Leasing a Tesla is an exciting option for many drivers who want to experience the benefits of electric vehicles (EVs) without the commitment of purchasing. However, a common question that arises is whether a Tesla lease includes maintenance. In this blog, we’ll dive deep into what’s covered in a Tesla lease, what isn’t, and what you need to know before signing the dotted line.
What Is a Tesla Lease?
A Tesla lease allows you to drive one of Tesla’s state-of-the-art electric vehicles for a set period, typically 24 to 36 months. Like any other lease agreement, you pay a monthly fee to use the vehicle during this time. But what makes a Tesla lease different from other car leases?
Tesla’s unique approach to leasing appeals to those who want to drive a premium, eco-friendly car without the long-term commitment of ownership. At the end of your lease term, you can choose to return the vehicle, extend the lease, or upgrade to a new model. However, one key concern for many potential lessees is maintenance. Are those costs covered under the lease?
What Maintenance Does a Tesla Need?
Unlike traditional gasoline cars, Tesla vehicles require very little maintenance. There’s no need for oil changes, fuel filters, or spark plugs. This simplicity is part of the appeal of owning or leasing an electric vehicle. However, Teslas still require some maintenance to keep them running efficiently.
Common maintenance needs for Teslas include:
- Tire rotations and alignments: To ensure even wear and prolong the life of the tires.
- Brake checks: While regenerative braking reduces brake wear, inspections are still important.
- Battery health checks: Ensuring the battery operates optimally is crucial for an electric vehicle.
- Software updates: Tesla vehicles receive over-the-air updates that improve performance and add new features.
- Cabin air filter replacements: Tesla recommends replacing this filter regularly to ensure clean air inside the vehicle.
Does Tesla Lease Cover Maintenance?
Now, the big question: does Tesla’s lease include maintenance? The short answer is no, routine maintenance is not included in a standard Tesla lease. Tesla offers a Basic Vehicle Limited Warranty that covers repairs for manufacturer defects, but routine maintenance, like tire rotations and brake inspections, is not part of the lease agreement.
Lessees are responsible for ensuring that routine maintenance is completed on schedule. This can be done at a Tesla Service Center, where trained technicians can handle everything from tyre rotations to software updates.
What Is Covered Under Tesla’s Warranty?
Although routine maintenance isn’t included in a Tesla lease, the car comes with several warranties to protect you from unexpected issues.
Tesla’s Basic Vehicle Limited Warranty covers the vehicle for 4 years or 50,000 miles, whichever comes first. This warranty covers any manufacturing defects that arise during the covered period. Additionally, Tesla’s Battery and Drive Unit Warranty covers the battery and drive unit for 8 years or 120,000 miles for most models, offering peace of mind when it comes to the most expensive parts of the car.
This means that while routine maintenance costs fall on the lessee, any major issues caused by a manufacturing defect would be covered by Tesla’s warranty.
Can You Purchase a Tesla Maintenance Plan?
Tesla used to offer a prepaid Maintenance Plan, which allowed owners and lessees to prepay for regular service appointments. However, Tesla discontinued this plan in 2021, stating that the vehicles now require even less maintenance than before.
Instead, Tesla recommends that drivers schedule service appointments only as needed. This means you don’t have to worry about purchasing a separate maintenance plan, but you will need to budget for services like tire rotations, brake checks, and other routine maintenance during your lease term.
My Personal Experience with Tesla Leasing
When I first leased my Tesla, I was excited to drive an electric vehicle and save on gas. But I soon realized that while Tesla vehicles don’t require as much maintenance as gas-powered cars, it’s still important to stay on top of routine services like tire rotations and software updates.
I visited a Tesla Service Center for my first tire rotation, and the process was quick and smooth. The technician reminded me that while my lease didn’t cover maintenance, the car’s minimal upkeep made it an easy and affordable responsibility. I was also impressed by Tesla’s customer service and how easy it was to schedule an appointment through the app.
Additional Costs to Consider During a Tesla Lease
While leasing a Tesla comes with lower maintenance costs compared to traditional vehicles, there are still some expenses to consider. These include:
- Tire replacement: Tires wear out over time, and Tesla recommends rotating them every 6,250 miles. Depending on how much you drive, you may need to replace the tires during your lease term.
- Brake pads: Though regenerative braking helps reduce wear, brake pads may still need to be replaced if you drive frequently.
- Out-of-warranty repairs: If your vehicle requires repairs not covered by the Basic Vehicle Warranty, those costs will fall on you.
These additional costs are relatively low compared to what you’d spend on maintaining a gasoline vehicle, but it’s still important to budget for them during your Tesla lease.
How to Keep Tesla Maintenance Costs Low
Tesla vehicles are designed for efficiency and low upkeep, but there are ways to keep your maintenance costs even lower:
- Drive efficiently: Regenerative braking reduces brake wear, and driving smoothly can extend the life of your tyres.
- Monitor tyre pressure: Keeping your tires properly inflated will help reduce wear and improve your car’s overall efficiency.
- Stay up to date with software updates: Tesla’s over-the-air updates help improve your car’s performance and reduce the likelihood of needing repairs.
By following these tips, you can enjoy a worry-free Tesla leasing experience with minimal maintenance costs.
FAQs
1. Does Tesla’s lease include routine maintenance?
No, routine maintenance such as tire rotations and brake inspections are not included in a Tesla lease.
2. What is covered under Tesla’s Basic Vehicle Warranty?
Tesla’s Basic Vehicle Warranty covers repairs for manufacturing defects for 4 years or 50,000 miles.
3. Can I purchase a Tesla maintenance plan with my lease?
No, Tesla no longer offers prepaid maintenance plans, but service appointments can be scheduled as needed.
4. What maintenance do Teslas require?
Common maintenance includes tire rotations, brake inspections, battery health checks, and software updates.
5. Does Tesla’s warranty cover the battery and drive unit?
Yes, Tesla’s Battery and Drive Unit Warranty covers these components for 8 years or 120,000 miles.
6. How often should I rotate my Tesla’s tires?
Tesla recommends rotating your tires every 6,250 miles to ensure even wear.
7. Are Tesla software updates included in the lease?
Yes, Tesla’s over-the-air software updates are included and help improve the car’s performance.
8. Do I need to take my Tesla to a Tesla Service Center for maintenance?
It’s recommended to use Tesla Service Centers as their technicians are specifically trained for Tesla vehicles.
9. How can I reduce Tesla maintenance costs?
Drive efficiently, monitor tire pressure, and stay up to date with software updates to keep maintenance costs low.
