10/13/22 DIY 2021 Model Y Biodefense Mode HEPA Retrofit

Tesla quietly updated all Model Ys made after approximately June 2021 with Biodefense Mode and HEPA filters in the main manifold air intake, in addition to the two regular filters located under the glovebox. Under testing, this system is able to filter particulate matter down to levels where you’d survive a military-grade biological attack. I have more innocuous reasons for wanting this system; it helps remove odors from various guests I have had since I rent the vehicle on Turo.

A promised retrofit has been reported since but I’ve never seen it available on the Tesla website nor do service centers usually understand this is something they’re able to do. The service center will say no current package exists. Fortunately, this entire DIY takes less than an hour and probably less than 15 minutes it isn’t your first time.

I’ve amalgamated my research experience as well as a couple of tips I’ve noted to make the entire process easier for you. Credit will be given to anyone else’s images and posts I used to compile this write-up.