Based on common issues with the Tesla Model 3 (including the "Highland" refresh and 2025–2026 models), here are 5 labels with their specific causes and solutions:
Panel Alignment & Gaps,
Cause: Variations in factory calibration during the stamping and assembly process, particularly in the hood, trunk, and charge port door.
1 Solution: Service centers can manually shim or adjust hinges and striker plates. Owners often report "within spec" results, so many use aftermarket seal kits to minimize the resulting wind noise.
Paint Thickness & Chipping,
Cause: Tesla uses a thin, soft clearcoat to meet environmental regulations, which makes the front bumper and rocker panels highly prone to rock chips and "sandblasting" from road debris.
2 Solution: Professional application of Paint Protection Film (PPF) or ceramic coating.
3 Tesla also sells a DIY Paint Repair Kit and mudflap kits specifically to mitigate this.
Exterior Trim Delamination,
Cause: Adhesive failure on the black window trim or the "cant rail" (roof trim) can cause pieces to lift or vibrate at high speeds.
Solution: Authorized service centers strip the old adhesive and apply high-strength automotive bonding agents. Some 2024–2025 models have had official service bulletins to address trim detachment.
Factory Surface Defects,
Cause: "Orange peel" texture, dust nibs, or sanding marks left over from the factory paint booth before the vehicle was delivered.
4 Solution: Professional paint correction (multi-stage buffing and polishing). If reported within the first 100 miles, Tesla will sometimes authorize a third-party body shop to correct major defects.
Seal Integrity & Wind Noise,
Cause: Large panel gaps allow air to whistle through door seals or the glass roof, especially at highway speeds.
Solution: Installing secondary rubber gasket seals around the door frame and "hush kits" for the glass roof to create a tighter aerodynamic seal.
Would you like a delivery day checklist specifically for inspecting these panel and paint issues on a new Model 3?
