Upgrading to a yoke steering wheel can enhance your driving experience with improved ergonomics and a modern aesthetic. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you install a yoke steering wheel in your Tesla.
How to Install Yoke Steering Wheel?
1:Tesla Yoke Steering Wheel installation requirements
Tool Preparation:
1:1/2-inch extension socket
2:1/4-inch adapter
3:10 mm hex (H10 batch head) socket
4:Breaker bar (1/2-inch)
5:Swing-head ratchet/swing-head torque wrench
6:Screwdrivers (Phillips and One)
Safety Measures:
1:Make sure the vehicle is parked in a safe and level area.
2:Enable the parking brake to prevent the vehicle from rolling.
3:Disconnect the negative cable to prevent accidental starting
Installation Steps:
1: Locate the two holes at the bottom of the steering wheel, which may be located in the center, at the top, or at the bottom on either vertical side, depending on the model.
Use a small diagonal stick to insert into the holes and gently pop the airbag.
2: Remove the clips from the base ports and take a photo record to avoid confusion when reinstalling.
3: Remove the steering wheel base iron frame and multifunction button area frame to ensure a tight fit.
4: Install the removed parts onto the new steering wheel, aligning the holes to ensure a snug fit.
5: Install the screws to secure the airbag and make sure the small frame fits back in place
Notes:
- Connect the Yoke steering wheel/steering column to the Yoke steering wheel/steering column using a new spline.
- Ensure that the steering wheel/steering column electrical connector is connected to the Yoke steering wheel/steering column.
- Ensure that the installed airbags are compatible.
2:Step-by-step guide for installing Tesla Yoke Steering Wheel
Tool：
- 10mm Socket Wrench
- Torque Wrench
- Steering wheel puller (optional)
1:Remove the airbag
NOTE: The airbag is a safety device, please be careful when operating it and avoid touching the wires.
- Use a 10 mm socket wrench to remove the two screws securing the airbag module.
- Carefully pull the airbag module towards yourself and then disconnect the electrical connector.
2:Remove the steering wheel cover
- Locate the two screws hidden behind the steering wheel spokes.
- Use a 10mm socket wrench to remove the screws.
- Gently pry off the steering wheel cover, being careful not to damage any of the clips.
3:Disconnecting the steering wheel controls
- Unplug the electrical connectors from the steering wheel controls, including the horn, cruise control, and turn signals.
- Gently pull the wires through the steering column.
4:Removing the steering wheel nut
- Use a 10 mm socket wrench to loosen the steering wheel nut.
- Do not remove the nut completely.
5:Using the steering wheel puller (optional)
- If you have difficulty removing the steering wheel by hand, you can use a steering wheel puller.
- Install the puller onto the steering wheel and tighten the bolts.
- Slowly and steadily pull the steering wheel toward you until it is free of the splines.
6:Removing the steering wheel
- After loosening the steering wheel nut, gently pull the steering wheel towards you.
- This may require some force, but be careful not to damage the splines.
7:Reinstalling the Steering Wheel
- To reinstall the steering wheel, perform the above steps in reverse order.
- Tighten the steering wheel nuts to the specified torque of 33 ft-lb (45 Nm).
- Reconnect the steering wheel controls to the air bag module.
- Secure the air bag module with two screws.
3:View Video
4:Adjusting the steering wheel
Step 1: Locate The Steering Wheel Controls
On the left side of the steering wheel, you will find the control stalks for the turn signals, high beams, and windshield wipers. Just below these controls, there are two buttons with icons that represent the steering wheel and seat adjustments. Press the steering wheel icon to initiate the adjustment mode.
Step 2: Adjust The Steering Wheel Position
Once the adjustment mode is activated, you can move the steering wheel up, down, closer, or farther from you by using the controls on the steering wheel. Make sure to adjust the position to a point where you feel comfortable and have a clear view of the instrument cluster and touchscreen display without obstructing your view of the road.
Step 3: Save Your Settings
After you have positioned the steering wheel to your preference, press the “Save” button on the touchscreen display to save your settings. This way, the steering wheel will automatically adjust to your preferred position each time you enter your Tesla Model Y.
5:Software configuration needed for Tesla Yoke Steering Wheel
Vehicle Configuration Options Settings:
In the “Vehicle Configuration” tab of the vehicle, select “steeringColumnMotorType” and set it to “BOSCH” or “JE”. “or “JE”. This will ensure that the steering wheel motor type is compatible with the vehicle.
Calibrate the steering wheel:
Using the Toolbox tool, go to the “Actions” tab and enter “PROC_STEERING_WHEEL CALIBRATION” in the search field. Disconnect the Toolbox from the vehicle and reconnect it. Run this command to complete the steering wheel calibration
Software Updates:
Ensure that the vehicle has the latest software updates installed, especially those related to the Yoke steering wheel. For example, update 2021.36.8 improves Yoke steering wheel behavior.
Driving Mode Adaptation:
Adapt the Yoke's steering wheel sensitivity and resistance to driving conditions or personal preferences to provide a customized driving experience
Safety Check:
Ensure that the vehicle's Autopilot and FSD features are working properly; these features may affect the use of the steering wheel and the overall safety of the vehicle
6:Safety precautions during Tesla steering wheel replacement
1.Ensure the vehicle is parked: park the Tesla Model Y in a level and safe location, ensure the vehicle is in park and tighten the handbrake.
2,Disconnect the Battery: Before you begin replacing the steering wheel, be sure to disconnect the vehicle's negative battery to avoid electrical hazards.
3.Use the appropriate tools: Have a 10mm socket wrench and a steering wheel remover (if required). If a steering wheel remover is not available, a ratchet/torque wrench can be used.
4.Handle airbags with care: Airbags are life-safety devices and should be handled with care when removing them to avoid triggering.
5.Avoid using heat sources: Do not use heat sources when removing steering wheel bolts, steering wheels, or steering columns as this may damage steering related components.
6.Avoid excessive force: Do not hammer or apply excessive downward force to the steering wheel bolts, steering wheel or steering column as this may damage related components.
7.Maintain stability: Ensure that the vehicle remains stable throughout the process and avoid any risks that could cause the vehicle to move.
8.Follow the manufacturer's guidelines: Ensure that you follow the official guidelines provided by Tesla to avoid any potential safety risks
7:Call to Action
Upgrading to a yoke steering wheel can significantly enhance your driving experience with improved ergonomics, visibility, and modern aesthetics. By following the steps outlined above and using the right tools, you can successfully install a yoke steering wheel in your Tesla. Enjoy a more comfortable and stylish driving experience!
