Diy

[DIY] Chrome delete Tesla Model 3 (easy vinyl wrap)

If you are thinking about doing your own chrome delete for your M3 you can see how to do it here.

[Video] Arduino controlled side glow fibers

Check out the process of installing 40 individually controlled LEDs on to side glow fiber optics of a (Purple) Model 3. Incredible work by Nate Mccomb 👏 Thanks for sharing!

[Video] Houdini Tesla Track Mode rendering from a CSV

With the release of Track Model v2, Tesla also introduced the ability to store track sessions, including video and a bunch data, but they didn’t release is a way of visualizing it. This is why Reddit’s user u/CAPSLOCKCHAMP has built a Python script to parse the Track Mode 2 information from a .csv file to make a visualization of the data in a program called Houdini. Houdini is really good for this type of procedural animation combined with data, the end result is pretty impressive.

4 Easy fixes for rattling/creaking noises for Tesla Model 3

Great compilation of tricks and fixes in case your Model 3 isn’t as quiet as you’d like.

A/C odor removal and cleaning

A bunch of Model 3 owners have complained recently about a strange odor coming out of their A/C when they first start the car. The smell seems to go away after a few minutes but it is still really annoying. Tesla wouldn’t cover it under the warranty, but TMC user Lanzer just shared his trick to get rid of it.

Read more: TMC Forum

Auto-lifting Tesla Model 3 frunk

The Tesla Model 3 frunk releases on its own (with the push of a button on the touch screen or mobile app), but it doesn’t pop open. i1Tesla figured out that you can order inexpensive gas spring struts on Amazon that will make the frunk lift on its own.

Awesome garage decor

This Twitter user definitely has great skill and their garage looks amazing.

Backup key experiments

Not a bad idea to put it on the phone case, and this is only for backup when the phone dies. The problem, as the author puts on Reddit, is it prevents the phone’s NFC from working when the case is on.

Build a smart USB drive for your Tesla dash cam

drfrank explains how to setup a Raspberry Pi Zero W so that your Tesla thinks it’s a USB drive and writes dash cam footage to it. You can configure it so when you get home the Raspberry Pi connects to your WiFi and uploads your cam footage to your server. Pretty cool, uh?

Read more: Reddit

Can't wait for the Cybertruck to come out?

If you’re talented enough, you could build one yourself with wooden panels. This one even took a quick spin around the track!

Dissolved a spare M3 key card in acetone and put its RFID chip and antenna in a small, generic key fob

Have you ever wanted to have a key fob instead of the key card for your Model 3? This Tesla owner transformed his key for about $10 (excluding the key cards).

Read more: Reddit

DIY Chrome delete for your Model 3

For $80 with 3M 1080 Satin Black Vinyl.

DIY garage Tesla Level 2 charger 📹

We always like it when people share their garage customizations. From original ways to get the cables off the garage floor to cool decorations, here’s a new video of an owner who build himself a Tesla Level 2 charger in his garage.

DIY Protection with Feynlab

Feynlab’s DIY products follow a regimen: Preparation, Protection, Maintenance. First Prepare the paint by washing with Pure Wash, followed by Panel Prep to remove any residual oil or contaminants. Then Protect your Tesla using Ceramic Lite - the easiest coating to apply. Then Maintain the coating with Pure Wash, and if you want that extra touch of protection, follow it up with Ceramic Spray Sealant every couple of months. Get a free quote.

DIY Protection with Feynlab

Feynlab’s DIY products follow a regimen: Preparation, Protection, Maintenance. First Prepare the paint by washing with Pure Wash, followed by Panel Prep to remove any residual oil or contaminants. Then Protect your Tesla using Ceramic Lite - the easiest coating to apply. Then Maintain the coating with Pure Wash, and if you want that extra touch of protection, follow it up with Ceramic Spray Sealant every couple of months.

DIY retracting charging cable

If you are interested in something like what is shown on the video look at the post for more details.

Read more: TMC Forum

DIY Retrofit CCS compatibility for Model 3

A reader from Tesletter recently asked me about the CCS retrofit for their Model 3. If you are the kind of person who likes tinkering with their Tesla, this article explains how to DIY.

DIY Tesla HEPA filter on a ‘21 Model Y without stinky smell

This Reddit user had problems with his cabin filters (stinky smell we are all familiar with). When the new HEPA filter for the Model Y came out, he noticed how much better the design was at preventing water from getting to it and, since no retrofit was available, decided to fix the problem himself. And… he got the missing parts from Tesla for only $70.50 🤯.

DIY two-tone slipstream wheels

Tesla offers these for $2,000 but this Reddit user did them with 3M vinyl for $50. What do you think?

DIY: Tesla Sound Dampening

This DIY was originally posted on the Facebook group Tesla Tips & Tricks by [Nenad Bejat](https://www.facebook.com/nbdjat. Thank you Nenad Bejat for sharing with Tesletter’s readers!

tl;dr
Yes, it works. Yes, music quality increases tenfold. Yes, all rattle noise disappears. Door closing sounds more compact and “expensive”. Lowers wind noise.

Read more: Google Doc

Do It Yourself - Model 3

Tesla just released a bunch of DIY articles for Model 3 owners, check them out!

Read more: Tesla

Fixed severed wheel sensor wires on a Tesla Model X

Good DIY in case this happens to you.

German Youtubers build giant tracks on their Tesla

The group of German Youtubers just modified their Model 3 and built giant tracks on it, making it a Model T(ank). The production of this video is excellent and worth watching.

Great DIY jack pads that fit the Model 3 perfectly!

How to easily remove aero kit center cap without scratching

HW2.0 retrofit for MCU2, IC2, Tuner2, and FSD

A couple of months before Tesla announced the availability of the Infotainment upgrade, Kyle (@kyleday) finished this project to upgrade his Model S’ MCU and was even able to keep Tuner2 (which the official Tesla retrofit doesn’t offer).

In his words “I do not encourage you to repeat anything I have done. In fact, now that Tesla is offering the MCU2 and FSD Computer retrofits officially, I highly recommend you go do that.” But if you’re looking for good entertainment- with a successful outcome!- this is it. Thank you Kyle for sharing 🙏 Enjoy!

I turned my Tesla into a pickup truck

This video has been all over the Internet during the past two days. A Model 3 owner decided to modify her Model 3 and convert it in a pickup truck. This for sure is nothing like the future Tesla pickup truck (expected to be unveiled this summer) but it requires some serious skill and it’s the kind of content that we, at Tesletter, really love. Really impressive Simone!

Install a hitch for your Tesla Model 3

Trevor from Tesla Owners Online shows how to install the installation of Torklift Central EcoHitch in his Model 3. As Trevor said, the car was designed to have a hitch. I just want to add that you should inform yourself before deciding to install a tow hitch since Tesla says in the manual to not do it. Good job Trevor!

Installing new Race Deck Tiles

My friend Rafael (aka Teslatino) recently removed the old ceramic tiles from his garage floor (installed by a previous owner) which had been destroyed by his Model 3, and installed tough plastic tiles to renew the look and comfort of his garage. Great job, it looks amazing!

Jeda charger iPhone 12 MagSafe mod

If your Jeda wireless pad charger is not lining up right on the charger and you often have to slide it up a little to get it to start charging, here’s a solution for you. Get some adhesive MagSafe magnets from AliExpress and a roll of adhesive-backed microfiber to cover the magnets and hold them in place on the mat. Put it all together, wrapped and trimmed on the edges (you could use an Exacto knife), and voilà. Thank you u/TheKobayashiMoron for sharing this $20 project!

Johnny Cash's Rolls-Royce is now a converted Tesla with a touchscreen in the trunk

Johnny Cash’s 1970 Rolls-Royce has been converted into an electric car using a Tesla powertrain and other parts. The conversion was done by ShiftEV, which does a lot of these types of custom projects. Ok, this might be a bit off-topic for this newsletter but it was too cool to not add it ;)

What would be really cool is if Tesla someday decided to sell ‘conversion kits’. After all, this would align very well with its mission to accelerate the world’s transition to sustainable energy.

MagSafe dock for the new iPhone 12 Pro (Model S/X)

This Tesla owner was looking for a MagSafe for his Model X and, after not being able to find a solution he liked, he built his own. Here’s a short demo and here’s a detailed explanation of the hack and all the pieces needed. The DIY has become so popular that the creator is 3D printing them and selling them on Etsy. He plans on donating the proceeds to clean energy non-profit to help further the Tesla mission.

MicroHUD showing battery power and motor torque 📹

TechTesla shares their microHUD showing battery power and motor torque directly from the bus. This HUD is wireless and it can be programmed to show other signals too. Pretty cool!

Model 3 DIY Wireless Phone Charger (no tools needed)

There are a few wireless phone chargers for the Model 3 already in the market but doing it yourself is always cool. Great job reflexiveblue documenting the process!

Read more: imgur Gallery

Model 3 hitch installation trailer wiring tips

Tesla offers the tow hitch as an extra in Europe - no idea why only in Europe - but it seems to be shipping cars with the necessary wiring here in the US too. If you are thinking about getting an aftermarket tow hitch, and you have these wires, that will make the installation much easier.

Read more: Reddit

Model 3 light wiring guide and review

I love seeing these DIY posts, the result is nice with the exception of some wires sticking out of the center console:

Read more: Reddit

Model 3 owner makes their own hooks for his frunk

This Model 3 owner was bummed by the fact that Tesla removed the hooks in the frunk and decided to 3D print his own for his Model 3 from Q3 2020. If you’re also missing this accessory, and have a 2017-2020 Model 3 (not the new version!) here’s some you can buy on Amazon.

Model 3 remote control car

Another cool DIY built by another creative Model 3 owner. 3D printed body, Silver Midnight Metallic paint 😎 So awesome!

Model 3 vinyl wrap template

Awesome templates for Model 3 interior. If you don’t have access to a vinyl plotter you can also purchase a pre-made kit. Highly recommended you use an automotive grade vinyl. Enjoy!

Read more: GitHub

Model S custom bed

No, this isn’t the type of bed for kids with the shape of a Model S, although that would be amazing! This guy built a custom bed for the back of his Model S.

Model X wood carving

If you like wood carving, and even if you don’t, here’s a mesmerizing video of a wood-carved Tesla Model X. This is some serious craft!

New Model Y DIY Paint Protection Film offered by Tesla

Tesla is now offering their own PPF for the Model Y. For their first product in this category, Tesla is targetting an area that suffers a lot, especially for those who live in cold climates where snow and sand can damage the car. This new accessory consists of 2x clear protective film for rear fenders and 1x squeegee. It seems like a good option if you like DIYs and don’t want to spend a lot of money on a PPF for the whole car. As someone who may get their Model Y soon, I’d like to see what folks say of its quality and how it compares to other brands that we like and trust like Tesbros.

Pro Tip: You can fix trunk alignment and gaps yourself

Do you have small trunk panel gaps? If so, there are 4 rubber bumpers on the trunk itself, and you can adjust them by either tightening or loosening each one until the trunk is aligned when closed.

Retractable charger setup

We’re always looking for cool hacks to improve our charging situation at home. Here’s a cool trick.

Solar Tesla charger for $1,200

This Reddit user just build a 4.8 kWh storage with 1.3 kWh panels Tesla charger that’s portable. With the current setup, they are able to add 39 miles of range in 6 hours during the date, or charge the batteries during the day and get 12 miles of range at night. Cool!

Step by Step Guide on How to Fix Minor Scratches on your Tesla for under $20

Our friend Ji, from Tesbros, just released a great guide on how to fix minor scratches in your Tesla (or any other vehicle) for as low as $20. Thanks for the tips, Ji!

Tesla Apple CarPlay for any Tesla

With a Raspberry Pi and some Open Source software, you can add Apple CarPlay to your Tesla. Personally, I don’t think I need a CarPlay integration, but I’ve seen folks asking for this in the past, if you are the tinkerer type, this might be for you.

Tesla CyberTruck custom 6x6 and vinyl wrap

For the Cybertruck lovers… Check out this 3D printed model being wrapped in just two minutes. Very cool.

Tesla diagnostic software is now available for purchase in the US

For those who want to repair their own cars or are thinking about tinkering with them, now Tesla offers a subscription to their Diagnostic Software for $333 a month or $2000 / year.

Tesla LEGO Cybertruck

Trevor, from Tesla Owners Online, updated his designed of the Tesla LEGO Cybertruck to be a bit longer. Read the post for a Bricklink Want List that you can use to get all the parts you need as well as some cool pictures, and a PDF with the instructions. Thank you Trevor!

Tesla Model 3 replace rear window and remove door panel

After having his window smashed, stilweezy decided to repair it himself and recorded the entire process. I hope this doesn’t happen to any of you, but with the increment on smash and grabs (specially in the Bay Area), this is useful.

Tesla Powerwall 40kWh DIY project

Because Tesla Powerwall is not available in Romania, this Reddit user decided to build their own, custom made and based on Model S modules. Here are two time-lapse videos (part 1, part 2) showing the installation of this ‘Tesla Powerwalls’ 40kWh DIY project. Part 2 is the one showing how the Model S batteries are mounted and wired to a 48V system.

Tesla tailgating table

I love the creativity of the Tesla community, this Tesla owner has designed his own Tesla tailgating table with an umbrella and everything. And the table also serves as a lid for the sub trunk of his Model 3. It’s made of bamboo and it costs around $200. Very creative and very practical for camping trips!

TeslaUSB - A fully automated Dashcam storage device

Tutorial to install and configure a Raspberry Pi to automatically back up all the Saved Dashcam and Sentry footage when you get home.

The world’s first Tesla front PPF kit designed to be DIY

Tesbros just announced the first front PPF Kit designed to be DIY. They have designed this kit from scratch to be installed by folks without PPF experience. You can pre-order your kit now, kits will start shipping on June 24th.

Tilted Tesla touchscreen - Model 3

Brian from i1Tesla shows us an accessory to tilt the screen of the Model 3. Brian always has crazy mods like this one!

Trick for M3 phone dock so smartphone + case can fit

Thank you lexiheft for posting on Youtube so we could share it on the Tesletter!

Valet key card holder with instructions

Depending on where you live, valet folks might not know how to lock/unlock or place your key card to drive. In order to help with that, u/potatosomersault made a printable version that you can hand to the valet so they know exactly what to do.

Weathertight UMC housing I built for the wife

If your UMC is outdoors, you might want to consider some type of enclosing to avoid it ending up breaking due to the weather conditions. This Reddit user showed us what he built for $85, “$30 for the post $30 for the stainless hardware $15 paint $10 electrical box and receptacle”.