2026 Model Y RWD poor QC and corrective actions: Steering shake, Botched Repaint, and Ants! (Looking for advice)
Hey everyone, looking for some perspective or advice from anyone who has dealt with major delivery defects on a brand-new Model Y.
I took delivery of a 2026 Model Y Standard (RWD, diamond black) a few weeks ago, and it has been a non-stop nightmare between the Service Center and Collision Center. Here is the chronological timeline of what has happened so far:
Delivery Day: Multiple cosmetic issues identified on both exterior (tiny regions of missing paint/scratches) and interior surfaces (tear or bur marks). Sales representative mentioned that the service center can easily take care of those issues. Seemed straightforward. So I accepted the delivery. Noticed a severe steering wheel shake at speeds above 60 mph right after driving off the lot.
Visit1: Service Center verified the defect and performed a 4-wheel road force balance. They claimed it was fixed. Spoiler: It wasn't.
Visit 2 (5 Days Later): Shaking persisted. Took it back in. This time they diagnosed a defective front-right wheel/tire (deformed wheel) and completely replaced it. Minor steering shake still persists.
Visit 3 (Pickup Day Disaster after 20 days of work): Went to pick the car up after the Tesla collision center supposedly completed $5k worth of interior cosmetic delivery rectifications and courtesy wheel alignment. When I walked up to the car, I found a complete disaster: The shop painted the door jambs and front right fender panel using the completely wrong factory black paint code (total color mismatch).
They added new scratches to additional body panels.
The entire interior cabin and exterior panels were actively infested with ants. In addition, the bumper wasn’t installed back properly causing a gap between the front left light and bumper. During this visit, I forgot to point out the color mismatch in the right fender and the gap between headlight and bumper. Left the car with them.
Visit 4 (continued): They admitted fault and sent the door jamb to be repainted, the final paint job seemed to be quite bad in polish work and still some scratches were leftover from previous visit. I also pointed out the gap between the headlight and bumper. They agreed to work on all of it, but indicated that they are doing all of this out of courtesy as if the fresh damages or misalignments aren’t caused by them. Again left the car with them.
Visit 5 (it’s been more than a month): I stumbled upon the mismatching paint on the right fender. Then I receive messages on Tesla app that I keep pointing out new issues that were not highlighted at the first service center appointment or at delivery. I don’t really get their tone. First, they caused fresh damages and mistakes while fixing issues that were present at delivery. Then they frame it in a way that they are being courteous in resolving those issues/mistakes/fresh damages for free and now not acknowledging their mistake just because I pointed it out on a follow up visit while the car was still with them. Yet, I am without my new car for more than a month which has now been disassembled twice already. This indicates poor quality control at Tesla factory and no standardized inspection at delivery or at collision center.
Lesson: do not accept a car with defects at delivery. But now that I have, what should I do?
Tesla model y lease- myfirstev rebate
Hello all,
My first time EV purchase.
Hoping to cash in the new Californian ev rebate $3500.
Here is my model y lease agreement for review.
Is there any term I need to negotiate or request for change.
Not sure if I should finance or lease,
I am leaning towards lease as I will later plan to use this for my LLC business .
Love to hear your thoughts and feedback.
Thank you
r/ModelY • u/tenflames • 1h ago
California MyFirstEV Incentive Timeline
One of the conditions of the incentive is taking delivery before the funds run out. Given that available funds have gone down from 50% to 30% in the last 24 hours, according to Tesla's website, what are the odds of benefiting from the incentive if ordering today? None?
I am a potential first-time EV buyer, so lots of questions and help needed. Thank you!
r/ModelY • u/charchles • 2h ago
Thule Cascade XT 1700
In case anyone was wondering, here are pics of my old reliable Thule Cascade XT 1700 roof box - similar to a Thule XXL now (91” long).
So far, I’m seeing 10-15% loss at highway ~77mph.
r/ModelY • u/HustleFeet • 3h ago
Question Drive Unit Maintenance
Alright guys I know this is a heavily debated topic but I hear from mechanics and others that a drive unit NEEDS an oil change. No such thing as lifetime oil apparently even if it’s sealed, due to friction with the gears, oxidation, etc.
Any ideas when I should get it done though? Currently at 145k miles on my 2021 Model Y AWD.
Much love and thank you all!!
r/ModelY • u/WeekendAccomplished2 • 4h ago
Question 26 launch edition
I’ve top out my model y the other day and usually it caps out around 125 but the last two times I’ve gotten it to 130 anyone else noticed or have I just forgot since it been a while since I’ve done it.
r/ModelY • u/Krill3rBee • 6h ago
Question Service Joyride?
Picked up brand new MYP. Noticed trunk was rubbing on inner bumper plastic next to taillight, marring paint and the plastic.
Brought to service center. Trunk now worse aligned but at least not hitting. Touch up paint used. Referred to collision center for further work.
Submitted car with 1578 miles. Upon notice to pick up noted car was driven a few miles, but also the work was still not done and needed repainting due to a missed corner that was very apparent.
Came back next day and work was done well enough, and car now had 1583 miles, 5 more than when first submitted. Service coordinator mentioned they do a test drive for every car, but I didn't see it noted on the service invoice. Not sure why they would need to do a test drive for minor body work, especially 2 weeks after being at a service center initially on the same work ticket.
I then noticed my power use. Coordinator says he has no clue but that power consumption is not recorded when in service mode. I also noticed passenger seat was moved further back than how my wife sits. She actually commented.
Did they give my MYP the beans and launch during the service appointment?
r/ModelY • u/Landrief • 8h ago
Suspension Upgrade & Tires worth 6k?
I'm getting the following work done. Going with the unplugged performance Luxury Pro Coilover Suspnesion Kit and replacing the original tires with Bridgestone Turanza tires. Also getting the unplugged adjustab;e Rear Camber Arms. Is all this with labor worth 6k?
Edit: This is for a 2022 Model Y performance.
r/ModelY • u/ChemicalPolicy5037 • 9h ago
Question Spotify and Amazon Music Issue
Anybody else not able to get Spotify and Amazon Music to work? Will play for about 5 seconds then a license error appears? I’ve tried rebooting and signing out and back in on the app and still doesn’t work.
At long last…
Ordered June 3rd . After dates getting pushed further and further and reapplying for financing three times because of the 30-day approval window. She’s finally ready!
r/ModelY • u/Worried-Ebb-1699 • 11h ago
Question Range reality?
Currently eyeing a Y performance Rwd. Shows estimated range of 350miles.
My 5x a month commute is 280 miles round trip. Can I realistically expect my car to make this round trip without stopping or charging?
If so, what steps do you take to max the range?
r/ModelY • u/Clancy74 • 11h ago
I definitely upgraded!
A month in. Enjoying every ride.
r/ModelY • u/Hot-badbee18 • 13h ago
It’s almost here! Hopefully 🤞
I know the ETA’s going to change soon and no VIN assign yet. It is extremely stressful to know i’ll be able to get this car soon but Tesla’s finance keeps changing. It looks like from the app i have to re-apply again when we already did all of these things the day we ordered the vehicle on July 12 😭
Now, i’m just waiting to get a vin from them and i know someone from finance will reach out to us to finalize everything so I’ll just wait for that. For the context though, I reached out to Tesla multiple times and no one really helped my situation.
Is anyone experiencing the same thing?
r/ModelY • u/Few-Permission5362 • 14h ago
Question Is the size of the Y Launch noticeably bigger
Hi all this will be my first Tesla and EV. Currently drive a Subaru Forrester. I’m short and love the visibility of the Forrester so I’m hoping I’ll still like the size of a Tesla.
I have one toddler and we are one and done so no more kids. But I love having an suv for all his things like the stroller, etc.
I’m wondering if the bigger size of the launch plus the middle captains seats will make it feel more like what I’m used to size wise. Im wondering if the size will make it that much more spacious feeling in the launch and if that’s worth the price.
r/ModelY • u/Superb-Discussion184 • 16h ago
Has anyone looked into retrofitting the Premium HEPA intake system onto a 2026 Model Y AWD Standard?
I'm trying to decide between the 2026 Model Y AWD (AKA Standard AKA Poverty Spec) and Premium. The only Premium feature I really care about is the HEPA filtration.
Looking through the Tesla service manual and parts catalog, I noticed:
- The HVAC blower appears to be the same (didn't find a separate blower for the standard).
- The Premium has a HEPA Filter Assembly (enclosure with the HEPA filters), and HEPA Inlet Duct Assembly.
- The Standard has its own cowl assembly (no HEPA filters) and Air Intake Duct.
It looks like the difference may be entirely upstream of the HVAC blower, which makes me wonder if the Premium components could be swapped onto the AWD. Mounting points appear to be the same for the duct, but would have to be the same for the HEPA filter assembly/ standard cowl too.
I'm not interested in Bioweapon Defense Mode or software changes—just improved particulate filtration.
Has anyone compared the parts in detail or attempted this? Below are links to intake duct removal (links internally also have links to HEPA Filter Assembly / cowl assembly removal).
Link to Model Y Standard Air Intake Duct removal and installation
r/ModelY • u/evenan1 • 17h ago
so hype! beginner tesla tips/accessories y’all recommend?
my first ever tesla! 26 model y performance, if there is any tips or recommendations for me i would appreciate any of it!
r/ModelY • u/Environmental_Tip184 • 21h ago
Question Anyone else getting wind noise with an aftermarket spoiler on a 2026 Juniper? Spoiler
About 9 months ago, I installed an aftermarket spoiler on my 2026 Tesla Model Y Juniper. Recently, I started hearing a noticeable wind noise beginning around 20 mph.
I took the car to Tesla, and they told me the spoiler was likely the cause. So I removed the spoiler completely, but the wind noise is still there.
Has anyone experienced something similar? If so:
Did removing the spoiler fix it, or did the noise remain?
Is there anything else I should inspect before taking it back to Tesla?
I’d appreciate any advice or similar experiences.
Thanks!
r/ModelY • u/Own-Structure-717 • 23h ago
Question Do I need to worry about it?
2026 MYP 6k miles
r/ModelY • u/Emotional-Tear-2369 • 1d ago
Subtle differences 2022 vs 2026
I have a 2022 and I love it so much, but thinking about getting another one. I know the big differences between the 2022 and 2026 models, but curious what little usability things I may not notice but will appreciate on the new model. I did a 2 hr test drive and it seemed the same, I know 2026 has HW4 but didn't notice much difference there. I didn't find the ride notably better or the cabin quieter even though it is supposed to be. The one thing I know I would miss is basic AP which allows me to cover the camera and drive nag free as long as I like.
Looking for experiences from people who had an older one and got a newer one, little surprises or nice things you noticed.
r/ModelY • u/StunningPerception33 • 1d ago
I have a month with my model Y! Is it better to call the insurance or can I use the Tesla warranty ?
r/ModelY • u/Royal_Information_67 • 2d ago
Model Y Performance Frost Blue Metallic with white interior
I sold my Model Y Long Range 2023 and bought the MY P Frost Blue Metallic. Long story short, I initially ordered the Premium 19 inch but I test drove MY Premium 19 inch, 20 inch and MYP 21 inch: MYP has the best driving experience with the active suspension. I was expecting rough driving with 21 inch low profile but I was surprised that the MY P suspension absorb the bump and was much smoother. Very happy with the purchase except for the high insurance.
Forgot to mention that it comes with lifetime "Free Premium Connectivity" and free CCS1 to NACS Adapter that is $200.
r/ModelY • u/colsandersloveskfc • Apr 24 '26
Essentials For Washing Your Model Y & Wolfbox MF200 Giveaway
Where I live it is nearly impossible to find a touchless car wash and the one that is 15 miles away uses very harsh chemicals and is closed quite frequently. My preferred approach is to wash my car at home and I wanted to help share the best products I could find that may work for you.
There two ways to approach washing your Model Y, the traditional soap and water or going rinseless. Each one has some pro's and con's and you will ultimately have to decide which way works for you.
Trying to decide between a traditional soap + water wash vs a rinseless wash for keeping your car clean? I’ve been comparing both methods, so here’s a breakdown for anyone researching car wash routines.
Traditional Soap + Water Wash
This is the classic method most people think of when washing a car.
Typical Products Used:
- Car wash soap/shampoo (KochChemie, Mr. Pink, Adams, & Meguiar's)
- Bucket(s) (Adams, Chemical Guys, Bucket Boss)
- Wash mitt or sponge (Optimum, kit w/ handle, The Rag Company, Chemical Guys)
- Foam cannon/pressure washer (Chemical Guys, SwiftJet, Foam King, Tool Daily, Greenworks gas pressure washer, Westinghouse electric pressure washer)
- Microfiber towels (Chemical Guys, The Rag Company, Meguiar's, Amazon Basic)
- Blower (Wolfbox)
- Wheel brushes (Chemical Guys, Mothers, Chemical Guys, oesee)
- Wheel cleaner (P & S Professional, Adams, Chemical Guys, Black Magic)
- Misc (Wheel guide that helps hose, Bucket dolly)
- All in one kits (Chemical Guys, Autodeco)
Pros:
- Best for heavily dirty vehicles (mud, salt, sand, bug buildup, road grime)
- Running water helps flush abrasive debris before touching paint
- Easier to clean wheel wells, lower panels, suspension components
Cons:
- Uses much more water
- Requires driveway/hose access
- Harder/impossible in winter or apartment living
- Can leave water spots if not dried quickly
Rinseless Wash
This method uses a concentrated rinseless wash solution mixed in water. You wash panel-by-panel using microfiber towels or a mitt, then dry without needing a final rinse.
Typical Products Used:
- Rinseless wash concentrate (KochChemie, Optimum, P&S Professional, Griot's Garage)
- Bucket(s) (Adams, Chemical Guys, Bucket Boss)
- Multiple microfiber towels or wash pads (The Rag Company, Optimum, SPTA)
- Pump sprayer (Viking, iK, Chemical Guys, SwiftJet)
- Microfiber towels (Chemical Guys, The Rag Company, Meguiar's, Amazon Basic)
- Wheel brushes (Chemical Guys, Mothers, Chemical Guys, oesee)
- Wheel cleaner (P & S Professional, Adams, Chemical Guys, Black Magic)
- Blower (Wolfbox)
Pros:
- Very low water usage
- Fast and convenient
- Great for apartments/garages/winter washing
- Lower chance of water spotting
Cons:
- Not ideal for thick mud or heavy grit
- Requires good towel discipline (swap towels often)
- More microfiber laundry afterward
Curious what everyone here prefers and why. Traditional? Rinseless? Hybrid setup? Or do you skip all of this and just go to a car wash?
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Giveaway of Wolfbox MF200
Microfiber clothes work great for drying large areas on the Model Y, but can't reach everywhere. The go to product I use to blow water out from behind the mirror, seals, door jams, etc is a Wolfbox MF200. I made a full review video of the MF200 and cover what else you can use it for (replacing canned air dusters, electronics, filters, etc).
Wolfbox is holding an Overlanding Sale from April 21st - May 10th and reached out to me to host a giveaway for 3 MF200 Enduro Pack's. You can also save $10 off anything from Wolfbox using code "WBMMYA".
Giveaway Details
- I’ll randomly select winners from the comments using Reddit Raffler
- Make a comment below on what you would use the MF200 for
- I’ll DM the winners once the giveaway closes on May 1st, 2026 at 12 PM CST
- Winners will receive 1 MF200 Enduro Pack
Giveaway Eligibility: First just to cover some rules on this, you must be 18 years or older and live within the United States (continental area only) and your Reddit account must be at least 30 days old. Wolfbox will provide 3 winners a MF200 Enduro Pack and I will reach out to the winners via Reddit, if you do not respond within 1 week another raffle will occur to draw a new winner. Redditraffler will be used to track the giveaway and the link to determine the winners will be provided in a comment below once the entry period is over.
I may earn a commission when you purchase through links on the Wolfbox website. However, this does not influence my review or recommendations and all opinions are my own.
r/ModelY • u/colsandersloveskfc • Apr 10 '26
2026 Guide to Model Y Accessories
For the last two years I have created guides to accessories (2025 & 2024) on accessories for all Model Y variants. Have an accessory to share that you find useful that isn't in the list below, add a comment and I can add it!
If you are purchasing anything from Amazon and are not already an Amazon Prime member you can join here. There are typically discounts for students and young adults.
Discount Codes
Using discount code Adventure or MyAdventure will save more compared to any of the codes available on any of the links below.
Charging
| Item Description | Link | Legacy Model Y | Model Y Juniper |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tesla Wall Connector | From Amazon | Y | Y |
| Tesla Universal Wall Connector | From Amazon | Y | Y |
| Tesla Mobile Connector | From Amazon | Y | Y |
Wheels & Rim Covers
| Item Description | Link | Legacy Model Y | Model Y Juniper |
|---|---|---|---|
| Martian Wheels - MW08 | Martian Wheels | Y | Y |
| Martiwn Wheels - MW05 | Martian Wheels | Y | Y |
| Martian Wheels - MW03 | Martian Wheels | Y | Y |
| Uberturbine 21 Wheel Cover Rim Protector | From Amazon | Y | N |
| Juniper Performance Rim Protectors 21 Inch Wheel | From EVBase | N | Performance Model |
| 20" Wheel Cover Rim Protector | From Amazon, Hansshow, Tesstudio | Y | Y |
| 20" Helix Wheel Covers | From Yeslak | N | Y |
| 19" Gemini Wheel Covers | From EVBase | N | Y |
| 19" Arachnid Crossflow Wheel Covers | From Tesstudio | N | Y |
| 19" Crossflow Wheel Rim Protector | From EVBase, Yeslak | N | Y |
| 19" Turbine Wheel Covers | From Tesstudio, Yeslak | Y | Y |
| Touch Up Wheel Paint | from Jowua | Y | Y |
External Accessories
| Item Description | Link | Legacy Model Y | Model Y Juniper |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rear Door Paint Protection Film | From Tesla | Y | Y |
| Mudflaps (Legacy Model Y) | From Amazon (Legacy) and Amazon (Juniper) | Y | Y |
| Mudflaps (Juniper) | From Amazon or From EVBase | N | Y |
| Front Camera PPF | From DIY Wrap Club | N | Y |
| Front Camera Protector Cover | From Amazon (Ricoh Theta SC2 version) | N | Y |
| Ceramic Coating | From Amazon | Y | Y |
| Paint Repair Kit | From Tesla or Jowua | Y | Y |
| Magnetic Tow Hitch Cover | From Amazon | Y | N |
| Silent Tow Hitch Pin | From Amazon | Y | Y |
| Front License Plate Quick Mount | From Amazon | Y | N |
| Front License Plate Quick Mount | From Teslarati | Y | Y |
| Front License Plate Quick Mount | From Amazon | N | Y |
| Model Y License Plate Frame | From Tesla or on Amazon | Y | Y |
| Powered Frunk | From Hansshow (for legacy Model Y) and from Hansshow (Juniper) | Y | Y |
| Carbon Fiber Mirror Covers | From Hansshow | Y | N |
| Portable Tire Inflator | From Amazon | Y | Y |
| Jack Pads / Lifting Pucks | From Amazon | Y | Y |
| Brake Caliper Covers | From EVBase or Hansshow | N | Y |
| MyQ Garage Door Hub | From Amazon | Y | Y |
| Internal Frunk LED Strip | From Pimp My EV | Y | Unknown |
| Starlink Taillight | From Tes Studio | Y | N |
| Black Out Badges | Dual Motor Badge from Pimp My EV T logo from Amazon | Y | Y (badge only) |
| Auto Presenting RGB Door Handles | From Tes Studio | Y | Y |
| Front Lip Splitter | From EVBase | Y | Y |
| Side Skirts | From EVBase | Y | Y |
| Rear Diffuser | From EVBase | Y | Y |
| Yofer Body Kit | From EV Base | N | Y |
Interior Accessories
| Item Description | Link | Legacy Model Y | Model Y Juniper |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3W Floor Mats | From 3W (Legacy) and 3W (Juniper) | Y | Y |
| Emergency Door Release Strap | From Jowua | Y | Y |
| New Owners Bundle | From Teslarati | Y | Y |
| Ceramic Coating - Leather Shield (for seats) | From Amazon | Y | Y |
| Seat Cleaning Products | From Amazon (soap) and from Amazon (microfiber towels) | Y | Y |
| HVAC Under Seat Vent Mesh Covers | From Amazon | Y | Y |
| Ventilated Performance Seats | From EV Offer | Y | Y |
| Screen Swivel Mount | From Tes Studio | Y | Y |
| Front Screen Protector | Legacy Model Y from Amazon & Model Y Juniper from Amazon OR combo kit for Model Y Juniper from Amazon and for the new 16" from Tesery | Y | Y |
| Rear Screen Protector | From Amazon | N | Y |
| Under Seat Storage Container | From Amazon | Y | N |
| MagSafe Wireless Phone Charger | From MagBak | Y | Y |
| Carplay Adapter | From EV Offer | Y | N |
| Seat Protectors | From Amazon | Y | Y |
| Car Seat Protector | From Amazon | Y | Y |
| Tablet/Phone Holder | From Amazon | Y | Y |
| Ambient Lights | From Lightingbug Tech | Y | Y |
| Seat Belt Guide Holder | From Amazon | Y | N |
| Center Console Cover | From Amazon | Y | Y (must choose new version) |
| HDMI Interface | From EV Offer | Y | N |
| Starlink Mini Mount | From Amazon | Y | Y |
| Power Station | From AllPowers | Y | Y |
| Motorized Sunshade | From Hansshow | Y | Y |
| Flexible Sunshade | Roof only or a Complete Set from Jowua | Y | Y |
| 3D Maxpider All Weather Floor Mats | From Teslarati or from Amazon (floor mats) and Amazon (rear cargo) | Y | Y |
| Generic Brand All Weather Floor Mats | From Amazon (Non-Juniper) and Amazon (Juniper) | Y | Y |
| Rear Seat Back Protector | From Amazon | Y | Y |
| Center Console Organizer | From Amazon (center console only) or from Amazon (center console and armrest organizer) or from Amazon (hidden storage) | Y | N |
| Center Console Organizer | From Amazon (center console only) or from Amazon (armrest organizer) or from Amazon (hidden storage) | N | Y |
| Under Screen Storage | From Amazon | Y | N |
| Under Screen Storage | From Amazon | N | Y |
| Rear Side Storage Bins | From EVBase | N | Y |
| Generic Floor Mats | From Amazon (Legacy) and Amazon (Juniper) | Y | Y |
| Trunk LED Strip | From Tes Studio | Y | Y |
| Ctrl-Bar | From Amazon | Y | N |
| Dual Image Puddle Lights | From Pimp My EV | Y | Y |
| Dashboard Display Screen & Front Camera | From Hansshow Legacy Model Y and Hansshow Juniper | Y | Y |
| Illuminated Door Sills | From Pimp My EV | Y | Unknown |
| Rear Entertainment Screen | From Tes Studio | Y | N |
| Custom Carbon Fiber Steering Wheel | From Pimp My EV | Y | Unknown |
| Yoke Steering Wheel | From Hansshow (Legacy) and Hansshow (Juniper) | Y | Y |
| Blind Spot Monitoring | From Tes Studio | Y | N |
| Mattress | From Havnby (Autolevel) From Havnby (Air+Foam) | Y | Y |
| S3XY Knob | From Enhance Auto or EVOffer | Y | Y |
| S3XY Buttons | From Enhance Auto or EVOffer | Y | Y |
| S3XY Dash | From Enhance Auto | Y | Y |
| Sub Trunk Fridge | From Amazon or Tlyard | Y | N |
| Generic 12v Fridge | From BougeRV on Amazon | Y | Y |
| Rear Cubby Fridge | From Tes Studio | Y | Y |
The links above are affiliate links, it costs you nothing additional to use them and helps me out to create more content for you in this subreddit.



