When Tesla introduced the Model 3 Highland update in August 2023, the sleek refresh was accompanied by some bold design changes. Among them, the removal of the traditional gear selector stalk and the switch from turn signal stalks to steering wheel-mounted buttons quickly became some of the most debated updates in the company’s history.
Now, after nearly two years of feedback, Tesla has chosen to restore the stalk—at least in the Chinese market—signaling a rare reversal in the brand’s often uncompromising design philosophy.
Key Takeaways
- Tesla has reintroduced the turn signal stalk on the Model 3 Highland in China.
- A factory-backed retrofit kit will be available mid-September 2025.
- The retrofit costs ¥2,499 ($349) and must be installed at Tesla Service Centers.
- Initially limited to Highland vehicles produced after February 7, 2025.
- Wider rollout and compatibility updates are expected in the future.
- Retrofit design is based on the slimmer stalk seen in the Model Y Juniper.
Why Tesla Reconsidered
Tesla’s decision to eliminate the stalks in favor of steering wheel buttons mirrored its approach with the Model S and Model X, aiming for a minimalist, futuristic driving experience. However, the change divided customers. Many owners complained that using buttons for signaling felt unintuitive, especially in dynamic driving conditions.
Given that the Model 3 is a global bestseller and a key product for Tesla in Europe, China, and North America, the company’s decision to bring back the stalk underscores how customer sentiment can influence even Tesla’s boldest design choices.
Read Also : Next-Generation VW T-Roc Revealed Ahead of Launch
Factory-Backed Retrofit
Starting in mid-September 2025, Tesla will sell an official accessory called the “Model 3 Steering Wheel Turn Signal Lever Modification” via its online shop and mobile app in China.
Priced at ¥2,499 ($349), the kit includes:
- A redesigned steering wheel without turn signal buttons.
- A slimmer, streamlined stalk inspired by the Model Y Juniper.
- Professional installation at a Tesla Service Center.
Importantly, Tesla plans to recycle the steering wheel components removed during installation, partially offsetting costs and supporting sustainability efforts.
Compatibility and Rollout
For now, the retrofit is limited to Model 3 Highland vehicles produced after February 7, 2025. Tesla has confirmed plans to expand compatibility to other Highland models over time.
While this change is currently exclusive to China, the global significance of the Model 3 suggests it may eventually extend to Europe and North America. Given the company’s history of gradual regional rollouts, a wider expansion seems plausible.
A Look at Aftermarket Alternatives
During the two years without a factory solution, aftermarket providers filled the gap. Companies like Enhance Auto launched products such as S3XY Stalks, which became popular among owners seeking a more conventional setup.
Although these third-party solutions offered a fix, Tesla’s official retrofit provides a factory-backed warranty, professional installation, and brand-standard quality, giving customers greater peace of mind.
Technical Snapshot
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Model Affected | Tesla Model 3 Highland |
| Change Introduced | Return of turn signal stalks |
| Retrofit Kit Name | Model 3 Steering Wheel Turn Signal Lever Modification |
| Price | ¥2,499 ($349) |
| Availability | From mid-September 2025 (China) |
| Compatibility | Highland models built after Feb 7, 2025 |
| Retrofit Design | Based on Model Y Juniper stalk |
| Installation | Tesla Service Center (professional only) |
What This Means for Tesla Owners
The decision to reintroduce stalks marks a notable moment for Tesla. Historically, the company has pursued innovation at all costs, often challenging long-standing automotive conventions. In this case, however, strong customer dissatisfaction has prompted a shift.
For Chinese customers, it means an immediate return to a more familiar driving experience. For global markets, it raises the possibility that Tesla may adapt its approach further if demand proves equally strong.
Looking Ahead
Tesla’s move to restore the turn signal stalk on the Model 3 Highland highlights a rare instance where user feedback directly reshaped the company’s design strategy. While the change begins in China, its eventual expansion could influence other Tesla models and markets.
For now, Tesla has shown that even the most disruptive automaker is willing to compromise—when customer sentiment is strong enough.
Discover more from ActuCars
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
