Tesla’s innovative air suspension system is a key feature that sets its electric vehicles apart from traditional cars.
This system allows drivers to adjust the ride height of their Tesla for various driving conditions, from a low and sleek profile for highway cruising to a higher clearance for rough terrain.
However, some Tesla owners have reported encountering an issue where the “Air Suspension Adjustment Unavailable” message appears, preventing them from making adjustments.
In this article, we will explore the possible causes of this problem and provide solutions to help Tesla owners resolve it.
The “Air Suspension Adjustment Unavailable” Issue
The “Air Suspension Adjustment Unavailable” message is displayed on the Tesla’s touchscreen interface when the vehicle’s air suspension system encounters a problem that prevents it from making height adjustments.
This issue can be frustrating for Tesla owners who rely on the flexibility of the air suspension for different driving scenarios.
Possible Causes for Adjustment Unavailability
Several factors can lead to the “Air Suspension Adjustment Unavailable” problem:
Software Glitch:
Like any other digital system, Tesla’s software can sometimes encounter glitches or bugs that affect its performance.
A software issue can potentially disable the air suspension adjustment feature.
Sensor Malfunction:
The sensors that monitor various parameters for the air suspension system can malfunction or become inaccurate.
If a sensor fails or provides incorrect data, it can prevent the system from adjusting the ride height.
Air Compressor Failure:
The air compressor is responsible for maintaining the correct air pressure in the springs. If the compressor fails, it can lead to a loss of pressure, rendering the suspension adjustment feature unavailable.
Wiring and Electrical Issues:
Problems with the electrical wiring or connections related to the air suspension system can disrupt communication between components, resulting in an “Air Suspension Adjustment Unavailable” error.
Troubleshooting and Solutions
If you encounter the “Air Suspension Adjustment Unavailable” message on your Tesla, there are several steps you can take to troubleshoot and potentially resolve the issue.
First, Ensure that you are trying to adjust the height on a level ground. Uneven or Inclined parking could cause this issue.
If uneven or inclined parking is not the issue, try the following solutions-
1. Reboot the System
Like many electronic devices, a simple reboot can sometimes fix software-related issues. To reboot your Tesla’s infotainment system, follow these steps:
- Press and hold both scroll wheels on the steering wheel simultaneously.
- Continue holding until the touchscreen goes blank, then release.
- Wait for the Tesla “T” logo to appear on the screen, indicating that the system has rebooted.
Once the system restarts, check if the issue persists. If it does, move on to the next steps.
2. Power Cycle the Tesla
Power cycling the car may solve the issue-
- Go to Controls > Safety > Power Off
- Wait at least 2 minutes in the car without clicking any button or doing anything.
- Turn the car back on.
- Now, try to adjust the car’s height.
If the issue is not fixed yet, go to a supercharger for charging, or connect to your home charger, or a destination charger for the car to fully charge.
Then, reboot the system and try again.
3. Check for Software Updates
Tesla frequently releases over-the-air software updates that can fix bugs and improve system performance. Make sure your Tesla is running the latest software version by following these steps:
- Connect your Tesla to Wi-Fi or a mobile data network.
- Go to ‘Controls’ on the touchscreen interface.
- Select ‘Software.’
- Check for any available software updates and install them if available.
After updating your Tesla’s software, check if the suspension adjustment issue has been resolved.
4. Perform a Manual Suspension Reset
If the problem persists, you can try performing a manual suspension reset. This can sometimes recalibrate the system and resolve minor issues. Here’s how to do it:
- Park your Tesla on a level surface.
- Put the vehicle in ‘Park’ and turn off the ignition.
- Exit the vehicle and lock it using the key fob or the Tesla app.
- Wait for a few minutes (10-15 minutes at least is recommended) before unlocking and re-entering the vehicle.
Once you’re back inside the car, check if the suspension adjustment is now available. If not, proceed to the next steps.
5. Schedule a Service Appointment
If none of the above steps resolves the issue, it’s time to contact Tesla’s customer support and schedule a service appointment.
Explain the problem and provide any relevant error codes or messages displayed on the touchscreen.
Tesla’s service technicians can diagnose the problem and perform any necessary repairs or replacements.
However, be prepared to pay a hefty air suspension replacement cost unless your car in under warranty.
Brief on Tesla’s Air Suspension System
If you want to understand how Tesla’s air suspension system works, here is a brief.
Tesla vehicles equipped with this feature use air springs instead of traditional coil springs or struts.
This allows for dynamic control of the vehicle’s ride height, which the driver can adjust manually or automatically based on driving conditions.
The air suspension system consists of several components, including air springs, an air compressor, and sensors.
The sensors monitor various factors such as vehicle speed, road conditions, and driving mode, and then adjust the air pressure in the springs to maintain the desired ride height and ride quality.
Conclusion
The “Air Suspension Adjustment Unavailable” issue in Tesla vehicles can be a frustrating experience for owners who rely on the flexibility of the air suspension system.
However, by following the troubleshooting steps outlined in this article, you can often resolve the problem yourself. From simple reboots and software updates to manual resets, there are several methods to try before seeking professional service assistance.
Remember that safety is paramount, so if you encounter this issue while driving, prioritize your safety and the safety of others on the road.
Pull over to a safe location and contact Tesla’s customer support for guidance. Tesla’s commitment to over-the-air updates means that many issues can be resolved remotely, but in cases where physical repairs are necessary, their service centers are well-equipped to get your air suspension system back in working order.