Owning a Tesla can come with its fair share of challenges. Mario Zelaya, a Tesla owner from Canada, recently shared his frustrating experience of being locked out of his car due to a dead battery. To his disbelief, he was informed at the dealership that a battery replacement would cost a whopping $26,000. Zelaya expressed his frustration in a video, highlighting the need for recalls in such situations.
Zelaya’s ordeal didn’t end there. He had plans to sell his Tesla, but unfortunately, important documents were locked inside the car. To gain access to these essential papers, he had to pay an additional $30 for replacements. Zelaya had purchased his Tesla back in 2013 and pointed out a design flaw that led to fluid leaks onto the batteries, ultimately causing their destruction over time. He reported the issue to Transport Canada, leading to an ongoing investigation. Zelaya didn’t hold back in his criticism of Tesla, declaring that he would never buy another Tesla again.
Tesla has not been immune to complaints and legal troubles. In July, a German court ruled against Tesla, citing unreliable driver assistance systems. Furthermore, in February 2022, Tesla had to recall a staggering 578,000 vehicles for failing to meet safety standards. It’s no surprise that many Tesla owners have voiced their concerns about the expensive battery replacements. In fact, one Finnish Tesla owner went to the extreme of blowing up his car rather than shelling out $23,000 for a new battery.
The TikTok video shared by Zelaya gained significant attention, capturing the sympathy of many viewers. Numerous comments poured in, with one user expressing, “I’ve had nothing but issues with mine.” Another individual added, “A mint 2005 Honda Civic would still be running smoothly.” Frustrated with his experience, Zelaya eventually decided to sell his Tesla, putting an end to his “Tesla journey” and advising others to steer clear of the brand.
It’s essential for potential Tesla buyers to be aware of the challenges faced by some owners. While Tesla undoubtedly has its merits, it’s crucial to consider all aspects before making a purchasing decision.
