How to Install the Best Tesla Model 3 Front Splitter
Upgrading your Tesla Model 3 with a front splitter is one of the best ways to not only enhance the car's sleek aesthetics but also improve its overall aerodynamics. In this step-by-step guide, we'll walk you through how to install the ACS Composite Front Splitter, a must-have upgrade to protect your Tesla’s undercarriage from road debris while improving performance.
The ACS Composite Front Splitter is crafted from durable polycarbonate (PC) composite, a material known for its resilience against scrapes and wear, making it perfect for both daily driving and long highway trips. Learn more about PC composite here.
This front splitter not only enhances the aerodynamics of your Tesla Model 3 but also adds a more aggressive, sporty appearance to its front end. Best of all, the installation is simple and requires no modifications, thanks to its use of factory mounting points.
Once installed, the elegant Gloss Black finish offers a striking contrast that complements any Tesla Model 3 color, instantly elevating your car’s style and presence on the road.
Tools and Materials Required for Installation
- Plastic Trim Tool
- 10 mm Socket and Ratchet
- T27 Bit
- Manual Wrench
- Marker
- Snips, Scissors, or Knife
- Screwdriver
- 3/16" Drill Bit
- Rivet Gun
- Jack Stands or Race Ramps
Getting the Tesla Model 3 Ready for Installation
Before installing the ACS Composite M3 front splitter, you need to raise the vehicle. Use jack stands or race ramps to safely lift the car, giving you access to the undercarriage. This provides the space needed to work on the bumper and undertray.
Double-check the car's stability before you start. Make sure it's securely supported to avoid any movement or accidents while working underneath. Safety is key to a smooth installation process.
Removing Factory Hardware for Splitter Installation
Start by removing the scrivets. These small plastic fasteners are located where the bumper meets the OEM skid plate. Use a trim tool or fork to carefully pry out the nail portion and remove the scrivet body.
Be sure to take out all scrivets along the front edge, as they will be replaced with stronger M6 fasteners. Some scrivets may already be loose or missing, especially on cars with more road use.
Next, remove the four 10mm bolts that secure the undertray to the felt liner at the rear. Use a 10 mm socket and ratchet to take them out, which will detach the undertray’s rear section for easier access. Set these bolts aside, as you will reuse them later.
Finally, loosen the undertray panel. Use a plastic trim tool to carefully separate the undertray from the painted bumper. Loosen the panel along the sides and front to prepare the area for the splitter installation.
Preparing the Tesla Model 3 for Splitter Installation
Start by trimming the tabs where the U-nuts will be installed. Some tabs may interfere with the fitment, so you’ll need to trim them. Use a marker to identify the areas that need trimming.
Typically, about half an inch of material should be removed to allow for proper fit. Use snips, scissors, or a knife to trim these tabs. Since these tabs aren’t structural, precision is less critical, but they do need to be small enough to let the U-nuts slide on smoothly.
Once trimmed, install the U-nuts over the tabs. These U-nuts will serve as the threaded points for the M6 screws that secure the splitter. A total of 10 U-nuts must be installed along the front edge of the bumper and the undertray.
The U-nuts at the far ends of the bumper are the most difficult to position. You can use a flathead screwdriver to carefully slide and adjust them over the inner brackets. Make sure all U-nuts are securely in place before moving on to the next step.
Next, Re-install the undertray panel
Installing of the Front Splitter on the Tesla Model 3
Start by positioning the splitter under the car, aligning it with the OEM mounting points. The splitter's size and weight make it easier to handle if two people assist. Make sure it follows the contours of the bumper and undertray for proper fitment.
Next, loosely insert the provided M6 screws into the U-nuts using a T27 bit. Do not fully tighten them at this point. The screws should hold the splitter in place, leaving enough flexibility for final adjustments.
Once the splitter is aligned, begin hand-tightening the M6 screws. The pointed screws help center the U-nuts, while applying pressure to secure the splitter against the bumper. Start from the center and work outward to keep the splitter aligned with the body lines.
After checking the fit, visually inspect both sides. The splitter’s seams should align with the edges near the wheel wells. Adjust the position as needed to verify a seamless appearance, especially where the splitter meets the bumper.
Finally, proceed to fully tighten the M6 screws. Start in the middle and work your way outward to apply even pressure. For the last round of tightening, use a manual wrench to avoid over-torquing. This will firmly secure the splitter, bumper, and undertray.
Securing the Front Edge of the Splitter with Rivets
To secure the front edge of the splitter, you'll need to install rivets. Start by using a 3/16" drill bit to drill holes through the painted surface of the bumper at the front edge of the splitter. Be careful not to drill too deeply about 3 mm is enough. Avoid drilling into any components behind the bumper.
The ACS Tesla Model 3 Splitter comes pre-drilled with holes. Use this as your guide.
Once the holes are drilled, use a rivet gun to install the 3/16" rivets. These rivets provide extra strength and stability to the front edge, especially for high-speed driving or track use.
If you ever need to remove the splitter, you can easily do so by drilling out the rivets with the same 3/16" drill bit. This allows for a quick and clean removal. We wrote a nice little guide on how to remove rivets should you ever need to.
Final Adjustments and Clean-Up
Once the splitter is installed, do a final walk-around inspection. Check that the splitter is securely fastened and aligned with no gaps between the splitter, bumper, and undertray. Make sure all M6 screws and rivets are tightened properly.
After confirming everything is in place, clean the installation area. Clear any debris from drilling or trimming to give the car a clean finish. This step also helps prevent debris from affecting the splitter or undercarriage over time.
Prefer video?
Watch Joseph from ACS Composite demonstrate the installation process for the Tesla Model 3 front splitter:
Wrapping Up
The ACS Composite front splitter not only gives the Tesla Model 3 a more aggressive, sporty look but also enhances its aerodynamics for improved driving performance. Offering solid protection against road debris and scrapes, it’s the perfect upgrade for daily drivers and high-mileage vehicles alike.
Installation is straightforward, thanks to the use of OEM mounting points and high-quality hardware, ensuring a secure and seamless fit.
Unlike many aftermarket parts for the Tesla Model 3, ACS Composite products are proudly made in North America. With our splitters, you're investing in the highest quality materials and craftsmanship available on the market today.
Our material and manufacturing process boasts products that are 3x stronger and longer-lasting than competitors. For more details, check out this independent study conducted by Sandy Munro, which highlights the exceptional performance of our products.
With proper installation, the ACS Composite front splitter offers both functional benefits and a stylish upgrade that will stand the test of time. Ready to enhance your Tesla Model 3? Visit the ACS Composite Model 3 product line to explore more high-quality accessories.