Product Specification

Rear Right (Driver Side) Air Suspension Height Level Sensor for Tesla Model S (Up to 2016) | 1004173-00-A

1. Key Specifications & Compatibility

2. Why This Brand-Grade Sensor Is Critical for Pre-2016 Model S

1. Maintains a Level Ride: Detects if the rear right side sags (e.g., from heavy rear passengers, trunk cargo, or a worn air spring) and sends real-time data to the suspension controller. The system then inflates/deflates the rear-right air spring to balance the vehicle, preventing uneven tire wear and shaky handling—mirroring the original sensor’s performance.
2. Enables Driving Mode Functionality: Works seamlessly with "Comfort," "Sport," and "Highway" modes (standard on pre-2016 Model S with air suspension). It confirms the rear suspension lowers to reduce aerodynamic drag at high speeds or raises to clear potholes, ensuring each mode operates as Tesla intended.
3. Protects High-Cost Components: Alerts the suspension system if the rear-right suspension is overextended (e.g., hitting a deep rut or curb), preventing damage to air springs, struts, or control arms—offering the same protective function as the original sensor.

3. What It Actually Does (No Tech Jargon)

• Constant Height Monitoring: 50 times per second, the sensor uses a built-in magnet to track how far the rear-right suspension moves up or down. It sends this data to your Model S’s suspension computer instantly—faster than a blink of an eye—so the system responds without delay.
• Fixes Sagging Automatically: If you load luggage in the trunk or have passengers in the rear right seat, the sensor notices the rear right drop and signals the air spring to inflate. This keeps the car level, so your ride stays smooth and your steering doesn’t pull to one side.
• Tough Against Harsh Conditions: Rain, snow, salted winter roads, or high-pressure car washes won’t damage it. The IP6K9K rating ensures it handles extreme weather and road grime—critical for preserving performance in older vehicles that may have more exposure to the elements.
• No Drifting Readings: Unlike cheap generic sensors, this brand-grade digital sensor never "drifts" from its calibration. It delivers precise data every time, so the suspension reacts instantly to changes in load or road surface—avoiding the "uneven rear ride" issue common with low-quality replacements.

4. Signs Yours Needs Replacement

• Rear Right Sagging: The rear right side sits lower than the rear left (check tire clearance above the wheel—you’ll see a visible gap difference when parked on level ground).
• "Air Suspension Fault" Alert: Your touchscreen displays this warning, and the suspension may lock in "Safe Mode" (no height adjustments, limited speed to ~50mph/80km/h).
• Unstable Rear Ride: The rear right bounces over small bumps (e.g., speed bumps, road cracks) or the vehicle leans heavily to the right during turns (the sensor isn’t sending accurate data to the controller).
• Driving Modes Fail to Work: The rear suspension won’t lower for "Highway" mode or raise for rough roads (the sensor can’t confirm the suspension reaches the required height).
• Random Rear Height Changes: The rear-right air spring inflates or deflates unexpectedly (e.g., rising/falling when parked), a sign the sensor is sending false data to the system.

5. Why This Brand-Grade Sensor Outperforms Generic Alternatives

• Pre-2016 Model S Exact Calibration: Programmed with the exact height thresholds Tesla used for 2016-and-earlier Model S. No "false fault" alerts—a common issue with generic sensors that don’t account for the early Model S’s suspension software.
• Perfect, Tool-Free Fit: Mounts to the rear-right suspension arm and sub-frame using factory-drilled holes—no drilling, grinding, or zip-ties needed. The 3-pin connector plugs directly into the original wiring harness (no wire cutting), so installation matches the original part’s ease.
• Durable Construction for Older Vehicles: The sensor housing is made of glass-filled nylon (resists impact from road debris, a common issue for older cars) and the electrical connector has anti-corrosion plating (prevents rust from road salt—critical for preserving connectivity in aging vehicles). It’s built to last as long as the original sensor, without premature wear.
• Consistent Accuracy: Hall-effect technology avoids wear-related drift (a major problem with analog generic sensors). This brand-grade sensor maintains ±0.5mm accuracy for long-term use, while generic options often lose precision after 10,000–20,000 miles.

6. Installation & What You Receive

• 1x Rear Right (Driver Side) Air Suspension Height Level Sensor (1004173-00-A)
• 2x Pre-lubricated brand-spec mounting bolts (torque specifications align with Tesla’s official service manual for pre-2016 Model S, ensuring secure installation)
• Digital Installation Guide: Step-by-step photos, instructions for safely lifting the rear of your pre-2016 Model S (without damaging the air suspension), and tips to avoid bending the sensor’s guide rod (a common installation mistake with early Model S rear suspension parts).