Turn Signal Switch

Replacement of the left-hand turn signal/multifunction stalk on a 2024 Model S Long Range. The Model S refresh uses a column-mounted stalk (retrofit/region-dependent on some 2024 builds); confirm your vehicle has a physical stalk before ordering parts.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Turn signal / multifunction stalk assembly (left-hand) × 1 — OEM Tesla Model S (2024) refresh stalk — verify by VIN; do not substitute pre-refresh part

Preparation

1. Park on level ground, place in P, engage parking brake.
2. Exit ALL doors with key fob away from the vehicle. Wait at least 2 minutes for HV systems to fully de-energize, even on this non-HV job.
3. Disconnect the 12V low-voltage battery (located in the frunk under the nose cowl panel on Model S). Note: some 2021+ Plaid variants use a 16V Li-ion battery under the rear seat — verify by VIN before disconnecting.
4. DO NOT touch, cut, or pierce ANY orange cable — these are high-voltage and lethal.
5. 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.
6. Center the steering wheel and lock it in position (use a steering wheel holder or seatbelt loop) to protect the clockspring.
7. Lower the steering column fully and tilt the wheel down for working clearance.
8. Confirm the replacement stalk matches the original by part number/connector style before disassembly.

Procedure

1. 1

   Verify 12V is disconnected and SRS is de-energized
   Confirm the 12V (or 16V) low-voltage battery negative terminal is disconnected and isolated. Wait a minimum of 2 minutes before working near the steering column to allow the SRS reserve capacitor to discharge.
   ⚠️Working on the column with 12V connected risks airbag deployment and permanent damage to body control modules.
2. 2

   Remove the lower steering column shroud
   Locate the retaining screws on the underside of the lower column shroud. Remove the screws and unclip the lower shroud, working it free of the upper shroud's tabs. Set fasteners aside in a labeled tray.
   Torque spec

   Steering Column Covers2 Nm (1.5 lb-ft)
3. 3

   Remove the upper steering column shroud
   Release the upper shroud clips and lift it away from the column. Take care around the tilt/telescope mechanism and any wiring routed along the column.
   ⚠Do not force the shroud over the column — if it binds, recheck for hidden fasteners rather than prying.
   Torque spec

   Steering Column Covers2 Nm (1.5 lb-ft)
4. 4

   Identify the turn signal stalk and its harness connector
   With shrouds removed, locate the left-hand stalk assembly mounted to the clockspring/switch carrier on the left side of the column. Trace the stalk pigtail to its inline electrical connector.
5. 5

   Disconnect the stalk electrical connector
   Release the connector lock tab and gently separate the connector. Do not pull on the wires. Inspect pins for corrosion or damage; report any findings before reassembly.
   ⚠Do not disturb adjacent yellow SRS connectors on the clockspring.
6. 6

   Release the stalk retention
   The stalk is retained either by a small Phillips/Torx mounting screw or a slide-lock tab on the switch carrier (varies by build). Remove the retaining screw if present, then slide the stalk straight out of the carrier along its mounting axis. Do not twist or pry — the carrier housing is plastic and brittle.
   Torque spec

   Switch Mounting Screws3 Nm (2 lb-ft)
7. 7

   Compare old and new stalks
   Lay the removed stalk next to the replacement. Verify connector keying, pin count, lever length, and detent positions all match. Any mismatch means an incorrect part — do not install.
8. 8

   Install the new stalk
   Align the new stalk with the carrier guides and slide it home until fully seated. Install the retaining screw if applicable and torque to specification. Do not overtighten — the carrier threads are plastic.
   Torque spec

   Switch Mounting Screws3 Nm (2 lb-ft)
9. 9

   Reconnect the stalk harness
   Mate the electrical connector until the lock tab clicks fully home. Verify the connector is seated by gently tugging on the housing (not the wires).
10. 10

    Refit the upper and lower column shrouds
    Reinstall the upper shroud first, ensuring tabs engage properly, then the lower shroud. Install shroud screws and torque to specification. Confirm tilt/telescope still moves freely through full range.
    Torque spec

    Steering Column Covers2 Nm (1.5 lb-ft)

Reassembly

1. Reconnect the 12V (or 16V) low-voltage battery negative terminal. Torque the terminal hardware to the manufacturer-specified value — refer to Tesla Service Manual for the exact spec on your battery type.
2. Close the frunk (or reinstall rear seat cushion if 16V Li-ion).
3. Allow the vehicle 1–2 minutes to wake and re-initialize the body control and steering column modules.
4. Re-center the steering wheel position if any prompt appears on the touchscreen.

Verification

• With the vehicle awake, test left turn, right turn, and lane-change tap functions on the stalk — confirm exterior indicators and dashboard arrows respond correctly.
• Test high-beam flash (pull-toward-driver) and high-beam latch (push-away) functions; confirm headlight icon on the touchscreen.
• If the stalk includes wiper or Autopilot engagement functions, cycle each to confirm operation.
• Check the touchscreen Service menu for any new alerts related to steering column switches or BCM. Clear any transient codes that set during the disconnect.
• Verify no SRS / airbag warning is illuminated. If it is, STOP and have the SRS system scanned — do not drive the vehicle.
• Confirm steering wheel is centered when driving straight; if off-center, the clockspring may have been disturbed and requires inspection.

Related trouble codes on this vehicle

Codes that commonly send this job to the bay — tap one for symptoms, causes, and diagnostic steps.

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