2023 Tesla Model 3 Panoramic Roof Glass Replacement
by Alfredo Calva
VIN# 5YJ3E1EA6PF614925 | Glass Part# 1587892-00A | DOT# 615 1
- Replacing the panoramic roof glass on a 2023 Tesla Model 3 can seem intimidating at first, but it’s a straightforward job with the right tools and some patience.
- Always pre-inspect the interior and exterior of the vehicle. This crucial step not only informs the customer, but also records any pre-existing damage to the vehicle and reduces your liability. As you can see in this picture, the glass is set higher than it should be on the edges, and the moulding is lifted.
- This is another example of something to record. The moulding at the corner is not touching the roof glass, creating a gap.
- It’s crucial to measure the gaps. It helps you follow the true measurements or center the new glass correctly.
- This specific install was not aligned correctly. If you’re unsure whether something is misaligned, you can always start by checking the rear, where the back glass aligns with the body.
- It’s also crucial to record the measurements of the gaps on the side of the roof glass.
- Protect the headliner when feeding the line from the inside to the outside. Start at a corner, but do not go all the way to the end. There is a bracket that holds the roof rack in place.
- Carefully remove the underside moulding while feeding the fiber line through. This allows you to see the depth and avoid hitting the vehicle’s body.
- Pull enough fiber line to lace the glass all the way around. Be careful not to damage the moulding on the neighboring piece of glass.
- Holding the tool at the correct angle makes the cutout much easier. Keep both sides of the line as close together as possible.
- When you reach an angle of zero degrees on one side, reposition the tool and continue cutting from the opposite side. This helps eliminate the tight angle and allows for a smoother cut. Take your time and find the best angles. It makes the cut-out much easier.
- This photo shows the glass is already cut out, so it’s easier to explain. Go above the roof rack brackets when lacing the fiber line so you don’t break it or damage the brackets.
- This new glass includes size and shape markings for running a bead. Follow them to help ensure proper bonding during installation. This is part of the vehicle’s structural integrity, so following the manufacturer’s specifications is a must.
- Prep the body of the vehicle and the glass according to the adhesive manufacturer’s recommendations. Always clean around the existing urethane before trimming it down to avoid contaminating the bonding chain.
- Realign the new glass after decking it. Use a measuring tool, if possible, to get an accurate reading. Adjust the alignment if necessary — each piece of glass is a little different.
- Always strive to perform a better installation than the previous one. Check the gaps on the sides of the glass and detail the mouldings around it.
- This vehicle has accessories, like this roof rack. If you are not comfortable or trained to remove and reinstall the rack, inform the customer beforehand. Do not do any work you do not feel qualified to do.
- The Tesla panoramic roof glass installation is complete. Always follow your adhesive manufacturer’s minimum drive-away times. The bead size on this piece of roof glass is larger than that of a windshield installation, so I recommend allowing additional cure time before putting the vehicle back on the road. Always finalize the installation with a post-inspection.
Alfredo Calva is the president of Alfredo’s Auto Glass in Corona, Calif. alfredosautoglass@hotmail.com
To view the laid-in version of this issue in our digital edition, CLICK HERE.
