Making the Model Y Hitch Cover Easier to Remove

[@azapplewhite]

I ordered my Model Y with factory installed hitch. As part of the inspection when I picked it up, I wanted to verify the hitch was in fact installed. It was comical watching the sales staff wrestle with cover, they couldn't even remove it. In the end, they pried back one corner and took a picture with their phone to "show" me the hitch. Then they were too timid to but it back in place properly, again, comical. I was anxious for the car and knew there had to be a better way. THANKS EveryAmp for figuring this out with a simple solution.

[@shawnhowell7175]

I bought the clip removers, thank you. I sent an email suggesting magnets etc. I think it’s so cool that you found a solution that’s simple and free versus complex and expensive. This attitude is really rare and truly appreciated. Since you didn’t make a sale on the solution I will definitely be looking for another product that we do need a solution to and buying it.

[@RCG-FN]

What is the clips called ?

[@joeswenson6102]

I bought our Model Y with the Tesla hitch installed. So glad I came upon this video, thank you! I got the cover off and clipped all but two center fasteners on the top and two on the bottom, one of each type remaining (yeah, probably over-kill), and the two fasteners at the top on each side. Much improved!!

[@macrlz9]

I’d love a solution where a replacement cover like just a trim piece that leaves the hitch accessible but finishes the edge so it looks better and not like a piece of the body has been removed. Perhaps 2 options, 1 that is just the minimum size needed to cover the clips and another that fills in the hole more for those that don’t need the electrical hookup like a bike rack.

[@matlov1684]

Totally agree

[@dogbots159]

Step 1. Get a 2” hitch plug Step 2. Glue it to the trim cover Step 3. You’re some just go install it like any other hitch trim out there. Doesn’t hurt to still have a clip or two lol

[@ThomasWayneRiddle]

I sprayed all the tabs on both sides with dry lube. It helps a lot.

[@vgruhlke]

Great video. I use two of the Home Depot paint can openers starting in the center top works great. Thanks for the video.

[@craigbeattie5209]

Thx for the helpful vid! I just got my hitch installed two days ago and have been trying to come up with a way to make things easier.

[@stevenromero5940]

Thx for the tip. I cut off all but the 4 clips you recommended & put it back on. We'll see how it stays & how it comes off next time. Thx again.

[@EricTMeraki]

so how well is it hold up?

[@EveryAmp]

No problems 6 months in

[@kimwolle]

Absolutely fantastic and SUPER helpful!

[@vulpo]

I would think that a couple of hinged springs on the bottom would be optimal. Do you think that is possible?

[@EveryAmp]

It could work for a bike rack, but will get in the way of the ball mount if you're trying to tow.

[@SimonSays123]

Thank you i'm able to safely open my tow hitch cover with the tool i bought from you guys!

[@kshea3]

Mathieu - would you mind sharing links to the products you were referencing in the beginning that would allow for a magnetic connection? I like your solution as a back up, but was really hoping for an even simpler magnetic connection even if it was more expensive and timely to install. Thank you.

[@EveryAmp]

That was a product we started developing, but decided against it when we found a simpler, easier, less costly solution.

[@kshea3]

@@EveryAmp ahh, gotcha.

[@PaulPandelidis]

Hi Mathieu - off topic but at 3:08, during your closing, I see a White Tesla on the side of a mountain road. Can you let us know about those gorgeous wheels ?

[@EveryAmp]

Talking about these? kzbin.info/www/bejne/q2iYZImuqbuorpo

[@AaronStein]

I purchased the tool and the cover came right off. When I put the cover back on, it just doesn't seem to snap back with the same strength that it had before I removed it. I wonder what I am doing wrong? It is definitely staying in place, but seems looser.

[@EveryAmp]

That's pretty typical. It really is a poor design in many ways.

[@DaxM]

It’s amazing Elon can have people have a rocket coming back down to earth and land on its feet but can’t have people design a proper hitch cover. Matt, thanks for the solution. I saw this video when it first came out and now watching it again now that I got my new Y. I’m in the same dilemma as you. Is there anymore updates on your 4 clip solution? Thanks buddy Dax

[@EveryAmp]

Still holding strong almost a year later

[@DaxM]

@@EveryAmp that’s great. Thanks man. I’ll pick up some of your removers soon. Hope everything is good with you buddy.

[@Resist4]

I know right, sometimes smart people come up with stupids things. A hitch cover doesn't need to be bulletproof. And yet here it is 2023 and Tesla still hasn't changed the hitch cover design, it's like they're not hearing customer complaints about how difficult it is to remove.

[@ronalaska2472]

Do what I did for my wife’s Blazer, I left the tow hitch in and never had to get a new rear bumper again! People will not hit your car when parking so no rear damage!

[@EveryAmp]

Life pro tip right there

[@rgeniec]

Someone bumped our van. Now I leave the hitch in.

[@ronalaska2472]

@@rgeniec make sure you have a locking hitch pin so they don’t steal the hitch!

[@jamesstanley485]

Dumb question, but any downside to leaving cover off?

[@ace0256]

Not a dumb question, I’ve been wondering the same thing.

[@wesmckee210]

Just ran into the problem of re-installing the cover. Have had my Model Y for almost one year and just this week needed to use the hitch. Are you still happy with the cover modification one year later? Thanks

[@EveryAmp]

No issues here after 2 years.

[@stephenbwilcox]

Thank you! Maybe I’ll buy a second cover and cut a 2” square hole in it, if I get a bike rack that doesn’t require a bolt.

[@glentaybow]

Thanks for that Matt! Ingenious!

[@bmm894]

So ridiculous that we have to even get to this point haha!

[@JordanSalisburyWasTaken]

I was thinking of attaching a 2” hitch sized piece of wood with magnets in it, then glue the wood to the plastic. This seems easier.

[@davidlevitt1104]

Can you measure the distance from the hitch pin hole to the end of the receiver please

[@EveryAmp]

Right about 1-5/8" from the center of the hole to the face of the receiver

[@davidlevitt1104]

Thank you so much for the information. I just ordered a couple of your tools for the removal of a door for the hitch. Thanks again

[@NADres21]

How did you purchase the Tesla replacement cover?

[@EveryAmp]

At the service center. You can look up the part number at epc.tesla.com to make sure you get the right thing

[@NADres21]

Thank you

[@armanrahmani1989]

Hi . Thanks for your good video . Please make a video about ground clearance and roof handle of Tesla model Y . Thanks

[@bruceperson7820]

Thank you for hanging in there and trying to improve this tow hitch cover problem. I have your removal tools and I too had problems with even snapping it back into place. I probably bent or destroyed some of the hooks. I don't like being dumb but I don't see anywhere on the tesla website where I can order parts with that part number. What is your secret?

[@EveryAmp]

There's no online ordering, but the service center can look it right up with that part number.

[@bruceperson7820]

@@EveryAmp thank you so much. I removed the extra hooks like you did in your video and it looks fine so maybe I won't have to order the part but I'm going to keep the part number and I bookmarked your video. I love your front license plate holder too!

[@jamesreese1561]

Try using a silicone lub like a treadmill lube....

[@thefoildesigner]

I am interested in using this space to hide a key card (shush don't tell anyone). Can the cover be open with only your fingers only once the clips are cut as you did or is it still too tight?

[@EveryAmp]

Na you'd need some pretty slender fingers for that

[@BrianThorstad]

Brilliant, thanks!

[@frank118]

Two Tesla garage. Very nice 😎👍

[@macmovieman1]

How do I order these?

[@EveryAmp]

livingtesla.com/shop/model-y-hitch-cover-removal-tools/

[@macmovieman1]

Ordered, thanks. I e actually spent a ton with you guys over the last few months I just couldn’t find it. Thanks

[@ronsexton3685]

I might have to do this as it appears that getting the cover back on is even harder than getting it off! Got the tools and getting it off was no longer hard. Back on, still trying! Argh! May be clipping it soon.

[@flamecrow]

Lmao I came here for the same reasons. I can’t put it back properly. Time to cut some tabs!

[@tomcramer1450]

Thanks for the video. One question - I'm confused about the wiring harness. What is that connection that Tesla has and how do you get it to go to the standard pin connection for trailers? Thanks. I'm ordering the tools

[@EveryAmp]

Here's a good description of what the extra pins do and it has a link to the adapter I'm using: kzbin.info/www/bejne/pKqkpZJ9bJKhpLM

[@tomcramer1450]

@@EveryAmp Thanks for the explanation. I see that the factory wiring harness (which I have) is better. Do I have to now buy that adapter? I would have thought Tesla included it. Thanks again

[@EveryAmp]

Most vehicles come with the 7-pin socket which does directly fit some trailers that need all of the capabilities. It's up to us if we need an adapter for anything else.

[@JoalHarding]

Thank you!

[@shaytrask7538]

Could you try just leaving the 4 corners? I wonder if that would make it easiest take off but yet keep the main parts secured! They really should find a better way to release this though... shouldn't be that hard...

[@tcpoole1361]

Thanks. Good info

[@jakewalker9666]

thx

[@tomsekerchak2176]

Could you please post a closeup picture of the cover plate showing the clips you removed or are to be removed. It was hard to determine from the video.

[@EveryAmp]

It was just the upper two on the sides and one towards the middle on the top and bottom. I don't think it matters much as long as they're somewhat evenly spaced.

[@colinpovey2904]

FYI the covers are up to about $30.

[@EveryAmp]

Great info. Fortunately I haven't had the need to replace mine. Even with over half the clips removed it hasn't budged while still easier to remove.

[@TJAllenwood]

Sad that Tesla can't figure out how to make this more user friendly. I used my tow hitch for my bike rack all the time. This would drive me nuts if I had to remove this cover all the time.

[@saufai74]

What is sad is people that don’t appreciate that Elon and Tesla has upended one of the largest industries that is directly destroying our planet. And all they can do is complain about these tiny inconvenient situations. No one and nothing is perfect.

[@EveryAmp]

Pointing out areas that could be improved is not an attack on Tesla. We need to point out the good and bad. Full blown Tesla fanboys are a turn off for many potential customers.

[@saufai74]

@@EveryAmp sad is someone finding out they have cancer. Sad is finding out someone you love just passed away. Saying I hope this is a feature that they can improve on for the next iteration is constructive. Pointing out when a company that is 90%-95% amazing and the few things still need work is petty. The way he wrote it was not constructive. Haters. Be positive. Find something positive to say.

[@TJAllenwood]

@@saufai74 I am not a hater. I plan on buying a Tesla when my son starts driving. I have been following the community and forums and have been pleased with how things improve over time. This tow hitch situation needs to improve. You coming out , Guns blazing, it’s overkill. Chill out.

[@TJAllenwood]

@@EveryAmp agreed. It’s just a flaw that needs correction. Kool-Aid drinking fanboys boys need to chill. Other auto makers have better removable covers that hide the tow hitch. I would’ve thought Tesla would have done better.

[@samwise8735]

Thank you - the original tow bar cover is such a crap design.

[@chocdawg1234]

going to cut off all my damn clips. I pray the engineer was fired for this! Seriously how many Tesla Engineers it take to put in a hitch cover? Apparently none because clearly they never tried to remove and install one. Several clips no chance of grasping anything.

[@ace0256]

Why not just leave the cover off?

[@EveryAmp]

You certainly can if you prefer. I think it looks ugly off.

[@DH-CA]

Wait until you drive it for few days, the cover will fall right off LOL....

[@EveryAmp]

Bold claim for a video that was posted over a year ago. FYI, still holding strong.

[@ericcousino2068]

Totally useless

[@terriewatch3626]

Thanks!