how can I tell if my Tesla Model S Original (2012-2020) wheel bearings are bad?

Tesla Model S Plaid/Refresh (2021-present)

Error Codes

2-4 hours

Time

medium

Difficulty

high

Severity

4 min read

631 words

⚠️ Safety Warning

This issue requires immediate attention. If you are not experienced with automotive repairs, consult a professional mechanic. Working on critical systems can be dangerous.

Problem Statement

Learn how to diagnose and fix bad wheel bearings on Tesla Model S (2012-2020). Step-by-step guide with symptoms, diagnostic steps, and repair instructions.

Affected Component

Suspension

Estimated Time

2-4 hours

⚠️ Safety Warnings

Important safety information - read before proceeding

•Disconnect the battery before working on electrical systems.
•Allow the vehicle to cool down before working on brakes or wheel components.
•Always use jack stands when working under a vehicle.

Symptoms

•Unusual noise from the wheel area (grinding or humming sound)
•Vibration in the steering wheel or through the vehicle at certain speeds
•Uneven tire wear
•Steering wheel misalignment or pulling to one side
•Increased road noise while driving

Diagnostic Steps

1
Inspect for noise by driving the vehicle and listening for any grinding or humming sounds when turning or going straight.
2
Check for visual signs of wear or damage on the wheel bearing seals or hub assembly.
3
Lift the vehicle and perform a wheel shake test to check for play in the wheel by grasping it at the 12 and 6 o'clock positions.
4
Rotate the wheel by hand to feel for any roughness or grinding during the motion.
5
Inspect the tires for uneven wear patterns that may indicate alignment issues related to bearing failure.

Solution

💡 Expert Tip

For complex repairs like this, consider taking photos at each step. This helps if you need to reverse a step or consult with a mechanic. Also, keep all removed parts organized - you may need to reference them during reassembly.

Verification

After completing the repair, verify that the issue has been resolved:

✓Test the affected component to ensure it functions correctly
✓Check for any error codes or warning lights
✓Monitor the vehicle for a few days to ensure the issue does not recur

Prevention Tips

To prevent this issue from occurring again:

•Follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule
•Address warning signs early before they develop into major issues
•Use quality parts and fluids recommended for your vehicle
•Keep detailed records of all repairs and maintenance

Tools & Equipment Required

•Jack and jack stands
•Lug wrench
•Torque wrench
•Socket set
•Wheel bearing puller (if needed)
•Grease (for new bearings)

Parts Required

•New wheel bearings
•New hub assembly (if needed)

Related Faults

Share this solution

Comments

No comments yet

Be the first to share your thoughts

Back to Generation

Diagnostic Steps

1
Inspect for noise by driving the vehicle and listening for any grinding or humming sounds when turning or going straight.
2
Check for visual signs of wear or damage on the wheel bearing seals or hub assembly.
3
Lift the vehicle and perform a wheel shake test to check for play in the wheel by grasping it at the 12 and 6 o'clock positions.
4
Rotate the wheel by hand to feel for any roughness or grinding during the motion.
5
Inspect the tires for uneven wear patterns that may indicate alignment issues related to bearing failure.

Solution

1. Preparation

Gather necessary tools and parts.
Park the vehicle on a flat surface and engage the parking brake.
Disconnect the 12V battery for safety.

Tools Required:

Jack and jack stands
Lug wrench
Torque wrench
Socket set
Wheel bearing puller (if needed)
Grease (for new bearings)

2. Remove Wheel

Loosen the lug nuts using the lug wrench while the car is still on the ground.
Lift the vehicle using a jack and secure it with jack stands.
Remove the lug nuts completely and take off the wheel.

3. Inspect and Remove Wheel Bearing

Remove the brake caliper and support it with a bungee cord or rope to prevent strain on the brake line.
Take off the brake rotor.
Use a socket to remove the wheel bearing hub assembly from the knuckle.
If the bearing is pressed in, use a wheel bearing puller to extract the bearing from the hub.

4. Install New Wheel Bearing

Clean the hub area and apply new grease to the new wheel bearing.
Press or install the new bearing into the hub assembly, ensuring it is seated properly.
Reinstall the hub assembly onto the knuckle and torque to manufacturer specifications.
Reinstall the brake rotor and caliper, ensuring that all bolts are tightened to the correct torque values.

5. Reinstall Wheel

Place the wheel back onto the hub and hand-tighten the lug nuts.
Lower the vehicle off the jack stands and then fully tighten the lug nuts in a crisscross pattern to ensure even pressure.