Lowering My Tesla Model Y Performance: Unplugged Performance Springs Install & Test Drive
Hey everyone, DennisCW here! Today, I'm taking my brand new Tesla Model Y Performance to Unplugged Performance in Hawthorne, Los Angeles, for a game-changing upgrade: installing their performance springs to drop the ride height. If you've seen the stock Model Y, you know it sits way too high with massive wheel gaps that kill the aggressive SUV stance. We're fixing that today and getting it track-ready. Let's dive in!
The Stock Setup: Why Lower It?
Out of the box, the Model Y Performance looks great, but that suspension height? Not so much. Check out this huge gap between the wheel and fender – it's begging for a drop. Lowering it not only gives it a sleek, aggressive look but could even improve efficiency by reducing aerodynamic drag. Plus, for track days and canyon carving, we need better handling.
Unplugged Performance is the gold standard for Tesla mods – everything's tested and proven. If you're local, hit up their shop (link in bio!).
The Install: Springs Swap at Unplugged Performance
We pulled the car into the shop, and here's the magic:
- Stock springs (right): Basic single-rate design, straight coil.
- Unplugged springs (left): Dual-rate progressive springs with a transition for superior handling on roads and tracks.
The process is straightforward:
- Jack up the car and remove the wheels.
- Disconnect the adaptive dampers (no issues here – springs play nice).
- Swap the old coils for the new Unplugged ones.
- Reassemble, align the wheels (crucial post-drop!).
After the install, the stance is transformed. That massive gap? Gone. Now it's planted and mean.
First Drive Impressions: Highway and On-Ramps
Time for a test spin! I hit the highway right away, and wow – the difference is night and day:
- Firmer suspension: Less bounce, more planted feel. No sloshing around corners.
- Highway ramps: Took one at speed, and it hugged like glue. Way better than stock's floaty vibe.
- Comfort balance: Only a 0.75-inch drop means daily drivability stays intact. Dual-rate springs make it compliant yet aggressive.
I was worried about sacrificing ride quality, but this is the best of both worlds. Perfect for street, canyons, or track.
"This feels much more planted. Typically, I get sloshed around on highways, but not anymore!" – My exact words during the drive.
Why This Mod Levels Up Your Model Y
If your Model Y feels too tall and SUV-like, these springs are the move. Improved handling, killer looks, and track potential without going full race setup.
Grab yours here: Unplugged Performance Springs
Upcoming: Track Test at Buttonwillow!
Can't wait to thrash it at Tesla Corsa at Buttonwillow on February 28th. Sign up with promo code Dennis and bring your Model Y Performance – see you there! Event Link
What do you think – ready to drop your Tesla? Drop a comment below, like, subscribe, and check the full video for behind-the-scenes footage!
Stay charged, DennisCW
