why does my Tesla Model S Plaid/Refresh (2021-present) shake when I accelerate

Tesla Model S Plaid/Refresh (2021-present)

Error Codes

2-4 hours

Time

medium

Difficulty

medium

Severity

3 min read

508 words

Problem Statement

Learn how to diagnose and fix shaking during acceleration 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 disconnect the battery before working on electrical systems.
•Allow the vehicle to cool before working on the suspension components.

Symptoms

•Noticeable shaking or vibrating felt through the steering wheel or chassis when accelerating
•Increased noise from the drivetrain or wheels during acceleration
•Potential pulling to one side while accelerating
•Unusual tire wear or vibrations felt at higher speeds
•Warning lights on the dashboard, such as the traction control light

Diagnostic Steps

1
Inspect the tire condition for uneven wear or damage.
2
Check wheel balance and alignment.
3
Scan the vehicle's onboard computer for any error codes related to the drivetrain or suspension.
4
Visually inspect the suspension components for signs of wear or damage.
5
Test drive the vehicle to replicate and diagnose the shaking issue under controlled conditions.

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
•Tire pressure gauge
•OBD-II scanner
•Wheel balancer
•Alignment machine

Parts Required

•Replacement tires (if damaged)
•Suspension components (if worn)

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Symptoms

•Noticeable shaking or vibrating felt through the steering wheel or chassis when accelerating

•Increased noise from the drivetrain or wheels during acceleration

•Potential pulling to one side while accelerating

•Unusual tire wear or vibrations felt at higher speeds

•Warning lights on the dashboard, such as the traction control light

Diagnostic Steps

1
Inspect the tire condition for uneven wear or damage.
2
Check wheel balance and alignment.
3
Scan the vehicle's onboard computer for any error codes related to the drivetrain or suspension.
4
Visually inspect the suspension components for signs of wear or damage.
5
Test drive the vehicle to replicate and diagnose the shaking issue under controlled conditions.

Solution

1. Preparation

Tools Required: Socket set, torque wrench, tire pressure gauge, OBD-II scanner, wheel balancer.
Ensure the vehicle is parked on a level surface and turn off the ignition.
Disconnect the battery before beginning any electrical work.

2. Tire Inspection and Maintenance

Check Tire Pressure:
- Use a tire pressure gauge to ensure all tires are inflated to the manufacturer's recommended pressure.
Inspect Tires:
- Check for any visible damage, bulges, or uneven wear patterns that may indicate a problem.
- Replace any damaged or excessively worn tires.

3. Wheel Balancing and Alignment

Balance the Wheels:
- Mount the wheels on a wheel balancer to check for any imbalance.
- Add weights as necessary to achieve proper balance.
Perform Wheel Alignment:
- Use an alignment machine to ensure the wheels are properly aligned according to manufacturer specifications.
- Adjust caster, camber, and toe angles as needed.

4. Drivetrain and Suspension Inspection

Inspect Drivetrain Components:
- Check for any loose or damaged components such as axles, driveshafts, and motor mounts.
- Tighten any loose bolts to the manufacturer’s torque specifications.
Inspect Suspension Components:
- Look for signs of wear on bushings, ball joints, and shocks/struts.
- Replace any worn components as necessary.