2019 Tesla Model S Wheel Alignment Specifications

Quick reference

Adjustability

The 2019 Tesla Model S offers more adjustability than many conventional vehicles, though there are still limitations to what can be changed without aftermarket components.

Front Axle:

• Camber: Front camber on the 2019 Model S is adjustable via eccentric bolts on the upper control arm mounts. This allows for a good range of adjustment to achieve the preferred settings or compensate for minor suspension changes.
• Caster: Front caster is also adjustable, typically through shims or eccentric bolts at the control arm mounting points, often in conjunction with camber adjustments. This allows for fine-tuning of steering feel and stability.
• Toe: Front individual toe is adjustable via the tie rod ends. This is a standard and critical adjustment for setting steering wheel straightness and preventing tire wear.
• SAI (Steering Axis Inclination): SAI is not directly adjustable on the 2019 Tesla Model S. It's a geometric angle determined by the design of the suspension knuckles and control arms. If SAI is outside of specification, it often indicates bent suspension components requiring replacement.

Rear Axle:

• Camber: Rear camber is adjustable on the Model S, usually through eccentric bolts or cams on the lower control arms. This is important for managing tire wear and maintaining stability, particularly with the vehicle's powerful rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive systems.
• Toe: Rear individual toe is adjustable via eccentric bolts or cams on the toe links. Correct rear toe is crucial for vehicle stability, handling, and preventing premature tire wear, especially on high-performance electric vehicles like the Model S.
• Thrust Angle: Thrust angle is not directly adjustable in itself. It is a result of the individual rear toe settings. If the individual rear toe settings are correct and symmetrical, the thrust angle will fall within specifications. A thrust angle out of spec typically points to an issue with uneven rear toe or a bent rear suspension component.

Recommended adjustment hardware

For most alignment needs on a 2019 Tesla Model S, the factory eccentric bolts and adjustment points are sufficient. However, if you've installed aftermarket suspension components that significantly lower the vehicle or alter suspension geometry, you may find that you need aftermarket solutions to achieve desired alignment specifications. These could include:

• Aftermarket Camber Arms: For more aggressive camber adjustments beyond what the factory eccentrics allow, especially for track use or highly modified suspensions.
• Adjustable Toe Links: Similar to camber arms, if extreme lowering or specialized setups are used, more range might be needed.

Always consult with a reputable alignment specialist before installing aftermarket adjustment hardware to ensure it's truly necessary and compatible with your vehicle.

Symptoms of bad alignment

Misalignment can lead to a variety of issues, impacting everything from safety to your wallet. Here are common symptoms:

• Uneven Tire Wear: This is the most common and often the first noticeable sign of misalignment. Different alignment issues cause distinct wear patterns:
  • Feathering: When one side of the tire tread block is worn smooth while the other side is sharp. Often indicates excessive toe-in or toe-out.
  • Cupping/Scalloping: Pothole-like dips around the tire's circumference. Can be caused by worn suspension components, but also exacerbated by incorrect toe or camber.
  • Inner or Outer Edge Wear: Excessive wear on only one edge of the tire. A classic sign of incorrect camber, where the tire is leaning too much inward (negative camber) or outward (positive camber).
• Vehicle Pulling: Your Model S drifts or pulls consistently to one side when you're driving on a straight, flat road, even when the steering wheel is centered. This could be due to incorrect caster or camber settings, or a combination of factors.
• Crooked Steering Wheel: The steering wheel isn't straight when the vehicle is driving straight ahead. This is almost always an indication of incorrect toe settings.
• Loose or Wandering Steering: The vehicle feels unstable and requires constant small corrections to keep it going straight. This can be a sign of insufficient caster or excessive toe-out.
• Vibrations: While less common for alignment alone, severe misalignment can sometimes contribute to vibrations, especially at higher speeds.

When to align

Regular alignment checks are good practice, but there are specific times when an alignment is highly recommended or necessary:

• After Suspension or Steering Component Replacement: Any time components like control arms, tie rod ends, ball joints, struts, or steering racks are replaced, an alignment is mandatory.
• After Installing New Tires: To ensure you get the maximum life and performance out of your new tires.
• After an Accident or Hitting a Large Pothole/Curb: Even a seemingly minor impact can knock your alignment out of specification.
• Every 12,000-15,000 Miles or Annually: As a preventative measure, especially for daily drivers.
• When You Notice Any of the Above Symptoms: Don't wait for tire wear to become severe; address alignment issues promptly.

Typical alignment cost

The cost of a wheel alignment for a 2019 Tesla Model S can vary depending on your location, the type of shop (dealership vs. independent specialist), and whether any seized components need extra labor to adjust. Generally, you can expect to pay anywhere from $150 to $300 for a four-wheel alignment. This price usually covers the diagnosis and adjustment of accessible angles to factory specifications. If additional parts or labor are needed to free up seized adjusters or to install aftermarket correction kits, the cost will be higher.

Find a trusted alignment shop on Repairius.