Tesla has quietly reversed one of its most controversial design changes by offering a retrofit turn signal stalk for its refreshed Model 3, addressing widespread criticism over the car’s removal of standard physical controls. The stalk is currently available only in China at a cost of $348, with no announcement yet regarding U.S. availability.
Elon Musk’s Tesla has pushed aggressive minimalism in its vehicle interiors, often at the expense of traditional controls. The refreshed Model 3, known as the “Highland” version, was launched in China in 2023 and globally in 2024. It eliminated both the turn signal and drive stalks, replacing them with steering wheel buttons and touchscreen commands—moves that frustrated many drivers.
Tesla’s stated vision for the change was rooted in a future of fully autonomous driving. However, the real-world response was far less enthusiastic. Customers voiced concerns about safety, functionality, and usability, calling the redesign awkward and counterintuitive.
Faced with mounting criticism, Tesla is now offering drivers a chance to “modify your Model 3 by replacing the turn signal buttons on your steering wheel with turn signal stalks.” The company has not indicated whether American customers will have access to the retrofit, or whether it will remain a paid add-on.
The decision to charge for a feature standard in virtually every other vehicle raises new concerns. Critics argue that Tesla should not profit from fixing a self-inflicted design flaw. Some see it as part of a broader trend where automakers are monetizing basic functionality—similar to Volkswagen’s recent rollout of a subscription to unlock full horsepower in its ID.3 electric vehicle.
Tesla’s shift suggests that even in a tech-forward market, drivers still value practical, familiar controls. While Tesla continues to pursue automated vehicle dominance, the return of the turn signal stalk shows the limits of innovation when it overrides common-sense functionality.
