my Tesla Model S Plaid/Refresh (2021-present) has a strange clunking sound when turning

Tesla Model S Plaid/Refresh (2021-present)

Error Codes

2-4 hours

Time

medium

Difficulty

medium

Severity

3 min read

487 words

Problem Statement

Learn how to diagnose and fix clunking sound when turning in Tesla Model S Plaid. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair instructions.

Affected Component

Suspension

Estimated Time

2-4 hours

⚠️ Safety Warnings

Important safety information - read before proceeding

•Always use jack stands when working under the vehicle.
•Disconnect the battery before working on electrical systems.

Symptoms

•Clunking noise during left or right turns
•Noise may vary with speed or steering angle
•Possible vibration in the steering wheel
•Uneven tire wear
•Decreased steering responsiveness

Diagnostic Steps

1
Inspect the vehicle visually for any obvious damage to suspension or steering components.
2
Check for any loose bolts or nuts on the suspension system using a torque wrench.
3
Lift the vehicle using a jack and inspect the suspension components, including control arms and ball joints, for wear or damage.
4
Test drive the vehicle in a safe area to reproduce the clunking sound while making turns.
5
Use a stethoscope or a mechanic's stethoscope to isolate the source of the noise while someone else turns the steering wheel.

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

•Socket set
•Torque wrench
•Ball joint separator
•Mechanic's stethoscope
•Jack and jack stands

Parts Required

•Control arm bushings (if worn)
•Ball joints (if worn)
•Tie rods (if necessary)

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Diagnostic Steps

1
Inspect the vehicle visually for any obvious damage to suspension or steering components.
2
Check for any loose bolts or nuts on the suspension system using a torque wrench.
3
Lift the vehicle using a jack and inspect the suspension components, including control arms and ball joints, for wear or damage.
4
Test drive the vehicle in a safe area to reproduce the clunking sound while making turns.
5
Use a stethoscope or a mechanic's stethoscope to isolate the source of the noise while someone else turns the steering wheel.

Solution

1. Preparation

Gather necessary tools and parts.
Park the vehicle on a level surface and engage the parking brake.
Disconnect the negative battery terminal to prevent electrical issues.

2. Inspect and Replace Worn Components

Control Arms
- Remove the wheel by loosening the lug nuts with a socket wrench.
- Detach the control arm by removing the bolts using a torque wrench.
- Inspect bushings for wear; replace if necessary.
Ball Joints
- Check for excessive play in the ball joint by moving it up and down.
- If worn, use a ball joint separator to remove the ball joint and replace it with a new one.
Steering Rack
- Inspect the steering rack and tie rod ends for any signs of wear or damage.
- Replace any worn tie rods by removing the castle nut and separating them from the steering knuckle.

3. Reassemble and Torque

Reattach all components, ensuring to follow manufacturer specifications for torque values.
Reinstall the wheel and tighten lug nuts in a crisscross pattern to the specified torque.

4. Reconnect Battery

Reconnect the negative battery terminal and ensure all electrical connections are secure.