Buyer’s guide

Model 3 brake line corrosion bulletin SB-26-33-001

Some 2017 to 2023 Model 3 have corroded brake lines. What Tesla's 2026 bulletin covers, the labor time, the parts and what to ask a seller.

The short answer

On some Model 3 of model years 2017 to 2023, the brake lines corrode past Tesla's limit and can leak brake fluid, which sets a low-fluid alert. Tesla's bulletin SB-26-33-001 of May 2026 replaces every brake line with corrosion-resistant ones, an 11.35 to 11.85 hour job. It is done when the car comes in with that alert, a leak or a failed roadworthiness test, and corrosion is found. Tesla says that with the brakes' dual redundancy, the corrosion does not affect safety.

The bulletin at a glance

BulletinSB-26-33-001 R2, 8 May 2026
TypeRepair bulletin: done when the problem shows
CarsModel 3 of model years 2017 to 2023, up to 7 years old, in North America, Europe, the Middle East and Africa
Labor time11.35 hours with an alignment check
11.85 hours with a four-wheel alignment
PartsEvery brake line, in corrosion-resistant versions, with their bolts and brackets
Mobile serviceNo, it needs a service center

Which cars it covers

Model 3 of model years 2017 to 2023 in North America, Europe, the Middle East and Africa, and the bulletin lists them as up to 7 years old. Tesla says the years are a general approximation, and that its own VIN list decides.

What to ask the seller

Whether the brake lines were replaced, and the invoice, and whether a low brake fluid alert has ever come on. The repair waits for a symptom or a failed inspection, so a car with no history of either has most likely not had it.

Common questions

Does Tesla replace corroded Model 3 brake lines?

Yes, under bulletin SB-26-33-001, when the car comes in with a low brake fluid alert, a leak or a failed roadworthiness test, and corrosion is found. Every brake line is replaced in one repair.

How long does a Model 3 brake line replacement take?

Tesla's labor time is 11.35 hours with an alignment check, or 11.85 hours with a four-wheel alignment.

Check a car

The free check shows how many service bulletins NHTSA has for a car's model year, from its VIN. The $1.99 Factory Report lists them, each with a link to the bulletin.

See a sample report →