Replace the charge port latch assembly on a 2024 Model X Plaid. The latch is the small motorized actuator that secures the charge connector in the port; failure typically results in connectors not locking, not releasing, or the port not closing properly.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Charge port latch assembly (manufacturer-specified for 2024 Model X) × 1 — Tesla OEM charge port latch — confirm with VIN at parts counter
• Single-use trim/foam clips (if damaged on disassembly) × 1 — as-needed replacements

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 in the frunk (negative terminal first). See architecture notes for location.
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. Before disconnecting 12V: open the charge port door via the touchscreen or vehicle exterior button so it remains accessible after power-down. If the latch has already failed and the port is stuck, plan to use the manual release cable from inside the rear trunk liner.
7. Close and secure the driver-side falcon door in the closed position; do not allow it to be cycled while you work near the rear quarter.
8. Cover the rear quarter panel with a protective blanket or fender cover to prevent scratching.

Procedure

1. 1

   Open the charge port door
   If the charge port door is closed and the latch has failed, locate the manual release cable behind the rear trunk side trim on the driver side. Pull the release to mechanically open the charge port door. If the port is already open from the prep step, proceed.
   ⚠Pull the manual release with steady, moderate force only. The cable is small-gauge and not designed for repeated heavy pulls.
2. 2

   Access the charge port assembly from inside the rear trunk
   Open the rear liftgate and remove the driver-side rear trunk trim panel to expose the back of the charge port housing. Use a plastic trim tool to release the push-pin clips. Set fasteners aside in order — they are not all identical.
3. 3

   Verify de-energized state and identify wiring
   With the 12V disconnected, visually inspect the charge port assembly. Identify the small low-voltage connector(s) feeding the latch motor and position sensor. The large orange/HV conductors going to the charging contacts are NOT to be disturbed for a latch-only repair.
   ⚠️If the latch replacement procedure on your specific build requires removing the HV connector to extract the assembly, STOP. That step requires HV de-energization verification with Tesla diagnostic tools and is outside the scope of this DIY procedure.
4. 4

   Disconnect the latch low-voltage harness
   Depress the locking tab on the latch motor connector and gently pull straight off. Do not pull on the wires. If a secondary position-sensor connector is present, disconnect it the same way.
5. 5

   Remove the latch retaining hardware
   Remove the screws/bolts securing the latch mechanism to the charge port housing. These are typically small Torx fasteners. Note orientation and any shims or alignment features before removal.
   Torque spec

   Sensor Bolts11 Nm (8 lb-ft)
6. 6

   Extract the failed latch
   Withdraw the latch assembly from the charge port housing. If it resists, check for a hidden retaining clip or guide pin — do not force it. Inspect the bore of the housing for debris, broken plastic, or moisture intrusion and clean as needed.
7. 7

   Compare old and new parts
   Place the failed latch next to the replacement and confirm connector style, mounting hole pattern, and pin position match exactly. 2024 Model X uses an updated latch revision; an incorrect-revision part will mount but not function correctly.
   ℹ️If parts do not match, do not modify either component. Source the correct part by VIN before proceeding.
8. 8

   Install the new latch
   Seat the new latch into the housing in the same orientation as the original. Start all fasteners by hand to avoid cross-threading the small threads in the plastic/aluminum housing.
   Torque spec

   Sensor Bolts11 Nm (8 lb-ft)
9. 9

   Torque the latch fasteners
   Torque the latch retaining fasteners to the manufacturer-specified value for charging port mounting hardware. Do not overtighten — the housing is thin-wall and will crack.
   Torque spec

   Charging Port Mounting8 Nm (6 lb-ft)

   Sensor Bolts11 Nm (8 lb-ft)
10. 10

    Reconnect the low-voltage harness
    Reconnect the latch motor connector and any sensor connector until you feel/hear a positive click. Verify the locking tab is fully engaged. Route wiring clear of any moving parts of the charge port door mechanism.
11. 11

    Reinstall any inner brackets or covers
    If a metal mounting bracket or inner cover was removed to access the latch, reinstall it now. Torque bracket and cover hardware to OEM specification.
    Torque spec

    Bracket Bolts20 Nm (15 lb-ft)

    Cover Screws11 Nm (8 lb-ft)

Reassembly

1. Reinstall the rear trunk side trim panel, ensuring all push-pin clips fully seat. Replace any clips broken during removal.
2. Verify the charge port door opens and closes freely by hand before re-energizing.
3. Reconnect the 12V battery (positive first, then negative) in the frunk. Torque terminals to OEM specification — refer to Tesla Service Manual.
4. Close the frunk and allow the vehicle 1–2 minutes to fully wake and recognize the new latch.

Verification

• From the touchscreen, command the charge port door to open and close several times. Listen for a clean motor cycle with no grinding or stalling.
• Insert a J1772 adapter or the Tesla connector and confirm the latch engages and the connector cannot be pulled out.
• Press the release button on the connector handle (or use the touchscreen 'Stop Charging') and confirm the latch fully releases the connector.
• Begin a low-amperage charge session (e.g., 5A from a 120V outlet) for 30 seconds to confirm the vehicle recognizes a locked, properly seated connector and starts charging without faults.
• Check the touchscreen for any charge-port-related alerts. There should be none.
• Cycle the falcon door above the charge port and verify it does not contact or interfere with the charge port door area.
• Note: the charge port latch is not on a scheduled maintenance interval, but while the trunk trim is open, this is a good time to check the cabin air filter (Tesla recommends replacement every 2 years, or every 3 years on HEPA-equipped Model X) and to confirm brake fluid is within its 2-year service window.

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