Software Updates & Surprise Features
Just like computers - heck, they practically are computers - Tesla vehicles receive software updates that make them better. But we’re not just talking efficiency here; they can get entirely new features such as tire fill assist or routing improvements for your GPS!
Charging Is a Lifestyle
While topping up with gas usually takes five minutes max, you have to plan your schedule around Tesla charging. You’ll need a level 2 home charging station to begin with. Then you’ll have to plan your route carefully, taking into account public charger locations.
It Feels Like Driving a Giant Smartphone
As you’d imagine from a tech firm, almost everything in a Tesla is digital and usually accessed from the touchscreen, from menus, sliders, wipers and mirrors. You can also customize a bunch of things for your driving experience, but the downside is that screen-centric vehicles can be distracting.
Tires Wear Down Fast
Teslas are loaded down with power and torque, but that all comes with a caveat: they’re also super heavy. Combine the weight of the vehicle and battery with the fast acceleration and you’ll burn through tires really quickly; prepare to replace them frequently and often.
Cold Weather Is a Buzzkill
Did you know that your Tesla won’t like the cold weather? Temperature drops can affect range by up to 40% and since energy is used to heat up both the cabin and the battery itself, its chemistry slows down. It also takes longer to charge; door handles might even freeze shut!
Phantom Braking Is Real
You’ve probably heard about Tesla’s advanced features such as autopilot and advanced cruise control, right? While they are impressive, they’re not without faults. Sometimes the brakes will jam on automatically for no discernable reason! It could be a shadow in the road, an overpass or a road sign, but it's quite startling.
Dirt Shows
Minimalism chic comes with a price: they show dirt like crazy, especially when they’re purer colors like white or matte. Combine that with no grille, dirt-attracting aero wheels, and even pale interiors and you’ll be cleaning up after your Tesla like it’s a toddler in a chocolate factory.
The Car Talks Back
There will be noises coming from your Tesla, and in various different forms. From fart mode (yes, really) to screaming goat custom horns and even the autopilot informing you that you’ve taken your hands off the wheel, your vehicle will keep you on your toes!
You’ll Be Supercharger-Obsessed
Official Superchargers provide 250kW of power (that’s faster than almost all third-party cables), integrate with Tesla’s navigation and take premium spots in public places. It’s like an electric treasure hunt.
You Can Drive It With Your Phone
You don’t need keys when you have a smartphone! It’s your pocket override, and you can use it to unlock your vehicle, start your car, issue remote commands… you can even drive it with your phone! You’ll feel like Batman, but if your battery runs out then it’s tough potatoes.
There’s So Much Storage
When you combine a clever design structure with no engine, you’d be amazed at how much extra space you can get in a Tesla. There’s secret compartments everywhere, including the front trunk (or “frunk”) to sliding internal panels. You can even fold the seats flat for camping!
Minimalism Isn’t for Everyone
You will be amazed by how everything looks so spartan. There’s no dashboard, no instruments and everything runs on the touchscreen. That can be a good or a bad thing and some people love it! However, others might find the lack of tactile control off-putting and hard to adjust to.
People Will Assume You’re a Tech Genius
Because you’re driving a Tesla, everyone will assume you know everything about it! You might find yourself constantly fielding questions, trying to explain the difference between full self-drive and autopilot, and going into detail about why your car has flatulence.
The Car Is Always Watching
Teslas are filled with cameras. They’re all over the place, and while the most obvious reason for them is assist driving, they do many other things too including recording Sentry Mode footage, providing autopilot visuals and dashcam features. Big Brother Tesla is watching (and sometimes judging).
Range Anxiety Never Fully Leaves
If you’re used to gas vehicles, you might find the transition to battery power a challenge. Some batteries have over 300 miles on them, but you’ll still be constantly trying to stick close to potential charge points and watching your battery bar waiting for the last dreaded 10%.
The Speed Will Ruin Other Cars for You
There’s no build up or engine roar with Teslas - just sudden, silent and surprising speed. Some models can hit 0-60 in under 3 seconds! You might get addicted to the rush and then it’s too late - everything else will feel like slow motion.
You’ll Forget What a Gas Station Even Smells Like
Buying gas is another tactile sensation you’re probably used to, but have you stopped noticing the smell? Gas has a scent to it, and if you’ve been using traditional cars for a long time the sudden absence is both noticeable and exhilarating.
Everyone Has an Opinion About It
When you buy a Tesla, you’ve made a statement whether you meant to or not! Some people will give you knowing nods like you’ve joined an exclusive club while others might think you’re pledging allegiance to the future robot rulers of Earth. It gets weird.
Service Can Be a Hassle
Tesla doesn’t operate traditionally, which has its pros and cons. Techs can pay you a home visit for simple stuff - convenient! - but anything beyond that? You either apply via the app and hope for a response or try your luck at an unreliable service center. And the wait for spare parts? It’s painful.
Learning Public Charger Etiquette
Learning how to react at public charging stations is essential. You have to keep your cool and deal with some real rule-breakers; EVs parked at charging stations without using them, drivers hogging the chargers or even passive-aggressive comments. It’s a behavior roulette!
