Screen Upgrade - Is Upgrading Your Tesla Model 3/Y Center Screen Worthwhile?

As of January 2026, most new Tesla Model Y vehicles (aside from the Standard model) are shipping with a larger 16-inch center screen instead of the original 15.4-inch display, matching the screen that first appeared in the Model Y Long Range in China and in Performance models.

The good news is that the 16-inch screen is a plug‑and‑play replacement for any 2024+ Model 3 (Highland)  and Refreshed Model Y (Juniper). But is it really worth the $1,320 price tag and the effort required for the swap?

In a word: no.

While the 16-inch screen offers a higher QHD (Quad High Definition) resolution compared to the original FHD (Full High Definition) display, the difference in visual quality is negligible for most owners. The physical size increase is also small, with only about a 10 mm (roughly 1/3-inch) gain on each side. Right now, Tesla’s software does not fully take advantage of the higher resolution, so the benefits are limited and most people will not notice much real‑world difference. However, since the 16-inch screen is priced the same as the 15.4-inch version, if you already need to replace a damaged or defective screen, it makes sense to choose the newer panel.

You can purchase the new screen directly from the Tesla parts catalog using this link , or search for p/n 1946103-20-C. And, of course, you should protect your investment with the world's best Tesla Screen Protector.

The actual process of swapping the center screen is relatively straightforward and can be completed by a capable DIYer with basic tools.

• 10mm Socket
• Torx T30 Bit
• Pick or narrow trim tool

For a full tutorial, please watch the video above.

1. Safety First: Remove the biohazard filter chamber and disconnect the low-voltage battery in the front trunk (frunk) and wait for the car's electrical systems to discharge.

2. Remove the Old Screen: Use a pick tool or trim tool to release the temperature sensor vent beneath the screen mount. Then, unscrew the two 10mm bolts holding the screen assembly in place and carefully pull it out. Remove the screen cowl and unclip the two cable connectors.

3. Install the New Screen: Reverse the removal process by installing the cowl and connectors, positioning the new screen, securing it with the bolts, and reconnecting the temperature sensor.

4. Reconnect the Battery and Reboot: Reconnect the low-voltage battery and reinstall the biohazard filter chamber. Perform a hard reboot of the car's system by holding down both steering wheel scroll wheels for approximately 30 seconds.

While the upgrade to the 16-inch screen is straightforward, the current lack of obvious visual benefits or software optimization makes the $1,320 investment difficult to justify for most people. For most Tesla Model 3 and Model Y owners, the original 15.4-inch screen remains a perfectly capable, sharp, and responsive display.