How to Remove Tesla Model Y Wheel Cap: Step-by-Step Guide

Removing a Tesla Model Y wheel cap is one of those small maintenance tasks that looks intimidating at first—but once you understand the design, it’s surprisingly easy and safe to perform with your hands.

Whether you’re switching a wheel cover, inspecting lug nuts, installing new accessories, or simply curious after watching a YouTube video, this guide will walk you through how to remove Tesla wheel cap correctly—without scratching the wheel, damaging the center cap, or risking your vehicle.

This post is written specifically for Model Y owners, including the latest Y Juniper refresh, and focuses on a clean, step-by-step method that works in real life.

Why You Might Want to Remove a Tesla Model Y Wheel Cap

Before we get into the step-by-step instructions, it helps to understand why so many Tesla owners are interested in removing the cap in the first place.

Common reasons include:

Replacing the factory wheel cover with a different design
Accessing lug nuts for tire rotation or inspection
Cleaning the center area of the wheel
Installing aftermarket accessories
Checking clips after a curb hit
Restoring the stock look after removing aero covers

For many owners, the rest of the wheel looks better exposed—especially on newer Model Y Juniper trims.

Understanding the Tesla Model Y Wheel Cap Design

Tesla wheel caps are held in place using a clip-based system around the perimeter of the wheel. There are no screws and no adhesives involved.

Key components to know:

Center cap: Covers the hub area
Wheel cover: The full aero cap (on some trims)
Clips: Plastic retention clips that snap onto the wheel
Edge: The outer rim where leverage is applied

The design is intentional—it allows owners to remove and reinstall the cap without special tools.

What You’ll Need Before You Start

Good news: you don’t need much.

Step-by-Step: How to Remove Tesla Model Y Wheel Cap

Follow these steps carefully to ensure a smooth, damage-free removal.

Step 1: Park Safely and Check Wheel Position

Make sure your vehicle is parked on a flat surface and powered off. Turn the wheel slightly outward if it helps you access the cap more comfortably.

Take a moment to check the cap’s position and find a spot where your fingers can grip the edge.

Step 2: Locate the Perimeter Grip Point

Look closely at the perimeter of the wheel cap. Most Tesla caps have a slight gap near the edge—this is where you’ll begin.

This figure-out phase matters. Choosing the right starting point makes the process much easier.

Step 3: Pull Gently but Firmly

Place your fingers behind the edge of the cap and pull outward using steady pressure.

Do not twist
Do not jerk
Let the clips release naturally

You may hear a soft popping sound—that’s normal. It means the clip is disengaging as designed.

Step 4: Work Around the Wheel

Once the first clip releases, move your hands around the wheel and continue to pull gently at different points along the perimeter.

This distributes pressure evenly and helps ensure no single clip takes too much force.

Take your time—rushing is the most common mistake.

Step 5: Remove the Center Cap Completely

After most clips have released, the center cap will come off easily.

Place it on a clean surface to avoid scratches. Inspect the back to check that all clips are intact and seated properly.

If a clip looks bent, gently realign it before reinstalling.

What You’ll See After Removal

With the cap removed, you’ll now have full access to:

The lug nuts
The wheel hub center
Brake components (partial view)

This is often when owners decide whether they want to reinstall the original cover or switch to a different style.

How to Protect Your Wheel During Removal

Protecting the wheel is just as important as removing the cap.

Best practices

Use a microfiber cloth between your fingers and the edge
Avoid pulling at only one spot
Never pry with metal tools

These simple habits help protect the finish and keep the wheel looking new.

Common Mistakes Tesla Owners Make

Even though the process is easy, a few mistakes show up again and again:

Pulling too hard in one way
Using screwdrivers instead of hands
Ignoring resistance instead of moving to another place
Removing the cap right after a curb hit without checking for damage

Learning the correct work flow prevents unnecessary repairs.

Is It Safe for Model Y Juniper?

Yes. The Y Juniper wheel cap follows the same fundamental design principles as earlier Model Y versions.

However, because finishes and materials vary, always check your specific wheel type before applying force.

If you’re unsure, many owners learn visually by watching a YouTube or video demonstration first.

Where to Find Visual Help

If you’re a visual learner, you’ll find dozens of tutorials online:

YouTube search results
Community forum post walkthroughs
Installation video clips from accessory brands

Watching one incredible demonstration can help you perform the task with confidence.

Reinstalling the Wheel Cap (Quick Tip)

To reinstall:

Align the center of the cap with the wheel hub
Press evenly around the perimeter
Listen for clips snapping back into place

Always ensure the cap sits flush before driving.

Final Thoughts: Removing a Tesla Wheel Cap Is Easier Than You Think

Once you understand how Tesla designs its wheel cover system, removing a Model Y wheel cap becomes a quick, stress-free task.

With the right step-by-step guide, a little patience, and proper technique, most owners can complete the process in just a few minutes—no tools, no damage, no frustration.

If you’re interested in upgrading your wheels or exploring new accessories, this is one of the first skills worth learning.

For more Tesla how-to guides, installation tips, or product comparisons, feel free to learn more, subscribe via email, or explore recommended products on platforms like Amazon.

How to Remove Tesla Model Y Wheel Cap (Step-by-Step)