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Home/Cars/Tesla/Model S/Plaid/Refresh (2021-present)/why does my Tesla Model S have a knocking noise when idling

why does my Tesla Model S have a knocking noise when idling

Tesla Model S Plaid/Refresh (2021-present)

Severity: mediumDifficulty: medium2-4 hours
3 min read
450 words

Problem Statement

Learn how to diagnose and fix knocking noise when idling in Tesla Model S. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair instructions.

Component
Suspension
Repair Time
2-4 hours

Safety Warnings

  • ⚠Disconnect the 12V battery before working on electrical systems.
  • ⚠Ensure the vehicle is secure on jack stands before working underneath.

Symptoms

  • •Knocking noise audible when the vehicle is stationary
  • •Noise increases or decreases with changes in acceleration
  • •Possible vibrations felt through the cabin
  • •No warning lights illuminated on the dashboard
  • •Occasional irregularities in power delivery

Diagnostic Steps

  1. 1Inspect the vehicle visually for any loose components or debris around the motor and suspension.
  2. 2Check for any abnormal sounds from the electric motor by placing a mechanic's stethoscope on various components.
  3. 3Verify that all mounting bolts and fasteners of the electric motor and battery pack are torqued to specifications.
  4. 4Use the Tesla diagnostic software to check for any logged faults or error codes related to the drive system.
  5. 5Inspect the suspension components and bushings for wear or damage.
  6. 6Conduct a thorough visual check of the motor mounts for signs of failure.

Solution

Solution

1. Preparation

  • Gather necessary tools and components.
  • Ensure the vehicle is parked on a flat surface and is powered off.
  • Disconnect the 12V battery to ensure safety during inspection.

2. Inspect and Tighten Components

  • Tools Required: Socket set, torque wrench
  • Inspect the electric motor mounts and torque them to the manufacturer's specifications.
  • Check the battery pack's mounting and ensure all fasteners are secure.

3. Examine Suspension

  • Tools Required: Jack, jack stands, torque wrench
  • Lift the vehicle using a jack and secure it with jack stands.
  • Inspect suspension components, including control arms and bushings, for wear. Replace if necessary.

4. Test Drive and Monitor

  • Reconnect the 12V battery and power on the vehicle.
  • Take the vehicle for a short test drive to replicate the noise under various conditions.
  • Monitor for any recurrence of the knocking noise.

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

  • Mechanic's stethoscope
  • OBD-II scanner (for Tesla)
  • Socket set
  • Torque wrench
  • Jack
  • Jack stands

Parts Required

  • Replacement motor mounts (if damaged)
  • Suspension bushings (if worn)

Additional Information

Component

Suspension

Repair Time

2-4 hours

Difficulty

medium

Severity

medium

Tools

6 items

Parts

2 items

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