2021 Model Y 43k miles — Tesla quoted me $2,479 for suspension work. Going independent mechanic route. Requesting help if I have the right parts before I order.
Hey r/TeslaSupport, bought a used 2021 Model Y and took it to Tesla for a creaking/groaning noise when turning at low speed and while static 0mph. What started as a ~$500 estimate ballooned to $1,200 and then finally $2,479 after they actually inspected the car. I'm going the independent mechanic route instead. My friend's dad works on Teslas and will do it for much cheaper labor. I just need to supply the parts.
Here's what Tesla diagnosed:
- Torn compliance link bushings (front)
- Lateral links need replacement
- Front upper control arms need replacement
- 4-wheel alignment needed after
- Lost wheel lock key. Needs to be replaced with standard lug nuts (old owner can't find....yeah it sucks)
- Two tires with slow leaks
My plan:
- Take to a local tire shop first to get the wheel locks removed and replaced with standard M14x1.5 lug nuts. Has anyone done this? Did a tire shop handle it without issue or do you need a specialty tool?
- Order all suspension parts and take to my mechanic for full install
- Get a 4-wheel alignment at an independent shop after
Parts I need — does this list look complete?
Based on my Tesla invoice the parts I need are:
- Front Lower Lateral Link Assembly x2 (1188341-00-C)
- Front Lower Compliance Link RH (2188359-10-B / 1044359-00-A)
- Front Lower Compliance Link LH (2188354-10-B / 1044354-00-A)
- Front Upper Control Arms left + right (1044321-00-G / 1044326-00-G)
- M14x1.5 Lug Nuts x20 (1027002-00-B)
- Nylon Patch Lateral Link Bolts x4 (1109912-00-B)
- M14x1.5 Nuts & Washers x4 (1109263-00-B)
Am I missing anything? Do I need any other hardware or tools for this job?
Parts sourcing: leaning toward Tesery 6-piece kit:
I found this kit that covers everything except the lug nuts and hardware in one order:
https://www.tesery.com/products/control-arm-kit-6-piece-set-for-tesla-model-y $449 for all 6 pieces
Buying everything separately would run me $800-900+, so the Tesery kit seems like the obvious choice. My only hesitation is shipping seems a little slow. Has anyone ordered from Tesery before? Quality and fitment good? Any issues?
If Tesery doesn't work out, my backup options are:
- Lateral links: $159 each (aftermarket) from Tesloid or $210 OEM from NorCal Chassis Works
- Compliance links: $198 RH from NorCal Chassis Works
- Upper control arms separately on eBay or Amazon
My specific questions:
- Does my parts list look complete or am I missing anything?
- Is the Tesery kit worth it or should I go OEM individual parts?
- Can any tire shop remove a lost wheel lock or do I need a specialty shop?
- Should I be looking at struts too? Ride feels slightly rough over bumps but mechanic hasn't flagged them (43k miles on a 2021).
Thanks in advance. This community has been super helpful. Happy to share the full invoice if it helps.
Posted Feb 25, 2026, 5:31 AM UTC