Tesla Model 3 Performance Suspension

[TheBinarySheep]

So I've had my Tesla M3P for about 2.5 years now and while I love loads of things about it, the one thing that's driving me absolutely nuts is how bone-jarringly stiff the suspension is.

I've been considering switching cars for the past 9 months but honestly there's nothing in my price range that's worth the trade. I'm really waiting for those Ioniq 5N prices to come down. In the meantime though, I keep going back and forth on whether to just get something more comfortable but slower as a stopgap.

I know it doesn't make financial sense when I could probably just improve what I've got. Everyone's going say ditch the 20" wheels for 19s, but no - I actually like how the 20s look.

I've been reading about people swapping in Koni Special Active shocks. Had a Superb 280 years back and installed Konis on that to firm things up for B-roads - they were absolutely brilliant.

Thing is, I'm not sure if they'll actually give me what I'm after. Best way to explain it - I want something like a BMW 3 Series with M Sport suspension or a Cooper S. Those are still firm like the Tesla, but they actually absorb the little stuff properly. Still sporty, just not crashy.

The Tesla is awful over small bumps and road imperfections - feels like the wheels are bolted straight to the chassis. Every tiny vibration gets passed right through to the cabin and everything starts rattling.

So my question is - anyone who actually knows suspension stuff think swapping shocks would make a real difference? Or am I just wishful thinking here?

Cost wise I'd estimate its going to set me back around £1,000, but it's far cheaper than switching cars.

I think Tesla have pretty much sorted out this issue on the newest versions, but like the Ioniq 5N's, they're out of my price range at the minute.

[TheBinarySheep]

wyson said:

https://www.unpluggedperformance-uk.com/products/l...

Give these guys a call. Really wanted a Model Y, they did a set of coil overs that softened the ride. I think they have a comfort damper and spring set for the Model 3 as well.

I don’t think the suspension is sophisticated enough to offer a BMW 3 series rivalling handling balance. All the money in Tesla’s have been put into the tech and battery.

Thanks, I'll certainly take a look. Seems like exactly what I need.

[TheBinarySheep]

wyson said:

A youtuber tested this on the Model Y. 18, 19 and 20 inches. Made bugger all difference, the ride always remained uncomfortably firm.

Model Y was ridiculous though. Worst ride quality of any car I ve ever been in. Autocar said they had only experienced harshness like that on track focussed specials and it was completely out of place for family SUV. Was one of the first Shanghai cars though, I understand it softened over time and the new Juniper is merely firm, rather than bone jarring / teeth rattling.

Edited by wyson on Monday 8th September 13:46

Mine is one of the 2019/2020 models, so when you add in the poor interior build quality combined with the harsh ride, its like driving a van sometimes.

I think the tech is great, I love the power/acceleration, like the handling and I can get along with the looks, but the ride is horrible at times. We're approaching colder whether when it's at its worst as well.

Edited by TheBinarySheep on Monday 8th September 15:43