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How to Replace Your Tesla Model Y Steering Wheel (OEM Swap Guide)

If you’re dealing with a peeling or worn-out steering wheel on your Tesla Model Y, you’re not alone. In this guide, we walk you through the full process of replacing your Model Y’s steering wheel with a brand new OEM unit — all while sharing some of the common mistakes and real-world tips we learned along the way.

Why Replace the Steering Wheel?

Let’s start with a bit of transparency. Our Model Y steering wheel didn’t come from Tesla looking like a mess. This 2021 Model Y was purchased used in 2023, and it already showed signs of wear. The original owner may have used lotions, cleaners, or just had heavy sun exposure — all of which can deteriorate Tesla’s synthetic (often called “vegan”) leather over time.

While this kind of peeling isn’t necessarily common for all Teslas, it can happen without proper care, especially if the wheel isn’t ceramic-coated or frequently gets picked at.

Rather than letting it keep bothering us, we opted to replace it with a clean OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) steering wheel — the classic round kind, not the yoke style.

💡 Note: Always try to order Tesla parts using your VIN number. Tesla frequently updates their parts, and what fits one Model Y may not fit another due to software or design differences. Keep in mind that an OEM steering wheel is about $800.

Tools You’ll Need

  • T55 Torx bit

  • Torque wrench (59 lb-ft setting)

  • Flathead screwdriver (small)

  • Optional: ratchet with extension

Step 1: Prep the Vehicle

  1. Put your car into Service Mode.
    On the touchscreen, hold down the “Model Y” name until the menu pops up, then select Service Mode.

  2. Turn the vehicle off.
    Go to Controls > Safety > Power Off.

⚠️ This is important — you’re dealing with an airbag, so safety first.

Step 2: Remove the Airbag

Locate the two small holes on either side of the steering wheel (behind the spokes). These give access to the pins holding the airbag in place.

  1. Insert a small flathead screwdriver into one of the holes.

  2. Feel around for the internal spring pin and gently press to release.

  3. Repeat for the other side. It works well if you can do them at the same time.

  4. Once both clips are released, carefully pull out the airbag module.

  5. Disconnect the two clips (one for the airbag, one for the horn/controls).

🧠 Pro Tip: Insert the screwdriver at a slight downward angle, then straighten it to fully release the clip. Angling too much can make it harder.

Step 3: Remove the Steering Wheel

  1. Use a T55 Torx bit with a ratchet (and extension if needed) to remove the center bolt.

  2. It’ll be tight — don’t be afraid to use a little muscle.

  3. Once the bolt is out, wiggle the steering wheel straight back and it should slide off.

Step 4: Install the New Steering Wheel

Since we used an OEM replacement, all the control modules and connectors were pre-installed — no need to swap over parts like you would with some aftermarket options.

  1. Line up the new steering wheel on the column.

  2. Reinstall the T55 bolt and tighten to 59 lb-ft (80 Nm) using a torque wrench.

  3. Reconnect the airbag and horn connectors.

  4. Push the airbag module back into place — you should hear it click.

Step 5: Power On & Test

Once everything is connected and secured:

  1. Power your vehicle back on.

  2. Check that the steering wheel controls and horn are working properly.

  3. Make sure the airbag warning light is off.

🎉 Success! You now have a fresh, clean steering wheel.