Tesla Model S Owners & Service Manuals

Tesla Model S: Brightwork - Body side - LH (Remove and Replace)

Tesla Model S (2012-2026) Service Manual / Exterior fittings / Brightwork - Body side - LH (Remove and Replace)

Removal

  1. Release the top of the front and rear door seals.

    Note: Components have been removed in this graphic to aid clarity.

    Note: The following image shows the rear door seal.

    Brightwork - Body side - LH (Remove and Replace)

  2. Remove the screws (x12) that secure the body side brightwork (torque 3 Nm).

    Brightwork - Body side - LH (Remove and Replace)

  3. Carefully release the body side brightwork from the adhesive pads surrounding the rear quarter glass.
  4. Release and remove the brightwork.

    Caution: Take care not to damage component(s).

    Brightwork - Body side - LH (Remove and Replace)

Installation

Installation procedure is the reverse of removal, except for the following:

  1. Replace all plastic clips that were removed when releasing the door seals.
  2. Wipe the body side and brightwork with alcohol to remove adhesive residue. Warning: Only use cleaning agents and solvents in a well-ventilated area.
  3. Replace the adhesive pads (x3).
  4. Remove the adhesive pad protective film.
  5. Align the brightwork to the bodyside and adjust to obtain the best possible fit. Caution: Protect exterior paint surfaces during this procedure.
  6. Loosely tighten the forward most screw to support the front of the body side brightwork.
  7. Tighten the screws (x12) starting with the rear screw and moving forward.

    READ NEXT:

     Rocker Panel - LH (Remove and Replace)

    Removal Remove the plastic rivets (x2) that secure the trailing edge of the front wheel arch liner to the rocker panel finisher.

     Pad - Lifting - Each (Remove and Replace)

    Removal If the vehicle is equipped with air suspension, set the suspension to "High" or "Very High". Tip: If necessary, this procedure can be performed with the

     Panel - Cowl Screen (Remove and Replace)

    Removal Remove the wiper arms (refer to procedure). Remove the particulate filter (refer to procedure). Remove the plastic rivets (x4 or x6) that secure the cowl to the body.

    SEE MORE:

     Press Sensor - Door - Exterior Handle - Front - LH (Remove and Replace)

    Removal Remove door handle for access (refer to procedure) Position handle assembly on a soft working surface. Remove door handle rear seal. Remove cable ties securing door pressure sensor and motor wiring. Release motor harness connector. Remove press sensor screw.

     Disable the Self-Leveling Air Suspension System

    NOTE: If Model S has no low voltage power, you need an external low voltage power supply to use the touchscreen. See If Vehicle Has No Power. Your Model S is equipped with an air suspension system that automatically self-levels the vehicle, even when power is off. To prevent damage, you must act

    © 2019-2026 Copyright www.tesms.org