Service Bulletin for Tesla Model S and Model X: Tighten Front Frame Rail Bolts
Quick guide for Tesla Model S and Model X service bulletin SB-24-10-002. Learn how to address front frame rail creak or rattle noises by tightening bolts to specification.
Table of contents
Quick Guide: Tightening Front Frame Rail Bolts
This service bulletin (SB-24-10-002) addresses a potential creak or rattle noise originating from the front of the vehicle when turning the steering wheel at low speeds. This condition is caused by frame rail bolts that may not have been tightened to specification and does not affect the structural integrity of the vehicle. This procedure is intended for trained professionals.
Procedure

- Remove Cooling Fan Module: Refer to Service Manual procedure 18201312. Note: Remove the cooling fan module from the vehicle with the active grille shutter still attached as a complete assembly. Do not separate the active grille shutter from the cooling fan module.
- Tighten RH Frame Rail Bolts: Locate the two T25 bolts on the RH front frame rail. Tighten these bolts to a torque of 7 Nm.
- Mark Bolts: Use a paint marker to mark the bolts after they are tightened.
- Tighten LH Frame Rail Bolts: Repeat the tightening procedure (7 Nm) for the two T25 bolts on the LH front frame rail.
- Mark Bolts: Use a paint marker to mark the bolts after they are tightened.
- Install Cooling Fan Module: Reinstall the cooling fan module by referring to Service Manual procedure 18201312.
Tools and Supplies
The following items are required for this procedure:
- Portable Bench (Part Number 1054720-00-A)
- Oil/Coolant Catcher (Part Number 1080568-00-A)
- Kit, SVC Plug, Cooling Hose (Part Number 1135762-00-A)
- Paint Pen Marker
Practical help
Common problems
Inspect and tighten the inner and outer threaded inserts of the front frame rails to 7 Nm.
Before use
- Verify vehicle model year (2021-2023).
- Ensure access to Service Manual procedure 18201312 for cooling fan removal.
- Obtain a T25 torque tool.
- Obtain a paint marker for marking tightened bolts.
- Ensure the vehicle is on a suitable surface for service.
Specs in practice
- Torque Specification
- 7 Nm is the required torque for the T25 bolts on the front frame rails.
Images and diagrams
- Figure 1 illustrates the locations of the T25 bolts on the RH front frame rail.
- Figure 2 illustrates the locations of the T25 bolts on the LH front frame rail.
Model compatibility
- Applicable to Model S and Model X vehicles, model years 2021-2023.
Manual page author
David Miller
Documentation analyst
Organizes user manual content into clear summaries, with attention to model details, product context, and everyday usability.