Who owns a Tesla?

[donas]

I had never really given Tesla much thought, as I kinda thought it was just a hyped up battery car. I had the chance to see a friend's Model S Plad this past weekend; understandably, this is the top end 150G car, but I was absolutely amazed. I went and test drove a Model Y today, which is a little more in my price bracket and just can't put into words how shocked I am with the power and technology.

I'm a very conservative/safe driver, but something about having enough power to actually feel a substantial G force pull (relatively speaking) from a battery powered car is just insane to me. After I did 0-55 twice, my wife said she was queasy and I had to stop LOL.

I'm sure some on here have one, just wondering what the impressions are after owning one for a while. I've read that some models have a serious leaking problem, anyone experience this?

[scarlet knight]

Our friends have one, we’ve driven with them. Amazing. But we defer to long term owners.

[TNT009]

Wife loves hers and its pretty damn quick off the start1

[pickettt]

Just got our Y last week. Build quality is second rate, at best. The tech, however, is tops. Basically, it's a $55k computer in a $15k car. And yes, it accelerates quickly.

[donas]

Originally Posted by pickettt

Just got our Y last week. Build quality is second rate, at best. The tech, however, is tops. Basically, it's a $55k computer in a $15k car. And yes, it accelerates quickly.

Interesting analogy, I can see that. You seem less than pleased in a short amount of time for such a large purchase (at least for me). Are you disappointed in the build quality, as in you expected better or you knew it wasn't great when you made the purchase? I have purchased vehicles in the past that seemed great in during my short test drive and on lot inspection, but once I got it home and started using it I quickly began noticing issues.

[brandrea]

Originally Posted by pickettt

Just got our Y last week. Build quality is second rate, at best. The tech, however, is tops. Basically, it's a $55k computer in a $15k car. And yes, it accelerates quickly.

This type of review always makes me want to stay away and yet it intrigues me at the same time

[904VT]

Originally Posted by brandrea

This type of review always makes me want to stay away and yet it intrigues me at the same time

Their biggest quality issue that I've noticed in observation is the size of their panel gaps. They're awful. As well as the amount of plastic used in the general construction. I guess as others have said, the money is in the battery and system.

[henrylee]

The model Y is a cool, sporty, and tech focused crossover. Would not consider it a luxurious car in any means.

[pickettt]

Originally Posted by donas

Interesting analogy, I can see that. You seem less than pleased in a short amount of time for such a large purchase (at least for me). Are you disappointed in the build quality, as in you expected better or you knew it wasn't great when you made the purchase? I have purchased vehicles in the past that seemed great in during my short test drive and on lot inspection, but once I got it home and started using it I quickly began noticing issues.

Originally Posted by henrylee

The model Y is a cool, sporty, and tech focused crossover. Would not consider it a luxurious car in any means.

I was aware that it was not a luxury car, but an expensive car nonetheless. So, even though I didn't expect luxury, I did at least expect quality. You've just gotta come to grips with why you're buying it and find solace in that.

[Zoomerang]

I'm expecting delivery of my Model Y Performance by the end of the year. I owned a Model 3 Long Range since 2019.

I agree with pickettt although I'm a little more upbeat about Tesla's quality. My Model 3 only had one minor issue at delivery (glove box misalignment) which was promptly taken care of.

I compared the Model Y to a BMW X3 M40i since I've owned many BMWs and obviously build quality and "luxury" is higher with BMW (even higher with other brands like MB) but couldn't find the same combination of tech and power for $65k.

The potential of an $8k credit is also very appealing.

Pre COVID, I used to drive more than 2000 per month so the gas savings for me in California are very real.

[pickettt]

Originally Posted by Zoomerang

I'm expecting delivery of my Model Y Performance by the end of the year. I owned a Model 3 Long Range since 2019.

I agree with pickettt although I'm a little more upbeat about Tesla's quality. My Model 3 only had one minor issue at delivery (glove box misalignment) which was promptly taken care of.

Excellent example; my glove box is misaligned. Obviously, they've seen the problem before. Send out a memo...install the damn glove boxes straight. Am I asking too much of a $70k car?

[walds11]

I’d love one. I only drive SUVs. I like to step up into my vehicles. The Model X starts around the six figure range I think. Way more than I want to spend on a vehicle. What about the Model Y? Is that comparable to a crossover style? If so, I can handle that.

Long range or performance option? Add the Seven Seat Interior and Full Self-Driving Capability?

[pickettt]

Originally Posted by walds11

I’d love one. I only drive SUVs. I like to step up into my vehicles. The Model X starts around the six figure range I think. Way more than I want to spend on a vehicle. What about the Model Y? Is that comparable to a crossover style? If so, I can handle that.

Long range or performance option? Add the Seven Seat Interior and Full Self-Driving Capability?

The Y is like a crossover platform. Mine is a 5 seat, long range, full self driving. Incidentally, if you get a long range, you can upgrade to performance after the fact.....for $2k. It's just a software hack. The capability is already there, you just have to pay to use it. You can pay for FSD up front for $10k, or subscribe for $200/month. Again, pay to play

[walds11]

Originally Posted by pickettt

The Y is like a crossover platform. Mine is a 5 seat, long range, full self driving. Incidentally, if you get a long range, you can upgrade to performance after the fact.....for $2k. It's just a software hack. The capability is already there, you just have to pay to use it. You can pay for FSD up front for $10k, or subscribe for $200/month. Again, pay to play

Got it. Thank you for the info.

[TheVTCGuy]

I am trying to buy one… but they are as difficult to get as a SS Daytona right now

[donas]

Originally Posted by TheVTCGuy

I am trying to buy one… but they are as difficult to get as a SS Daytona right now

If you want to spend the big bucks, our local dealer actually has a Model S Plaid on the lot (well, it's actually inside and behind glass, can't even get near it)! I'm new to Tesla, but apparently there is a year to year and a half wait for this model usually.

[crew]

Interesting topic and gives me the opportunity to ask those that own one, especially the Model S, how they handle. I know about they have world class acceleration but I’ve always wondered if they can compete against brands like Porsche and Ferrari in road handling.
Comments?

[uscmatt99]

Originally Posted by crew

Interesting topic and gives me the opportunity to ask those that own one, especially the Model S, how they handle. I know about they have world class acceleration but I’ve always wondered if they can compete against brands like Porsche and Ferrari in road handling.
Comments?

My buddy is a big Tesla fan. I was visiting him a few years ago and we had to drive his Model S in a Boston nor'easter. On the ice/snow-covered highway at around 35 mph we hit a clump of ice and went 45 degrees sideways. He gently steered through it an pretty much kept in his intended lane no problem, granted on winter tires. Many vehicles would have had ended up in worse straights. So I can't comment on dry road handling compared to a Porsche or Ferrari, but he felt it handled better in crap conditions than his former Audi S4. I drove an S4 for several years, and if the AWD is as good as Quattro, it's pretty good.

[zengineer]

I've only driven the Model Y (or 3?) Once I got over the very impressive acceleration, the fact that it is on a twitchy and unrefined suspension and a very uninspired interior became clear.

Maybe the higher end of the lineup are better?

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[pickettt]

Originally Posted by zengineer

I've only driven the Model Y (or 3?) Once I got over the very impressive acceleration, the fact that it is on a twitchy and unrefined suspension and a very uninspired interior became clear.

Maybe the higher end of the lineup are better?

Sent from my SM-G991U using Tapatalk

You’ve hit it in the head. These are expensive commuter cars. The X and S even exasperate the condition because they’re up to $50k more without adding much value.

Now, what I benefit from this car; I have a 25 mile commute. I live 2 blocks from the freeway, and work 2 blocks from the freeway. I only have to get the car onto the on-ramp…from there, I’m a passenger that sits in the driver seat. It takes the stress out of the morning commute. AND, I’ve not been to a gas station in over a week…so far.

[McinRolex]

I am waiting on Model S. A lot of my colleagues and friends already bought Model Y which I loved driving and being in a passenger seat.

Can't wait for mine to get!

Of course panel gaps may bother some people but it doesn't bother me at all. More pros then cons (if any).

[zengineer]

Originally Posted by McinRolex

I am waiting on Model S. A lot of my colleagues and friends already bought Model Y which I loved driving and being in a passenger seat.

Can't wait for mine to get!

Of course panel gaps may bother some people but it doesn't bother me at all. More pros then cons (if any).

It keeps you from having to worry about pincing your fingers in the door...so there's that.

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[Goin2drt]

We bought a MYP over Thanksgiving o; a trip to the mail to get a break from the in laws ������. That was expensive.

Finally actually test drive one last night to make sure we actually wanted it. Holy hell February can’t come fast enough. If you are a car person, one step on the pedal and that INSTANT torque is addicting. Tech is cool for sure. Been reading up and looking forward to doing our huge checklist at delivery and hopefully will accept the car.

I will sad being a newb on the Tesla forums is sad. They actually expect and are ok with poor build quality. They do take delivery and have a bunch of stuff fixed AFTER they take delivery. We will not. They can fix it first before we spend $64k on a car. Many on the forum say I should just walk now because Tesla is not for me if I expect a clean car at delivery. We shall see.

[pickettt]

Originally Posted by Goin2drt

I will sad being a newb on the Tesla forums is sad. They actually expect and are ok with poor build quality. They do take delivery and have a bunch of stuff fixed AFTER they take delivery. We will not. They can fix it first before we spend $64k on a car. Many on the forum say I should just walk now because Tesla is not for me if I expect a clean car at delivery. We shall see.

Unfortunately, they’re in the position to tell you to “take it or leave it.” That’s what happens when the demand is as it is. And yes EVERY forum has its apologists.
I’m not suggesting people not buy a Tesla; Just know what you’re getting, that’s all.

[michaelodonnell123]

I drive a Tesla company car a couple of time a week and while it's a very interesting automobile for some folks - it's not my cup of tea. Since I follow the speed limits, the available power is of no use to me. I also don't like the obnoxious large screen in my face packed with distracting technology that I will never use. I like simple and this is not that. Some people like Microsoft Word with all its bells and whistles..., I can do all my work in Notepad. Thank you!

[tritium8]

I've driven a Model X for the last 2 1/2 years. Absolutely love it. It checked all the boxes for me and has been a reliable car. The lines aren't perfect like maybe legacy auto makers would do but the constant software (with new/useful features) updates and cheap "fuel" more than make up for that. I have also had no issues with service. Add to the fact that you can basically schedule a home appointment for minor stuff (had a wiper that was off a little bit and annoyed me - fixed in my driveway). If you have any questions, feel free to ask. I'm in Los Angeles so maybe a little different market because I know at least 25 people with Teslas.

[Phil t 32]

I was considering a Tesla when buying an EV and ended with an Audi eTron 55, this is my take on it…..

Tesla at the forefront of EV technology but not an established ‘car builder’

Audi quality ‘car builder’ but not quite up there with EV technology

Both are catching up with each other and my guess is that in a couple of years the gap will be considerably less either way you look at it

Having said that, after 12 months I have gone back to a Mercedes CLS, as much as I tried the EV did not work for me (UK based)


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[donas]

Originally Posted by Phil t 32

Having said that, after 12 months I have gone back to a Mercedes CLS, as much as I tried the EV did not work for me (UK based)

If you don't mind sharing, what part of the EV experience didn't work for you? Was there a breaking point that drove you back to a regular vehicle?

[Phil t 32]

Originally Posted by donas

If you don't mind sharing, what part of the EV experience didn't work for you? Was there a breaking point that drove you back to a regular vehicle?

Don’t mind at all Donas, it was several aspects….bearing in mind I didn’t do the research and rushed into it (for tax purposes to be brutally honest) the mileage / range was quoted around 240 which I could cope with in ‘everyday’ day use actually dropped to 170 in the winter months (using pre conditioning / lights etc) which wouldn’t cover some of my work journeys, which meant after a full day on site I would have to stop on the way home for 30/49 mins to charge and then finish my report off when I got home. A few times I’d have a call to say would I go to another vendors premise for say 3.00pm (which would be another days pay!) and I’d have to say no because it could mean factoring in another charge stop on a route I wasn’t familiar with. Many times I’d stop at the motorway services to charge and they wouldn’t be putting the power out it should so I’d stop for 40 mins and only put about 50 miles in. I forgot to put it on charge one night and got up in the morning to realise I wouldn’t have enough charge and ended up using my van. Had many times when chargers weren’t working so moved onto another stop, not the end of the world but not what I wanted after a long day with work still to do at home. One of the points that tipped me over was when my daughter needed to go to the hospital (she lives 40 miles away) I had to work out if I could get to hers, take her to the hospital and either back home or back to hers as I don’t think she would appreciate a charge stop en route.

I know I’m making it sound very negative and probably justifying to myself the reasons I wanted to change back but I felt with my work I needed to be very flexible and it would take a lot of planning to be efficient which I didn’t want to do.

I’m quite certain that if I could have used the Tesla chargers I would still have the Audi, there’s loads about and rapid chargers too but no access to other than Tesla. I know it been trialled in Norway (I think) to allow other vehicles to use them so hopefully it’s successful and then I’d consider going back (but without the cameras for mirrors….no no and no)

I could go on with positives and negatives but hopefully that gives you an insight, if you have the range (which is getting greater all the time) and your journeys are fairly structured daily no problem….forgot to mention the holiday in mid wales…chargers??


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[ratty]

Originally Posted by Phil t 32

Don’t mind at all Donas, it was several aspects….bearing in mind I didn’t do the research and rushed into it (for tax purposes to be brutally honest) .....


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So would it be fair to say that your problem wasn’t with the car itself, but more with you use of the car and the current problems in the UK with convenient charging EVs?