by Expensive repair of Tesla Model Y after a minor accident
A minor accident involving a Tesla Model Y resulted in significant repair costs. The car owner, who collided with a yellow pole in a parking lot, sustained damage to the rear doors, bumper, and fender. Although the damage does not appear catastrophic, the official Tesla service center estimated the repair at $11,671.
About half of this amount is labor costs: $5,486 for 60.7 hours of work. These figures raise doubts, as the damage does not seem so extensive. However, service representatives insist on their estimate.
Insurance costs and alternatives
If the owner files an insurance claim, their annual payments could increase by $1,000 over the next five years. Additionally, they would lose the discount for accident-free drivers and have to pay a $1,000 deductible.
Using insurance funds may prove more expensive in the long run than paying for the repair out of pocket.
Cost-saving alternatives include:
This situation highlights the general trend of rising repair costs for electric vehicles. Many insurance companies are already inclined to declare such cars totaled even after minor damage, creating additional challenges for owners. Some experts recommend researching repair options and insurance coverage before purchasing premium electric vehicles.
