Suspension Problems of Tesla Model 3 - part 1

During a routine inspection by an independent mechanic, it was discovered that the front lower compliance link (control arm) bushings are severely cracked on both the left and right sides of my 2018 Tesla Model 3. Both the compliance links and the lateral links require immediate replacement to prevent a catastrophic structural failure. Tesla service has provided a repair estimate of $2,012. 00 to fix the issue, which they are refusing to cover under warranty or past recalls. Safety consequence: cracked and failing compliance link bushings compromise the structural integrity of the front suspension. If these suspension links completely separate or fail while driving at highway speeds, it could cause an immediate loss of steering control, severe wheel misalignment, or a wheel detachment, creating an extreme risk of a high-speed crash. Relevance to active investigations: I am filing this complaint specifically to be included in the NHTSA's active preliminary evaluation (pe26006) regarding front lower suspension link detachments on 2018–2020 Model 3 vehicles. The failure of my vehicle's compliance links demonstrates that the front suspension components on early Model 3 production units are experiencing premature structural degradation and wear that goes well beyond the scope of Tesla's previously limited lateral link recalls (23v-235 and 21v-835).

See all problems of the 2018 Tesla Model 3 🔎.

I own a 2020 Tesla Model 3. Over approximately the past 2–3 weeks, the vehicle has developed a noticeable rattle/creaking noise coming from the left-front suspension area. The noise was not previously present and appears to be getting my attention as a potential suspension-related safety issue. I am concerned because my vehicle falls within the model-year range of Tesla Model 3 vehicles associated with reported front suspension/lateral-link issues. I understand NHTSA is investigating reports involving front suspension component failures that could potentially affect vehicle control. I contacted Tesla through the Tesla app and requested that the vehicle be inspected because of the suspension noise and my safety concern. Tesla provided an estimate requiring approximately $240 for diagnosis/inspection before determining the cause. At this time, I have not experienced a suspension separation, crash, injury, or loss of vehicle control. However, because the vehicle is producing a new and persistent noise from the left-front suspension area, I am concerned that this could be an early indication of a suspension component problem. I am submitting this complaint so NHTSA has a record of the symptoms on my vehicle and can determine whether they may be related to other reported front suspension failures. I am also requesting that this complaint be considered in connection with any ongoing investigation involving front suspension/lateral-link failures in 2020 Tesla Model 3 vehicles. I will retain Tesla service records and any inspection findings and can provide additional information if requested.

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2018 Tesla Model 3, VIN [xxx], approximately 58,736 miles. Front lower suspension lateral link (fore link) separated from the subframe on the right (passenger) front. The fastener that attaches the link to the subframe backed out and is missing. The link is hanging down and the right front wheel sits at a visibly different angle compared to the left, indicating the alignment has shifted. I discovered the hanging component while the vehicle was parked; there was no impact or off-road use. The vehicle is not being driven and is being towed to service. This is the same failure mode addressed in NHTSA recalls [xxx] and [xxx] (Tesla [xxx]) and currently under investigation in [xxx]. My VIN is not included in either recall per the NHTSA VIN lookup. Photos of the separated link and wheel angle are attached. Information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u. S. C. 552(b)(6).

I was driving normally and drove in a dip in the road. The vehicle went completely into auto drive, leaving me helpless behind the wheel. It spun and swerved wildly for 30-45 seconds on a neighborhood street resulting in the left rear tire and the rim being mangled. When it was spinning out of control, the left rear tire was seemingly stuck, dragging in whichever direction it chose. Thankfully, no one, pedestrians or other vehicles were injured or damaged. This was a truly terrifying experience.

I am reporting a front suspension failure on my 2018 Tesla Model 3 dual motor, that appears relevant to NHTSA preliminary evaluation pe26006 and similar to recall 23v-235. While driving slowly in a parking lot, I heard a clunk and felt the front wheel/steering alignment become slightly skewed. After entering the highway, the vehicle developed severe vibration and became unstable and difficult to control. I exited and stopped as soon as safely possible. While attempting to park it at a curb, during reverse, the suspension entirely collapsed and left front wheel was then severely displaced and the tire was rubbing the wheel well. Tesla inspected the vehicle and confirmed: “the left lateral link was found detached with missing hardware. ” Tesla also found the left front halfshaft detached from the drive unit. Tesla replaced the front subframe, both front lower lateral links, both front lower compliance links, the left front halfshaft, and performed an alignment. Total cost was $6,328. 96. The failed parts were replaced by Tesla; I do not know whether they remain available for inspection. This failure created a serious risk of loss of vehicle control at highway speed and could have endangered me and surrounding traffic. The problem was confirmed and inspected by Tesla service. There was no collision or other discrete impact event that I recognized as causing the failure. There were * warning lights, warning messages, or other vehicle alerts before or during the failure**. The first noticeable symptom was the clunk in the parking lot, followed by the skewed steering/wheel position and later severe highway vibration. I have pre-repair photos showing the displaced wheel, tire contact, and detached suspension component, as well as Tesla’s final repair documentation. I request that this incident be considered in connection with pe26006 and recall 23v-235.

Lots of creaking and grinding noises coming from both front upper control arm bushings. Steering starting to become less stable.

I was told my car is unsafe to drive after taking it to the mechanic for a routine tire balance and rotation. I currently need both rear control arms replaced. I had them replaced in the past. In addition, I have had the front control arms replaced more than once, the lower lateral links replaced, numerous hubs repaired, forelinks and knuckles all replaced not too long ago, so this news comes as a shock. The first control arm failure occurred when the car was only a year and a half old with very little milage. I have all of the service records in my Tesla app vehicle repair history. They are in a pdf format and I would be happy to send them in, if helpful.

The suspension lower lateral links bushings are wearing down without much usage. My car had 31k miles and the bushings already need to be replaced. This is very dangerous.

See all problems of the 2022 Tesla Model 3 🔎.

Creaking noise coming from front of car when going over speed bumps or driving through a dip at low speeds. Tesla SC says normal but many others have replaced lateral and compliance links and issues has been solved. Known issue and raises a safety concern over safety of suspension.

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My car randomly gave me alerts that my steering alignment fault then came the following two days later automatic emergency braking is unavailable feature may be restored on next drive 20:55 | di_a246 automatic vehicle hold disabled use brake pedal when stopping 20:55 | di_a223 traction control disabled drive with caution 20:55 | app_w264 lane departure avoidance features unavailable features may be restored on next drive 20:55 | di_a222 stability control disabled. I take my car to a mechanic and they show me that my lower control arms are damaged. Tesla is more than 2 weeks out for something that has caused my car to act completely unsafe and not normal.

Noise came from front left wheel while driving around a turn. Later the same day another noise when turning the wheel when leaving a parking spot. Steering felt strange. It was late at night, so left the vehicle until the morning. In the morning, discovered a large bolt in front of the vehicle. The front left wheel was turned differently than the right front wheel. Had to spend almost $400 to get the vehicle towed to a Tesla service center. They later confirmed, "the cause was detached links from the bushings and bolts. Technician replaced the front lower lateral links, front lower compliance links, and front stabilizer bar bushing brackets. Total cost for those repairs was $1,902. 90. This could easily have resulted in an accident and even a fatality if we were not so lucky.

See all problems of the 2019 Tesla Model 3 🔎.

The Tesla service center in ridgepoint drive in austin TX has repeated safety issues and almost cost my wife her life in the tire inspection and undercarriage check after a full service including full tire failures after 4 tire checks and in building service center.

The vehicle has quite a bit of noise coming from the suspension during normal driving. Creaks and groans.

A front wheel of this vehicle and/or its suspension is undergoing extremely dangerous vibrations at highway speeds (65-70+ mph). It is enough to shake the entire vehicle multiple times per second. The local service center, without looking at the vehicle, stated it "would be fine to drive on until your appointment" and scheduled an appointment nearly a month out into the future after I brought up concerns that the vehicle is unsafe to drive. They also would not recommend any third party service centers to look at the vehicle in order to address the concern more urgently, nor offered any alternatives such as rentals or loaner vehicles to use in the meantime. I understand that car issues will come up; my complaint is due to how it is being handled (long wait time for an appointment, dismissal over safety concerns, no alternatives to drive safely in the near month-long wait for the appointment).

See all problems of the 2025 Tesla Model 3 🔎.

I am the owner of a 2022 Tesla Model 3. The front control arms on this vehicle are defective as manufactured. From the factory, these components have demonstrated premature failure, abnormal noise, loosening, and/or separation risk that is not consistent with normal wear on a low-mileage vehicle of this age. Symptoms experienced include [describe your exact symptoms clearly and factually — examples: progressive clicking, clunking, popping, or creaking from the front suspension/wheel area; especially noticeable during low-speed turns, reverse, or over bumps; any feeling of looseness, pull, or change in handling; any actual detachment or near-detachment]. These symptoms began at approximately 75000 miles on July 27th 2026. This is not isolated wear. Front control-arm and related suspension-link failures (including lower lateral links that can detach from the subframe) have been the subject of multiple owner complaints, prior Tesla recalls (including NHTSA campaign 21v-835 for improperly torqued lateral-link fasteners on certain Model 3/y vehicles and the later 23v-235 expansion), technical service bulletins addressing water intrusion and noise in upper control arms, and a current NHTSA preliminary evaluation (opened 2026) into front lower lateral-link detachment on a large population of Model 3 and model y vehicles. Owners report that failures can occur with little or no prior dashboard warning, only possible audible cues, and can render the vehicle undrivable or cause sudden changes in alignment and directional control. A sudden separation or failure of a front control arm/lateral link while the vehicle is in motion creates an unreasonable risk of loss of vehicle control, crash, or injury to the driver, passengers, and other road users. Because the condition appears to originate from factory assembly, design, or component durability issues rather than owner abuse or ordinary high-mileage wear, and because similar failures are widely reported across Tesla owners.

Air suspension failure - damping control disabled (code tas_a313)" description: "vehicle is 2 days old. Suspension control module lost communication with can bus. Vehicle is in 'fail-safe' mode. Tesla service center has refused to assist. Safety risk due to loss of adaptive ride control. " manufacturer response: "no response / ignored. ".

As I was backing out of the driveway I heard a strange noise and the steering started feeling crunchy. I parked the car and when I got out I saw a very large bolt on the ground that appears to have dropped out of the car. This seems to be the same issue as described in safety recall 23v-235. Tesla is saying my VIN isn’t included and not covered despite the safety recall expiring including this manufacturing date range.

The front upper control arms. Causing poor steering and unbearable loud creaks when turning wheel. Mobile Tesla tech confirmed upper control arm.

Suspension defects, control arm noise, vibration, .

On July 10, 2026, while driving, I started to hear a rattling metal noise coming from under the right front side of the car. When making turns, the noise gets louder, less when driving straight. When I got home, I looked under the car and found a large metal piece hanging down adjacent to the right front tire. When the tow truck came to pick up the car, the right front tire started to get loose aiming to the right. Took the car to a Tesla service center and a new correction links - lateral - lower front - pair (remove & replace) remove and replace.

My car experienced a loud clunking noise when turning for the past few weeks. After doing some research and inspecting behind the front right tire, I found a front suspension lateral link bolt nearly falling off. It was only being held on by a few threads. It was so loose I could unscrew it completely or tighten it more by hand with no resistance. It sounds related to an existing recall for 2018 Tesla Model 3’s (my year and model), but my car is not included in the recall. The other joints around it appear prematurely worn as well. See picture to show exactly how loose it was upon inspection. Requesting to review and likely expand the existing recall to more 2018 Tesla Model 3s.

Component that failed was the lower lateral link. There was no loss of control but there was a sound going over any uneven surface. Upon bringing the vehicle to the Tesla dealership they recommended a replacement of the upper and lower control arm on both the driver and passenger side. This greatly increased the cost of the repair to a total of $2356. 84.

While driving, I noticed that the vehicle suddenly began pulling to the right. There were no warning lights, warning messages, or alerts displayed on the vehicle's screen before I noticed the problem. I took the vehicle to the Tesla service center and reported that the vehicle was pulling to the right. The service center determined that the issue was likely related to the front suspension and recommended replacement of the front lower lateral links, front lower compliance links, and front upper control arms, along with a four-wheel alignment. The vehicle had approximately 80,000 miles at the time of the repair. The service center explained that these suspension components can wear at higher mileage, particularly because of the weight of the vehicle and its battery. I paid out of pocket for the recommended suspension repairs and four-wheel alignment. The repair invoice is available for inspection upon request. Before the repairs were completed, I was driving the vehicle without knowing that there was a potential problem with the front suspension. The vehicle pulling to the right affected its handling and steering and created a safety concern for me and others on the road. There were no warning lights, messages, or other indications from the vehicle alerting me to a potential suspension problem. I was also not warned by the Tesla service center that the issue could be related to a known or potentially widespread suspension problem. A few days after having the repairs completed, I became aware of an NHTSA investigation concerning front suspension issues involving Tesla vehicles, including the same make, model, and model year as my vehicle. I had already paid out of pocket to have the affected front suspension components replaced. I am submitting this complaint to document the suspension problem, the safety risk I experienced, and the out-of-pocket expense I incurred to correct the issue. I am concerned that I was placed at risk by a potential su.

About one month ago, my 2019 Tesla Model 3 developed a suspension issue that caused a noticeable vibration in the rear of the vehicle whenever I drove above 40 mph. At first, we suspected the problem was related to a tire. However, after the technicians at the Tesla service center lifted the vehicle for inspection, they discovered a much more serious issue. They brought me into the service area to show me that the right rear suspension was being held together by only the front portion of a bolt. The retaining nut had completely come off, leaving the bolt barely in place. Had that bolt shifted even a few millimeters while I was driving, it could have resulted in a catastrophic suspension failure and a serious accident. Tesla determined that the loose bolt had caused damage to the right rear (passenger-side) suspension assembly. The necessary repairs totaled approximately $1,800, which I paid to restore the vehicle to safe operating condition.

My 2021 Tesla Model 3 with approximately 70,000 miles developed front suspension problems. It began with squeaking, creaking and groaning, similar to a rusty playground swing, especially while turning or when the suspension moved. The noise was worse in hot weather and progressively became extremely loud and constant during normal driving. I also began hearing intermittent knocking/"bonking" or clunking. I could even hear the suspension when the vehicle compressed as I sat in the driver's seat. There were no warning lights or messages. Tesla inspected the vehicle and diagnosed both front lower lateral links and both front lower compliance links as needing replacement, along with an alignment. Tesla estimated approximately $1,960. Cpr ev repair replaced the diagnosed lower suspension components. After removal, the bushings showed significant visible deterioration, including cracked, torn and separated rubber around the inner sleeves. Cpr ev also advised that the front upper control arms were worn and would need replacement. I was concerned for my safety because failure or separation of a deteriorated front suspension component while driving could affect steering or vehicle stability and potentially cause loss of control. Although I did not experience a complete separation or crash, the rapidly worsening and eventually constant symptoms made me concerned about continuing to drive. I have Tesla's estimate, cpr ev documentation and photographs of the deteriorated components after removal.

See all problems of the 2021 Tesla Model 3 🔎.

I own a Tesla Model 3 and have been experiencing concerning front suspension and steering issues that appear to be worsening over time. While driving and especially during low speed turns, parking and maneuvering, the front suspension produces loud screeching, squeaking, and rubbing noises. The steering has also become noticeably stiffer that normal at times, and the noises can be felt through the steering wheel. The sounds are coming from the front suspension area and occur repeatedly during normal driving. The issues raises significant safety concerns because I am worried there may be a defect affecting the front suspension of steering components. Unexpected steering resistance combined with loud suspension noises creates concern that a suspension component could fail while the vehicle is in motion, potentially resulting in loss of steering control or a crash. There were no warning lights or messages displayed before or during these symptoms. The vehicle has not been involved in any collision that would explain these symptoms. The problem has continued during normal operation and appears to be getting progressively worse. The vehicle is available for inspection upon request. I am submitting this complaint because I understand NHTSA is investigating front suspension issues involving 2018-2020 Tesla Model 3 vehicles, and my vehicle is experiencing similar symptoms. I believe this issue should be investigated to determine whether it is related to the front suspension components under investigation.

My vehicle should've been included in a recall. While exiting my garage to pick up my son from school, a loud mechanical banging noise came from the front of my car. I abruptly stopped and proceeded to reverse back into my garage to inspect my vehicle. While inspecting my vehicle and the surrounding area, I discovered a large bolt on the ground. A quick image search says "on a Tesla Model 3, this specific high-strength 10. 9 class metric hex flange bolt is a critical structural component that almost certainly backed out of [my] front suspension lower control arm/ lateral link assembly or the front subframe structural mounts. " so the loud banging noise came from my suspension falling apart after the bolt fell out. Upon further inspection, I confirmed that this was the issue and that a second bolt on the same side had partially backed out as well. My vehicle was not safe to drive, so I had to have my vehicle towed to the nearest service center for repairs. I took photos and video of the areas, as well as the bolt, which showed no signs of any damage to the head or threads - so the bolt simply backed out and appears to be a manufacturing/ assembly issue. After a quick search, we learned that there were previous NHTSA recalls (ie part 573 safety recall report 23v-235) for this particular issue, including for my same vehicle make, model, year (2018 Tesla Model 3) and production dates (Jan 5, 2018 - Mar 30, 2019). Unfortunately, I never received a recall notice. I barely drive my car, so bolts shouldn't just be backing out on their own. Unfortunately, my car is no longer under warranty, but was advised by the service managers to file a report and to get reimbursed thru ncds. This is a huge safety issue. I had no warnings or alerts from the car. My alignment was checked a year ago. My wheels and tires get checked often and are well maintained, so I didn't even need air or rotation, yet my suspension just fell apart on its own before 60k miles.

These cars have a defective control arm system and they are prone to messing up over and over, they have replacement revisions but try to charge you for labor and parts if youre out of warranty even though they know the parts were a problem and revised them. Tesla does nothing to help you and will even try to charge you $200 just to diagnose the issue.

Tesla Model 3 2018 long range 86k miles. While driving 50mph on freeway the lower control arm link separated from the frame. No impact, no damage, and no pothole/bump. Lost steering and was able to get to side of road. When I got out and look at vehicle the control arm was disconnected from the frame. The frame showed no damage and the control arm showed no damage. The mounting holes for each here intact and no damage. Appears that bolt fell out or sheared off and the control arm disconnected. This is a safety failure and was scary. I towed to Tesla and they claim that failure was form worn parts and tolerances. I stated how could this be worn parts when mounting holes are in excellent condition. They are refusing to help with cost of repair and quoted me $2800. They are not taking responsibility and I believe that others should know of this failure. I believe I am being wronged and would like to report. Thanks.

Between 2023 and 2026, I have had several clunking and creaking sounds from the suspension. These were then found isolated to "lateral and compliance link detachments" and Tesla noted these were "serious safety issues" and fixed them out of warranty at a cost of roughly $2500. When I pointed out that vehicles within this model range (manufactured April 2019 at the fremont, CA plant) were flagged for a recall, they mentioned my vehicle was outside that range and insisted on an out-of-pocket repair. Further, I have similarly had to have the front left driver's side seat belt harness replaced because of a restraint control module failure. I have owned 3 other vehicles and have never had a restraint control module/seatbelt fail over just 82000 miles of use.

2022 Tesla Model 3 with approximately 19,373 miles. Third-party tire shop inspection on April 25, 2026 identified visible tearing of front lower control arm bushings on both sides (bilateral failure). Rubber bushing material has separated from inner metal sleeve on both left and right front lower control arms in identical pattern. No impact event or curb strike. Symmetric bilateral failure indicates manufacturing/material defect, not impact damage. Failure occurred at mileage well below the 40,000-70,000 mile range commonly cited for this known Tesla Model 3 lower control arm bushing wear pattern. Suggests accelerated failure mode that warrants investigation. Photos from third-party inspection attached. Vehicle scheduled for Tesla service center evaluation under remaining factory warranty.

Driving at low speed, the control arm became unfastened from the frame and the front driver's side wheel collapsed into the frame of the car.

My 2021 Tesla Model 3 required replacement of both front upper control arms due to premature wear. The vehicle developed suspension noise, and an inspection determined both upper control arm assemblies with ball joints needed replacement. The repair cost was $1,845, including a wheel alignment. I am aware of numerous similar owner reports involving premature front suspension component failures in Tesla Model 3 vehicles and am submitting this complaint because I believe this may represent a broader safety-related issue.

Following a professional suspension repair at a Tesla service center, critical underbody fasteners (bolts) became loose, causing the aero shield to sag and creating a potential road hazard. Upon inspection, the service technician confirmed the bolts were unsecured. The failure of these fasteners on a safety-critical system poses a risk of parts detaching while in motion or loss of vehicle control. The service center refused to acknowledge this as a workmanship failure under the 12-month repair warranty, despite the fasteners being last serviced by their technicians.

I purchased my car on 3/23/26. Since delivery I have noticed that the car bounces at low speeds 20-30mph and the steering wheel vibrates at highway speeds 65 - 80mph. I have had the car to Tesla service center 6 times since March. They have replaced all 4 tires, found and replaced a bent wheel (rim) on the passenger side. Then this last visit they replaced the passenger right wheel hub. They claim that when comparing it to the 1 other car available to road test my car was the same even though it still has the wheel vibration at highway speeds. They claim it falls within specs and is safe. I do not feel this is acceptable because they dont know what else to do. Now if I want them to check the car they say I must pay for any diagnosis and repairs if needed because they say they fixed the car. I do not feel safe driving at highway speeds as I am not sure what may happen which could endanger myself or passengers.