Tesla Model S Rear Strut Assembly: 2012-2018 Guide
By Tesla Accessories | Published: 2026-10-29
Category: Product Reviews
A practical guide to choosing a complete rear strut assembly for your 2012-2018 Tesla Model S without air suspension, including OE fitment details and replacement tips.
Quick Answer
For a 2012-2018 Tesla Model S without air suspension, a complete rear strut assembly like the FCS Auto unit (OE reference 1015620-05-B) is a practical replacement choice that saves installation time by combining the strut, spring, and mount into one pre-assembled part.
Why Choose a Complete Assembly
Replacing a rear strut on a Model S usually means compressing the coil spring and transferring old mounts—work that requires a spring compressor and some experience. A pre-assembled unit eliminates those steps. The FCS Auto Complete Rear Strut Assembly arrives with the strut, spring, and mount already put together, so you can swap the old part out and bolt the new one in without special tools.
The trade-off is that you cannot mix and match components. If you prefer a specific brand of spring or mount, a complete assembly locks you into one supplier's combination. For most owners, though, the time saved outweighs that flexibility.
Fitment for 2012-2018 Without Air Suspension
This assembly fits Tesla Model S vehicles built from 2014 to 2018 that do not have air suspension. Earlier 2012-2013 models share the same suspension architecture, but always double-check your vehicle's build date and suspension type before ordering.
If your Model S has air suspension, this part will not work. The air strut system uses a different mounting interface and air line connections. You would need a specific air strut replacement instead.
Decision Rules for Choosing a Rear Strut Assembly
- Check Suspension Type First: Confirm your Model S does not have air suspension. Look for an air compressor under the hood or air lines near the strut towers. If present, this assembly will not fit.
- Verify Model Year and OE Reference: This assembly fits 2014-2018 Model S without air suspension. Cross-reference your VIN with OE part numbers 1015620-05-B, 1015620-03-D, 1015620-00-E, or 1015620-01-E to confirm compatibility. Write down your VIN and the OE part number from your old strut before ordering.
- Replace in Pairs: FCS Auto suggests replacing both rear struts at the same time. A worn strut on one side can cause uneven handling, and the new assembly will have different damping characteristics than the aging opposite side. Order two assemblies to complete the job correctly.
- Consider the Price Advantage: At a catalog price of USD 192.37 (compared to USD 295.95), this assembly offers a significant saving over buying individual components while still being a direct OE replacement.
Product Facts
- Complete Rear Strut Assembly for Tesla Model S 2012 - 2018 without Air Suspension: FCS Auto Complete Rear Strut Assemblies save time by replacing the strut, spring, and strut mount as a pre-assembled unit. You avoid renting a spring compressor and handling compressed springs, making the job safer and faster for a DIY replacement.
Complete Rear Strut Assembly for Tesla Model S 2012 - 2018 without Air Suspension
Who Should Choose This Assembly
Best for
- DIY owners replacing rear struts on a 2014-2018 Tesla Model S without air suspension
- Anyone wanting a time-saving, pre-assembled OE replacement that avoids spring compressor work
Not for
- Tesla Model S with air suspension (requires specific air strut parts)
- Owners who want to select individual spring rates or aftermarket mounts separately
