Why Tesla control arms fail
The front lower control arms on the Tesla Model 3 (2017–2023) and Model Y (2020–2023) use integrated ball joints and bushings. Over time — especially on rough Atlanta roads — the bushings dry out and the ball joints lose their grease. The result is a classic Tesla front-end squeak, clunking over bumps, and eventually uneven tire wear.
Symptoms to watch for
- Front-end squeak or creak when turning at low speed
- Clunking over bumps or expansion joints
- Uneven front tire wear on the inner edge
- Loose or wandering steering feel on the highway
- Vibration or knocking when braking
Dealership vs. mobile pricing
Tesla Service Centers typically quote $1,000–$1,800+ for a full front control arm job once you factor in parts, labor, and diagnostic time — plus you're leaving the car for a day or more. Independent shops that will touch a Tesla are cheaper, but you still lose the car for the day. TSR Mobile is flat-rate and comes to your driveway.
| Service | Typical Dealership | TSR Mobile (flat rate) |
|---|---|---|
| 2-piece front lower — RWD | ~$900–$1,200 | $549.95 |
| 2-piece front lower — AWD / Performance | ~$1,000–$1,400 | $649.95 |
| Full 6-piece front — RWD | ~$1,400–$1,800 | $799.95 |
| Full 6-piece front — AWD / Performance | ~$1,600–$2,000+ | $899.95 |
| Ball-joint grease (squeak fix) | Not offered | $74.95 |
Dealership ranges are typical 2026 Atlanta-area estimates for parts + labor and vary by location. TSR Mobile pricing is flat-rate and includes parts and installation.
Do you need the full 6-piece kit?
Most cars with an early front-end squeak only need the 2-piece front lower kit — that covers the ball joints that fail first. Higher-mileage cars (60k+) or ones with clunking over bumps usually benefit from the full 6-piece job, which also replaces the upper arms and rearward lowers.
Can a grease service fix the squeak?
Sometimes. If the ball joints aren't worn out yet, an on-site grease service quiets the squeak for another 5,000–10,000 miles. It's the cheapest path if you're not ready for a full replacement — but it's a maintenance step, not a permanent fix.
After any control arm replacement you should get a wheel alignment at your preferred local shop. TSR Mobile does not perform alignments on-site.
How to book
Pick your service on the Services & Pricing page, book a time on Square, and we come to your driveway in the Atlanta metro. No tow truck, no waiting room.