strange noise in the front of 2016 Model X

[Birdcar]

In the last 2 months, my model X developed this strange noise that I bugs me. it happens only at low speed. It appears come from the left front wheel region. I tried to record the noise outside with a suction cup, but could not hear anything. Inside the car, I did record the noise with a cellphone. Can anyone provide any hint of where the noise is likely coming from ? BTW, the car was slowing down from 33 mph to 0. The road is flat, no pot holes. And It makes similar sound in normal low speed driving, but not all the time. my guess is about 20-30% of the time.

https://recorder.google.com/share/2d80c4b6-6069-4678-a3f8-f722ff634f1d

Thanks

Eddie

 

[Birdcar]

I found a dash cam video that also captured the noise and road condition, which is considered reasonable in this area. The fact that it only happens sometime leads me to think it is not an issue with moving parts. could it be something is loose ?

Eddie

 

[The Lorax]

It's a similar noise to a worn sway bar...just a guess.

 

[rush6410]

If you are referring to the raddle or clunking noise at low speeds, it is the upper control arms. The joint needs to be repacked with grease or needs replacing. I injected grease into the joint using a grease gun needle. It took care of the clunking raddle at slow speeds.

 

[Birdcar]

Rush: Thanks for the pointer. I looked up this video

Is that what you are talking about ?

Eddie

 

[NewbyMaybe]

I would have the front end inspected, the tech can show you the loose parts.

 

[Birdcar]

It's a similar noise to a worn sway bar...just a guess.

Lorax: I looked up and found this video

starting at 27 seconds, there are noise similar to my video. I could not find a video on sway bar of model X. if I want to confirm it, where should I point my camera and mic at ?

Eddie

 

[Birdcar]

I would have the front end inspected, the tech can show you the loose parts.

I tried to book a time slot from the Tesla Apps. It is a 3 weeks wait :-( Will check with a third party mechanics.

 

[rush6410]

Rush: Thanks for the pointer. I looked up this video

Is that what you are talking about ?

Eddie

Yes. There is a specific video for injecting grease into the boot. This is the video I followed and resolved the issue.

 

[Birdcar]

Yes. There is a specific video for injecting grease into the boot. This is the video I followed and resolved the issue.

Thanks for the link. that looks easy enough.

I will look into these 2 directions: upper arm control and sway bar links.

 

[Birdcar]

To update the noise issue. Tesla service took a look and determined it is left air suspension module and both half shaft. The replacement cost is about $3600 !
Anyone having similar parts replacement ?

Eddie

 

[rush6410]

Replacing the half shafts are their standard replacement for any kind of noise. Seems like it would be an either-or scenario. If they know for a fact that the air suspension is an issue, maybe you could do that first. Just a thought.

 

[Birdcar]

finally, the SC replaced the half shaft and left air spring module. When I went to pick up the car. the lead mechanics explained to me that original quote is in error, The half shaft replacement is under bulletin SB-21-39-001 for $350. My 2016 MX is more than 85K miles and out of warranty by now.

I searched this bulletin number online, and found heated discussion on this topics (Front half shaft replacement instructions ).

I do hope someone can take advantage of this offer and save.

BTW, the noise is gone. It was not upper control arm nor sway bar links.

 

[rush6410]

finally, the SC replaced the half shaft and left air spring module. When I went to pick up the car. the lead mechanics explained to me that original quote is in error, The half shaft replacement is under bulletin SB-21-39-001 for $350. My 2016 MX is more than 85K miles and out of warranty by now.

I searched this bulletin number online, and found heated discussion on this topics (Front half shaft replacement instructions ).

I do hope someone can take advantage of this offer and save.

BTW, the noise is gone. It was not upper control arm nor sway bar links.

So, it was the air suspension which they diagnosed. The half shaft bulletin is for the shudder under heavy acceleration. I had mine replaced twice. Glad to hear it was resolved.