Are Teslas Expensive to Maintain?
Tesla doesn't require regular oil changes or other maintenance items, unlike other vehicles. Its relatively low cost of maintenance also helps it attract more potential customers.
One of the main reasons why people buy electric cars is due to their perceived low maintenance costs. But are Teslas expensive to maintain?
But the average cost of repairs for one of Elon Musk's electric cars could have you rethinking your decision.
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Are Teslas Expensive to Maintain?
Depending on the services that your Tesla requires, you might end up spending more than the average car owner.
RepairPal claims that the average cost of maintaining a Tesla is $832. This is significantly costlier than the average cost of all car models sold in the U.S., which is around $652.
Due to Tesla being a relatively new player in the automotive industry, it still has a long way to go before it can fully establish itself as a reliable vehicle.
One of the main factors that have caused this is the company's lack of specific components typically found in combustion engines.
Due to the unique nature of Tesla's components, you'll likely pay more for the company's maintenance costs than the average car owner. Also, luxury car brands like Tesla charge higher prices for their vehicle parts.
Are Teslas Reliable?
Despite the impressive features and performance of Tesla cars, they still have issues with their reliability.
According to a study by J.D. Power, the average number of mechanical faults that Tesla cars have is 176 per every 100 vehicles, significantly higher than the average of 121 in the industry. This high number of faults can affect the reliability of the company's models.
In a study conducted by Consumer Reports, which looked into the reliability of various vehicles, Tesla was ranked 27th out of 28 automakers.
The company's low ranking was attributed to the prevalence of fires that have been reported in the past. Due to these fires, Tesla has issued several recalls.
Although it's essential to know about a manufacturer's overall reliability, it's also important to consider the dependability of individual models.
By understanding the various factors that affect a vehicle's reliability, you can make an informed decision when choosing a Tesla.
Tesla Model 3
Tesla's Model 3 is one of the most popular models in the company. It comes with various features and performance specs and is more affordable than other models.
The car's long-range and impressive acceleration make it an ideal choice for people looking for a more practical vehicle.
Tesla's Model 3 is regarded as one of the most dependable vehicles in its class.
According to Consumer Reports, it's comparable with other cars in its class and, despite its high cost of repairs and maintenance, is the only ModelModel they recommend.
Tesla Model Y
Tesla's entry into the compact crossover market is the Model Y. Like the Model 3. This ModelModel features a sleek and futuristic look.
It's an excellent choice for people looking for a more practical vehicle with a long-range and cargo space.
Consumer Reports noted that the Model Y is less reliable than other cars in its class due to the number of recalls issued for various issues.
These include the loss of tire pressure, wheel alignment problems, and AEB system problems that could cause the vehicle to stop in traffic.
Tesla Model S
The Tesla Model S is the company's flagship model, combining high performance and practicality to give it a unique place in the market.
Equipped with various features, such as a built-in 1,020 horsepower, a top speed of 200 miles per hour, and a 396-mile range, it's a great choice for people looking for a more practical vehicle.
At one point, the Tesla Model S was regarded as one of the most reliable vehicles in the market.
However, its ratings have decreased in recent years due to various issues. As of 2022, Consumer Reports no longer recommends the ModelModel S.
Tesla Model X
The fully loaded Tesla Model X is impressive, with responsive and balanced handling. It also has a long range and can go up to 348 miles on a single battery.
The high-end features of this ModelModel, such as its 17-inch touchscreen, are costly. The U-shaped steering wheel gives a glimpse of the vehicle's futuristic capabilities.
Despite its impressive performance, the reliability of the Model X could be better.
According to Consumer Reports, it received a 2/5 rating for the 2022 model year due to various issues identified with its components.
These include the suspension and drive system. The Model X is a poor choice if you're looking for a car that can last for many years.
Is Buying a Tesla Worth It?
The cost of maintaining a Tesla Model 3 is about $300 more than that of a similar vehicle.
However, the vehicle's fuel pump savings can help offset the higher maintenance expenses.
Before you purchase a Tesla, one of the essential factors you should consider is its convenience.
Due to the increasing number of vehicles sold by Tesla, the company's service centers are becoming oversaturated.
Mobile service technicians can help provide essential services for the car, but specific tasks require special equipment.
Another essential factor you should consider when choosing a Tesla is its ability to recharge.
You may only need to charge your car at home if you frequently commute to work, school, or other places.
However, you'll need to find a compatible station if you reside in an apartment with insufficient charging facilities.
Advantages of Owning a Tesla
Although owning a Tesla comes with some maintenance and repairs, it also comes with various perks. These are different from those found on other brands.
In most states, Tesla owners can get a tax credit or rebate. For instance, in California, the state provides a cash rebate of up to $2,000 to purchase a new Model 3.
Other state governments also offer rebates for buying electric cars and installing home chargers.
In New Jersey, Tesla owners can get a discount on tolls with the help of the state's electronic toll system, known as the EZ-Pass. Tesla lists all the participating states' incentives for electric cars and solar power.
Tesla owners should know that the federal tax incentive for electric cars has already ended.
According to current legislation, the company's cumulative sales in 2019 reached 200,000, which means that the sales of later models were not eligible for the tax credit.
However, there's a chance that the government will allow Tesla owners to claim a new tax credit in 2022.
One of Tesla's perks is its mobile service program, which allows owners to use their smartphones to access the company's services.
According to Tesla's website, the program is available in the U.S. to download the app and schedule a service, which will let you know if you are eligible.
Unlike other brands, the company does not charge a fee for using its mobile services.
Third-Party Tesla Extended Warranties
If you need more time to decide if buying an extended warranty from Tesla is the right option, an independent warranty company can help you.
Several perks come with choosing an extended warranty plan from a reputable company.
Tesla's extended warranty plans can only cover certain costs, such as repairs and maintenance, for a maximum of 2 years or 25,000 miles.
Third-party plans, on the other hand, offer different coverage amounts and plan lengths. These options are only available on two models and have standardized pricing.
Compared to the plans offered by Tesla, an independent warranty will likely cost you less.
If you need to figure out how much you'll need to spend to cover the maintenance costs associated with owning a Tesla, an independent plan might be a better choice.
Unlike the plans offered by Tesla, an independent warranty can provide you with coverage anytime.
This means you'll be able to purchase the same type of coverage even after the first few years of ownership.
Under the company's warranty plans, your vehicle must be inspected and repaired at a company-owned dealership.
Since Tesla dealerships are only sometimes available, getting your car to a repair facility can be hard. With third-party programs, you can avoid this issue.
Certain providers of extended warranty plans won't cover your Tesla due to the car's unique needs and maintenance costs.
