electrical
Sunroof Switch
for 2024 Tesla Model 3 Long Range Dual Motor AWD · AWD
Difficulty
Easy
Time
30 min
Tools
5
Steps
8
Replace the overhead sunroof/console switch assembly on a 2024 Tesla Model 3 Long Range. Note: most Model 3 vehicles do not have a physical sunroof — this procedure applies only if the vehicle is equipped with the optional fixed glass roof control switch or aftermarket sunroof switch in the overhead console.
Warnings
⚠The headliner on the Model 3 is one-piece and easily creased or stained. Work with clean hands and support panels — a creased headliner is a costly replacement.
⚠Most 2024 Model 3 Long Range vehicles ship with a fixed glass roof and no operable sunroof. Confirm the vehicle actually has a sunroof switch function before ordering parts.
ℹ️Disconnecting the 12V will reset some user settings and may require re-calibration of windows after reconnection.
⚠️Do not pry near or behind any orange-jacketed wiring. If any orange cable is exposed in the headliner area, STOP — that is not normal and indicates a serious issue.
Tools required
Plastic interior trim pry tool setEssential
Torx driver set (T10–T25)
Small flat-blade screwdriver
Nitrile gloves (to prevent fingerprints on headliner)
10 mm socket and ratchet (for 12V battery terminal)Essential
Parts
- Overhead sunroof/console switch assembly × 1 — Manufacturer-specified Model 3 overhead switch — verify part by VIN with Tesla parts
Preparation
- Park on level ground, place in P, and engage the parking brake.
- Exit ALL doors with the key fob away from the vehicle. Wait at least 2 minutes for HV systems to fully de-energize, even on this non-HV job.
- Disconnect the 12V low-voltage battery. On 2024 Model 3, the 12V (Li-ion on most 2024 builds) is located behind the right rear seat back panel or under the floor depending on build — refer to architecture notes and the Tesla Service Manual for your VIN.
- DO NOT touch, cut, or pierce ANY orange cable — these are high-voltage and lethal.
- If at any point you encounter an orange cable, an HV component, or are unsure if a system is de-energized: STOP and consult a Tesla-certified technician.
- Confirm the vehicle is actually equipped with a functional sunroof switch (rare on 2024 Model 3). Verify the failure mode (no response, intermittent, stuck button) before disassembly.
- Allow the cabin to cool — the headliner adhesive and plastics deform if hot. Park in shade if needed.
- Have a clean, padded surface ready to lay the switch/trim panel on.
Procedure
- 1Confirm 12V is disconnectedVerify the 12V battery negative terminal is fully disconnected and isolated. Center display should be off. Wait an additional 2 minutes after disconnect before proceeding to allow capacitive circuits to bleed down.
- 2Locate the overhead switch panelIdentify the overhead console/switch panel housing the sunroof switch, located in the headliner between the front dome lights. Inspect for visible screw covers or seams along the panel edge.
- 3Release the overhead switch trimUsing a plastic trim pry tool, gently release the overhead switch bezel from its retaining clips. Pry evenly along the perimeter; do not lever against the headliner fabric. Work the panel down only enough to access the connector — wiring is short.⚠Headliner fabric will permanently mark if pried against. Always pry on hard plastic edges.
- 4Disconnect the switch harnessDepress the locking tab on the electrical connector and separate it from the switch. Do not pull on the wires. Inspect the connector pins for corrosion or backed-out terminals before installing the new switch.
- 5Remove the failed switch from the bezelRelease the switch retaining tabs from the bezel/panel and remove the switch. Note orientation — switches often install only one way but verify before removal so the new unit goes in matching the printed icon orientation.
- 6Install the new switchSeat the replacement switch into the bezel until the retaining tabs click. Confirm it sits flush and the actuator moves freely.
- 7Reconnect the harnessPush the connector firmly into the new switch until the lock tab clicks. Give a light tug to confirm engagement.
- 8Reseat the overhead panelAlign the panel clips with their receivers in the headliner substrate and press evenly until each clip seats. Avoid pressing on the dome light lenses.
Reassembly
- Verify the panel is flush around the entire perimeter with no gaps to the headliner.
- Reconnect the 12V battery negative terminal and torque to the Battery Terminal Bolts specification — do not overtighten.
- Close the doors and allow the vehicle to fully wake up (the center screen will boot in ~30–60 seconds).
- Re-pair the key fob/phone if prompted and re-enter any user settings that were lost (clock, driver profile preferences are typically retained on Li-ion 12V systems but verify).
Verification
- Operate the sunroof switch in all directions (open, close, tilt as applicable) and confirm correct response.
- Confirm no warning messages appear on the center display related to body controls or roof.
- Inspect the overhead panel one more time for flush fitment and that no headliner fabric was pinched.
- Recommend the customer/owner perform any required window auto-up calibration if windows behave erratically after the 12V reconnect — refer to the Tesla owner's manual for the cycle procedure.
- Note: while the 12V is disconnected, this is a good opportunity to check service intervals — brake fluid (2 years, DOT 4 on Model 3), cabin air filter (2 years), and tire rotation (every 6,250 mi).