congrats on the model 3!

Tesla always estimates the cost on a service call even if it is under warrentee (or brand new!). when I had control arms replaced (both times) I had an estimate in the hundreds, but I paid nothing as it was under warrentee. It is there model and is a shock the first time you see it happen.

 

Think this is due to local laws that mandate a price be made available by mechanics before a customer drops off their car so that they're not on the hook for a large amount AFTER the repair is done. Even under warranty, Tesla provides the cost likely under the thought that they MAY have to charge the fee if the issue was due to an accident/user vs manufacturer.

 

Do these state mandates require that the estimate be >$0? I live in MD and my closest service centers are 2+Hrs from me, either in DE or VA. I have made two service calls (one was later cancelled) in the VA shop and each time the estimate was $0.0. The DE shop estimate >$0 was for tire rotation (I don't think I should have been charged for that either).

 

In other words, don't worry and no need to ***** about service yet

 

In other words, don't worry and no need to * about service yet

 

Thanks for all the reply’s. I’m was actually so impressed with the car that I went and purchased a model Y! It was just a little concerning regarding service’s response. However, I absolutely love the car. (My wife’s car)

 

Most states require a re-estimate if the repair will be 10% or more over the original estimate. So what Tesla does to minimize customer interaction is give a worst case scenario estimate up front. That way even if you ran over something and didn't tell them, they can still complete the repair and charge you for it, without calling you, other than to tell you the car is ready.

 

Just to add a little color to what others have said, I've definitely received zero dollar estimates for things that whoever did the initial review deemed would all be covered by warranty or done as "good will" - I think I may have had one instance where they estimated a cost for something that would ultimately be zeroed out, but it was the exception and not the norm for my warranty service visits. I can imagine how this might vary based on state laws, Tesla policy changes, the individual doing the write up, etc. Regardless, I agree that Telsa could do a better job at communicating certain things when tensions are already elevated. I suspect you'll be fine money wise as it all sounds warrantable.

I personally would be more focused on confirming they do the work right. I didn't like to pick my car up after hours because if there was still a problem I at least wanted to be able to let them know about it, in person, right away. On more than one occasion my car didn't leave the lot or it went on a short drive before being brought back. I've heard some service centers are better than others, but the one nearest to me was awful. I actually had better experiences with mobile service, especially when they sent out an experienced S3 level Mobile Tech/Ranger to correct stuff the service center messed up.

 

Sadly, I believe mobile service was more a marketing tool than a long term service model. From 2019 to mid 2022 I've actually had the same mobile tech, Dominic, come out to my house for EVERY ticket. Came out enough that we always chatted and I found out he knew my brother and was friends with him in high school (20 years ago). Last time he came out July 2022 he stayed for over an hour after the work was completed just chatting about my recently installed Tesla solar system. Since then service won't send a tech out anymore. Shoot they don't seem to want to even do remote diagnostics as I was asked to come in when the SOFTWARE factory reset everything. When I asked to at least have mobile come out for the 12V battery replacement they said was needed, I was told "we don't do that". Uh yeah, you do, the 12V in my car was installed by Dominic just over a year ago.

 

You know I just bought a MSP and things have been wonky since I picked it up. I'm reading all these posts about remote diagnosis and mobile techs which don't seem to fly down here in NYC. Initially they gave me appt 10 days out, then changed it for another two weeks after that. Luckily it seems the issues I was having have seemingly disappeared but I'll still keep that appt as theres other things I need them to fix and I think they should determine why I couldn't use any safety functions for days on end. While BMW/MERCEDES always gave me great service, other mfg's I frequent like Ferrari and Lambortghini who you would think would be terrible, are actually 5stars compared to Tesla. I get there trying to do the whole minimal thing, but the old saying if it aint broke dont fix it they need to re-read again. Trying to re-invent the wheel at everyone elses expense is just ridiclous and terrible business practices

 

Pretty sure that those other manufacturers that you mention sell no where near the number of cars that Tesla is doing. Actually I think that Tesla may be selling more than all those combined!
I'm guessing with the large influx of cars in the last few weeks, service is getting a little overwhelmed.

 

Then you got what you expected...

 

This is a picture of the overwhelmed waiting room. It literally never had more than two people at a time. I arrived 9a and found one person. He left after 30min and someone else arrived 30min before I left.

The “overwhelmed” service floor.

Seems that margins on our Teslas are high on not just the physical components, but the after sale service as well.

 

Where are you located?

 

I get to experience customer service 2/25. Primary is to install homelink Secondary is all the fit & finish issues (and one rattle driving me bonkers). Not expecting a whole lot since I know this showroom/service center is quite busy due the 5 zillion Tesla's around here (20 minutes from Fremont plant).

Big negative of them delivering a vehicle is NO inspection, no nothing. They park and the street and BAM they are gone.

 

I had this same issue and Tesla gave me a hard time about it saying that I probably hit something (I did not). They eventually covered the cost in "good will" but really made me feel like I was getting one over on them.

 

No worries my friend. Tesla wants you happy and satisfied. There will be no charge to realign. Be respectful and curtious. You will receive it kind. Unfortunately there are always those individuals who put their ego in front of the process of having their problem resolved. Reno service center everyone treats you like you were God. You may think your God but your not, so don't go in there acting like one. Congrats on owning a Model Y.

 

Tesla wants you happy and satisfied.

This is so far from my experience as to be laughable.