My top tips for must-have accessories to enhance your new Tesla for safety, comfort and cleanliness.
Taking delivery of a new Tesla vehicle is an exciting experience. After checking over the systems and setting up your driving preferences, slipping out of the delivery centre with no noise or smoke should be one of the most dramatic times in anyone’s life.
Customising and personalising your new ride is common for most owners. Based on the many products we’ve tested on our own Tesla fleet, we’ve compiled a list of accessories every new Tesla owner should consider.
1. Window Tinting
I have always installed window tinting on my vehicles and could feel the difference when collecting my new Tesla Model 3 in March 2021. It was brutal!
Window tinting is essential for vehicles in Australia due to the harsh summer sun. It cuts down on visible light and heat entering your vehicle, making it more comfortable and safer to drive.
The top and rear windows are factory tinted and I prefer to cover these with removable shades rather than tinting them darker. Window tinting for the sides in a dark ceramic tint will cost approximately $500-800 depending on the installer, so check with your local Tesla club or car enthusiast group for recommended installers in your area.
If you’re in Perth, Western Australia, we use and recommend Dentless in Wangara.
2. Mobile Phone Holder
My number two accessory for a Model 3 while driving Rideshare must be a sturdy, reliable phone holder. I have tested many styles and found that the Gravity Mobile Holder is the best for my needs. It clips into the side of the Model 3 air vent so it does not rely on sticking to the windscreen or dash panels. The mobile phone is held by a gravity clamp system, which locks on as it’s lowered into the cradle. This makes it easy to lift out when required yet holds the mobile firm while driving. Make sure you pick the correct option (Right for Right-hand drive vehicles such as Australia).
3. Screen Protector
Your Model 3 dash screen is vital for driving and expensive to repair. While it is well constructed, why take the risk of scratches or chips? I recommend fitting an anti-glare screen protector, and the Spigen Tempered Glass Screen Protector is the highest-rated screen protector available. The kit includes a special fitting guide to perfectly align the protector making it simple for anyone to install. The anti-glare material dulls the appearance slightly but makes it much easier to use in sunny conditions.
4. Floor Mats
On an average day, we pick up 30-40 passengers, each with their collection of dirt and rocks. All-Weather Floor Mats are waterproof so they stop any water or mud from seeping into your Tesla floor carpets. These well-fitting floor mats will catch all the debris and make it easy to clean by lifting out during the day. If they get marked with mud or dirt, a quick wash while cleaning the Tesla will bring them back to new.
While they are described as non-slip, I have noticed that when they get wet they can be slippery for passengers getting in and out. While this isn’t an issue for most of the Perth year, I may look around for a replacement next Autumn.
Make sure you pick the Right-hand drive version for Australian vehicles.
5. Dash Mat
Adding a dash mat to your Tesla decreases incoming glare through the windscreen. It also reduces the chance of cracks or damage to the dashboard; a rare but expensive problem to fix on modern vehicles. Stylish Dashboard Mats are available in different colours to suit your interior. The non-slip backing keeps it in place without any adhesives and makes it easy to remove for cleaning.
I’ve enjoyed creating multiple wishlists while waiting for each of my Tesla vehicles to be delivered. While these are some of my current accessories, some owners are happy driving without aftermarket accessories.
It’s a personal choice after all.
-Garry
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