The 2021-2024 Tesla Model Y is a great EV, but there’s a big caveat. With a boomy, spare cabin and a super-stiff suspension, it’s not the comfiest car to drive every day. It’s livable, but far less comfortable than the upgraded 2025 Model Y, which fans refer to as the ‘Juniper’ update. The good news, however, is that you can fix that yourself.
YouTuber Cameron Owens discovered that he could order the “Juniper” suspension parts for his old, 90,000-mile, 2020 Model Y. The new parts are the reason why the new Model Y rides so much better, and according to Owens, it bolts right up to the old car. Since his car’s suspension was “not very good at all,” Owens opted to install the improved suspension.
The result, he says, is a noticeable if not quite earth-shattering improvement.
“It has made a difference,” he says in the video. “Maybe not a massive difference, but it has made a difference.”
It’s unclear whether this car would ride exactly like a new Model Y. There’s a chance that Tesla has also changed the curb weight or weight balance in newer vehicles, or that there are other changes to components like the anti-roll bars. Still, it appears to be a step in the right direction.
I think it’s useful information for anyone looking for a used-vehicle deal. Tesla Model Ys have depreciated heavily. There are certainly examples you don’t want, like the early 2020 cars that had less insulation and far noisier cabins. But pretty much all of the first-generation Model Ys are overly stiff, and it’s the reason why I’d suggest most buyers get a new one.
However, if that’s the only concern you have, 2022 or 2023 Model Ys are cheap and available. They also maintain gear lever stalks, rather than the touch-controlled gear selector in the Juniper cars. Upgrading the suspension involves spending $800-$900 in parts you can order directly from Tesla, Owens said.
And with used Model Ys readily available for under $30,000, that means you could get a comfortable-enough, new enough crossover for a great price.”It has made a difference. Maybe not a massive difference, but it has made a difference.”
Contact the author: Mack.Hogan@insideevs.com