The short answer
Some Model S and Model X built from about January to May 2016 have front suspension fore links that may not meet Tesla's strength specification. If one breaks, Tesla says the driver keeps control, but the tire can touch the wheel arch liner. Its bulletin SB-17-31-001 replaces both links when one fails, or when the car is in for an alignment adjustment.
The bulletin at a glance
| Bulletin | SB-17-31-001, 10 February 2017 |
|---|---|
| Type | Repair bulletin: done when the problem shows |
| Cars | Model S and Model X built between about 19 January and 25 May 2016 |
| Labor time | During an alignment adjustment: 0.45 hours (Model S), 0.60 (Model X) After a link has failed: 0.80 hours (Model S), 0.90 (Model X) |
| Parts | Both front lower fore links: 1041570-00 (left) and 1041575-00 (right) |
Which cars it covers
Model S and Model X built between about 19 January and 25 May 2016. Tesla calls those dates a simplified summary of its VIN list.
A second bulletin, SB-18-31-001, covers the front lower fore links of Model S built between about 28 April and 7 May 2016.
What to ask the seller
Whether both fore links were replaced, and the invoice. Tesla changes them when one fails or during an alignment adjustment, so a car that has never had an alignment adjusted at Tesla may still have the original links.
Common questions
What happens if a Tesla front fore link breaks?
Tesla's bulletin says the driver keeps control, but the tire can touch the wheel arch liner. Tesla replaces both links.
Which Teslas have the weaker front fore links?
Model S and Model X built between about 19 January and 25 May 2016, as a simplified summary of Tesla's VIN list.