 80% guy on regular roads, spirited, fast and secure. And on the track I was never the 100% guy, so I was never the fastest. To me 80% is great, that's where the fun is. Plenty of G forces to satisfy, lots of margin for safety.

I think I'm going to follow your lead and replace the Pzero's on my Jag with the Costco Michelin's. It will simply make a fun car, more fun. What's not to love!!!

The P-Zeros are great rubber... If the Pilot Sport 4S is in the budget, go for it! Just watch your speed because these tires inspire so much confidence. Your speed just might get away from you.

While no one needs a car like this (AWD with 550 #ft flat torque), I have to say your, @edyvw and @Trav advice was spot on, each in your own way. The tiger has new claws...

 

[Nessism1]

My son's (now departed) Performance 3 had fits with tires. Low profile, couldn't take a pothole without destroying them. Happened twice, at about $500 a pop. He bought a M2 and his insurance rate went down a goodly bit.

 

[rijndael]

He bought a M2 and his insurance rate went down a goodly bit.

For me, insurance for a Model 3 Performance is (almost) 2X what it is for my '24 Mustang GT. And, it'd be another $250 / year on my homeowners/umbrella policy if I install a level 2 charger.

 

[SugarMouth]

I'm running staggered Falken Azenis FK460 A/S on my M3 LR, very happy with them.

 

[JeffKeryk]

I think the Michelins needs a short break in period? They are now flat-out amazing.
The Regen braking and when I use the brake pedal feels stronger. The handling feels even more flat.
This was the right choice, and then some. This car is the performance bargain of the century.

 

[edyvw]

I think the Michelins needs a short break in period? They are now flat-out amazing.
The Regen braking and when I use the brake pedal feels stronger. The handling feels even more flat.
This was the right choice, and then some. This car is the performance bargain of the century.

They do. You need to give them some time. And they need a bit of heat.