When Tesla updated the Model S and X, there was plenty of controversy surrounding the odd shape and questionable utility of the steering yoke, but drivers of the cars have since raised new concerns.
As previously reported, numerous owners have also expressed disappointment in the quality of the steering wheel, with many reporting rapid degradation of its surface. However, it appears that Tesla has acknowledged the issue and promised improvements for customers in the coming months.
According to a screenshot posted on Reddit byu/Global_Chaos, a Tesla Service representative from Spokane-Liberty Lake informed a customer that the company will have “a new yoke with improved materials” available for service starting in July 2023.”
Read: Tesla Owners Complain That Steering Yoke Material Degrades After As Little As 4K Miles
New improved Yoke coming July 2023
by u/Global_Chaos in teslamotors
That will no doubt be music to Model S and X owners’ ears, as numerous photos and videos of the material peeling and delaminating from the structure have been posted online. While this does not appear to pose a safety issue, it is understandably disappointing for buyers of a vehicle that can cost over $100,000. Although Tesla offered replacement parts, many owners reported that the issue simply recurred with the new steering wheel.
The issue with the steering yoke appears to stem from the vegan leather used for the part. Despite Tesla offering customers a replacement part, many reported that the issue persisted with the new steering wheel.
While the promised improvements will likely be good news for Tesla owners, it may be wise to approach them with skepticism. Even if the screenshot is legitimate (we have reached out for comment but Tesla does not operate a media relations department with which we could verify the claim), it isn’t the first time that a new and improved yoke has been promised.
In January 2023, a Tesla Motors Club forum member posted a similar message about the yoke, reported Drive Tesla Canada. In that exchange, however, a Tesla representative promised a new and revised yoke that would be “coming out in March for the larger leather.” As with its vehicles, Tesla’s timelines for replacement parts so far appear not to be that reliable.