When it comes to luxury, high-performance electric cars, no other brand rules the roost like Tesla. Among Tesla’s undoubtedly impressive fleet, the Model S stands out.
Lauded for its sleek design, superb acceleration, sitting capacity, and long-range abilities, this model also boasts of minimal Tesla Model S maintenance cost.
Yet, savvy owners know there are more ways to cut costs and boost the longevity of their prized vehicles.
This article explores seven strategies to reduce the Tesla Model S maintenance cost, giving you more to enjoy from your investment.
Understand Your Tesla: A Deep Dive Into Maintenance Requirements
Regardless of its avant-garde design, owning a Tesla Model S doesn’t flip the script in all respects. As with any car, failing to understand and meet its specific maintenance needs can be exorbitant.
But, with their electric powertrain and innovative design, Teslas require far less upkeep. The most regular maintenance items include tire rotation,
brake fluid replacement, battery coolant replacement, High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filter replacement, and brake caliper lubrication^1^.
These requirements are infrequent and some, like the brake fluid and battery coolant, may take years before changing.
Commanding this knowledge can keep your Tesla Model S maintenance cost manageable.
Follow Tesla’s Maintenance Schedule
Aligning with Tesla’s maintenance schedule is another sure way to reduce your Tesla Model S maintenance cost.
Coupled with its limited maintenance needs, Tesla provides an easy-to-follow maintenance schedule for owners ^2^.
Regularly conducting these preventive measures takes away the headache of unplanned expenditures.
Though it may seem like added costs initially, they are smaller expenditures compared to the costs incurred when relying on reactive maintenance – a case of inexorably waiting until something ‘breaks.’
Use Tesla’s Over-the-Air Updates
The Model S is a futuristic vehicle equipped with over-the-air updates, akin to those your phone receives.
Tesla issues these updates to upgrade the systems in the car, rectify bugs, and enhance performance, safety, and energy efficiency^3^.
Regularly updating your Model S can contribute to its problem-free running, precluding avoidable visits to the servicing center.
This convenience is a unique benefit presented to Tesla owners and is crucial for maintaining low Tesla Model S maintenance cost.
Utilize Tesla’s Mobile Service
In addition to its state-of-the-art technology, Tesla also offers its mobile service^4^. This service means a Tesla technician can come to you for repairs or maintenance,
reducing the cost of towing the car when it experiences break down or malfunctions. The Tesla mobile service can handle about 80% of the issues Tesla owners frequently encounter.
Employment of this service where appropriate can cut the Tesla Model S maintenance cost by dodging unnecessary towing fees.
Recharge Batteries Properly
Although the Tesla Model S showcases formidable battery technology, careless charging habits can cause premature battery degradation^5^.
Tesla recommends keeping your battery level between 20%-90% for daily driving, and only charging it to 100% for long trips.
Following these guidelines can extend your battery life and circumvent costly battery replacements – a significant chunk of the Tesla Model S maintenance cost.
Purchase Pre-Owned Tesla Model S
If you’re not insistent on buying a brand-new Tesla, purchasing a pre-owned Model S^6^ can be a clever move. With the low maintenance needs of Teslas, such an option presents an excellent opportunity to own a Model S at a reduced cost.
The Tesla Model S maintenance cost for a pre-owned car can be notably lower than that of new vehicles, especially if the former owner meticulously maintained the car.
Just make sure you inspect the vehicle thoroughly before purchase.
Insure Your Tesla
Insurance can be a protective layer against unplanned maintenance costs. Although the premiums can be high due to the high value and repair costs of the vehicle, having an insurance cover can provide peace of mind.
It’s worth shopping around with different insurance providers to find a suitable cover at a tolerable rate.
This isn’t a direct way to lower your Model S maintenance cost, but it can provide a financial cushion in the event of unexpected repairs.
Questions about the Tesla Model S maintenance cost are quite common. Below we answer some of them.
FAQs
1. What is the annual maintenance cost for a Tesla Model S?
The annual maintenance cost for a Tesla Model S is significantly lower compared to the traditional car. It can range from $200 – $600 per year, depending on your car’s specific needs and the frequency of use.
2. Does Tesla Model S really require less maintenance?
Yes, the Tesla Model S requires less maintenance due to its simple electric powertrain and the absence of several mechanical components found in combustion-engine cars.
3. Are Tesla repairs expensive?
Certain Tesla repairs can be costly due to the specific parts and skills required. However, the frequency of these repairs is minimal, which mitigates the overall cost.
4. Does Tesla Model S come with a warranty?
Yes, new Tesla Model S vehicles come with a four-year or 50,000-mile warranty. The battery and powertrain come with an eight-year or unlimited-mile warranty.
5. Can I do some maintenance tasks myself on a Model S?
While Tesla discourages unauthorized repairs, some routine maintenance tasks like tire rotation can be done at home. Always refer to your vehicle’s manual or consult Tesla.
6. How long will the battery in a Tesla Model S last?
Tesla Model S batteries are robust, with the majority of the cars retaining 90% of their battery capacity after 200,000 miles.
conclusion
In conclusion, the Tesla Model S maintenance cost is already at the lower end of the spectrum for luxury cars.
By following the cost-saving strategies outlined in this article, owning and maintaining a Model S becomes even more economical.