- The unique Tesla Mannequin 3 is nice, however has one massive flaw.
- Earlier than the Highland refresh, its suspension was too stiff for a each day driver.
- Now although, house owners can retrofit the brand new, softer suspension, onto the previous Mannequin 3.
A used Tesla Mannequin 3 is likely one of the greatest–if not the perfect–offers on the market. It’s just like the Apple iPhone of automobiles. It does plenty of issues very nicely at an affordable value, however there are some issues that may very well be improved.
Ever since deliveries began in 2017, the most important grievance concerning the Mannequin 3 has been its suspension. It’s too agency, making lengthy rides on bumpy roads a trouble and spoiling the in any other case peaceable driving expertise.
The pre-facelift Tesla Mannequin 3 is likely one of the greatest used automobiles available on the market.
When the refreshed Mannequin 3 got here alongside in 2023, the problem was fastened, because of revised dampers and comes, in addition to completely different bushings. And, as some house owners have already discovered, the suspension of the brand new Mannequin 3 matches completely on the older variations, making for a fast, straightforward, and comparatively low-cost approach to massively enhance the experience consolation.
For roughly $600, one may purchase a set of entrance shocks and comes, plus a set of rear shocks, instantly from Tesla. And with a bit of elbow grease, the identical suspension that’s discovered within the new Mannequin 3 may be fitted at residence on any previous Mannequin 3 in a number of hours.
By comparability, Unplugged Efficiency’s Luxurious Suspension Equipment retails between $1,075 and $1,395 with out set up. In the meantime, T Sportline’s Consolation Suspension prices $890, however for this value, you’re solely getting the shock absorbers. So, staying away from the aftermarket makes plenty of sense should you’re budget-conscious.
That stated, even should you’re doing the job at residence, an alignment will probably be wanted after every part is alleged and accomplished, so maintain that in thoughts when doing the mathematics.
Within the RSymons video beneath, for example, a pre-facelift Mannequin 3 was fitted with upgraded springs and dampers on the entrance, and upgraded dampers on the rear. After driving an previous Mannequin 3 with normal suspension, a brand new Mannequin 3 and an previous Mannequin 3 with new suspension again to again, the outcomes are clear. The experience is certainly higher, and it’s almost equivalent to the refreshed mannequin’s efficiency. Nonetheless, keep in mind that the so-called Highland Mannequin 3 additionally has higher sound insulation and completely different bushings in comparison with the older variations, so it nonetheless has the sting.
One other video, posted by The Match IT Manexhibits simply how straightforward it’s to alter the elements. There’s no want for adapters or further bits, simply the struts and comes purchased instantly from Tesla.
This mod is a good way to make a used Tesla Mannequin 3 about 90% as snug because the newer model, however for a fraction of the associated fee. Used Mannequin 3s go for round $20,000 to $25,000, whereas a brand new one begins at roughly $43,000 with out the federal tax credit score. So if you would like a greater experience however do not have that kinda money, you now have an alternative choice.
