why does my Tesla Model S Plaid/Refresh (2021-present) shake when I’m driving at high speeds

Tesla Model S Plaid/Refresh (2021-present)

Error Codes

2-4 hours

Time

medium

Difficulty

medium

Severity

3 min read

551 words

Problem Statement

Learn how to diagnose and fix shaking issues at high speeds 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 ensure the vehicle is securely raised when working underneath.
•Use proper personal protective equipment (PPE) when handling tools and heavy components.

Symptoms

•Vibrations felt in the steering wheel or throughout the vehicle at high speeds
•Uneven tire wear visible on tires
•Steering wheel pull to one side while driving
•Noise from the wheels or suspension at high speeds
•Decreased driving stability at higher speeds

Diagnostic Steps

1
Inspect tire pressure to ensure all tires are inflated to the manufacturer's recommended levels.
2
Perform a visual inspection of tires for damage or uneven wear patterns.
3
Check wheel alignment using a professional alignment rack.
4
Balance all four tires using a wheel balancing machine.
5
Inspect suspension components, including shocks and struts, for wear or damage.
6
Check for any loose or damaged components in the drivetrain.

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

•Tire pressure gauge
•Torque wrench
•Wheel balancing machine
•Alignment rack

Parts Required

•New tires (if replacement is necessary)
•Suspension components (if wear is detected)

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Diagnostic Steps

1
Inspect tire pressure to ensure all tires are inflated to the manufacturer's recommended levels.
2
Perform a visual inspection of tires for damage or uneven wear patterns.
3
Check wheel alignment using a professional alignment rack.
4
Balance all four tires using a wheel balancing machine.
5
Inspect suspension components, including shocks and struts, for wear or damage.
6
Check for any loose or damaged components in the drivetrain.

Solution

1. Preparation

Gather necessary tools and safety equipment.
Park the vehicle on a flat surface and engage the parking brake.
Use wheel chocks to prevent rolling.

2. Tire Pressure Adjustment

Sub-steps:
- Use a tire pressure gauge to measure the pressure of each tire.
- Inflate or deflate tires to the manufacturer's specified pressure (typically found on the driver’s door jamb).

3. Tire Inspection and Replacement

Sub-steps:
- Check each tire for sidewall bulges, cuts, or foreign objects.
- Measure tread depth across the tire; replace any tires with uneven wear or tread depth below 2/32 inches.
- If necessary, replace tires with new ones of the same size and load rating.

4. Wheel Alignment

Sub-steps:
- Take the vehicle to a professional alignment shop.
- Ensure the alignment is adjusted to the manufacturer’s specifications, including camber, caster, and toe settings.

5. Tire Balancing

Sub-steps:
- Remove the wheels from the vehicle.
- Mount each wheel on a wheel balancing machine.
- Add balancing weights as needed to ensure proper balance.

6. Suspension Inspection and Repair

Sub-steps:
- Inspect all suspension components for signs of wear or damage (bushings, ball joints, etc.).
- Replace any worn or damaged suspension components with OEM parts.
- Reassemble and ensure all bolts are torqued to manufacturer specifications.