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While electric cars like Tesla are known for their quiet electric motors, some owners report excessive tire noise and wind intrusion around the front door at highway speeds—issues rarely found in luxury competitors driving the same car. Many drivers complain that wind intrusion disrupts cabin comfort, particularly at highway speeds, which raises doubts about Tesla's aerodynamics and insulation quality.
These cabin noises can distract from the infotainment system and disrupt front seat comfort, sometimes requiring drivers to raise their voices over the din. Though the steering wheel delivers precise feedback, persistent noise issues remind us that even advanced EVs still face basic refinement challenges."
This post will look at:
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Which Tesla models are most impacted?
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Why is wind noise getting a significant issue?
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Possible remedies and aftermarket options
Possible aftermarket remedies and fixes: Noise insulation: How Tesla stacks up against luxury competitors
Cabin Comfort Issues
Wind Noise and Poor Insulation
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Wind noise at highway speeds can be a significant issue in Tesla models, affecting cabin comfort and overall driving experience.
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Poor insulation in doors and windows contributes to wind noise, making it essential to address this issue.
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Tesla has made efforts to reduce wind noise in newer models, but some owners still report this problem.
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Consider adding aftermarket seals or soundproofing materials to reduce wind noise.
Which Tesla Models produce the most wind noise?
Owners on social media and forums say some Tesla models are especially susceptible to wind noise problems:
Tesla Model 3 (2023-2024 Update)
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Side mirrors at 50+ mph produce high-pitched whistling.
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Wind buffeting around frameless windows
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Thinner glass causes more noise with the "Highland" update.
Tesla Model Y (Post-Juniper Update)
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A-pillar region wind rush that is obvious
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Gaps in rear hatch seals let turbulence
Tesla Cybertruck
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Angular design causes turbulence
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Lack of conventional door sealing causes increased noise.
Models Less Affected:
Model S & X (greater insulation but not luxury-quiet)
What Makes Newer Teslas Noisier?
Many elements help to explain Tesla's wind noise issue:
Frameless Window Design
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While Teslas employ frameless doors for looks, this could result in:
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Worse sealing at high speeds
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Greater vibration and wind leakage
Insulation Cost-Cutting
Thinner sound-deadening materials than expensive manufacturers
Some more recent base versions lack acoustic glass.
Trade-Offs in Aerodynamics
While certain designs, like Cybertruck, generate turbulent airflow around sharp edges, Tesla gives a low drag coefficient top priority.
Quality Assurance Variations
Some units' misaligned door/window seals
Uneven panel gaps let wind enter.
Panel Gaps and Body Components
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Panel gaps and misaligned body components can be a concern in new Tesla models, affecting the overall build quality.
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These issues can be noticeable within the first few thousand miles or even immediately upon delivery.
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Tesla has addressed many complaints under warranty, but they remain a concern for potential buyers.
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Check the body panels for any signs of damage or wear and tear.
Rear Seat Comfort and Road Noise
Limited Legroom and Insufficient Support
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Rear seat comfort is essential for passengers, but some Tesla models have limited legroom and insufficient support.
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Road noise can also be a concern, affecting the overall comfort of the rear seat.
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Tesla has made adjustments to seat design in later models to address this issue.
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Consider upgrading to a newer model or adding aftermarket support for improved comfort.
Electric Vehicle-Specific Issues
Software Glitches and Autopilot Concerns
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Software glitches and Autopilot concerns are common issues in electric vehicles, including Tesla models.
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These issues can occur at any mileage, often requiring over-the-air software updates to resolve.
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Tesla’s frequent updates demonstrate the brand’s commitment to fixing problems, but it can still be frustrating for owners to encounter these issues.
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Regularly check for software updates and follow Tesla’s instructions for troubleshooting and resolving issues.
Climate Control and Cruise Control Functionality
HVAC System and Cruise Control Problems
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HVAC and cruise control problems can be a concern in Tesla models, affecting the overall driving experience.
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Issues with the air conditioning system, such as a musty odor, can be resolved with proper maintenance and cleaning.
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Cruise control problems, such as sudden unintended acceleration, can be a safety concern.
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Check the climate control system and cruise control for any signs of damage or wear and tear.
Reducing Wind Noise in Your Tesla
Should your Tesla have too much cabin noise, consider these remedies:
Examine & Change Door Seals
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Look for holes or wear in the weatherstripping.
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Install aftermarket seals such as RPM Tesla's door seal kit.
Include Sound Deadening Materials
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Put foam insulation or Dynamat in the door panels
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For floor noise, think about thicker carpet padding.
Change to Acoustic Glass
Some owners install dual-pane windows to reduce noise.
Change Window Alignment:
A Tesla Service Center can adjust windows for a closer fit.
Play Music or White Noise
Turning up the audio system won't solve anything but it will help to cover wind noise.
Model 3-Specific Issues and Solutions
Addressing Quality Issues in Model 3
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The Tesla Model 3 has its own set of quality issues, including wind noise, panel gaps, and rear seat comfort concerns.
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Tesla has made efforts to address these issues in newer models, but some owners still report these problems.
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Consider upgrading to a newer model or adding aftermarket solutions to address these issues.
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Regularly check the car’s systems and software for any signs of damage or wear and tear.
How Tesla Stacks Up Against Other Luxury EVsCabin Noise
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Tesla Model 3 68-72 dB
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BMW i4 64-66 dB
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Mercedes EQE 62-65 dB
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Lucid Air 61-63 dB
Tesla's simple design results in more road and wind noise than luxury competitors.
Is Tesla developing a solution?
No formal recognition of wind noise as a common problem
Small changes in modern constructions (improved door seals)
For the time being, aftermarket options are still the best choice.
Conclusion: Improving Cabin Comfort in Tesla Models
Although Teslas are great in technology and performance, wind noise is still a problem, particularly in newer models with cost-cutting policies. If interior comfort is important, think about aftermarket solutions or test-driving rival EVs with improved noise insulation. Tesla owners, for the time being, could have to tolerate the whoosh or spend money on soundproofing.
Improving cabin comfort in Tesla cars requires addressing wind noise, panel gaps, and rear seat comfort concerns. Regular maintenance and cleaning can help resolve issues with the air conditioning system and climate control.
Tesla’s frequent software updates demonstrate the brand’s commitment to fixing problems, but it’s essential to stay informed about potential issues. Consider upgrading to a newer model or adding aftermarket solutions to improve cabin comfort and overall driving experience.
