Replacement of the left-hand multifunction stalk (turn signal / headlight switch) on a 2024 Model S Plaid. Note that Plaid uses a yoke or round wheel with capacitive controls, and the turn signal stalk was reintroduced/available depending on build — verify the vehicle actually has a physical stalk before ordering parts.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Multifunction turn signal stalk assembly (left-side column switch) × 1 — OEM Tesla Model S (2021+ refresh) left column stalk — verify by VIN

Preparation

1. Park on level ground, place in P, engage parking brake.
2. 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.
3. Disconnect the low-voltage battery: on most 2024 Plaid builds this is the 16V lithium unit under the rear seat; some configurations retain a 12V unit in the frunk under the nose cowl. Verify location for this VIN before opening anything.
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/yoke straight-ahead and lock it by leaving the wheel undisturbed once the LV battery is disconnected — do NOT rotate the wheel during the procedure to protect the clockspring.
7. Tilt and telescope the steering column to its fully-out, fully-down position to provide working clearance, BEFORE disconnecting the LV battery (column adjust is electric).
8. Allow at least 2 additional minutes after LV disconnect before working near any SRS components to allow airbag capacitors to discharge.
9. Confirm the replacement stalk part matches the original by visual comparison and connector keying.

Procedure

1. 1

   Confirm stalk equipment and order correct part
   Visually confirm the vehicle has a physical left-hand stalk. Photograph the stalk and its connector keying. Cross-reference the replacement part number against the VIN before disassembly.
2. 2

   Disconnect low-voltage battery
   Open the appropriate access (frunk cowl panel for 12V, or rear seat bottom for 16V Li). Disconnect the negative terminal first, isolate the cable end, and wait an additional 2 minutes before working near SRS components.
   ⚠Tesla logs an LV disconnect event. Re-pairing or recalibration may be required after reconnection.
   Torque spec

   Battery Terminal Bolts7 Nm (5 lb-ft)
3. 3

   Remove lower steering column shroud
   Using a plastic trim tool, release the seam between the upper and lower column shrouds. Remove the retaining screws on the underside of the lower shroud (typically Torx). Lower shroud unclips downward and rearward.
4. 4

   Remove upper steering column shroud
   Lift the upper shroud free of its retention clips. Take care around the column-mounted sensors and the clockspring assembly. Set shrouds aside on a soft surface to avoid scratching the piano-black trim.
   ⚠Do not pry against the steering wheel or yoke — clockspring is delicate.
5. 5

   Identify the stalk assembly
   Locate the left-side multifunction stalk module mounted to the steering column housing/clockspring carrier. Identify its electrical connector and its mounting screws (typically two small Torx screws into the carrier).
6. 6

   Disconnect stalk electrical connector
   Release the locking tab on the stalk's connector and gently unplug it. Do not pull on the wires. Inspect the connector for corrosion or bent pins.
   ⚠Adjacent SRS (clockspring/airbag) connectors are typically yellow. Do NOT disconnect any yellow connector.
7. 7

   Remove stalk mounting screws
   Remove the two small mounting screws securing the stalk module to the column carrier. Support the stalk with one hand as the last screw is removed so it does not fall.
   Torque spec

   Switch Mounting Screws3 Nm (2 lb-ft)
8. 8

   Withdraw old stalk
   Slide the stalk module straight out of its carrier. Do not twist or pry against the clockspring housing.
9. 9

   Install new stalk
   Align the new stalk module with the column carrier slots and seat it fully. Verify it sits flush with no gap that would interfere with shroud reinstallation.
10. 10

    Torque stalk mounting screws
    Install both mounting screws and torque to specification. Do not overtighten — these screws thread into a plastic carrier.
    Torque spec

    Switch Mounting Screws3 Nm (2 lb-ft)
11. 11

    Reconnect electrical connector
    Plug the stalk connector in until the lock tab clicks. Tug-test gently to confirm full engagement. Verify the connector is fully seated — partial seating causes intermittent turn signal faults.

Reassembly

1. Reinstall upper steering column shroud, ensuring all clips engage without forcing.
2. Reinstall lower steering column shroud and torque its retaining screws to the steering column cover specification.
3. Verify the stalk moves freely in all detents without rubbing on the shrouds.
4. Reconnect the LV battery (positive first, then negative). Torque the terminal bolt to specification.
5. Close all access panels (frunk cowl or rear seat bottom) and reseat any trim removed for battery access.

Verification

• With the vehicle awake, verify left and right turn signal operation (single tap = lane-change blink, full detent = continuous).
• Verify high-beam flash-to-pass and high-beam latch function.
• If the stalk also controls Autopilot/Drive engagement on this build, verify gear selection (P/R/N/D) and Autopilot single/double-tap activation function correctly.
• Check the touchscreen for any new alerts (e.g., 'Steering assist reduced', SRS warnings, or vehicle systems power-up faults). Clear any transient alerts by cycling the vehicle.
• Confirm no SRS/airbag warning lamp on the instrument cluster — if present, STOP driving and consult a Tesla-certified technician; the clockspring may have been disturbed.
• Test drive at low speed and confirm turn-signal self-cancel works after a turn.
• Note: While the column shrouds are off, this is also a good opportunity to confirm cabin air filter service interval (every 2 years, or 3 years on HEPA-equipped Model S) and brake fluid service interval (every 2 years) are current.

More procedures for this vehicle