DIY 2017-2023 Tesla Model 3 Fender Replacement (Pre-Painted) | Step-by-Step Guide

Fixing a 2017-2023 Tesla Model 3 fender doesn’t have to mean expensive body shop visits or long wait times. With a pre-painted replacement part, you can handle the repair yourself and get factory-quality results right at home.

Tools Required

• 10mm socket
• Socket wrench
• Long extension
• Panel removal tool or flathead screwdriver

Fender Removal Process

0:49 – Remove Front Bumper First

Before starting, remove the front bumper. This prevents damage to the headlight tabs, which can be costly to replace (around $1,500). Removing the bumper takes about 15–20 minutes and gives proper access to the fender.

1:34 – Fender Liner Clips and Access

The fender liner is held in place by multiple push clips along the edges, middle, and front sections. Some clips may already be removed for visibility, but you’ll need to remove remaining ones to free the liner.

2:22 – Remove Bottom Fender Liner Bolt

• Locate the 10mm bolt underneath the car holding the fender liner
• Remove using a 10mm socket
• Remove the nearby push pin using a panel tool

3:28 – Slide Out Fender Liner

• Straighten the wheels for better access
• Push the liner forward
• Slide it out carefully

4:36 – Remove Mud Flap Push Pin

• Locate the push pin holding the lower cover/mud flap
• Use a panel tool or flathead screwdriver
• Unscrew or pop it out to free the lower section

6:09 – Remove Hidden Door Bolt

• Open the driver-side door slightly
• Locate the hidden 10mm bolt near the hinge
• Use a long extension at an angle to remove it

7:03 – Disconnect Side Camera

• Locate camera wiring inside the fender
• Press down on both connector tabs (white and black)
• Disconnect carefully to avoid damage

8:46 – Loosen Inner Fender Bolts

• Locate 10mm bolts inside the fender well
• Loosen them but do not remove
• These act as guide points during installation

9:33 – Remove Headlight

• Remove 10mm bolts securing the headlight
• Pull back the red tab on the connector
• Disconnect the plug and remove the headlight

11:27 – Remove Final Bolts and Fender

• Remove remaining bolts under the hood and behind the headlight
• Gently lift and slide the fender forward
• Slide it off the loosened guide bolts

Fender Installation Process

11:49 – Prepare New Fender

• Transfer clips and camera assembly from old fender
• Ensure all mounting points are ready

12:33 – Align New Fender

• Slide the new fender onto the guide bolts
• Position it properly along the body lines

13:04 – Secure Top Bolts

• Hand-thread top 10mm bolts
• Do not fully tighten yet

14:11 – Reconnect Electronics

• Reconnect camera and headlight wiring
• Listen for a click to confirm proper connection
• Test camera and lights before proceeding

15:47 – Adjust Gaps and Alignment

• Close the hood gently
• Check spacing between fender, hood, and door
• Adjust positioning until gaps are even

16:24 – Final Tightening

• Tighten all 10mm bolts securely
• Recheck alignment before finishing

18:11 – Final Result

The pre-painted fender matches perfectly with the vehicle’s original color, eliminating the need for additional paintwork or blending.

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