Tesla Model Y tailgate breaks out of anchoring?

Many Tesla Model Y drivers have recently reported that the tailgate suddenly jams when opening or "pops out" with a loud bang, and that the gas struts on the right or left side come loose.

This is usually a fatigue fracture at the ball joint or bolt of the gas pressure cylinder that assists the flap when lifting.

This article explains how to recognize this problem, how Tesla and authorized body shops typically proceed, and what you can do yourself to bridge the waiting time until the repair.

Tesla Model Y tailgate breaks free from its mounting: How to identify the defect

• Sudden bang when openingThe flap moves only a few centimeters and makes a cracking noise. Then it falls back or remains stuck.

• One-sided strain: Often only one gas pressure cylinder is affected, so that the flap pulls crooked when lifted or only extends on one side.

• Loose flap movementThere is significantly more play than normal under the left or right hinge of the damper. If you gently press the flap downwards from above, the underlying metal plate can shift noticeably.

• Visible break point: If you look into the space between the body and the flap, you can sometimes see the broken bolt pin on the ball joint of the gas pressure cylinder.

In everyday use, this usually manifests as the trunk neither opening fully nor remaining securely locked. Rain and dirt, in particular, can get in if the hatch no longer closes properly – which is why prompt action is advisable.

Typical causes

1. Material fatigue on the ball joint
   The gas struts are subjected to constant alternating stress over many years (with every opening and closing). In some cases, the ball joint – more precisely, the bolt that holds the joint to the vehicle frame – is subjected to excessive stress over time. This causes the thread or the shaft of the ball stud to break.

2. Manufacturing tolerances or batch variation
   Although Tesla generally uses high-quality components for its gas springs (e.g., Class 8 bolts), occasionally parts may deviate from the standard. In such cases, the bolt can break after a relatively short mileage (often after approximately 20,000–40,000 km).

3. One-sided stress
   If one damper is already sticking (e.g., due to insufficient lubrication), the other gas pressure damper takes on the main load. The more heavily loaded joint is then overloaded and can break relatively soon.

4. Corrosion under the flap
   In some cases, moisture or road salt can accumulate under the tailgate, causing the ball joint to corrode – especially if the vehicle is permanently parked outdoors. A slightly rusted bolt is more likely to break.

Tesla procedure: Repair via body shop or service center

Since this is a warranty case (any bolt defect within the first 4 years or 80,000 km is usually covered), the repair proceeds as follows:

1. Appointment scheduling at the Service Center (SeC)

   • Report the damage either via the app (“Service → Create new order”) or by phone to your service hotline.

   • During the appointment, the SeC can make an initial diagnosis on site, often using a camera or video.If the flap has actually broken off from its mounting, the SeC will forward the case to an authorized body shop.

2. Independent Bodyshop process

   • The service center and body shop work together: The body shop inspects the vehicle on-site and prepares a cost estimate – at no cost to you. Tesla then reviews and approves the repair.

   • Once approved, new gas springs including connecting joint (bolt plus ball head) will be ordered.

   • Usually, it's enough to replace only the broken bolt or the gas spring mounting. The body shop then realigns the flap so that it's flush and closes properly.

3. Duration of the process

   • From application to approval, it can take one to two days.

   • Depending on the workload of the body shop, a waiting period of two to four weeks should then be expected.

   • Tesla typically handles the entire process; you will not incur any workshop or parts costs.

4. Loaner vehicle?

   • Tesla no longer offers an official mobility guarantee. Some body shops may provide a loaner car as a courtesy. Check directly with the Service Center or body shop to see if a loaner is available. Tesla itself may provide a loaner car, especially if you need the trunk space for work.

What can you do yourself until the repair?

As long as the flap hangs at an unfavorable angle, rain can penetrate or the flap can bend further. Therefore, the following temporary measures are recommended:

1. Temporarily fix the joint

   • Using a robust tension strap or a sturdy rubber band (for example from our range of boot mats), you can temporarily connect the damper to the bodywork so that the flap at least closes flush.

   • Make sure the strap does not rub against the paint edge and cause scratches.

2. Trunk liner as a cover

   • If necessary, place a trunk liner or cover inside the vehicle. This will prevent dirt and water from getting into the trunk if the tailgate doesn't close properly. In our online shop, you'll find custom-fit trunk mats specifically designed for the Model Y.

     • Here to Tesla Model Y trunk mat
     • Here to Tesla Model Y Juniper trunk mat (from 03.2025)

3. Keep the bridge clear of obstacles

   • If multiple gas springs are affected and the tailgate is jammed at an angle, ensure that no further stress is applied. Do not force the tailgate open or close to avoid consequential damage to the hinges or seals.

4. Weather observation

   • If possible, park your vehicle under a carport or in a sheltered environment until the repair is completed.

Preventive measures

To minimize the risk of another breakage, you can do the following once the flap has been repaired:

1. Regular visual inspection

   • You should inspect the ball joints of the gas springs every time you wash your car, or at least every three months. Are there any signs of corrosion on the ball joint? Are the nuts/spring fasteners still tight? If so, a prompt inspection is recommended.

2. Lightly grease the dampers (if necessary)

   • Tesla recommends against lubricating the ball joint bolts yourself. If the body shop replaces the joint, ensure that the surface of the new bolt is protected from moisture – for example, with a thin layer of corrosion protection spray.

   • Applying grease yourself without prior consultation may void your warranty. Let the specialist workshop decide.

3. Gentle handling

   • Avoid releasing the flap abruptly. Always let it glide up and down smoothly. A jerky or forceful movement can temporarily overload the dampers.

Frequently Asked Questions and Answers

Q: Do I need to worry that the entire frunk or the undercarriage is bent?
A: Generally not. The ball joint breaks without causing long-term damage to the flap itself or the hinge mechanism. The body shop then realigns the hinge correctly. Only in rare cases might the frame be slightly warped, but this has hardly any visible effect.

Q: How long will the repair take if the service center grants immediate approval?
A: Once approval is granted, the body shop typically needs 2-3 days to install the replacement part and readjust the flap. The waiting time until approval depends on the body shop's cost estimate process and Tesla's internal review.

Q: If I am skilled with my hands, can I weld or glue a broken bolt myself?
A: We strongly advise against attempting any welding, gluing, or using a gas spring without TÜV certification. Any unauthorized modification can jeopardize the warranty and, in the worst case, cause the flap to operate with inappropriate force and damage the hinges.

Conclusion

A broken ball joint on the tailgate strut is annoying, but thanks to the Tesla warranty, it's usually repaired free of charge. It's important to identify the problem early and schedule an appointment at the service center before rain or dirt gets into the trunk.

Until the repair, temporary tie-down straps and waterproof trunk liners can contain the damage. From the moment the body shop is called, everything runs smoothly: the bolts and gas spring are replaced, the tailgate is reattached and adjusted – usually without any further damage.

Tip: When your Bodyshop appointment is coming up, secure your spot now with our waterproof boot mat – so you are optimally protected during the waiting time.

We would be delighted if you would let us know in the comments whether this guide has helped you or if you have any further tips for bridging the waiting time.