Tesla Glass Replacement Requirements

Posted on 10 November 2017 Print

The role of the windshield is a lot more complex than simply allowing a view of the road ahead. It is considered a structural part of the vehicle as it contributes to the strength of the roof and A-pillars. The windshield helps to manage collision energy and has become an integral part of several advanced safety systems.

It is commonly asked, "What is required when replacing a windshield?" With this question in mind, we will be presenting a series of articles that highlight some of the requirements from the various OEMs. As always, it is important to read through each vehicle-specific procedure to ensure a complete, safe, and quality repair.

Let’s see what Tesla has to say for the 2016-2024 model years.

  • The Windshield And Roof Glass Repair And Replacement Guidelines document outlines some important considerations when inspecting damage to glass panels.
  • As a special caution, vehicles equipped with 1st and 2nd generation Autopilot systems have different calibration requirements for the forward-facing cameras.
  • If the rain/light sensor is removed on some models it must be replaced because it is a one-time use part. Additional cautions are in each vehicle-specific Windshield Glass procedure.

Tesla has a list of approved windshield glass primers and adhesives for their vehicles that can be found in:

  • Collision Repair Procedures
  • Approved Parts, Tools, And Supplies
  • Approved Chemicals

There are multiple procedures available regarding repair and replacement for the windshield in the Service Manuals of Tesla vehicles. As an example, within the Service Manual for the 2017-2023 Model 3, the procedures related to the windshield replacement are located in:

  1. Go to vehicle-specific service manual
  2. Click 10-Body
  3. Click 1020 Windshield And Body Glass
    • Windshield (Reuse Humidity and Temperature Sensor)
    • Windshield (Vehicles with 2nd Generation or Later Autopilot)
    • Windshield and Roof Glass Repair and Replacement Guidelines

For additional Tesla information, check out the Tesla OEM Information page.

Additional I-CAR Collision Repair News you may find helpful:

Related I-CAR Courses

Course Damage Analysis of Stationary Glass

Course I-CAR ADAS Courses

Course Stationary Glass Removal and Installation


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