A Tesla owner was furious after being locked out of his car due to a dead battery. The replacement cost a shocking $26,000, leading him to sell the car.
Mario Zelaya, the owner of the $140,000 electric vehicle, called it a ‘piece of trash’ in a social media video, highlighting the extreme cost and inconvenience he faced.
Tesla Owner Stranded by Dead Battery
Mario Zelaya, a once-enthusiastic electric vehicle owner, found himself stranded when his car’s battery died. Unlike conventional vehicles where unlocking the doors is possible with or without a functional battery, this electric vehicle’s doors required battery power to function. Zelaya’s battery was not merely drained; it was entirely dead, rendering the vehicle inoperable.
In a video shared on social media, Zelaya expressed his frustration with the situation. The dead battery effectively locked him out of his own car, presenting an unexpected and significant obstacle.
The Staggering Cost of Replacement
Upon discovering the need for a new battery, Zelaya was met with a staggering revelation. The replacement battery would cost him $26,000, a figure he found exorbitant given that the vehicle originally cost him $140,000. This additional cost was not something he had anticipated or budgeted for.
Faced with this unexpected expense, Zelaya decided to sell the car. However, another challenge emerged: the proof of ownership papers were locked inside the vehicle. To move forward with the sale, he had to obtain a duplicate copy of these documents, incurring an additional $30 fee.
A History of Technical Issues
Mario purchased his vehicle in 2013, a model year known for specific technical issues. Notably, these models faced problems with fluid leaks into the battery compartment, which could lead to significant malfunctions. This issue was not isolated to Zelaya’s car alone but impacted several vehicles from the same production years.
Zelaya’s frustration extended beyond his personal experience. He reached out to Transport authorities, prompting an investigation into the matter. Authorities confirmed that other vehicles from the same manufacturer were also affected, underscoring the system-wide nature of the issue.
https://www.tiktok.com/@user/video/7142939126747188486
Sweeping Problems Under the Rug
Zelaya did not mince words when discussing his dissatisfaction. He claimed that the company attempted to ‘sweep the issue under the rug,’ providing no adequate explanation for why the battery failed. Zelaya’s strong words reflected a deeper dissatisfaction with the company’s handling of the matter.
In his view, the lack of transparency and the high cost of repairs were significant deterrents to future purchases. ‘I’ll never buy another from this manufacturer again,’ Zelaya stated unequivocally, advising others to be cautious with their decisions.
Wider Concerns Among Vehicle Owners
Zelaya’s experience is not unique. Several other owners have reported similar issues with their electric vehicles. For instance, another driver, Craig Doty II, recounted a near-miss incident caused by the vehicle’s autonomous driving mode, raising safety concerns.
Brianna Janel, another owner, faced a stressful situation when she found herself stuck in her car while attempting a system update. These incidents highlight a pattern of problems that continue to emerge among owners, calling the reliability of these vehicles into question.
The company’s ambitious push for technological advancement, such as Full Self-Driving (FSD) features, is increasingly scrutinised. Owners are voicing their concerns, hoping for more reliable and safe innovations.
Financial Implications of Ownership
The financial burden on owners extends beyond just the initial purchase price. The cost of repairs and replacements is exceptionally high, as evidenced by Zelaya’s experience. This has led to a growing concern among consumers regarding the total cost of ownership for these vehicles.
For many, the promise of cutting-edge technology and sustainable driving is overshadowed by the potential for significant financial outlays. As Zelaya’s case demonstrates, the allure of owning an advanced electric vehicle can be marred by unexpected, and often exorbitant, repair costs.
The End of an Ownership Journey
Zelaya ultimately sold his car, marking the end of his journey with the brand. The buyer, as he explained, intended to disassemble and recharge the battery, a solution Zelaya found unviable for himself.
Despite his disappointment, Zelaya’s parting words were clear; he recommended others avoid making the same choice he did. His experience serves as a cautionary tale for potential buyers, urging them to consider the full scope of ownership challenges.
Mario Zelaya’s ordeal with his expensive electric vehicle underscores significant concerns regarding the reliability and cost of maintaining such advanced technology. The numerous reported issues among other owners further amplify these concerns, suggesting a broader, systemic problem that needs addressing.
As the market for electric vehicles continues to grow, manufacturers must prioritise customer satisfaction and transparency. Addressing these concerns is critical for the long-term success and acceptance of electric vehicles globally.
