The short answer
On Model S built from about June 2013 to January 2014, either lower rear control arm can crack, and the rear wheel then tips in at the top. Tesla's campaign bulletin SB-19-31-001 of January 2019 replaces both arms with updated parts and checks the alignment. A campaign is work Tesla means to do on every car it covers, so ask the seller whether it was done.
The bulletin at a glance
| Bulletin | SB-19-31-001, 3 January 2019 |
|---|---|
| Type | Campaign bulletin: Tesla applies it to every car it covers |
| Cars | Model S built between about 1 June 2013 and 31 January 2014, in the United States, Canada, Europe, the Middle East and Africa |
| Labor time | 1.45 hours with an alignment check 2.00 hours with the alignment adjusted |
| Parts | Both lower rear control arms, updated: 1027459-99-A (2), with nuts 2007090-00-C (2) |
Which cars it covers
Model S built between about 1 June 2013 and 31 January 2014, in the United States, Canada, Europe, the Middle East and Africa. Tesla calls those dates a simplified summary of its VIN list.
What to ask the seller
Whether both lower rear control arms were replaced under this campaign, and the invoice. If they were not, ask Tesla service with the VIN whether the car is still due it. Wear on the inner edge of the rear tires goes with the tilt a cracked arm causes.
Common questions
Which Model S have the rear control arm campaign?
Model S built between about 1 June 2013 and 31 January 2014, in the United States, Canada, Europe, the Middle East and Africa. Tesla calls those dates a simplified summary of its VIN list.
What does a cracked rear control arm do on a Model S?
Tesla's bulletin says it tips the rear wheel in at the top, which is excess negative camber. Tesla replaces both lower rear control arms.