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Whining Noise from Drive Unit on 2020 Model 3 Long Range

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Laura J. · rep 0 · May 22, 5:21 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2020 Tesla Model 3 Long Range

Hi all,

I've been hearing a new, distinct whining noise coming from what sounds like the rear drive unit of my 2020 Tesla Model 3 Long Range. It's most noticeable when I'm accelerating from a stop, especially between 10-40 mph, and also when decelerating or using regenerative braking.

The car has about 60,000 miles on it. This noise wasn't present before and seems to be getting a bit louder over the last few weeks. It's not a tire noise, and it's definitely tied to the motor's operation.

Could this be a sign of a failing motor bearing or something more serious with the drive unit? I haven't seen any warning lights or performance issues, but the sound is concerning.

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 22, 5:21 AM

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ClearTheCode admin answer:

A whining noise from the drive unit of your 2020 Tesla Model 3 Long Range is a symptom that warrants attention, especially since it's a new and escalating sound. While some electric motor sounds are normal, a distinct, new whine often indicates a mechanical issue.

Here's a breakdown of potential causes and what to do:

  1. Normal vs. Abnormal Sounds:

    • Normal: EVs produce a subtle whine, especially at lower speeds, due to the high-frequency operation of the electric motor and inverter. This is typically consistent and not overly loud.
    • Abnormal: A new, louder, or inconsistent whine, particularly one that changes pitch significantly with speed or load, is usually a sign of a problem.

  2. Potential Causes for the Whine:

    • Bearing Wear: This is one of the most common culprits. Bearings within the electric motor or the reduction gear assembly can wear out, leading to a distinct whining or grinding noise.
    • Gear Issues: The single-speed reduction gear in the drive unit can develop issues with wear, pitting, or lubrication, causing noise.
    • Inverter/Power Electronics: Less common, but sometimes issues with the inverter (which converts DC battery power to AC for the motor) can produce electrical noises that might sound like a whine.
    • Motor Stator/Rotor Issues: Internal damage or wear within the motor itself, though less frequent, could also contribute to unusual noises.

  3. Diagnostics and What to Look For:

    • Listen Carefully: Try to pinpoint if the sound is coming from the front or rear drive unit (your Model 3 Long Range has two).
    • Vibration: Pay attention if you feel any unusual vibrations accompanying the whine, especially through the steering wheel or floorboard.
    • Error Codes: While you haven't seen any, a Tesla service center can pull specific diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) from the vehicle's internal systems that might indicate a drive unit fault (e.g., related to motor control or temperature).

  4. When to See a Shop (Tesla Service Center):

    • Immediately: Given that the noise is new, distinct, and getting louder, it's highly recommended to schedule a service appointment with Tesla as soon as possible. Continuing to drive with a potentially failing drive unit component can lead to more extensive and costly damage, or even a complete failure.
    • Warranty: Your 2020 Model 3 Long Range's drive unit is covered by an 8-year or 120,000-mile warranty. This issue likely falls within that coverage, making it crucial to have it inspected by Tesla.
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