Replacement of an outer or inner tail light assembly on a 2024 Tesla Model Y. Outer (body-mounted) lights are accessed from inside the rear quarter trim area; inner (liftgate-mounted) lights are accessed from inside the tailgate after removing the trim panel.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Tail light assembly (outer or inner, LH or RH as applicable) × 1 — OEM Tesla Model Y 2024 tail light assembly — verify side and inner/outer
• Replacement push-pin/clip retainers (in case of breakage) × 4 — Generic plastic body trim retainers

Preparation

1. Park on level ground, place in P, and engage the parking brake.
2. Exit ALL doors with the key fob/card 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. On the 2024 Model Y, the 12V battery is located under the rear seat / front trunk area depending on build — refer to the Tesla Service Manual for exact location on your VIN. Loosen the negative terminal first.
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. Identify which tail light is being replaced: outer (body/quarter panel) or inner (liftgate). The access procedure differs.
7. Open the liftgate and have a soft, clean surface ready to set the removed assembly on (the lens scratches easily).
8. Have replacement plastic clips on hand in case any break during trim removal.

Procedure

1. 1

   Access the tail light fasteners (outer assembly)
   For the OUTER (body-side) tail light: open the liftgate. Inside the rear cargo area, locate the access cover/trim panel on the affected side. Carefully release the plastic push-pin retainers using a trim tool and fold or remove the trim flap to expose the rear of the tail light housing and its mounting studs/nuts.
   ⚠Pry only at clip locations — do not lever against painted aluminum body.
2. 2

   Access the tail light fasteners (inner/liftgate assembly)
   For the INNER (liftgate-mounted) tail light: open the liftgate and remove the inner liftgate trim panel by releasing its perimeter clips with a plastic trim tool. Set the panel aside. The rear of the inner tail light assembly and its fasteners will now be accessible.
3. 3

   Disconnect the tail light electrical connector
   Locate the wiring harness connector at the rear of the tail light assembly. Press the locking tab and disconnect. Inspect the connector and pins for corrosion or damage before installation of the new unit.
4. 4

   Remove the mounting fasteners
   Remove the tail light mounting nuts/bolts securing the assembly to the body or liftgate. Support the assembly with one hand as the last fastener is removed so it does not fall and damage the paint or lens.
   Torque spec

   Tail Light Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
5. 5

   Remove the tail light assembly
   Gently pull the assembly straight out of the body/liftgate. There may be locating pins with rubber grommets that require firm but even pulling. Do not twist or pry — twisting can crack the housing or damage the surrounding paint.
   ⚠Aluminum body — never strike the assembly free with a hammer or hard tool.
6. 6

   Transfer any reusable hardware
   Inspect the old assembly for any rubber gaskets, foam seals, or grommets that need to transfer to the replacement. Confirm the new assembly part number and side (LH/RH) match the vehicle before installation.
7. 7

   Install the replacement assembly
   Align the locating pins of the new tail light with the body/liftgate grommets and seat it fully. Verify the gasket sits flush around the entire perimeter — gaps will allow water intrusion into the trunk or liftgate cavity.
8. 8

   Torque the mounting fasteners
   Install the mounting nuts/bolts and torque to specification. Do not overtighten — the housing is plastic and will crack or distort, ruining the seal.
   Torque spec

   Tail Light Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
9. 9

   Reconnect the electrical connector
   Plug the harness connector into the new assembly until the locking tab clicks. Ensure the connector is fully seated and the harness is routed in its original path with no pinch points (especially around the liftgate hinge/boot for inner lights).

Reassembly

1. Reinstall the inner liftgate trim panel or cargo-area access flap, ensuring all clips fully seat. Replace any broken clips.
2. Reconnect the 12V low-voltage battery negative terminal and torque per spec.
3. Close the liftgate and verify it latches normally.

Verification

• With the vehicle powered on, test all tail light functions: running lights, brake lights (have an assistant press the brake pedal), turn signals (both sides), hazards, and reverse light (shift to R with foot on brake).
• On the touchscreen, check Service / Controls for any lighting fault alerts. The Model Y will typically display a 'Rear Light Fault' message if a circuit is incorrect.
• Spray water around the perimeter of the new assembly and check inside the trunk/liftgate cavity for leaks — improper seating is the most common installation defect.
• Verify panel gaps between the tail light and surrounding body/liftgate panels match the opposite side.
• Note: While the vehicle is apart in the rear, this is a good opportunity to confirm tire rotation status — Tesla recommends rotating the Model Y every 6,250 mi due to high tire wear from instant torque and curb weight.

More procedures for this vehicle