Tesla Model S Axle Replacement: Left Front Guide

By Tesla Accessories | Published: 2026-10-28

Category: How-to Guides

Learn how to replace the left front axle on a 2012-2016 Tesla Model S. Includes symptoms, tools, step-by-step instructions, and when to choose a GSP axle.

Quick Answer

To replace the left front axle on a 2012-2016 Tesla Model S, you'll need to remove the wheel, disconnect the suspension and steering components, then unbolt and slide out the old axle before installing the new one. A GSP replacement axle is a solid choice for daily driving reliability.

Recognize the Symptoms of a Failing Axle

A worn or damaged left front axle often announces itself with clicking or popping sounds when turning, especially at low speeds. You might also feel vibrations during acceleration or notice grease leaking from the CV boot.

Ignoring these signs can lead to more serious damage, including complete axle failure that leaves you stranded. Addressing the issue promptly saves you from costlier repairs down the road.

Why Choose a GSP Axle?

GSP CV axles are known for quality-driven manufacturing. All axle components are heat treated to high standards, providing premium strength and extending service life. Each axle undergoes rigorous testing to meet or exceed OE specifications, making it a dependable replacement for your Model S.

While aftermarket axles can vary in quality, GSP's attention to heat treatment and testing gives you confidence in daily driving conditions.

Step-by-Step Left Front Axle Replacement

Prepare the Vehicle: Park on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and loosen the left front lug nuts while the wheel is still on the ground. Then jack up the vehicle and secure it with jack stands. Always use jack stands—never rely on the jack alone.
Remove the Wheel and Access: Take off the wheel and remove the brake caliper and rotor to expose the axle nut. Use a breaker bar to loosen the axle nut while the hub is still held by the brake disc. If the axle nut is stubborn, apply penetrating oil and let it sit for a few minutes.
Disconnect Suspension and Steering: Remove the cotter pin and castle nut from the lower ball joint, then separate the ball joint from the steering knuckle using a separator tool. Also disconnect the tie rod end and sway bar link if needed. Mark the position of the tie rod end before removal to simplify alignment later.
Remove the Old Axle: Pull the steering knuckle outward to free the axle from the hub. Then use a pry bar to carefully pop the inner CV joint out of the transmission or drive unit flange. Slide the axle out completely. Be careful not to damage the transmission seal when prying the axle out.
Install the New Axle: Apply a small amount of grease to the splines of the new GSP axle. Insert the inner end into the transmission, then push the outer end through the hub. Reinstall the axle nut and torque to spec (typically 200-250 ft-lbs). Make sure the axle clicks into place securely—it should not pull out easily.
Reassemble and Test: Reattach the brake rotor and caliper, then the wheel. Lower the vehicle and torque the lug nuts to spec. Take a short test drive, turning left and right to confirm no clicking or vibrations. If you hear any clicking after installation, double-check that the axle is fully seated.

Recommended Product

Tesla Model S 2012-03/2016 GSP New Replacement Axle (Front Left): GSP CV Axles are heat treated to the highest standards to provide premium strength and extend service life. This heat treatment means the axle can handle the demands of daily driving without premature wear, giving you long-term reliability.
Tesla Model S 2012-03/2016 GSP New Replacement Axle (Front Left)