Rear Subframe Rear Anterior Bushing for 2017–2023 Tesla Model 3 / Model Y | 1188556 (CFN Brand)
The rear subframe rear anterior bushing, bearing the part number 1188556, is a crucial OEM-matching suspension component meticulously engineered for Tesla Model 3 units produced from 2017 to 2023 and Model Y vehicles manufactured from 2020 to 2023. This left/right universal bushing plays a pivotal role in the vehicle's suspension system by firmly connecting the rear subframe to the vehicle's main body at its rear anterior position. It is designed to strictly adhere to Tesla's original suspension geometry and NVH (Noise, Vibration, Harshness) control requirements.
Core Functions
Enhanced Subframe Positioning
This bushing ensures that the rear subframe remains precisely in its factory - calibrated position. During daily driving, the rear subframe is subjected to various forces such as those from road irregularities, rapid acceleration, or sudden braking. The 1188556 bushing effectively resists these forces, preventing any abnormal displacement of the subframe. By maintaining the subframe's position, it helps keep the rear suspension's alignment parameters, including rear wheel toe and camber, within the optimal range. This is essential for preventing uneven tire wear, which can lead to reduced tire lifespan and compromised driving safety. Additionally, proper alignment of the rear subframe contributes to better steering response and more reliable braking performance.
Superior Vibration Damping
Constructed from high - elasticity rubber composite, the bushing is highly effective in absorbing low - frequency vibrations. When the vehicle traverses rough roads, potholes, or speed bumps, the rear suspension generates vibrations. These vibrations, if not properly dampened, can be transmitted to the vehicle's cabin, causing discomfort to the passengers. The 1188556 bushing acts as a barrier, effectively reducing the transfer of these vibrations. Moreover, it also blocks mechanical noise originating from the rear drivetrain components, such as the motor and half - shafts. This ensures that the interior of the Model 3 or Model Y remains quiet and comfortable, maintaining the high - quality driving experience that Tesla is known for.
Impact Buffering
Acting as a buffer between the rigid rear subframe and the vehicle body, the bushing softens the impact forces during sudden and severe impacts. For example, when the vehicle accidentally hits a curb or a large piece of road debris, the impact energy is initially absorbed by the bushing. This significantly reduces the mechanical stress transmitted to both the rear subframe and the main body structure. By minimizing this stress, the bushing helps extend the service life of these critical components, saving vehicle owners from potential costly repairs in the long run.
Durable Construction
Rubber Matrix
The bushing utilizes OEM - grade ethylene - propylene - diene monomer (EPDM) rubber. This type of rubber offers excellent elasticity, with a compression set of ≤12% even after 72 hours of exposure at 100°C. This high - level elasticity ensures that the bushing can withstand repeated compression and expansion cycles without losing its shape or performance. Additionally, EPDM rubber has outstanding anti - aging properties. It can resist cracking, hardening, or degluing even when exposed to harsh environmental conditions over an extended period. These conditions include heat from the rear drivetrain, rain, road salt (especially in winter months), and various chemicals used in car washes.
Metal Reinforcement Structure
The inner sleeve, through which the securing bolt passes, and the outer metal ring, which is press - fitted into the subframe, are both crafted from galvanized carbon steel. This steel has a tensile strength of ≥380MPa, providing robust structural support. The galvanized coating on the steel offers enhanced corrosion resistance, protecting the metal components from rust and degradation. This is particularly important as the rear subframe and its associated components are often exposed to moisture and corrosive substances from the road. The combination of the high - strength steel and the corrosion - resistant coating ensures that the bushing can maintain its structural integrity under high torque and lateral loads, preventing any deformation or separation from the subframe/body mounting points.
Exceptional Environmental Adaptability
The 1188556 bushing is engineered to withstand extreme temperature fluctuations, ranging from - 40°C to 120°C. In cold winter conditions, the rubber remains flexible, avoiding any brittle cracking that could compromise its performance. Conversely, in high - temperature environments, such as during long - distance driving in hot climates, the bushing does not soften or experience oil leakage. Furthermore, it has excellent resistance to chemical corrosion from road salt, which is commonly used for de - icing in winter, as well as engine coolant that may accidentally come into contact with it.
Installation Process
Vehicle Preparation
Begin by safely lifting the rear end of the vehicle using reliable jack stands to ensure stable support. This is a crucial safety step to prevent any accidents during the installation process. Remove the rear underbody splash guard, which provides access to the rear subframe components. Additionally, remove the rear wheel on the side where the bushing is to be replaced. This allows for better visibility and working space around the rear subframe's rear anterior connection point.
Old Bushing Removal
Locate the old 1188556 bushing, which is press - fitted into the rear anterior end of the rear subframe. It is secured by a single 18mm bolt that passes through the bushing's inner sleeve and fastens to the vehicle's main body. Use an 18mm socket to carefully loosen and remove the bolt. In cases where the bolt is seized, applying penetrating oil and allowing it to sit for 10 minutes can help ease the removal process without causing damage to the threads. After removing the bolt, use a specialized bushing press tool to gently press the old bushing out of the subframe's mounting hole. It is extremely important not to use a hammer or pry bar to force the old bushing out, as this can cause deformation to the subframe's metal mounting hole, which may affect the fit and performance of the new bushing.
Cleaning and Preparation
Once the old bushing is removed, thoroughly clean the subframe's bushing mounting hole and the body's bolt hole using a wire brush. This step is essential to remove any rust, debris, or residual old rubber. A clean surface ensures a tight and secure press - fit for the new bushing, which is crucial for its proper functioning and longevity.
New Bushing Installation
Apply a thin layer of OEM - specified rubber lubricant to the outer ring of the new CFN bushing (1188556). This lubricant helps in the installation process by reducing friction and ensuring a smooth press - fit. Then, use the bushing press tool to carefully press the new bushing into the subframe's mounting hole. Make sure that the bushing is installed straight and evenly, without any tilting or misalignment.
Final Assembly
Reinstall the 18mm bolt through the bushing's inner sleeve and hand - tighten it into the body's threaded hole, being careful to avoid cross - threading. Once hand - tightened, use a torque wrench to tighten the bolt to the recommended torque of 55±3 Nm, as specified by Tesla. This ensures that the bushing is securely fastened and will perform as intended. After tightening the bolt, refit the rear wheel and the rear underbody splash guard.
Road Test and Inspection
After completing the installation, conduct a thorough road test to check for any abnormal noises, such as clunking or rattling, which could indicate improper installation or a problem with the new bushing. Additionally, if possible, check the rear wheel alignment parameters. If any issues are detected during the road test or alignment check, re - evaluate the installation process and make any necessary adjustments.
Note: For optimal performance and to maintain consistent suspension characteristics, it is advisable to replace both the left and right rear subframe rear anterior bushings simultaneously. Also, always use the recommended OEM - specified lubricants and follow the installation instructions precisely to ensure the longevity and proper functioning of the bushing