Tesla Model 3 OEM Options Review — Cost & Results

Tesla Model 3: Enhancing the Trunk Experience

The Tesla Model 3, while a marvel of electric engineering, presents a common inconvenience for owners: its manual trunk operation. Unlike many vehicles with powered liftgates, the Model 3 requires a physical push or pull, which can be cumbersome, especially when your hands are full. This review explores the Overgen electric trunk retrofit, a popular solution for this very issue, offering a glimpse into how it transforms the daily usability of your Model 3. While this specific installation was performed in South Korea, the principles and benefits apply universally to Model 3 owners seeking this upgrade.

Overgen Electric Trunk Installation Process

The installation of the Overgen electric trunk system on a Tesla Model 3 is a detailed process that typically takes around three hours. Unlike lower-cost, unverified aftermarket kits, the Overgen system is chosen for its proven reliability and durability. The process begins with the careful removal of the trunk's interior panels to access the necessary mounting points and wiring harnesses.

Installation process:

1. Careful disassembly of the trunk's interior trim panels.
2. Installation of the electric trunk struts and the main control unit.
3. Meticulous wiring of the system, ensuring all connections are secure and routed cleanly.
4. Replacement of the original trunk latch striker with a new unit featuring soft-closing functionality.
5. Reassembly of the interior trim panels for a factory-finished look.

A critical aspect of the installation involves the wiring. Technicians meticulously route and secure all new wiring, using sound-deadening tape to prevent any rattles or noise from the trunk area. This attention to detail ensures the system operates quietly and integrates seamlessly with the vehicle's existing electrical system. Furthermore, the original trunk latch mechanism is upgraded to a unit that supports soft-closing. This feature allows the trunk to close gently and securely without a loud slam, adding a touch of premium refinement.

Before and After: The Transformed Tesla Model 3 Trunk

Before the Overgen installation, the Tesla Model 3 trunk is a clean but purely manual space. Some owners attempt minor DIY modifications, like adjusting the gas struts, but these can sometimes lead to unintended consequences, such as damage to the trunk lid glass. After the Overgen system is installed, the visual difference is striking. The new, color-matched electric struts are mounted symmetrically, enhancing the trunk's aesthetic. More importantly, an interior release switch is seamlessly integrated, appearing as if it were a factory-installed component. This allows for effortless opening and closing of the trunk with a simple press of a button, eliminating the need to manually lift or lower the heavy tailgate.

The functional improvement is significant. Owners no longer struggle with the weight of the trunk or the inconvenience of fumbling for a key fob when their hands are occupied. The soft-closing feature further elevates the user experience, providing a quiet and refined closure. The Overgen system's main control unit often bears a brand logo, reinforcing the quality and legitimacy of the upgrade. This retrofit effectively addresses the primary drawback of the Model 3's stock trunk, making it a much more convenient and user-friendly part of the vehicle.

The cost for this type of retrofit in South Korea typically ranges from 300,000 to 600,000 KRW (approximately $225 - $450 USD, based on current exchange rates). While the direct US price for similar OEM options or factory upgrades can vary, it's generally estimated between $40-$80 for simpler dealer options, with more complex retrofits costing significantly more.