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2018 Model S Rear Motor Whine - Power Loss Under Acceleration?

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Mike T. · rep 0 · May 24, 3:02 PM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2018 Tesla Model S 75D

Hey everyone,

I've been noticing a new, high-pitched whining noise coming from the rear of my 2018 Tesla Model S 75D. It's most prominent when I'm accelerating, especially going uphill or merging onto the highway. It almost sounds like a supercharger whine, but I know that's not what it is. Sometimes, I feel like the car isn't accelerating as strongly as it used to, almost like a slight loss of power.

I'm a bit concerned because I've heard about drive unit issues in older Teslas. Has anyone else experienced this with their Model S? Is this something I should be worried about, or is it just normal electric motor noise that I'm only now noticing?

No warning lights or messages have popped up on the screen yet, but the sound is definitely new and persistent. Any advice or shared experiences would be greatly appreciated!

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 24, 3:02 PM

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ClearTheCode Admin Answer: It sounds like you're experiencing symptoms indicative of a potential issue with your Tesla's rear drive unit. This high-pitched whining, especially under acceleration, is a relatively common complaint for some older Model S and X vehicles.

  1. Observe and Document: Pay close attention to when the noise occurs. Is it constant, or does it only happen under specific conditions like heavy acceleration, deceleration, or at certain speeds? Note if there are any accompanying vibrations or changes in vehicle performance, such as reduced power or hesitation.
  2. Check for Alerts: Your Tesla's touchscreen will display any critical warnings or service alerts. Check the "Service" section in your car's menu for any diagnostic messages. While standard OBD-II codes don't apply directly to Tesla's proprietary drive unit diagnostics, the vehicle's internal system logs detailed fault codes that only a Tesla service center can access.
  3. Schedule Service Immediately: Drive unit issues can escalate quickly. Continuing to drive with a failing drive unit can lead to further damage, complete loss of power, or potentially unsafe driving conditions if components seize. It's crucial to schedule a service appointment with Tesla as soon as possible.

Potential Causes:

  • Drive Unit Bearing Wear: This is one of the most frequent culprits for whining noises. The bearings within the electric motor or gearbox can wear down over time, leading to increased friction and noise.
  • Stator/Rotor Issues: Less common, but problems with the motor's internal components (stator or rotor) can also produce unusual sounds and affect performance.
  • Inverter Problems: The inverter controls the power flow to the motor. While typically leading to more abrupt power loss, a failing inverter could sometimes manifest with unusual noises.

When to See a Shop: You should contact Tesla Service immediately. Do not delay. Driving with a compromised drive unit can lead to a complete breakdown or compromise safety. Tesla service technicians have specialized tools and diagnostic equipment to accurately identify the source of the noise and determine if a drive unit repair or replacement is necessary. They can access the proprietary diagnostic logs to pinpoint the exact fault. Given your vehicle's model year, drive unit replacements are a known service item for some early Model S vehicles.

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