Tesla Service Center

Drive Unit Bushing Replacement

Feel a kick or vibration when you hit the accelerator? A torn drive unit bushing is one of the most common causes—and it’s a straightforward fix when you know what to look for.

The problem

“My Tesla kicks when I accelerate.”

The drive unit is held in place by bushings that absorb torque every time you accelerate. Over time they tear—and once they do, the drive unit shifts under load. That’s the kick, clunk, or shudder you feel, and it only gets worse.

How we fix it

Find the torn bushing. Replace it.

We put the car on a lift and inspect the drive unit mounts directly—no guessing from the driver’s seat. If the bushing is torn, we replace it and verify the kick is gone on a road test before you pick up.

This is exactly the kind of issue our free inspection is for. If your Tesla kicks or vibrates under acceleration, don’t normalize it.

The Tesla-specific part

EV torque is brutal on mounts.

Instant electric torque hits the mounts harder than a gas engine ever could, which is why this wear shows up on Teslas the way it does. We’ve done enough of these to diagnose it fast—and you’ll get photo updates throughout, just like every job here.

Backed by our 6-12 months labor warranty.

What does a torn drive unit bushing feel like?

A kick, clunk, or shudder when you accelerate—sometimes a vibration at certain speeds. It's easy to dismiss as 'just how the car drives,' but a healthy Tesla drives smooth.

Can I keep driving with a torn bushing?

You can, but it won't get better on its own—and the extra movement stresses surrounding components. Get it checked before a bushing becomes a bigger repair.

How do you confirm it's the bushing?

We get the car on a lift and inspect the drive unit mounts directly. Our free inspection covers this—no guessing, no unnecessary parts.

How long does the replacement take?

Usually same-day. If the repair takes longer, you'll be in an on-site Tesla rental (subject to availability).

Related

Tesla Service Center · Drive-Unit Oil Service · Suspension & Steering

Kick or vibration under acceleration? Let’s look at the bushings.

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