- The Model 3 “Highland” doesn’t have traditional turn signal stalks.
- The change aimed to simplify the cabin, but not everyone is sold on the idea.
- A new retrofit kit now lets owners bring back the stalks – for a price.
- The same reversal already happened in China after customer backlash.
When Tesla introduced the refreshed Model 3 “Highland” in late 2023, one notable feature was the lack of a turn signal stalk. Tesla installed haptic buttons on the steering wheel in its place – a design decision that allows for a cleaner, more futuristic interior.
The result, however, wasn’t universally welcomed. While the absence of stalks aligns with Tesla’s design language, many drivers found the setup less intuitive, especially during quick maneuvers or when making turns without full steering rotation. Recognizing this, Tesla is now offering a way to bring back the stalks – but not for free.
Tesla
Minimalism Going Too Far
Tesla has launched a Model 3 Turn Signal Stalk Retrofit Kit through its official online shop, priced at $595. According to the listing (under Vehicle Accessories), the package restores the traditional left stalk to the steering column, allowing users to operate turn signals as people would on almost every car on the road. Buyers must have a Model 3 linked to their Tesla account to place an order, and the installation is performed at Tesla Service Centers, as the company will need to replace the steering wheel and column.
What makes this move more curious is that Tesla didn’t continue the stalk-less setup with the new Model Y “Juniper” introduced in the US earlier this year. The electric SUV retained its conventional turn signal stalk, suggesting that even Tesla saw the practicality of keeping some physical controls. In that sense, the retrofit offer for the Model 3 feels less like an innovation and more like damage control, but with a price tag attached.
Tesla Repeats the Move in China
Tesla faced a similar situation in China, where customer pushback prompted the company to bring back turn signal stalks for the local Model 3. The Chinese-market kit was priced at 2,499 yuan (roughly $349) and was also installed at service centers. That move was positioned as a customer satisfaction measure, but in reality, it also opened another revenue stream for Tesla’s aftersales division.
So yes, Tesla removed a common part in the Model 3 for something more minimalistic and high-tech. But if you don’t like that setup, you can always return to the basics – just be ready to pay Tesla for it.
About the author
Jacob Oliva
Senior Editor, Autoblog