Electric vehicles generally require less maintenance than gas-powered vehicles due to having fewer moving parts. CarEdge estimates Tesla maintenance costs at $4,287 over ten years, compared to $7,697 for typical luxury cars.
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However, “less” doesn’t mean “none.” Experts and Tesla mechanics highlight these common maintenance and repair problems.
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Door Handle Repairs
The sleek, flush door handles are prone to failure.
Alan Gelfand, owner of German Car Depot, notes that malfunctioning Tesla door handles are common. He estimates the cost to repair a single handle is $200-$250, with multiple repairs potentially costing $1,000.
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Tire Rotation and Replacements
- Typical Cost: $50-$100 for rotation, $200-$450 for replacements
The weight and torque of Teslas accelerate tire wear. Regular rotations every 6,250 miles can extend tire life. Melanie Musson from AutoInsurance.org notes Tesla charges around $100 for a rotation, while some tire shops offer free rotations with tire purchases.
Media Control Unit
The media control unit (MCU), the central touchscreen computer, acts as the car’s “brain.” Replacing it is expensive.
Gelfand states that “Tesla MCU issues are worryingly common.” Replacements cost nearly $2,700. Fortunately, software and firmware glitches, the most frequent causes, can often be resolved by Tesla at no cost or at a lower price than a full MCU replacement.
Air Filter Replacement
- Typical Cost: $15-$30 DIY, $150 by Tesla
Air filters require periodic replacement. You can easily replace them yourself using Tesla air filters costing $15, or pay Tesla approximately $150 for the service.
12-Volt Battery Replacement
- Typical Cost: $150-$200 DIY, $300 by Tesla
Teslas, like gas cars, utilize a 12-volt battery for functions like door locks, which requires occasional replacement.
A replacement battery costs $150-$200 for a DIY installation or around $300 if done by Tesla.
Main Battery Replacement
- Typical Cost: $13,000-$20,000
Replacing the main drive battery is a Tesla owner’s nightmare due to the high cost.
Gelfand estimates a “high-voltage battery replacement can run anywhere from $13,000 to $20,000 or more,” but notes that “thankfully, these come under warranty for many years.”
Tesla offers battery warranties for eight years or 100,000-120,000 miles, depending on the model. J.D. Power reports that Tesla batteries lose about 1% of their range annually, with faster degradation in hotter climates.
This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: Top 6 Tesla Repairs and What They Cost, According to Mechanics
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