2017 Tesla Model S: harsh or hard shifting

Filed Nov 22, 2025 · Steering, Suspension · FL

Upon purchasing the vehicle, I discovered multiple critical safety defects that were not disclosed at the time of sale and were confirmed by an independent EV specialist (Electrified Garage). These defects include worn and failing front and rear suspension components (control arms, thrust arms, and cracked/damaged bushings), a failing sway bar link boot, and a malfunctioning window that makes contact with the internal wiring harness. The suspension defects create instability over bumps and uneven roads, producing clunks, shifting, and vibration that affect steering control and overall stability. These issues present a risk of suspension failure while driving, which could cause loss of control. The window/wiring contact also poses a potential electrical hazard if the harness becomes damaged. The independent inspection documented that these defects existed before I took possession of the vehicle. The dealer did not disclose any of these issues, and the defects were not visible during a standard test drive. I am reporting this because the suspension defects directly affect vehicle handling, safety, and crash-avoidance capability. I want the federal safety agency to be aware in case similar defects appear in other vehicles of the same model/year.

Filed Dec 8, 2021 · Suspension · 13,224 miles · PA

The contact owns a 2017 Tesla Model S. The contact state that while driving at slow speeds over minor bumps in the road, an abnormal clunking noise would emit from the vehicle. He also stated that as the failure was intermittent and that no warning light would appear on the instrument panel during the failure. The contact had taken the vehicle to a service center where a service manager requested to ride along with the contact to evaluate the failure. The service manager was able to diagnose the failure and the service center replaced the fore link assembly on the driver’s side as well as other parts on the suspension. The contact questioned why the passenger’s side fore link assembly was not repaired. The contact was informed that the passenger’s side had no visible damage. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The vehicle had been repaired. The failure mileage was 13,224.

Filed Nov 29, 2020 · Suspension · 36,000 miles · CA

For a few days I noticed a clunking noise emanating from the left front of the car when going over uneven pavement. Then while backing out of a parking space, the tire collided with the wheel liner and the car would not move. The car was towed to the tesla dealership where it was found that the front driver caster arm was broken. I later read that there had been other reports of 'linkages near the ball joints' of the suspension failing, allowing contact between the tire and the wheel liner. This sounds a lot like what happened to my car so I wanted to share my experience

Filed Aug 31, 2020 · Suspension · 50,500 miles · VA

I was backing out of parking spot when I heard a loud clunking noise from the front passenger wheel well. The tire was unstable and wobbly. I took pictures underneath to be able to see the problem, and noticed a hunk of metal on the ground. See attached pic. Turns out the fore link had snapped near the tire attachment. Seems like this is a known issue and has since been redesigned but not recalled. Why wouldn't this be a recall if its a serious safety issue? I can only imaging what disaster could have happened if I was at highway speeds!!!

Filed Jun 26, 2020 · Electrical · 1,000 miles · OH

Computer screen has yellow border. Also, sometimes the back up camera doesn't work, especially if I back up, stop and shift to neutral and back up again. I almost always have to put the shifter into d or r two to four times before it engages coming from neutral. There is a clunking noise when I cross an expansion strip in the road, or a minor bump at over 25-30 MPH. Tesla can't find the problem. I am concerned that it may be in the suspension.