International. The high-quality product will be available to Tesla drivers and workshops worldwide starting in early 2023.
When the front axle of the otherwise quiet premium electric car starts to squeak, it's a surprise to say the least, but it also ignites the ambition of Meyle's engineers in Hamburg.
Since the beginning of the year, more and more Tesla Model 3 and Model Y drivers around the world have reported an irritating squeak.
In response, spare parts manufacturer Meyle AG presents a solution: the new Meyle HD control arm for Tesla Model 3 and Model Y. A Meyle development team identified the problem and developed an improved replacement part that reliably restores peace and quiet.
Therefore, Meyle offers a technically renewed solution that guarantees typical Tesla driving fun, without the annoying squeaks. Another advantage: thanks to the collaboration with ClimatePartner, the Meyle piece is climate neutral.
"Many everyday objects can start squeaking after a certain period of time," says Stefan Bachmann, head of Meyle's steering and suspension products team.
"But we didn't expect this to happen with the Tesla. We are connected with car enthusiasts around the world and are always on top of the latest trends and the most serious issues. Particularly when it comes to sensitive suspension technology, we immediately set out to look for a possible solution. Because we are driven by principles, we wanted to get to the bottom of this strange squeaky sound right away."
After numerous evaluations, the development team determined that Tesla's control arm had been designed with insufficient moisture protection. Rain drains directly from the windshield into the control arm and penetrates the ball joint, ultimately causing an irritating and unwanted squeak and, in rare cases, can compromise steering accuracy.
The high performance potential and weight gain typical of electric vehicles can severely affect suspension components, putting enormous stress on the control arm. Even bushings can wear out sooner under this extreme stress.
It is usually the squeak coming from the upper control arm on the front axle that warns drivers of damage. Others report a rattling sound coming from the suspension.
"Being able to get our hands on the first prototype of a future HD part after having identified a weakness, researched the causes and done the development work and countless tests is becoming a special moment for us," says Stefan Bachmann, Head of the Steering and Suspension Products Team.
"After all, moments like these are precisely why we do our best every day," Bachmann reaffirms.
