my Tesla Model S Plaid/Refresh (2021-present) has a rough ride is it the shocks

Tesla Model S Plaid/Refresh (2021-present)

Error Codes

2-4 hours

Time

medium

Difficulty

medium

Severity

3 min read

496 words

Problem Statement

Learn how to diagnose and fix a rough ride in Tesla Model S Plaid. Step-by-step guide with symptoms, diagnostic steps, tools, and repair instructions.

Affected Component

Suspension

Estimated Time

2-4 hours

⚠️ Safety Warnings

Important safety information - read before proceeding

•Ensure the vehicle is securely supported on jack stands before working underneath it.
•Disconnect the battery before starting any electrical components or repairs.

Symptoms

•Noticeable vibrations felt through the cabin
•Excessive bouncing after hitting bumps or potholes
•Difficulty maintaining vehicle stability during turns
•Unusual noise (clunking or rattling) when driving over uneven surfaces
•Uneven tire wear

Diagnostic Steps

1
Inspect the shock absorbers visually for any signs of leakage or physical damage.
2
Perform a bounce test by pressing down on each corner of the vehicle to check for proper rebound.
3
Check the tire pressure and inspect tires for uneven wear patterns or damage.
4
Use an OBD-II scanner to check for any suspension-related error codes.
5
Examine suspension components (control arms, bushings, etc.) for wear or damage.
6
Test drive the vehicle on a variety of surfaces to assess ride quality and handling.

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
•Socket set
•Torque wrench
•Screwdriver set

Parts Required

•Replacement shock absorbers (if worn or damaged)
•New mounting hardware (if necessary)

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Diagnostic Steps

1
Inspect the shock absorbers visually for any signs of leakage or physical damage.
2
Perform a bounce test by pressing down on each corner of the vehicle to check for proper rebound.
3
Check the tire pressure and inspect tires for uneven wear patterns or damage.
4
Use an OBD-II scanner to check for any suspension-related error codes.
5
Examine suspension components (control arms, bushings, etc.) for wear or damage.
6
Test drive the vehicle on a variety of surfaces to assess ride quality and handling.

Solution

1. Preparation

Gather tools and parts needed for the repair.
Ensure the vehicle is parked on a flat surface and the wheels are chocked.
Disconnect the negative battery terminal to ensure safety.

2. Remove the Shock Absorbers

Lift the vehicle using a jack and secure it with jack stands.
Remove the wheel on the affected corner to access the shock assembly.
Locate the upper and lower mounting bolts for the shock absorber.
Using a socket set, remove the upper and lower bolts. Keep them in a safe place for reinstallation.
Carefully remove the shock absorber from its mount.

3. Inspect and Replace

Compare the old shock absorber with the new one to ensure compatibility.
Install the new shock absorber by positioning it in the mount.
Reinstall the upper and lower mounting bolts and torque them to the manufacturer’s specifications (refer to the service manual for specific torque values).
Reattach the wheel and lower the vehicle.

4. Final Checks

Repeat the process for the remaining shock absorbers if necessary.
Reconnect the negative battery terminal.
Perform a final inspection to ensure all components are secured.