Tesla Maintenance and Repairs: The Most Expensive Incidents and Surprises

Driving a Tesla can be a joyous experience, but it's not without its challenges, especially when it comes to repair costs and unexpected expenses. In sharing our Tesla owner's stories, we can learn more about what to expect during maintenance and the occasional unfortunate incidents that can occur.

Dealing with Unexpected Expenses

For one Tesla owner, the cost of a repair on their 2018 Model 3 was significantly higher than expected. The air conditioning unit, which went out at around 100k miles, required a costly and lengthy fix. Initially quoted at $355.59 for just a day fix, the final bill was around $2,863.50 and the repair took a week to complete. This highlights how critical it is to understand the repair costs and time commitments associated with Tesla vehicles.

Post-Accident Repair Costs

Another incident involved a 2018 Model 3 when it was rear-ended. Despite it being a minor accident, the repair costs exceeded $18,000, which included a luxury class rental car and fuel. This substantial cost underscores the importance of having proper insurance coverage. Additionally, the emotional and mental toll of driving a different vehicle, in this case, a Mercedes, for two months, adds another layer of complexity to the equation.

Major Repairs and Tire Costs

Among the most significant repairs, the windshield replacement on a 2018 Model 3 stands out. A set of two cracks in the windshield required a replacement costing approximately $1,024, with a substantial part of the cost attributed to labor. The complexity here lies in the realignment of the Autopilot cameras, as a local windshield repair shop refused to work on Teslas due to the camera issue.

Similarly, a 2018 Model S P85 had to replace its charge port latch, which cost a little over $500. This repair was necessary because one of the kids had damaged it by flexing the charge cable. Another expensive repair was the replacement of the cabin air filter, which the technician came to the owner's house for, costing around $65.

Minor Repairs and Surprises

Less than the most expensive repairs, yet still noteworthy, are the smaller repairs and replacements. For example, a set of tires on a Tesla can be expensive, and one owner reported a set costing around $900. Snow tires and wheels can be even pricier, reaching around $2,000. More surprisingly, the most expensive repair was a windshield replacement, yet strangely, a second incident resulted in a small chip rather than a crack, which could be fixed by an independent shop.

Other incidental repairs included fixing two powered door handles, each costing $60. The tire pressure sensor system upgrade to see each tire's pressure cost $700. These expenses highlight the various demands and nuanced repair costs associated with Tesla vehicles.

In conclusion, while Tesla vehicles provide a reliable and enjoyable driving experience, they also bring with them specific repair considerations. Understanding and planning for these costs can help owners manage their expectations and prepare financially for such eventualities.