Suspension Problems of Tesla Model 3 - part 2

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.

See all problems of the 2018 Tesla Model 3 🔎.

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.

See all problems of the 2020 Tesla Model 3 🔎.

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.

See all problems of the 2019 Tesla Model 3 🔎.

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.

Clunking noise when in reverse and turning.

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.

See all problems of the 2022 Tesla Model 3 🔎.

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.

Lower links replaced ~69k miles due to squeeking.

The owner reported a grinding noise coming from the front of the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to the Tesla service center in [xxx], where it was diagnosed on xxx, at 47,821 miles. Diagnosis found the front suspension required replacement of the front lower lateral links (left and right), the front lower compliance links (pair), and both front upper control arms. The repair was performed onxxx. The owner paid $2,035. 20 because Tesla said the basic warranty had expired by time on xxx, although the vehicle was under the 50,000-mile limit. There was no crash, no fire, and no injury. The concern is premature failure/wear of the complete front suspension link set at under 50,000 miles. These suspension links are safety-critical components affecting steering and vehicle control, and failure or detachment could affect handling. The problem was confirmed and repaired by the Tesla service center. The symptom prior to repair was the grinding noise from the front; no warning lamps are known. Whether the replaced components are available for inspection is unknown. The failed components are the same front suspension lateral links addressed by NHTSA recall 21v835 (this vehicle was checked and is not in that recall population) and the front lower lateral link detachment under NHTSA investigation pe26006. Information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u. S. C. 552(b)(6).

Suspensions. I know there’s been known defects with the suspensions and they’ve only recall 422 vehicles so far (2018-2019 Tesla Model 3, I feel more vehicles in those years are affected.

The front lower lateral link (rearward lower control arm) fastener/bolt completely backed out and fell off the vehicle while in motion, causing the lateral link to separate entirely from the subframe. This is the exact mechanical failure described in Tesla recall campaign 23v-235 (service bulletin sb-23-31-001), however, my specific VIN was not included in that recall. The vehicle and components are currently at an independent ev repair facility and are available for inspection upon request. Photographic evidence of the missing bolt and separated control arm has been retained. The separation of the lower lateral link caused an immediate and violent collapse of the front passenger-side suspension geometry. The affected wheel was no longer anchored to the vehicle frame, causing it to fold backward and grind heavily against the wheel well. To keep the vehicle moving straight, the steering wheel had to be turned to an extreme 45-degree angle. This resulted in a near-total loss of steering control. Had this fastener failed while traveling at highway speeds instead of low speeds, it would have resulted in an uncontrollable, catastrophic collision. Yes. The problem was physically confirmed and documented by an independent, ev-certified repair facility (evfixme/shocker motors in costa mesa, CA) once the vehicle was placed on a lift. The vehicle was physically inspected by an independent service center. The manufacturer (Tesla) was contacted via the Tesla app; however, they refused to perform a physical diagnosis without pre-authorization of a $2,600+ comprehensive suspension replacement estimate and stated the vehicle was out of warranty with no open recalls. There were no dashboard warning lamps, digital alerts, or error messages from the vehicle's computer system prior to the failure. The failure presented suddenly as a loud, painful metal-on-metal grinding noise accompanied by immediate, severe steering misalignment. Currently waiting on invoice from indy shop.

This was not an incident. Instead I’d like to report it as a design flaw. I discovered low speed noise and got it fixed at Tesla service center. Upper control arms and lower control links have both been replaced at ~70k miles and the cost to repair was over $2k at Tesla service center in Feb 2026. Later in may 2026 Tesla published a service bulletin acknowledging this is a design flaw.

While driving, the front driver-side suspension collapsed due to a complete detachment of the front lower lateral link. The fastener (bolt) backed out entirely and fell onto the road/under-shield. This matches the failure mode described in NHTSA recall 21v-835, although Tesla has previously claimed my specific VIN was not included. The failure caused an immediate loss of steering control and structural instability. I am reporting this as a potential 'recall bypass' where the defect exists outside the currently identified recall population.

A bolt securing the rear subframe assembly is loose and missing its nut. This condition has caused damage to the rear subframe assembly, which now requires replacement. The vehicle was inspected by a licensed dealer who confirmed on video that no impact damage, scraping, bending, or collision damage is present on any surrounding components. The only affected area is the bolt and nut connection point. The dealer's professional assessment is that this is consistent with a factory assembly defect — either the nut was never installed or was not properly torqued during manufacturing. No routine service or alignment would require access to this fastener. Tesla's service records for this VIN should confirm no prior work has been performed in this area, meaning the fastener has not been touched since the vehicle left the factory. Factory-installed suspension bolts of this type are typically secured with a locking mechanism or thread locker; a properly installed nut does not detach through normal vehicle operation. This constitutes a safety defect. A rear subframe fastener that was not properly secured at the factory could lead to suspension component failure, loss of vehicle control, and a serious accident. Tesla's service center has denied warranty coverage for this repair despite the vehicle being within its warranty period, citing that "a manufacturing defect would have presented itself earlier" and that because I am not the original owner, they "don't know what might have happened. " Tesla quoted $2,812. 49 to replace the damaged rear subframe assembly.

See all problems of the 2023 Tesla Model 3 🔎.

The front left and right lower link assemblies suffered premature structural failure and required immediate replacement at 74,068 miles due to a loss of steering stability. The repair was completed at a Tesla service center out-of-pocket for a total cost of $1,564. 04.

2018 Tesla Model 3 front chassis subframe welded nut to the chassis is come off now left side control arm keep getting loose.

Sunday [xxx] downtown sacramento, driving about 25 mph. Heard a loud bang—bolt sheared off front subframe. Steering felt lagging upon making a right turn vehicle proceeded in a very wide turn, pulled into parking lot. Wheel locked right as I exited [xxx] parking spot; steering went slack, brakes scraped rotor. Two witnesses saw hardware hit pavement. Aaa tech removed tire: lower control arm bolt missing, no loctite, subframe raw. Second bolt loose—single point of failure. Tesla missed this on six different service visits and during their one-twenty inspection before delivery. Recall 21v835 should’ve flagged it but service personnel assured me all clear on every visit . Vehicle towed to Tesla service center at 1104 tinker rd, rocklin, CA. Tesla shop manager sal confirmed this failure as manufacturers defect, and poor assembly. Safety was seconds from total loss. Need probe. Information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u. S. C. 552(b)(6).

The control arms on all make and models of Tesla have a horrible design that all water off of the car flows down the sides of the front hood and down onto the control arm bushing. This could be a simple fix for Tesla to out a boot on it to cover the bushing. The control arms start to fail at any given time. This is costing owners thousands of dollars. I have had to had them replace once under warranty and now they want me to pay 2000 since I am out of warranty. Owners with newer vehicles sometimes start to have problems within the first year. This part design needs to be recalled and all persons have free repairs. According to sources, driving with severely worn control arm bushings can lead to a fatal accident. While bushings often start as a minor nuisance, complete failure compromises the structural integrity of your vehicle's suspension. Don't wait till deaths start happening. Protect the customer and others and send a recall on this. Yiu can google Tesla control arm issues and and see over and over in videos and forums that this is a major issue.

Vehicle made thunking noise when driving over uneven surfaces such as bumpy roads, speed bumps, or railroad tracks. Diagnosis at Tesla service center showed front upper control arms assemblies (left and right), lower lateral link, and front lower compliance link (left and right) required replacement. Of note: upper control arm assemblies were previously replaced under warranty in November 2021 at 28000 miles. This short interval indicates defective suspension components leading to cascading failures putting driver safety at risk.

The front lateral links, compliance links, and stabilizer bar link on my 2018 Tesla Model 3 long range failed and required replacement in January 2026. Prior to failure, abnormal creaking and clunking noise from the front suspension began appearing weeks before the repair — no warning lights illuminated at any point. The failed components were replaced by a Tesla-certified service center and are no longer available for inspection. The failure was confirmed and repaired solely by the Tesla service center; no police, insurance representatives, or other parties inspected the vehicle. I was charged out of pocket for this repair. The lateral link separation risk directly endangers vehicle safety — if a fastener loosens sufficiently, the lateral link can detach from the subframe, causing sudden wheel misalignment and loss of steering control, which could result in a crash at any speed. Tesla issued recall 23v-235 (NHTSA campaign 23v235000) in March 2023 for this exact condition on 2018-2019 Model 3 vehicles. My vehicle's VIN was not included in the recall population, yet experienced the identical failure mode. I am requesting this complaint be considered for recall expansion under 23v-235 and seeking reimbursement for out-of-pocket repair costs for a defect Tesla has already acknowledged in identical vehicles.

This is a follow-up to a previously submitted complaint regarding the same issue. I am submitting this update to reference NHTSA's recently opened investigation into 2018-2019 Tesla Model 3 suspension failures. Previous complaint id is 11732882.

At approximately 30,000 miles, the front left suspension lateral link/control arm separated while driving due to a missing mounting fastener (bolt), resulting in sudden steering instability and abnormal front wheel movement. Vehicle handling became unpredictable and felt unsafe to control, creating risk of loss of steering control. I stopped driving immediately. There was no collision, curb strike, pothole, or road hazard at the time of the incident. No warning lights or messages appeared prior to the failure; it occurred suddenly without advance notice. Tesla service inspected and confirmed the separation and missing fastener. Suspension components and the front subframe assembly were replaced —$4,400 out of pocket. Tesla documented they could not make a formal cause determination. The recovered bolt is intact and available for inspection upon request. Insurance also reviewed the incident and classified it as mechanical rather than collision-related. Because this involves a safety-critical steering/suspension fastener failure without warning, I am submitting this report for safety tracking. I am aware of similar owner reports describing suspension fastener or lateral link separation on this vehicle generation in case this reflects a broader pattern.

In Jan, 2026, the front suspension in the 2020 Model 3 started making a cracking, catching, grinding and/or popping noise as I turned the steering column while parked or driving slowly. When investigating, it sounded like it was coming from bearings in the front suspension. It continued to get worse, making the catching / grinding / popping noise when driving on the highway, turning or not turning, to the point that it felt like the suspension would completely tear apart, and I took the vehicle in for service in early March. Telsa service ended up replacing the left and right upper control arm assembly, the front left and right lower compliance link and the lower lateral links. Online research on various Tesla forums showed this to be a known problem with vehicle owners. Unsure if continuing with the issue prior to service would have caused a safety concren, but it was beyond the point of sounding safe to operate to me.

The contact owns a 2020 Tesla Model 3. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the vehicle made an abnormal clunking sound while turning the steering wheel. The messages "traction control disabled", "lane departure avoidance feature disabled", "automatic vehicle hold disabled" and "stability control disabled" were displayed. The vehicle was taken to a dealer, where it was discovered that the lateral link was not attached to the control arm due to a defective bolt. The contact was informed that the subframe and the front passenger’s side lower control arm needed to be replaced. The contact related the failure to NHTSA campaign number: 21v835000 (suspension); however, the VIN was not included in the recall. The vehicle remained with the dealer unrepaired. The failure mileage was 46,124.

The front suspension control arms on my 2020 Tesla Model 3 are squeaking and show premature wear. The noise occurs during normal driving and is accompanied by clunking, which concerns me about potential control arm failure and loss of vehicle control. My vehicle is only 40k miles and it’s a very common issue that Tesla gets to make money on. Kind of funny it happens to everyone right when the warranty ends. I am aware that this is a known issue affecting multiple Model 3 vehicles. Despite proper maintenance, the problem persists and may present a safety risk. I request that this be officially recorded as a safety complaint.

I am reporting a safety defect involving a welded rear subframe component. The welded section snapped under normal driving conditions, and this is a safety-critical structural suspension component. There was no collision, misuse, or accident prior to this failure. The vehicle is currently not safe to drive due to the compromised rear suspension structure. I have included photos showing the snapped weld and overall rear subframe area. This appears to be a premature structural defect, not normal wear. I am requesting that this failure be documented and reviewed as a potential safety defect. Additional notes: this component is part of the rear suspension and is expected to last the life of the vehicle. The failure created a serious safety hazard, and I am not driving the vehicle. I have scheduled a service appointment, but I am filing this complaint to ensure the defect is officially reported.