Tesla
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I’m posting this to warn other Tesla…
I’m posting this to warn other Tesla Model 3 owners about a deeply frustrating and expensive experience with my 2019 Model 3. Just 8 months out of warranty, my car completely shut down while driving — no warning, no accident, just a full power failure mid-ride. I had it towed to Tesla Service and was told the rear drive unit needed to be replaced, along with the pyrotechnic battery disconnect system. Total repair estimate? $4,832.13. What’s shocking is: • This car has been well-maintained and has never been in a collision. • The drive unit failure is a major issue in an EV — and feels like something Tesla should stand behind longer than the 4-year/50k mile warranty. • Despite the seriousness of the failure, Tesla provided no warranty support or goodwill discount, aside from topping off windshield fluid and doing a tire pressure check for free. • Labor was billed at $260/hour — higher than many luxury dealerships. • No recall, no service bulletin, no offer of assistance. Just a huge bill. I get that cars cost money, and EVs have complex components. But a $2,500+ drivetrain failure this soon after warranty expiry? That’s unacceptable. Tesla should at minimum have offered partial coverage for something so critical — especially when it involves safety systems like the pyrotechnic disconnect. If you own or are considering a Tesla out of warranty, be prepared: you’re one breakdown away from a massive repair bill, and there’s no safety net once you cross that warranty line. Ask about extended warranty plans, and be cautious of the “low maintenance” pitch. My experience proves that when something breaks, it breaks big — and Tesla leaves you on the hook.