2018 Tesla Model 3 suspension problems

173 owner complaints filed with NHTSA name the suspension on the 2018 Tesla Model 3 — 17% of all complaints for this model year.

173

Suspension complaints

17%

share of all complaints

20,000 mi

median reported incident mileage

11 / 1

crash / fire reports

What owners report

“When driving in a parking lot a bolt came out on the drivers side suspension. The body of the car dropped on the tire and I could no longer drive the car. I was only going about 5mph but if I was going faster I can see this putting somebodies safety at risk. When I took it to Tesla they said is was…”
filed Aug 3, 2026
“I am filing this complaint in direct relation to NHTSA Preliminary Evaluation PE26006 regarding Tesla front suspension lower lateral link failures. I am the owner of a 2018 Tesla Model 3. On XXX, at approximately 101,728 miles, my vehicle experienced a severe suspension issue. The vehicle began…”
filed Aug 2, 2026
“Car suspension failed on front driver wheel. Lower lateral link failure. Car was not drivable. Car towed and fix for $4k.”
filed Aug 1, 2026

Verbatim excerpts from complaints filed with NHTSA. Reports are not independently verified.

A firmware diagnosis feature is being introduced on Model 3 and Model Y vehicles that monitors wheel alignment over time. This feature detects changes in wheel alignment that may be related to incorrect tire pressures…
SB-25-31-004 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions · issued Jun 24, 2025