Tesla Model 3 Air Suspension - Everything You Need

Debuting in 2017, the Tesla Model 3 was a game changer for the electric vehicle industry. Before the Model 3, not many mass-produced EVs looked and performed as well as the Model 3. With up to 358 miles of range and 450 horsepower on fully spec’d out models, you could get power, performance, and looks without ever having to visit a gas station again. While the Tesla Model 3 had everything a car enthusiast could ever want out of an EV, minus a good-sounding exhaust, there was still an area of concern - the suspension.

Does the Tesla Model 3 Have Air Suspension?

Although rumors circulated that Tesla would add air suspension to all vehicles, this did not pan out in production. The Tesla Model 3 did not come with air suspension from the factory but instead used coil springs to absorb bumps and allow for a smooth ride. Tesla did a good job outfitting the Model 3 with a set of springs that allowed it to sit a touch lower than most factory cars, giving it a more performance-oriented look, but you know, as car enthusiasts, we want more.

What Do I Need To Add Air Suspension To My Tesla Model 3?

For those wanting to bag a Model 3, you can choose from a ready-to-install kit, or piece together a kit to get the specific, high-quality components you want. At AccuAir, we have put together this article to allow you to build out your own Model 3 kit using the best components.

Air Compressor

The air compressor in your air suspension system is responsible for supplying your entire system with air. The air compressor takes outside air, compresses it, and sends it to your air tank to be stored until you need it. Depending on your setup and preferences, you can choose between one or two compressors for your setup. Our VIAIR Dual 485C air compressor kit makes getting a steady supply of air for your suspension system quicker.

Air Tank

Next, you will need an air tank that is adequately sized for your air demands. Air tanks store compressed air to allow you to use your system when you want it, as often as you want it. These air tanks come in various shapes and sizes to conform to the needs of your specific vehicle. At AccuAir, we developed our own line of air tanks called ENDO. These tanks are made from high-quality aluminum to eliminate the risk of rust. They are also modular, allowing you to upgrade later down the line if you need to.

Air Lines

Since your air suspension system needs air to operate, you must get air for each component. This is where air lines come into play. Each component of your air suspension system is connected with air lines that are ran throughout your vehicle. Most all-in-one kits come with air lines, but if you are building your own kit, you can choose our AccuAir 50ft air line kit to get your entire system plumbed.

Valve Manifold

The valve manifold in an air suspension system is responsible for allowing air to be sent to your air struts when needed. A valve manifold is a block with electronic valves that open and close when a button is pushed on your air management system. Once pushed, the selected valve opens up, allowing air to flow to your air strut, raising the vehicle.

Management System

No good air suspension system is complete without an air management system. Air management systems allow you to quickly and easily adjust and monitor your air suspension from inside your car, or even from your phone. At AccuAir, we take our air management pretty seriously. That is why we have spent years researching and developing the best air management systems on the market.

Air Struts

The air struts in an air suspension system are the only component that replaces factory components on your car and are vehicle specific. Air struts replace your factory shocks/struts/springs with struts that feature air bladders instead of springs to raise and lower your vehicle as they inflate and deflate.

Water Traps/Filters

Since we are dealing with compressed air in air suspension systems, you will need to consider moisture. In any compressed air system, moisture can build from the heating and cooling of the air. This means for air suspension systems is rust in steel air tanks, damage to electronic components, and potential freezing of air lines in harsh climates. Adding a water trap or filter can help to capture this moisture before it becomes a problem in your system.

Ride Height Sensors

Although they are not necessary for an operating air suspension system, ride height sensors will make things much easier when raising or lowering your vehicle. Ride height sensors measure exactly where your vehicle is in relation to the ground, giving you real-time metrics on how high or low your vehicle is. This also allows for you to pre-set heights for one-touch air outs and air ups. This eliminates the need to pulse your system to get to your desired height constantly.

Air Suspension Management For Tesla Model 3

If you want to build an air suspension kit for your Tesla Model 3, look no further than AccuAir. Our team is dedicated to building the best air suspension components with the highest quality materials. Our team can help you build your own kit to get everything you need to bag your Model 3.