As one of the best-selling EVs in the US, Tesla’s Model 3 is still out on the roads en force. If you own one of these front-running electric sedans, you may be wondering what you can do to improve the ride, protect the paint, make the interior more useful, or simply make your Model 3 stand out from the crowd.
Alternatively, you may just be wondering how you can mod your Model 3 without hurting its resale value too much. After all, there are a whole lot of Model 3s out there, the used market is much larger than it was a few years ago, and the Model 3 has now been through a major refresh.
Most of this article is still focused on the Tesla Model 3, because that’s where one of the biggest used-EV mod market exists. But many of the same ideas also apply to other EVs, including the Model Y, Hyundai IONIQ 5, Kia EV6, Ford Mustang Mach-E, Volkswagen ID.4, Rivian R1T/R1S, Chevy Bolt, Nissan LEAF, and even the Cybertruck.
Let’s take a look at some of the most popular modifications and accessories for the Model 3, starting with exterior mods.
Quick note before you start modding: We are not Tesla, an automaker, or an installer. Tesla specifically says aftermarket modifications typically have a negative effect on trade-in valuations and that trade-in vehicles are best in stock or original condition (important to note if you are planning on trading in to Tesla). Other automakers, dealerships, and buyers may not use the exact same language, but the same general idea often applies: clean, reversible, well-documented mods are typically easier to sell than permanent, poorly installed, or highly personal ones. Aftermarket mods can affect resale value, trade-in value, warranty coverage, insurance, safety, legality, and vehicle functionality. This article is general information only, not repair advice, installation instructions, legal advice, or warranty advice. Before modifying any EV, check your warranty, lease terms, local laws, insurance policy, and installation instructions. For anything involving wiring, airbags, suspension, brakes, high-voltage systems, or structural components, use a qualified professional.
Top 5 Exterior Mods for the Model 3
#1: PPF and Mudflaps
This is a 2-part mod, since these mods can be used together to help save the paint job on a Model 3.
First, installing Paint Protection Film (PPF) is an excellent way to extend the life of your Tesla’s paint. For a clear protective finish that allows your original paint color to show through, choose a Gloss PPF. For a softer look, choose a Satin PPF, which is often called Matte PPF or Stealth PPF.
You can see a great side-by-side of Satin (Matte) vs Clear (Gloss) PPF here:
At minimum, a PPF install for the Model 3 rockers is a great idea, and here’s why:
The Model 3 may be an incredibly engineered electric car, but it does have one ongoing exterior issue: the questionable effectiveness of the Model 3 mud guards. Reports of scratched up lower panel paintwork from dirt, rocks, and general road debris on the Model 3 are numerous.
This is especially true for older 2017-2023 Model 3s, but even newer refreshed Model 3s are not magically immune from road debris, winter grit, or rocker-panel abuse. The Model Y has a similar issue, and plenty of other EVs with wide tires and low rocker panels can benefit from the same basic protection.
That brings us to the second half of this mod recommendation: Model 3 mud flaps. Tesla’s own mud guards are better than nothing, but a good aftermarket set of mud flaps can reduce the impact of road debris even further. It may be a good idea to look for a design that doesn’t require any drilling to install.
From a resale standpoint, PPF and mudflaps are among the safer mods because they are practical, easy for buyers to understand, and not too personal. Just keep your receipts and make sure the install looks clean.
#2: Wheel and Tire Swap
Since EVs aren’t nearly as easy to tweak with performance mods as internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles—there’s no engine to tune, no exhaust system, etc.—the range of things the average gearhead can do to increase performance is slimmer. Front-runner in this category, though, is a wheel and tire swap.
Tesla includes a couple of wheel options in the configurator, but there are a growing number of Model 3 aftermarket wheels and EV-specific tires available. The same is true for many other popular EVs, including the Model Y, IONIQ 5, EV6, Mach-E, ID.4, and Rivian models.
Swapping between wheel sets can help you increase efficiency on your daily commute, improve ride quality, change the look of the car, or give your Model 3 a firmer, more performance-oriented feel. Most Model 3s have 18”, 19”, or 20” wheel options depending on trim and year. The nice thing about this Tesla 3 mod is that it’s easily reversed if you keep the original wheels.
That last part matters. If you’re planning to sell the car later, keep the stock wheels if you can. A buyer may like your aftermarket wheels, but they may also prefer the original Tesla setup. Having both gives you more flexibility.
While you’re thinking about wheels, you might consider giving them a professional powder coat. While this doesn’t really do anything for performance, it can look sharp and add some extra protection against scratching.
Just don’t go too far in the wrong direction. Heavy wheels, cheap tires, extreme fitment, or tires that aren’t well-suited to EV weight and torque can hurt range, ride quality, tire life, and resale appeal.
#3: Window Tint
Window tinting is very popular on the Model 3, with many people choosing a moderate side-window tint and a lighter rear-glass tint. The glass roof of the Model 3 comes with factory tinting, so it’s not as common to put additional tinting up there, though some owners still do it for heat rejection.
We’d strongly recommend that you get your Model 3’s window tinting done by a professional. While the job is certainly possible to DIY, the amount of prep work and time it takes to get a clean tint installation is pretty extensive.
Ceramic tint is usually the better choice if your main goal is comfort and heat rejection. That applies beyond Tesla, too. Owners of EVs with large glass areas, such as the IONIQ 5, EV6, Mach-E, Model Y, and Cybertruck, may appreciate high-quality tint for cabin comfort.
Quick note: state laws dictate what is or isn’t considered a legal window tint percentage, so check with your state before getting your Model 3 tinted. Each window typically has its own light-blocking percentage limits. Also, if you’re planning a move to another state in the near future, it’s a good idea to research window tint laws in that state as well just in case the tint on your Model 3 could become an issue.
#4: Colored Body Wrap
Want to give your Tesla a visual overhaul without re-doing the paint? Vinyl body wraps are a great way to add personality without making any permanent change to your Model 3’s OEM paint. There are glossy, satin, matte, textured, patterned, and even color flip wraps available for the Model 3, so you’re only limited by your imagination. Well, that and your budget. Some of the options are on the expensive side.
One of the best parts about a vinyl wrap is that it can be removed, so even a leased Model 3 may be able to be wrapped, though you should check with the leasing company first. A word of caution, though: you’ll need to be very careful in removing the wrap before returning the car to avoid doing accidental damage to the paint.
Installation of a body wrap is, again, something we’d recommend getting done professionally. It’s a fairly labor-intensive process—cleaning prep, badge removals, panel edges, trim work, and so on—that can take several days depending on how complicated your particular wrap is.
From a resale standpoint, wraps are very buyer-specific. A clean, neutral wrap may be fine. A wild color-shift wrap may be awesome to you and a problem for the next buyer. If resale matters, keep the original paint protected, keep documentation, and be realistic about whether your taste is universal.
#5: Brake Caliper Covers or Caliper Paint
We know of two reasons that brake caliper covers or caliper paint might be on your list of mods for the Model 3: they can help complete the look of the car, and they can add a clean color pop behind the wheels. You can either match the general color scheme of your Tesla or use them as a small accent.
That said, this is a mod where fit and quality matter. Poorly fitted caliper covers are not worth the risk. Look for covers sold by a reputable Tesla aftermarket parts dealer and avoid cheap plastic covers. Aluminum covers are generally a better choice than plastic, but even then, correct fitment and installation matter.
Another option is professional caliper painting or powder coating. It may be cleaner than covers, but it still needs to be done correctly.
This same idea applies to other EVs, too, especially cars like the Model Y, Mach-E, EV6, IONIQ 5, and ID.4, where many owners want a little more visual character without doing a full body kit.
Bonus: Suspension Mods
If you’ve got the Performance version of the Model 3, suspension mods may be an attractive option, depending on how you plan to use your car. There are a wide variety of sway bars, lowering springs, camber arms, coilovers, and so on out there.
However, you should be aware that these kinds of Tesla Model 3 mods can create warranty, alignment, tire wear, ride-quality, and resale concerns. They can also change the way the car behaves in emergency maneuvers, bad weather, or on rough roads.
From a resale standpoint, suspension mods may not be as great of an idea for the base Model 3 or the Long Range Model 3. A buyer looking for a comfortable daily driver may not want a lowered, firmer car, even if the parts were expensive.
The same general rule applies to other EVs: suspension mods make the most sense when the vehicle already has a performance audience. A cleanly modified Model 3 Performance, IONIQ 5 N, EV6 GT, Mach-E GT, or Rivian may find the right buyer. A heavily lowered commuter EV may have a smaller buyer pool.
Top 5 Model 3 Interior Mods
The most popular interior mods for the Model 3 are practical, and #1 on this list is the same mod we recommend for all Teslas:
#1: Touchscreen Protector
A screen protector is a must for your Model 3 as soon as you take delivery. The console screen is essential to functionality, climate control, navigation, and pretty much everything else in a Tesla, so damaging it can make the car much more annoying to use. Honestly, the cost of a $50-or-less screen protector is way less painful than a costly screen repair.
Be sure to look for 9H tempered glass for your screen protector, and we recommend a matte finish to reduce fingerprints and glare. Screen protectors can be found at most EV stores that cater to Teslas such as TESBROS.
For refreshed Model 3s, remember that the car also has a rear touchscreen. That screen may be worth protecting too, especially if kids or frequent back-seat passengers are involved.
This is also one of the easiest “mods” to recommend for other EVs. Many modern EVs rely heavily on large center screens, digital clusters, rear screens, and touch-heavy controls. A good screen protector usually won’t hurt resale and may save you from scratches.
#2: Center Console Wrap
A lot of older Model 3 owners opt to wrap the center console since the original Piano Black finish is notorious for showing fingerprints and scratches. You can find both vinyl and hard ABS plastic solutions for the console, which we’ve already described in detail here.
This mod is most relevant for older Model 3 interiors. Newer Model 3s have a cleaner interior design and don’t have the same Piano Black console issue, but small protective wraps and trim pieces can still make sense if they look OEM-ish.
For resale, subtle is usually better. A clean matte black, carbon-style, wood-style, or neutral console wrap is easier to sell than something extremely loud.
#3: 2nd Screen / Instrument Cluster
Since the Model 3 only has one main screen that displays your speed and pretty much everything else, some people opt to add a second screen behind the steering wheel to display speed, range, navigation, battery data, and other information.
This mod can be useful, but it’s not cheap, and it is not for everyone. Some Model 3 owners love the clean factory layout. Others strongly prefer having a driver display in their line of sight.
Compatibility is important here. A screen designed for an older Model 3 may not work properly with a refreshed Model 3, and any mod that taps into vehicle electronics deserves extra caution. Make sure the product is designed for your exact model year, software generation, and interior layout.
This kind of mod is also becoming common on other EVs where owners want more vehicle data, extra gauges, or a more traditional cockpit feel. Just remember that electrical accessories can create problems if they are poorly designed or poorly installed.
#4: Seating Reupholstery or Seat Covers
Another way to distinguish your Model 3 from the crowd is to get the seats reupholstered. Quite a few people choose to swap Tesla’s OEM synthetic leather for genuine leather seating in neutral tones like tan, gray, white, and black. We’ve also seen some pretty wild colored seating on the Model 3, too, like racecar red.
You can purchase kits to DIY the upholstery, but again, if you don’t have the time or the DIY savvy to pull it off, check for vehicle upholstery professionals in your area.
From a resale standpoint, this is one of the more personal interior mods. A clean, high-quality, neutral interior upgrade may be fine. Bright colors, unusual materials, or poor stitching may turn buyers away.
A simpler route is a quality seat cover, especially if you have kids, pets, or messy passengers. It may not add value, but it can help preserve the stock seats underneath.
#5: Yoke Steering Wheel
This mod is weirdly controversial, but swapping out the regular steering wheel for a yoke steering wheel on your Model 3 does lend something extra to the look of the cabin. Plus, some people really do prefer the way the yoke feels when Autopilot is engaged.
And hey, if you want yoke steering to practice your Formula One racing A-game, it’s your car. You do you.
But this is also one of those mods where you really need to think before doing it. Steering wheels involve airbags, buttons, wiring, controls, ergonomics, legality, and safety. A poorly installed steering wheel is not just an aesthetic problem. It can be dangerous.
From a resale standpoint, we’d keep the original steering wheel. Even if you love the yoke, the next buyer may not.
Bonus: Powered Frunk
Since Tesla doesn’t currently include a powered frunk on the Model 3, many people have taken it upon themselves to add that option in.
You can find a lot of manufacturers offering powered frunk kits for the Model 3, so we recommend a thorough check through reviews and keeping an eye out for info on the kit’s compatibility with your model year.
This is a practical mod, but it does involve motors, wiring, latches, sensors, and sometimes changes to how the frunk opens and closes. If you do it, make sure it’s a quality kit and a clean install.
Practical and Popular Model 3 Accessories
You can check out our list of Top Ten Best Tesla Accessories for a longer discussion on accessories, but here’s a quick list of must-have Tesla Model 3 accessories:
Portable 12V Digital Air Compressor
Portable air compressors tend to be very user-friendly and fit easily in the frunk or the trunk. Keeping tire pressure at the recommended levels goes a long way towards maintaining efficiency and reducing tire wear and tear.
This is worth having in basically any EV, not just a Model 3. EVs are heavy, tires are expensive, and tire pressure matters for range.
All Weather Floor Mats
Keep your carpeting fresh and the dirt to a minimum. These are especially helpful for parents, pet owners, and outdoor enthusiasts.
Pet Seat Cover
Speaking of pets, a good pet seat cover fitted to the Model 3 can help you keep hair and nail damage from wrecking your back seat while helping your pet ride in comfort. Tesla sells their own version, but you can also find them on Amazon or at an EV aftermarket shop.
Dog Mode Cling
A window cling that proclaims “Dog Mode Enabled” lets concerned citizens know that the doggo is doing just fine inside the car with Dog Mode active, thank you very much. You can find these in most EV shops with Tesla accessories.
Sun Shades
Either to keep the temp in your Tesla down while it’s parked or to provide yourself with some privacy during car naps—wait, doesn’t everybody do that?—your Model 3 could probably do with a set of sunshades that provides decent coverage for all windows. If you’re really serious about keeping out the heat, search for the term “heat shield” rather than sunshade. We’ve got a slightly longer discussion and recommendations for sunshades in this article under the section for Model S accessories.
Fitted Mattress
Speaking of car naps, road tripping, or camping, an air or foam mattress that fits perfectly in the back of your Model 3 is a great addition for the Model 3 lifestyle.
Trunk / Frunk Organizer
Finally, taking control of your Model 3’s frunk or trunk with an organizer just makes life simpler. A good organizer fits neatly inside the Model 3’s trunk well and helps keep cables, adapters, tools, tire inflators, cleaning supplies, and emergency gear from rolling around.
What About Mods for Other EVs?
The Model 3 is still one of the easiest EVs to modify because the aftermarket is huge. But the EV aftermarket has grown a lot, and some of the same ideas apply across the board.
Tesla Model Y: Most Model 3 ideas carry over pretty easily, especially PPF, mudflaps, tint, wheels, floor mats, screen protection, and storage accessories. The Model Y is also especially worth protecting around the rockers and lower doors.
Hyundai IONIQ 5 and Kia EV6: These are good candidates for tint, PPF, wheels, floor mats, cargo protection, and subtle exterior changes. Performance versions like the IONIQ 5 N and EV6 GT may have a bigger audience for brake, tire, and suspension upgrades.
Ford Mustang Mach-E: Wraps, tint, wheels, caliper accents, floor mats, and cargo accessories are common. Just be careful with mods that make it look heavily tracked or abused, especially on GT models.
Rivian R1T and R1S: Practical mods matter here. Think PPF, ceramic coating, all-weather mats, recovery gear, bed/cargo organizers, roof racks, off-road tires, and camping accessories. Buyers may value practical adventure gear more than purely cosmetic changes.
Cybertruck: Wraps and PPF are huge here because the stainless exterior creates its own care and appearance questions. Wheels, tires, bed accessories, lighting, storage, and audio upgrades may also matter, but clean installation is everything.
Chevy Bolt, Nissan LEAF, Kia Niro EV, and VW ID.4: These are usually more practical used EVs, so mods that preserve condition or improve daily usability tend to make the most sense. Think tires, mats, tint, screen protection, cargo organizers, and maybe PPF—not giant body kits.
In general, the more practical and reversible the mod, the easier it is to justify when selling the vehicle later.
Find a Model 3 to Mod
Obviously, if you don’t already have a Model 3, you can buy a new one straight from Tesla’s website. But since throwing mods on a pristine, stock-condition Tesla is usually the most expensive way to do it, why not consider looking for a used Model 3 to bring those costs back down to earth?
Model 3s are now common on the used market, so it’s a good time to find a clean used Model 3 at a much more reasonable price than buyers were seeing a few years ago. Older 2017-2023 cars are now the value play, while refreshed 2024+ cars give you the newer interior, quieter cabin, updated styling, rear screen, and other improvements if your budget allows.
Want to check out an already modded Tesla Model 3 for sale? We include filters in our listings section to help you find available used Model 3s with modifications already made. Who knows, you might find a customized Model 3 you love with all the modification work already done.
And if you’re shopping beyond Tesla, Find My Electric can help there too. You can browse used EVs from Tesla, Rivian, Ford, Hyundai, Kia, Chevrolet, Nissan, Volkswagen, and more, all without digging through gas cars and plug-in hybrids that don’t match what you’re actually looking for.
Check out our used Model 3 listings today to see what’s available!
Finally, if you’re looking to sell your Tesla Model 3, you can request an EV Cash Offer for your Tesla from our EV dealer network, or list your Model 3 on the Find My Electric marketplace on a site with an EV-focused audience!