Have you ever wondered what your Tesla Model Y wheels look like without those stylish aero hubcaps? Or perhaps you need to access your lug nuts for a tire rotation or a flat tire? Whatever your reason, removing your Tesla Model Y hubcaps (also known as aero covers) is a straightforward process that you can absolutely do yourself. Let's get started!
A Comprehensive Guide to Removing Tesla Model Y Hubcaps
Step 1: Prepare for the Task (and Yourself!)
Before you begin, it's crucial to ensure you have everything you need and that you're working in a safe environment. This isn't just about the car; it's about your safety too!
1.1 Find the Perfect Spot:
Park your Tesla Model Y on a level, flat surface. This is essential for stability and safety.
Engage the parking brake firmly to prevent any accidental rolling.
1.2 Gather Your Tools:
Thick Gloves: This is highly recommended! The hubcaps can be surprisingly tight, and gloves will protect your hands from scrapes and provide a better grip.
Optional Tools for Stubborn Hubcaps:
Plastic Pry Tool: While often not necessary for OEM Tesla hubcaps, a plastic pry tool can be helpful for aftermarket covers or if the hubcap is particularly stuck. Avoid metal tools directly against the wheel to prevent scratching.
Zip Ties: Some users find looping two zip ties through the hubcap holes and pulling helpful for the center cap.
Suction Cup: For the center cap specifically, a suction cup of similar diameter can aid in removal without damage.
Towel or Soft Cloth: This can be used to protect the wheel if you need to leverage a tool.
1.3 Understand Your Hubcaps:
Tesla Model Y typically comes with aero covers (often referred to as hubcaps) designed for aerodynamic efficiency. These covers usually conceal alloy wheels underneath. It's good to know what you're working with!
Step 2: The Main Event – Removing the Hubcaps
This is where the magic happens! The key here is a firm, even pull.
2.1 Grasping the Hubcap:
Bend down to get a good angle and leverage.
With both hands, firmly grasp the hubcap. Many recommend placing your hands in between the cover and the actual spokes of the wheel, if possible.
Important: Make sure you're pulling the hubcap and not accidentally trying to pull the aluminum rim underneath.
2.2 The Pulling Technique:
The most common and effective method is to pull the aero cover firmly and directly towards you.
You might hear some clicking or popping noises as the retaining clips release. This is normal!
Pro Tip: Instead of pulling one corner off entirely, try to loosen it gently all around the wheel first. This helps prevent damage to the cover or its latching system.
Some users find success by applying force just above where the clips are located on the back of the cover.
If it's particularly stubborn, you may need to apply a quick, forceful tug backwards towards yourself. It might take a few tries, or you might need to work your way around the perimeter, pulling in different spots until all clips release.
2.3 Removing the Center Cap (if applicable):
Some hubcaps have a separate center cap. If yours does, you might need a specific tool (often provided with center cap kits) or a small, flathead screwdriver with a cloth wrapped around it to gently pry it out.
For the Tesla "T" center cap, locate the small hole at the base of the "T". If you have the wheel nut cover tool (a small, bent wire tool), insert the bent portion into this hole, back it up against the "T", and pull firmly.
Step 3: Post-Removal Care and What's Next
You've successfully removed your hubcaps! Now what?
3.1 Inspect and Clean:
Take a moment to inspect the hubcap for any signs of damage to the clips.
This is an excellent opportunity to clean your rims that were hidden underneath! Use a good wheel cleaner and a microfiber towel.
3.2 Consider Your Options:
Leave the Wheels Bare: Many Tesla owners prefer the look of the exposed alloy wheels.
Install Center Cap & Lug Nut Covers: If you're going for the bare wheel look, consider installing a Tesla center cap kit with matching lug nut covers to give your wheels a finished appearance and protect the lug nuts. These kits often come with their own removal tool for the caps and lug nut covers.
Install New Aftermarket Covers: If you want a different style, there are many aftermarket aero covers available that can change the look of your Model Y.
Store Your OEM Hubcaps: If you plan to reinstall them later, store them in a safe place where they won't get scratched or warped.
Step 4: Reinstalling Your Hubcaps (if desired)
Putting them back on is generally easier than taking them off!
4.1 Align the Hubcap:
Identify the valve stem cutout on the hubcap. This cut-out needs to align with the actual tire valve stem on your wheel. This ensures proper orientation.
4.2 Secure the Hubcap:
Once aligned, firmly press the center of the cover to secure it in place.
Then, work your way around the outer perimeter of each spoke, firmly pressing until you hear a satisfying click from each retaining clip.
You might need to use your fist to give it a firm push around the edges to ensure all clips are snapped in.
Double-check: As a final check, quickly pull each spoke to confirm that they are fully secured and the hubcap isn't loose.
Frequently Asked Questions about Tesla Model Y Hubcap Removal
How to remove a Tesla Model Y hubcap without scratching the wheel?
Use thick gloves and pull firmly but gently, avoiding metal tools. If using a pry tool, ensure it's plastic and place a soft cloth between the tool and the wheel.
How to know if my Tesla Model Y has hubcaps or alloy wheels?
Your Tesla Model Y typically comes with aero covers (hubcaps) that cover alloy wheels. If you see a solid, usually plastic, cover over the entire wheel, you have hubcaps. Removing them will reveal the underlying alloy wheel.
How to tell if the hubcap is properly reinstalled on my Tesla Model Y?
You'll hear distinct "clicks" as each retaining clip engages. After pressing it firmly all around, give each spoke a quick pull to ensure it's securely attached and doesn't wobble.
How to clean my Tesla Model Y wheels after removing the hubcaps?
Use a dedicated wheel cleaner and a soft microfiber towel or brush. Follow the product instructions for best results. This is a great time to deep clean the brake dust and grime that accumulates.
How to store Tesla Model Y hubcaps when not in use?
Store them flat in a safe place where they won't be bent, scratched, or exposed to extreme temperatures. A large box or a dedicated storage bag can work well.
How to deal with a really stubborn Tesla Model Y hubcap?
If it's particularly tight, try applying even pressure across multiple points simultaneously. Some owners find that a warm day or a short drive can slightly expand the plastic, making removal easier. For extreme cases, a plastic pry tool might be necessary, but use it with extreme caution and protection.
How to choose aftermarket hubcaps for my Tesla Model Y?
Look for covers specifically designed for the Tesla Model Y, ensuring they are compatible with your wheel size. Read reviews regarding ease of installation, durability, and fit.
How to prevent damage to the clips when removing Tesla Model Y hubcaps?
Avoid pulling only on one section forcefully. Instead, try to loosen the hubcap by gently tugging all around the perimeter before a final pull. This distributes the stress on the clips.
How to remove the center cap of a Tesla Model Y hubcap?
For the small "T" logo center cap, Tesla provides a small bent-wire tool (often found in the trunk with your charging cable). Insert it into the small hole at the base of the "T" and pull.
How to improve my Tesla Model Y's range if I remove the hubcaps?
Removing the aero hubcaps will generally decrease your range slightly, as they are designed for aerodynamic efficiency. If you're concerned about range, keeping the aero covers on is recommended.
For a visual guide on removing the aero caps from your Tesla Model Y, check out this helpful video:
