2021-2025 Tesla Model S & X Steering Wheel: Yoke vs. Round, Peeling, and Horn Issues

Variant Differences: Yoke vs. Round Wheel

The most significant factor when dealing with a 2021-2025 Tesla Model S or Model X steering wheel is its shape. From 2021, these vehicles launched with a rectangular 'Yoke' as the standard and only option. Later, due to customer feedback, Tesla made a traditional round steering wheel available as a paid retrofit and eventually a selectable option.

Horn Mechanism: Touch vs. Mechanical

To further complicate matters, there are two types of horn systems:

• Touch-Sensitive Horn: Early Yoke wheels featured a small, touch-sensitive horn icon on the right side of the wheel. Many drivers found this difficult to locate in an emergency.
• Mechanical Horn: Later Yoke and round wheels feature a traditional mechanical horn, where pressing the center airbag cover activates the horn.

When replacing a steering wheel, especially the Yoke, it is critical to know which horn system the vehicle is configured for. Swapping between types requires not only the correct steering wheel and airbag combination but also a software update using Tesla's diagnostic tools to reconfigure the vehicle.

Known Issues and Symptoms of Failure

Peeling and Bubbling Material

The most widely reported issue, particularly with the Yoke, is the premature degradation of the synthetic 'vegan leather' material. Owners report the material bubbling, peeling, or flaking, sometimes with as few as 10,000-15,000 miles. This is considered a cosmetic defect and does not impact the steering's functionality or safety.

In response, Tesla issued Service Bulletin SB-24-32-005 for certain Model S and Model X vehicles built between February 2021 and January 3, 2024. Under this bulletin, Tesla Service will replace the peeling Yoke and the original airbag with a new Yoke assembly and a new airbag designed for a mechanical horn. This is covered under warranty, but out-of-warranty replacement can be costly.

Malfunctioning Buttons or Horn

A non-functional horn is a common problem, often linked to an incorrect steering wheel and airbag combination being installed during a service visit. In other cases, a loose internal connector behind the airbag can cause the horn to stop working. Less commonly, issues with the clock spring—a coiled cable that allows the wheel to turn while maintaining electrical connections—can cause buttons or the horn to fail.

Loss of Power Steering Assist

While less common on the 2021+ models, software glitches can sometimes cause a loss or reduction of power steering assist, making the wheel difficult to turn at low speeds. This is often accompanied by a warning message on the driver's display. In many cases, this can be resolved with an over-the-air (OTA) software update from Tesla. Note that earlier Model S and X vehicles (pre-2021) had recalls for corroding steering gear bolts, but this is a different issue affecting a different generation.

Recalls and Technical Service Bulletins

• NHTSA Recall 23V-743: Issued in November 2023, this recall affects 159 Model S and Model X vehicles from 2021-2023 that underwent a steering wheel retrofit in service. The concern is that the wrong airbag may have been installed for the corresponding wheel type (e.g., a Yoke airbag in a round wheel). The remedy is a free inspection and, if necessary, replacement of the airbag with the correct variant.
• Loss of Horn Function Recall (Voluntary): Tesla initiated a voluntary recall for a small number of 2021-2025 Model S and Model X vehicles where a service technician may have installed an incompatible airbag and steering wheel combination, disabling the horn. The fix is to inspect and install the correct parts.
• TSB SB-24-32-005: This service bulletin addresses the peeling material on the steering Yoke for affected 2021-2024 models. The correction involves replacing the Yoke and airbag with an updated version featuring a mechanical horn.
🎬 See the new Yoke 2.0 with the mechanical horn upgrade.

Buying a Used Steering Wheel: What to Inspect

Purchasing a used steering wheel for a Model S or Model X requires careful verification. Given the complexities, a used OEM part is strongly recommended over aftermarket alternatives, which may lack proper safety testing and airbag integration.

1. Verify Compatibility: This is the most critical step. Confirm if you need a Yoke or a Round wheel. Then, determine if your car requires a touch-sensitive horn or a mechanical horn. You will also need the matching airbag, as they are not sold with the steering wheel itself.
2. Inspect the Material: For Yoke wheels, carefully inspect the entire surface for signs of bubbling, peeling, or excessive wear, especially at the 3 and 9 o'clock hand positions. Ask for high-resolution photos of these areas. Even minor bubbling can quickly worsen.
3. Check the Part Number: If possible, get the part number from the seller. Part number 1965131-00-C (or a later revision) corresponds to the Yoke with a mechanical horn. The airbag for this yoke is part number 1965182-00-A.
4. Ask About the Donor Vehicle: Knowing the year and model of the vehicle the part came from can help confirm compatibility.
5. Plan for Installation: Remember that installing a different type of wheel (e.g., swapping a touch-horn Yoke for a mechanical-horn Yoke) requires a software configuration change that can only be performed by Tesla Service or a qualified shop with access to Tesla's Toolbox 3 software.

Cost Comparison

Prices can vary significantly based on the specific part and whether you are retrofitting or simply replacing. Labor costs are generally low if it's a simple swap, but increase if software changes are needed.

Replacement Overview & Difficulty

• Difficulty: 3/5
• Estimated Time: 1-2 hours
• DIY Feasible: Yes, but with caution.

Replacing the steering wheel is mechanically straightforward but carries significant risk due to the airbag. Furthermore, a software update may be required.

Basic Steps:

1. Disconnect the low-voltage power supply.
2. Remove the driver's airbag by releasing the retaining clips from behind the steering wheel.
3. Disconnect the airbag and steering wheel control connectors.
4. Use a socket to remove the central bolt (Part No. 1036655-00-A) holding the wheel to the steering column.
5. Install the new wheel, torque the bolt to spec, and reconnect all electrical connectors.
6. Install the correct, compatible airbag.
7. Reconnect power and test all functions (horn, buttons, etc.).
8. If you changed wheel or horn types, a visit to Tesla Service is necessary to update the vehicle's configuration.

Frequently Asked Questions