2017 Tesla Model S Wheel Alignment Specifications

Quick reference

Adjustability

On the 2017 Tesla Model S, the primary adjustable alignment angles from the factory are front and rear toe.

• Front Toe: Adjustable via tie rod ends on the steering rack.
• Rear Toe: Adjustable via eccentric bolts on the lower control arms.

Front and rear camber and front caster are largely non-adjustable from the factory on the 2017 Tesla Model S. Minor variations may be possible with subframe shifts, but precise adjustments require aftermarket solutions.

• Front Camber & Caster: These are set by the design of the suspension components. If adjustments are needed beyond minor subframe shifts or to achieve more aggressive performance settings, aftermarket camber/caster plates or adjustable control arms are typically required. On some Model S variants, especially those with air suspension, there might be slight factory allowance for camber adjustment through shims or eccentric washers at the upper control arm mounts, but this is not always the case across all trims and often provides limited range.
• Rear Camber: Similar to the front, rear camber is primarily fixed. Aftermarket adjustable control arms or camber links would be necessary for significant adjustments.

Recommended adjustment hardware

Given the limited factory adjustability for camber and caster on the 2017 Tesla Model S, achieving specific non-factory settings or correcting significant alignment issues beyond toe may require aftermarket components.

• For Camber & Caster (Front): Aftermarket adjustable upper control arms or camber plates are the most common solutions. Brands like SPC Performance or Unplugged Performance offer kits that allow for precise camber and caster adjustments.
• For Camber (Rear): Aftermarket adjustable rear camber arms are available to allow for fine-tuning of the rear camber angles.

Always ensure any aftermarket components are high-quality and installed by a qualified technician to maintain vehicle safety and performance.

Symptoms of bad alignment

Ignoring alignment issues can lead to accelerated tire wear, reduced handling, and diminished safety. Here are common symptoms and associated tire wear patterns:

• Uneven Tire Wear: This is the most common indicator.
  • Feathering: Sawtooth-like wear across the tread block, often indicating excessive toe-in or toe-out. The tire feels rough when you rub your hand across it in one direction and smooth in the other.
  • Inner or Outer Edge Wear: Excessive wear on one side of the tire (inner or outer) is a strong sign of incorrect camber. If the camber is too negative (top of the wheel leans inward), the inner edge wears. If too positive (top of the wheel leans outward), the outer edge wears.
  • Cupping/Scalloping: Irregular wear patterns that look like scoops or dips around the tire's circumference. While often linked to worn shocks or struts, severe alignment issues can contribute to this.
• Steering Wheel Off-Center: If your steering wheel isn't straight when driving in a straight line, it's a clear sign your alignment is off.
• Vehicle Pulling: The car consistently drifts or pulls to one side, requiring constant steering correction to stay straight.
• Vibration: While often associated with tire balance, severe alignment problems can also cause vibrations that are felt through the steering wheel or the car's chassis.
• Loose or Wandering Steering: The vehicle feels unstable and difficult to keep in a straight line, requiring frequent small steering inputs.

When to align

Regular wheel alignments are crucial for maintaining tire life, fuel efficiency, and safe handling. Here's when you should definitely get your 2017 Tesla Model S aligned:

• After Suspension or Steering Component Replacement: Any time components like tie rod ends, control arms, ball joints, struts, or springs are replaced, an alignment is mandatory.
• After Installing New Tires: To ensure you get the maximum lifespan and performance from your new tires, an alignment should always be performed.
• After an Accident or Hitting a Large Pothole/Curb: Even seemingly minor impacts can knock your alignment out of specification.
• Every 15,000-20,000 Miles: As a general preventative maintenance measure, it's good practice to have your alignment checked every year or every 15,000-20,000 miles, even if you don't notice a problem.
• When Noticing Any of the Symptoms of Bad Alignment: Don't wait; address alignment issues as soon as you notice them.

Typical alignment cost

The typical cost for a wheel alignment on a 2017 Tesla Model S can vary depending on your location, the shop's labor rates, and whether it's a two-wheel or four-wheel alignment. Generally, you can expect to pay anywhere from $120 to $200. Some specialized shops or Tesla service centers might charge more, especially if additional adjustments or aftermarket part installations are required. It's always wise to get a quote upfront.

Find a trusted alignment shop on Repairius.