2018–2020 Tesla Model 3: Front suspension creak or clunk (upper control arms)
Likely causes, ranked
- Front upper control arm ball joint wear or water intrusion (arms replaced)Shop
- Other suspension bushings with similar noiseShop
Real-owner fix counts will appear here as reports come in.
DIY or shop: See DIY or shop section
Parts to check
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Symptom: A creak or squeak when turning the wheel at low speed, or a clunk over bumps from the front.
Likely causes
- Upper control arm ball joints. Tesla Motors Club owners report the joints getting water in them and wearing. Tesla service has replaced both arms, often with revised parts. Tesla's manual includes a check for this creak, done by turning the wheel with the car on the ground.
- Other bushings that make similar noises.
DIY or shop?
Usually a Tesla service job. Some DIYers replace the arms themselves, followed by an alignment.
Useful steps
- Record the noise and book service through the app.
- Ask whether replacement is covered under warranty or goodwill.
Vehicle focus: 2018–2020 Tesla Model 3.
Safety / mechanic note
Worn ball joints affect steering. Verify with a mechanic.
Recalls & service bulletins
No recalls or service bulletins are listed for this page yet.
NHTSA complaints: 215 keyword-matched complaints for Tesla Model 3 2018–2020 (of 2,096 unique complaints queried, NHTSA complaints API by model year, queried 2026-10-15).
Always check your VIN for open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Sources
What actually fixed it?
Had this problem? Tell other owners what the real fix was. Reports are counted above; we never show made-up numbers.