Tesla is undoubtedly the leader in the electric vehicle market. When Teslas first hit the road, it was clear the vehicles would change the automotive world forever. However, as someone who worked on cars for more than 15 years, I can say I’d never own a Tesla. And here’s why you still shouldn’t own a Tesla either.
Owning a Tesla Isn’t All It’s Cracked Up To Be
1. Service and Repair Issues Are a Constant Complaint
Getting a Tesla fixed can feel like navigating a maze, especially if you live outside a major city. Unlike traditional automakers, Tesla has a limited number of service centers nationwide. That means longer wait times for even basic repairs and a lack of third-party mechanics trained to handle Tesla-specific components. Owners have reported waiting weeks, even months, for replacement parts or appointments. If something breaks, your car could be sidelined far longer than you’d expect from a luxury brand.
2. Build Quality Still Lags Behind Competitors
Despite its premium pricing, Tesla has consistently struggled with build quality. Misaligned panels, faulty seals, and interior rattles are common complaints across Tesla forums. While the company has improved over the years, many owners still report problems that wouldn’t fly on a comparably priced Mercedes or Lexus. For some, it feels like you’re paying top dollar for a beta product. A $50,000+ car should not arrive with cosmetic issues, and yet it happens more than it should.
3. The Charging Network Isn’t Foolproof
Tesla’s Supercharger network is impressive, but it’s not perfect, especially as more EVs hit the road. Long-distance road trips can involve planning your entire route around charger availability, which adds stress that many traditional car owners never have to consider. During peak travel seasons, you may face long lines or broken chargers at high-demand stations. And while home charging is convenient, not everyone has access to a garage or a place to install a Level 2 charger. If charging becomes a hassle, the Tesla lifestyle starts to lose its luster.
4. Battery Degradation Over Time Is Inevitable
All EVs, including Teslas, suffer from battery degradation over time. While Tesla’s batteries are some of the best in the industry, they’re not immune to wear. After several years of ownership, you may notice reduced range and slower charging speeds. Battery replacement isn’t cheap—expect to pay several thousand dollars out of pocket if it’s no longer covered under warranty. This isn’t something that most gas-powered car owners have to worry about until very late in the vehicle’s life.
5. Autopilot and FSD Are Still in Legal and Technical Limbo
Tesla’s Autopilot and Full Self-Driving (FSD) features sound revolutionary, but they remain highly controversial. These tools are still in beta testing and have been involved in high-profile crashes and investigations. Many Tesla owners pay thousands upfront for FSD only to find that it’s unreliable, limited in capability, or not legally approved for hands-free use in their state. If you’re expecting a fully autonomous experience, you’ll be disappointed. For now, these features are more marketing sizzle than usable steak.
6. Resale Value Isn’t as Bulletproof as You Think
Tesla’s resale values were once seen as unbeatable—but that’s starting to change. With more competition entering the EV market and used Tesla inventories growing, prices are softening. Plus, rapid changes in software and hardware make older models feel outdated much quicker than traditional cars. If you’re banking on selling your Tesla in a few years at a premium, that cushion may be thinner than expected. Depreciation, especially on newer models, is becoming a bigger factor.
7. Tech Updates Can Be a Double-Edged Sword
Tesla’s over-the-air updates can improve performance or add new features, but not all updates are welcomed by owners. Some software changes have reduced range, modified driving feel, or altered UI design in ways drivers didn’t expect (or like). Since these updates are often automatic, there’s little choice or recourse if something doesn’t work the way it used to. Traditional car owners never worry about waking up to a car that suddenly drives differently than it did yesterday.
8. CEO Controversies Are Turning Off Buyers
Let’s face it—Elon Musk is polarizing. For some, his bold vision and innovation are a selling point. But for others, his unpredictable tweets, political commentary, and involvement in other controversial ventures are a serious turnoff. When you buy a Tesla, you’re not just buying a car—you’re buying into a brand built around a personality. And if that personality doesn’t align with your values, the ownership experience can feel less exciting and more uncomfortable.
A Tesla Isn’t for Everyone—And That’s Okay
EVs used to be something that seemed like something you’d see on The Jetsons. Owning a Tesla is tempting, but they aren’t always the right vehicle for every person. There are a number of things you need to consider before moving forward with the purchase. At the end of the day, Tesla is still figuring out a lot of things. So, if you’re looking for something reliable that doesn’t come with any hangups, it may not be the ride for you.
Would you still consider owning a Tesla after reading this, or have you already had an experience that changed your mind? Share your thoughts in the comments!
Read More
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The post Here’s Why You Still Shouldn’t Own A Tesla appeared first on Clever Dude Personal Finance & Money.
