You might have come to this blog hearing about the probe of hundreds of thousands of Tesla cars due to suspension issues, or your own Tesla has shown up such problems, forcing you to hit the internet. You are at the right place. We will discuss the causes and possible solutions here.
The most common problems in Tesla suspension originate from control arms, fore and aft links, and bolts. In addition, the air suspension system might be the source in some cases. Cars begin showing various symptoms when these problems kick in, and a complete suspension failure might also occur.
What Are the Most Common Problems With Tesla Suspension?
- Weak Control Arms: The control arms (the connection point between the front wheels and the body frame) in Tesla Model S and Xs have a tough time handling hard accelerations, especially when going uphill. This results in excessive shaking and vibrations.
- Control Arms Breakage: The ball joints can either become too loose or come out of the socket, breaking the connection with the control arms completely. This issue is mainly associated with the Model Ss of 2012 and 2017.
- Fore and Aft Link Cracking: These links in the suspension are prone to getting cracks. This situation might eventually lead to complete failure, and the suspension will go unresponsive. The problem is prevalent in both Model S and X.
- Bolts Coming Off: Some Tesla owners have reported critical bolts of their Model 3 and Y suspensions coming off. The suspension either does not work or loses its quality.
- Air Suspension Issues: Reports of upper mount air suspension failure in the Model X have recently surfaced. The Model S is also known for some air suspension issues. Unfortunately, it causes uneven height and bad handling. Moreover, fixing this bears a hefty price tag.
- Noises: Several Model 3s have reported squeaking and clicking noises from the suspension. The former type originates in the control arms, while the latter comes from the axle.
Tesla Suspension Problems: Causes Explained
Control Arms and Links
It is evident from the abovementioned reasons that the control arms cause the most problems in Tesla suspension. Many incidents have surfaced due to bad ball joints on them. Besides, the fore link can completely crack and break away. This is also the reason behind the squeaking noises.
Generally, control arms or fore links suffer damages if a car crashes, the wheel hits some hard surfaces, or if sudden brakes are applied. However, in Tesla’s case, the problem seems to be inherent. According to a review, the company has acknowledged that the control arms are not capable enough. The NHTSA also formally launched an inquiry into these issues.
Bolts Coming Off
Tesla suspension bolts coming off is a manufacturing fault. In the quest to deliver so many cars and support the lean manufacturing process, this problem has popped up.
The technicians only have 15 seconds to complete the suspension bolt installation in the factory line. Afterward, the windshield installers have 2 minutes, and so on, until the car is finally ready. In this short window, the technicians might not get enough time to do the job perfectly. The nuts and bolts might be left untightened, which comes off later, especially if the car is driven on bumpy paths.
Air Suspension Failure
Most of the time, air suspensions are flawless. However, air struts leak, compressor malfunctioning, and some mechanical failures can lead to failure. If this occurs, the ride becomes too stiff and low that it is nearly undrivable.
You can find out if your Tesla’s air suspension system is okay by looking at the instrument panel. If orange light shows up, the system is not performing optimally. If it is red, the system has broken down completely. Common symptoms of air suspension issues include:
- Air hissing sound from the suspension
- Car lowering and sagging
- Suspension height settings do not work
Axle Noise
Axles click when they are failing. The situation occurs if the car suffers an accident, is loaded beyond capacity, and is frequently driven over a bad road. Usually, the clicking sound continues for almost six months before the axle eventually fails or breaks.
How to Fix Common Tesla Suspension Problems?
There is nothing much you can do to fix the issue with the Tesla suspension. You will need professional assistance in most cases. The parts, such as the control arms, axles, and air suspension system, will probably need a replacement.
For the bolts, you can keep an eye on your car’s suspension and tighten the joints often. If you see any bolt missing, buy one and install it in its place. However, note that the size must correspond to the requirement.
If the squeaking noise comes from the ball joints that are only corroded and not completely loose, only lubricating without getting them replaced can help.
How to Get Tesla Suspension Problems Fixed?
Contact your local Tesla service station to help you out. Though Tesla initially denied the suspension issues in its vehicles, the company now acknowledges the problem and is open to solving it. The mechanics will make an initial assessment by driving and replicating your problem. Once done, they will propose a befitting solution.
How Much Does Tesla Suspension Fixing Cost?
The cost depends on the type of repair performed. The price is elaborated against each kind of work in the following table:
|
Repair Works |
Cost (USD) |
|
Control Arms and Links |
600 to 800 |
|
Air Suspension |
|
|
Axle Replacement |
Up to 1,000 |
However, note that the cost will reduce if your car still has a valid warranty. Furthermore, if the suspension issue comes out to be an inherent or manufacturing fault, the company might halve your total bill.
Read: Can a Tesla Pull a Plane? A Surprising Yes!
Tesla Common Suspension Problems at a Glance
|
Problems |
Model |
Manufacturing Year |
|
Control Arms and Links |
S and X |
2012 to 2017 |
|
Bolts Coming Off |
3 and Y |
2012 to 2018 |
|
Air Suspension Malfunction |
Any |
Any |
|
Noises |
Any |
Any |
Concluding Remarks: What Are the Most Common Problems With Tesla Suspension?
Tesla suspension problems include weak or malfunctioning control arms and links, loose bolts, air suspension failures, and associated noises. Unfortunately, issues like those associated with the air suspension system can be costly. And there is nothing much owners can do about it except incorporate a professional’s help.
Tesla cars began their journey only in this century. Being a new player, such issues are bound to occur. But we can surely hope for a better future with these vehicles. After all, the company has made tremendous progress and still holds the majority share.
