2019 Tesla Model S Front Left CV Axle Removal | DIY Halfshaft Removal

DESCRIPTION: In this video, we remove the front left (driver-side) CV axle / halfshaft from a later-build 2019 Tesla Model S with the 2nd-generation front halfshaft setup. This video covers DISASSEMBLY AND REMOVAL ONLY. It does not cover installation of a replacement axle. The original CV axle had a damaged/leaking boot that had thrown grease around the surrounding area. BEFORE LIFTING: Because this Model S is equipped with air suspension, we first enabled JACK MODE before raising the vehicle. Controls → Suspension → Jack Mode OPTIONAL FRUNK BIN REMOVAL: We also removed the frunk storage bin to get a better view of the driver-side CV boot area and determine where the grease was coming from. Removing the frunk bin is NOT required for CV axle removal. We did it strictly for additional visibility and inspection of the leaking/seeping boot area. Tools for this optional step: • 10mm socket • Plastic trim/push-pin removal tool CV AXLE REMOVAL: • Enable Jack Mode • Chock the wheels • Raise and properly support the vehicle • Remove the front left wheel • Remove the 32mm axle nut • Remove the brake caliper and support it with a caliper hanger/S-hook • Disconnect and move the ABS/wheel-speed sensor wiring out of the way • Disconnect the tie-rod end • Disconnect the sway-bar end link • Disconnect the upper control arm from the steering knuckle • Disconnect the lower air spring/strut mounting point from the lower control arm • Move the knuckle/hub assembly inward to create clearance • Use an axle/hub puller to push the outer axle splines out of the wheel hub • Use an axle removal/puller tool to break the inner CV joint loose • Work the axle inward and outward with a controlled rocking motion until it releases and can be removed Tesla's service procedure calls for removal of the underbody aero shield/splash shield. We opted not to remove it because we had sufficient access to complete the axle removal without doing so. With the right tools and everything cooperating, the actual disassembly and axle removal can be completed in approximately 20–30 minutes. TOOLS USED: • Hydraulic floor jack • Jack stands / proper vehicle supports • Wheel chocks • Milwaukee impact wrench • 3/8" and 1/2" ratchets and extensions • 1/2" breaker bar • 10mm socket – optional frunk bin removal • 21mm socket – wheel lug nuts • 32mm deep socket – axle nut • 21mm – brake caliper-to-knuckle bolts • 21mm – tie-rod end • 15mm + 5mm hex – sway-bar end link • 15mm + T50 Torx – upper control arm-to-knuckle connection • 21mm socket + 21mm wrench – lower air spring/strut-to-lower-control-arm connection • Plastic trim/push-pin removal tool – optional frunk bin removal • Caliper hanger / S-hook • Axle/hub puller • Axle removal/puller tool • Basic hand tools IMPORTANT: This video documents the removal process performed on a later-build 2019 Tesla Model S using the 2nd-generation front halfshaft configuration. Hardware and procedures can differ depending on Model S production date and configuration. This is not a substitute for the Tesla Service Manual. Properly support the vehicle and follow appropriate safety procedures whenever working on a raised vehicle.