Tesla Maintenance Cost: All You Need To Know

Last updated on September 21st, 2023 at 10:07 am

Tesla is known for its innovative electric vehicles and cutting-edge technology. 

Owning one is a great way to reduce your carbon footprint and switch to a more environmentally-friendly form of transportation.

However, one of the common questions you may have when considering the purchase of a Tesla is the maintenance cost.

You need to know what to expect. From battery replacements to regular check-ups, learn about the Tesla maintenance cost and what you need to keep your vehicle running smoothly.

On average, maintaining your Tesla costs about $832 a year. The maintenance cost varies depending on your vehicle model, age, and how frequently you use it. Maintaining a Tesla may be cheaper than traditional gasoline-powered cars; however, it might sometimes cost more. That’s because some parts cost more if you need to replace them, for instance, the battery, brakes, etc.

This article will teach you what you need to maintain your Tesla, how much it will cost in 2023, and how to save costs doing so. I’ll also compare its maintenance cost to gas vehicles.

By the end, you’ll know how much you can budget to maintain your Tesla and how to cut costs. You’ll also know which Tesla to use is the cheapest to maintain.

Is It Expensive to Maintain a Tesla?

When it comes to electric cars, many people assume that they are cheaper to maintain compared to traditional gasoline-powered cars. 

Although that is true; however, that is only sometimes the case with Teslas. 

While they may require less frequent maintenance than their gasoline counterparts, they can be expensive to maintain in the long run.

According to a survey by RepairPal, Tesla is among the most expensive brands to maintain, with an average maintenance cost of $832 per year.

Although the cost may vary depending on the maintenance needed for your vehicle, this includes routine maintenance such as tire rotation, brake pad replacement, and annual service. 

In contrast, the average maintenance cost for a gasoline-powered car was around $652 per year.

One reason Tesla is expensive to maintain is that they have more complex systems than traditional cars. 

With its all-electric powertrain, Teslas require specialized maintenance, which can come at a premium.

Additionally, replacement parts can be more expensive due to their unique designs.

There are ways to keep the maintenance cost of your Tesla low. For example, regularly servicing your vehicle and ensuring it is properly maintained can prevent costly repairs.

You can opt for a warranty or maintenance package offered by Tesla or a third party, which can help reduce the overall maintenance cost.

Likewise, without repairing or replacing parts of your vehicle required for its maintenance, it’s less expensive than maintaining a traditional gas vehicle.

That is mainly because electric cars have reduced moving parts and don’t need oil changes, significantly reducing maintenance costs.

What Is the Average Cost of Maintaining a Tesla in 2023?

Maintenance costs for a Tesla can vary based on several factors, including the model and the usage level. You spend about $832 a year on average on maintaining your Tesla.

Here is a general overview of what you can expect to spend to maintain a Tesla in 2023. 

If your Tesla is in its first year, it might be lower than that without most scheduled maintenance costs needed then.

For instance, you can use about $300 or less in the first year to maintain your car.

You spend $25 -$100 on tire rotation and $75-$150 on inspection, including lubricating the brake caliper.

So the maintenance cost will increase depending on your vehicle model, how long you’ve used it, and the mileage it has covered.

The table below shows your Tesla maintenance plan.

Maintenance Items	Schedule Maintenance (Years)
Cabin air filter	2-3  (Tesla Model Dependent)
HEPA filter	3
Brake fluid test	2
AC service	3-6 (Tesla Model Dependent)
Wheel rotation and tire arrangement	6,250 miles
Winter care	12,500 miles

The table below shows some standard Tesla maintenance costs in 2023.

Maintenance Items	Price
Cabin air filter	$60-$200
Brake system flush	$100
Tire Rotation	$35-$100
AC service	$50
Full services	$475 and above

Depending on your model and how long you’ve been using it, you might not need these maintenances simultaneously, reducing costs. 

The cost of maintaining a Tesla will largely depend on your specific circumstances. 

However, with careful planning and regular maintenance, it is possible to keep costs down while still enjoying the benefits of owning an electric vehicle.

Is Tesla Maintenance Cheaper than Maintaining Gas Vehicles?

Regarding maintenance costs, Teslas are significantly cheaper to maintain than gas vehicles.

While gas vehicles require frequent oil changes, tire rotations, and other routine maintenance, Teslas require less maintenance due to the lack of combustion engine components.

In addition to the lower overall maintenance costs, Teslas are also known for their lower repair costs.

As Teslas are relatively new, they often come with warranties that cover the cost of repairs. 

Also, Teslas have fewer moving parts than gas vehicles, which means fewer components can break down or wear out over time.

Compared with gasoline-powered cars, it’s essential to consider that Teslas have lower fuel costs, as they don’t require gas. 

Over time, this can offset the higher maintenance costs and make owning a Tesla more cost-effective in the long run.

However, Tesla vehicles generally have proven reliable and require minimal maintenance.

With more and more people switching to electric vehicles, we’ll likely see even more cost-saving measures for maintaining these cars in the future.

By correctly maintaining your Tesla and being mindful of its potential costs, you can ensure it stays in top shape without breaking the bank.

Overall, purchasing a Tesla may be higher than a gas vehicle, but the long-term cost savings in maintenance and repairs make it a worthwhile investment. 

Plus, you’ll be contributing to a more sustainable and eco-friendly future.

What Is the Cheapest Tesla to Maintain?

While Teslas are known for their sleek design and eco-friendly technology, they have a hefty price tag. 

However, the good news is that they can be relatively cheap to maintain over time.

According to a survey conducted by CarEdge, the Tesla Model 3 is the cheapest to maintain. 

The survey found that Model 3 owners reported the lowest repair and maintenance costs, averaging $3,587 in 10 years. 

The chance of this model developing a major fault needing repair in ten years is meager, about 8.64%.

The average annual maintenance cost for all other luxury vehicles is way more than that.

The Model 3’s relatively low maintenance costs are mainly due to its design and construction.

It has a simpler drivetrain than other Teslas, meaning fewer parts to maintain or repair. 

It also comes with a comprehensive warranty and requires less frequent maintenance, such as oil changes, than traditional gas vehicles need.

Overall, if you’re looking for a Tesla that will be in your budget regarding maintenance costs, the Model 3 is your best bet. 

Of course, this is only a generalization, and individual experiences may vary. 

Still, the data suggest that owning a Tesla can be relatively affordable, primarily if you invest in a suitable model and take care of it properly.

How Do You Save Cost in Maintaining a Tesla?

Owning a Tesla may come with a higher initial cost, but you can save money on maintenance costs in the long run. 

Here are some tips on how to do that:

#1. Routine Maintenance 

First and foremost, follow the recommended Tesla maintenance schedule. That will help avoid costly repairs down the line.

Investing in high-quality tires and brakes is also a good idea, as these can significantly impact your vehicle’s maintenance costs.

Regular maintenance on your Tesla, such as tire rotations and fluid checks, can help prevent more significant, costlier issues from arising. Keep a maintenance schedule and stick to it.

#2. Doing Some Maintenance Yourself

Simple maintenance tasks like changing wiper blades, replacing air filters, and topping off fluids can be done at home, saving you labor costs.

#3. Avoid Unnecessary Repairs

Keep an eye out for any warning signs and address them promptly to prevent more extensive repairs later.

Be proactive about repairs. If you notice an issue with your vehicle, don’t wait to get it checked out. It’s also essential to choose a reliable mechanic experienced with Teslas.

Catching problems early on can prevent them from becoming more significant (and expensive) issues.

#4. Utilize Your Warranty

Teslas has a four-year/50,000 miles limited warranty covering many maintenance costs. Make sure to take advantage of it before it expires.

#5. Drive Efficiently

Driving your Tesla efficiently by avoiding rapid acceleration and hard braking can reduce wear and tear on your brakes and tires, saving you money in the long run.

#6. Third-Party Warranty

You can also purchase a third-party warranty extending past the standard warranty. The great thing about this is that it saves you from spending on maintenance unexpectedly.

By following these tips, you can keep your Tesla running smoothly and cost-effectively for years.