GUIDES

Tesla Model Y Juniper Delivery Checklist

Tesla's quality has improved with the Juniper, but issues still slip through. Don't let excitement make you skip the inspection. Here's everything to check before you sign — bookmark this page and pull it up at delivery.

Last updated: March 2026 · 10 min read

⚠️ Do This Before You Sign

Once you accept delivery, getting issues fixed becomes significantly harder. Tesla may promise to "fix it later" — but your leverage drops the moment you drive off the lot. Take your time. If something is seriously wrong, you can refuse delivery and reschedule.

🚗 Exterior Inspection (31 checkpoints)

Panel gaps even on both sides

Compare left vs right. Run your finger along door edges.

Paint — no scratches, chips, or swirl marks

Use phone flashlight. Check hood, bumpers, door edges, roof rails.

Frunk & trunk sit flush

No gaps or misalignment. Should not pool water.

All glass — no chips, cracks, distortions

Windshield, roof, side windows. Look for stress lines.

Headlights & taillights aligned

No condensation inside. Even gaps to body panels.

Wheels — no curb rash or scratches

Check all 4 rims closely. Verify valve stems present.

Charge port door opens/closes smoothly

Sits flush when closed. Latches properly.

All doors open & close smoothly

No sticking, excessive force, or weird noises.

Rubber seals intact on all doors

No peeling, gaps, or loose trim.

Camera housings tight (not loose)

Gently wiggle front, rear, and side repeater cameras.

Mud flaps (if applicable)

Check they're properly attached with no missing clips.

🪑 Interior Inspection (11 checkpoints)

Touchscreen — no dead pixels or scratches

15.4" front + 8" rear. Swipe through all menus.

All seats adjust properly

Forward, backward, up, down. Test lumbar if available.

Seatbelts fully extend & retract

Test all 5 seatbelts.

Rear seats fold & lock back

Test both button and manual. Should click firmly.

No rattles — press on trim pieces

Gently press dashboard, door cards, center console.

All USB-C ports working

Front console and rear ports. Plug in a device to test.

Wireless charging pad works

Place your phone on both pads.

Heated & ventilated seats work

Test all levels for front seats. Check rear heated seats.

AC & heat functioning

Test hot, cold, different fan speeds. Listen for unusual noises.

Ambient lighting works evenly

No flickering or dead sections.

Glovebox opens smoothly

Button release should be responsive.

⚙️ Functional Checks (9 checkpoints)

VIN matches your paperwork

Check windshield VIN against order confirmation.

Tesla app connects via Bluetooth

Phone key should unlock/lock the car.

Software version is current

Go to Controls > Software. Set updates to Advanced.

All cameras display clearly

Check backup camera, side views, and forward camera.

Wipers & washer fluid work

Test spray and all wiper speeds.

All exterior lights function

Headlights, fog lights, brake lights, turn signals, reverse.

Tire pressure ~42 PSI all around

Check in the Tesla app or on-screen tire display.

PIN to Drive set up

Controls > Safety > PIN to Drive. Essential security feature.

No active alerts on screen

Check for any error messages or warning indicators.

What to Bring to Delivery

  • 📱 Phone — Tesla app installed & logged in
  • 🔦 Flashlight — for paint inspection in indoor delivery centers
  • 📋 This checklist — bookmark or screenshot this page
  • 📷 Camera ready — photograph any issues before signing
  • 📄 Insurance proof — coverage effective on delivery day
  • 💳 Payment/financing docs — if not already completed online

FAQ

Can I really refuse delivery?

Yes. If there are significant defects (major paint damage, panel misalignment, software issues), you can refuse and Tesla will reschedule. Your deposit is safe.

How long should the inspection take?

Budget 30-45 minutes. Don't let anyone rush you. This is a $45,000+ purchase.

What if I find an issue after driving home?

You can still report issues through the Tesla app (Service > Request Service). But it's much easier to document issues at delivery. Always photograph everything on the spot.

Are Juniper panel gaps better than older Model Y?

Generally yes — Tesla improved fit and finish significantly with the Juniper refresh. But it's not perfect. Still worth checking every panel.

Ready for After Delivery?

Last updated March 2026. Based on community reports from r/TeslaModelY and real owner experiences.