How to Install Model S Viento Side Skirts: DIY Guide
By RPM TESLA ACCESSORIES – RPM TESLA Aftermarket | Published: 2026-10-23
Category: How-to Guides
Learn how to install 2021+ Tesla Model S Viento side skirts in a few steps. This guide covers prep, tools, and common mistakes to avoid for a clean fit.
Quick answer
Install your 2021+ Model S Viento carbon fiber side skirts in about an hour with basic tools. Focus on dry-fit alignment and even pressure to avoid scratches and gaps.
Why proper surface prep matters
The Viento side skirts are real molded carbon fiber, which means they are rigid and can scratch or chip if handled roughly. A clean, dry surface ensures the adhesive bonds fully and the skirts stay secure at highway speeds.
Temperature matters too. Apply the skirts when the ambient temperature is between 60°F and 85°F (15°C to 30°C). Cold adhesive loses tack, and heat can make it too soft before the bond sets.
Tools you will need
You need isopropyl alcohol (70% or higher), microfiber cloths, painter's tape, a heat gun or hair dryer, and a soft rubber mallet or a block of wood for gentle tapping.
Optional but helpful: a second pair of hands to hold the skirt in place during alignment, and a small level to check the final position.
Installation steps
- Clean the mounting area: Wipe the lower edge of the Model S side sill with isopropyl alcohol and a microfiber cloth. Remove all wax, dirt, and residue. Let it dry for 5 minutes. Common mistake: skipping this step causes the adhesive tape to fail within weeks.
- Dry-fit the side skirt: Hold the Viento side skirt against the sill without removing the tape backing. Check that it follows the contour of the car and does not interfere with the door or wheel arch. If the skirt does not sit flush, warm the area with a heat gun (low setting) for 30 seconds to make the carbon fiber slightly more pliable.
- Apply adhesive promoter (optional): For extra bond strength in hot climates, apply a thin layer of automotive adhesive promoter to both the sill and the back of the skirt. Wait 2 minutes for it to become tacky. Do not use promoter on painted surfaces that are not prepped for it—it can stain clear coat.
- Peel and stick the skirt: Remove the tape backing from one end of the skirt. Align it with the dry-fit marks and press firmly from the center outward. Use the rubber mallet or a block of wood to tap along the edges every 2 inches. Common mistake: peeling all backing at once makes alignment impossible. Work in sections for best results.
- Apply pressure and let cure: Hold the skirt in place with painter's tape across the top edge for 24 hours. Avoid washing the car or driving above 50 mph during the cure period. If you see a gap after 30 minutes, press again. Do not remove and reapply—the tape loses adhesion.
Product details
- 2021+ | Model S Viento Side Skirts (1 Pair) - Real Molded Carbon Fiber: Crafted from authentic molded carbon fiber, these side skirts bring a modern touch to your vehicle's appearance. The carbon fiber construction makes the skirts lightweight yet stiff, so they hold their shape during installation and resist road debris impact.
2021+ | Model S Viento Side Skirts (1 Pair) - Real Molded Carbon Fiber - 2021+ | Model S Viento Side Skirts (1 Pair) - Real Molded Carbon Fiber: Designed to have a functional impact on the vehicle's side profile. Besides looks, the skirts help smooth airflow along the car's sides, which can reduce wind noise at higher speeds.
