Tesla Suspension · 2021+ Model S/X · Plaid & Long Range
How to Fix Inner Tire Wear on 2021+ Tesla Model S & X (Plaid & Long Range): Why Camber Shims Are the Smarter Choice
Premature inner rear tire wear is a common headache for 2021+ Tesla Model S & Model X owners. This guide explains the cause (excessive negative camber), why it’s worse on the refresh platform, and why camber shims are usually the best fix compared with adjustable arms, especially for daily drivers.
The Problem: Inner Tire Wear from Excessive Negative Camber
The 2021+ “refresh” suspension geometry on Model S & X (Plaid and Long Range) runs more negative rear camber, and when the air suspension lowers at speed (or if you’re using lowering links), the inner shoulder takes a beating. The result: the inside edge of tires like Michelin Pilot Sport 4S or Pirelli P Zero can disappear while the rest of the tread still looks healthy.
The Smarter Fix: Camber Shims for 2021+ Model S/X
Camber shims are thin, CNC-machined plates installed at the rear control-arm mounting interface to reduce negative camber by a fixed amount (commonly ~0.7°, ~1.5°, or ~2.0°, depending on the kit). They directly target the geometry causing inner wear—without replacing major suspension components.
Why Shims Work (Fast)
- Direct correction: pulls camber back toward factory spec for even contact patch.
- OEM reliability: keeps stock arms/bushings and factory NVH.
- Quick install: typically about an hour, then a standard alignment.
- Invisible mod: nothing changes the look of your Tesla.
Common Shim Choices (In Degrees)
-
~0.7 degree For stock ride height or mild lowering.
-
~1.5 Best all-around for daily drivers, maximizes tire life.
-
~2.5 For aggressively lowered setups or heavier rear load bias.
Exact values vary by kit; alignment results may differ slightly by vehicle.
Shims vs Adjustable Arms (Comparison)
| Feature | Camber Shims | Adjustable Arms |
|---|---|---|
| Total Cost | Low (usually a fraction of tire cost) | High ($$$ for arms + install + alignment) |
| Install Time | Fast (~1 hour) | Longer (arm swap + precise setup) |
| Maintenance | Minimal (retain OEM joints/bushings) | Higher (heim joints/bushings can wear) |
| Adjustability | Fixed correction (set-and-forget) | Fully adjustable (great for track tuning) |
| Best For | Daily drivers stopping inner wear | Frequent alignment changes / race setups |
Real-World Benefits & Who Shims Are For
- Save Money: shims often pay for themselves after avoiding a single premature tire replacement.
- Ride Quality: no added NVH, OEM arms and bushings stay.
- Consistency: set the geometry once and enjoy predictable wear.
- Time Efficient: quick install + basic alignment = back on the road.
When Adjustable Arms Make Sense
If you frequently switch between track and street alignments, drag race your Plaid, or need ultra-precise camber changes, adjustable arms are worth it. For everyone else, they’re often overkill compared with the simplicity of shims.
Install, Alignment & Warranty Notes
- Install: bolt-on; most shops can do it quickly. Follow with a four-wheel alignment.
- Targets: ask your shop to reduce rear negative camber toward OEM daily-driver specs and confirm rear toe is in-spec (toe kills tires fast).
- Warranty: shims are reversible; under the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act, a mod must cause a failure to affect coverage.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Will camber shims affect ride comfort or noise?
- No. Shims retain your factory arms and bushings, so NVH remains OEM-like.
- Do I still need an alignment after installing shims?
- Yes. Always align after geometry changes. Confirm rear toe is in spec—incorrect toe is the fastest way to destroy tires.
- Which correction should I choose: ~0.7°, ~1.5°, or ~2.0°?
- For stock/mildly lowered cars, ~1.5° is a great daily-driver sweet spot. Choose ~0.7° for subtle correction, or ~2.0° for aggressively lowered setups.
- Will this void my Tesla warranty?
- No blanket void. Under Magnuson–Moss, a modification must cause a failure to affect coverage. Shims are also easily reversible.
- Do I need adjustable arms instead?
- Only if you frequently change alignments (track/drag). For most owners whose goal is tire life, shims are simpler and more cost-effective.
Pro Tip: Pair shims with correct tire pressures and periodic rotations (e.g., every 5–6k miles) to maximize tread life on Plaid & Long Range models.
Related: Tesla suspension guides · Model S parts · Model X parts