The short answer
On Model S of model years 2012 to 2016, long exposure to corrosion can weaken the bolts that hold the power steering motor to the steering rack. This is a recall bulletin, so the work is free: Tesla replaces the five bolts and seals them with wax, or replaces the rack if a bolt is already damaged. NHTSA's recall is 18V204000, and nhtsa.gov/recalls shows whether it is still open on a VIN.
The bulletin at a glance
| Bulletin | SB-18-32-002 R3, 11 January 2019 |
|---|---|
| Type | Recall bulletin: required, and recall work is free |
| Cars | Model S of model years 2012 to 2016 whose steering rack was fitted at the factory before about 9 April 2016 |
| Labor time | Replacing the five bolts: 0.75 to 1.00 hours, by drive side and motors Replacing the steering rack, if a bolt is already damaged: 2.25 to 4.10 hours |
| Parts | A set of five steel bolts, 1460671-00-A, and wax sealant, 1465753-00-A |
| Recall | NHTSA 18V204000, March 2018 |
Which cars it covers
Model S of model years 2012 to 2016 whose steering rack was fitted at the factory before about 9 April 2016. NHTSA's recall 18V204000 of March 2018 names the 2012 to 2016 Model S with Bosch steering racks. Model X of 2015 and 2016 had a separate recall for the same bolts, 20V062000.
What to ask the seller
Enter the VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. If 18V204000 shows as open, the work has not been done, and Tesla does it free. If it does not show, the repair was done or the car is not covered.
Common questions
Is the Model S power steering bolt repair free?
Yes. It is a recall, 18V204000, and recall work is free.
How long does the Model S steering rack bolt recall take?
Tesla's labor time is 0.75 to 1.00 hours to replace the bolts. If a bolt is already damaged, the rack is replaced instead, in 2.25 to 4.10 hours.