2020 Tesla Model 3 Wheel Alignment Specifications

Quick reference

Adjustability

Unlike many vehicles that require aftermarket kits for adjustments, the 2020 Tesla Model 3 offers a good range of factory adjustments.

• Front Axle: Front camber, caster, and toe are all adjustable from the factory. Adjustments are made via eccentric bolts on the lower control arms (for camber and caster) and by adjusting the length of the tie-rod ends (for toe).
• Rear Axle: Rear camber and toe are adjustable. Similar to the front, adjustments are made using eccentric bolts on the control arms.

This level of adjustability means a skilled technician can dial in the alignment to precise specifications without needing to install aftermarket parts, assuming the suspension components are not bent or damaged.

Recommended adjustment hardware

For most 2020 Tesla Model 3s, the factory-installed eccentric bolts and adjustable tie rods provide sufficient range to bring the alignment within specification. Aftermarket kits are generally not required unless the vehicle has been in a collision, has worn or bent suspension components, or has been modified (e.g., lowered with aftermarket springs) to the point where the stock adjustment range is insufficient.

If the vehicle cannot be brought into spec with factory adjustments, it is crucial to first inspect for damaged components like bent control arms, knuckles, or a shifted subframe before resorting to specialty bolts or arms.

Symptoms of bad alignment

Your Tesla Model 3 may need an alignment if you notice any of the following symptoms:

• Vehicle Pulling: The car drifts or pulls to one side when you are driving on a straight, flat road with a neutral steering wheel.
• Off-center Steering Wheel: The steering wheel is not centered when driving straight.
• Uneven Tire Wear: This is a classic sign, and the pattern of wear can indicate the specific alignment issue:
  • Inner Edge Wear: Excessive negative camber is often the culprit. The top of the tire is tilted too far inward, causing the inner shoulder of the tire to wear down prematurely.
  • Outer Edge Wear: Typically caused by excessive positive camber. The top of the tire is tilted too far outward, scrubbing the outer edge.
  • Feathered or Scalloped Wear: This saw-toothed pattern across the tread is a tell-tale sign of an incorrect toe angle. The tires are essentially being dragged sideways as they roll forward, creating the feathered pattern.

When to align

It is good practice to have your alignment checked and adjusted in any of the following situations:

• After Installing New Tires: A proper alignment is the best way to protect your investment and ensure a long life for your new tires.
• After Suspension or Steering Repairs: Any time a component that affects wheel geometry is replaced (e.g., control arms, tie rods, steering rack, coilovers), the alignment must be reset.
• After an Impact: Hitting a large pothole, curb, or any other significant road hazard can easily knock your alignment out of specification.
• At Regular Intervals: Many shops recommend an alignment check every 12 months or 12,000 miles to catch any issues before they cause significant tire wear.

Typical alignment cost

For a modern vehicle like the 2020 Tesla Model 3, which requires a four-wheel alignment and may involve adjusting all primary angles (front and rear camber, toe, and front caster), you can expect the cost to range from $150 to $250+. The price can vary based on the shop's labor rate, location, and the specific equipment they use, as newer advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) can sometimes require sensor recalibration after an alignment.

Find a trusted alignment shop on Repairius.