Tesla Battery Damage? I Ran Over A Metal Bucket

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I ran over a metal bucket in my Tesla, and it made a bit of a frightening sound. It scraped along the underbody, and there was a loud crack as it exited. What happened, and how much will it cost? In this video, we'll look at the damage caused, how much repairs cost, and go over my latest service visit to Tesla, which included:
- Wheel and tire inspection.
- Upper control arm lubrication.
- Wire harness inspection.
- Rear spoiler re-install.
- Underbody damage.
- Air filter & evaporator cleaner.
- Steering column rattle.
I'll also provide a long-term review of the car, as I've owned it for four years now. We'll talk about the main things I like, and the main things I don't like, going over features like acceleration, handling, sentry-mode, camp-mode, range, autopilot, touch-based infotainment, and the finicky windshield wipers.
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[@EngineeringExplained]

Go to bit.ly/3BZlczF and use code ENGINEERING to get 15% off ClickUp's massive Unlimited Plan for a year! Start reclaiming your time for less than $5 a month. Hurry offer ends soon. Anyone else run over anything significant with your car? What happened? Glad this wasn't like my pothole experience!

[@E.T.GARAGE]

Glad to here it was not an expensive repair, I had something come up underneath and knocked off a governor cover on the side of a auto transmission (700R4), all the fluids shot out and burnt up the planetary gear sets. Doing the work myself it cost me about a grand.

[@EngineeringExplained]

@@E.T.GARAGE wow! Was that from continuing to drive, or a pretty quick failure (for the planetary gears?).

[@AllanSustainabilityFan]

I thought Tesla made Autopilot a free feature that comes standard, it's not retroactive to older Model 3s? That's a shame. Maybe you can check out the latest Model Y P when it comes out of Texas soon, once they start using the 4680 batteries and structural design. Would be curious to see what you think of the many changes and evolution of the platform. Or maybe even Cybertruck lol. At current prices the trade-in value might be pretty solid, and remain so next year as well. Just a thought.

[@E.T.GARAGE]

@@EngineeringExplained I would have to say some of the fluid loss came with out me noticing it and a hole bunch of fluid dumped out and that was it, If you want I can link a YT short video of the streak of fluid it left.

[@curbs100]

what are your car jacks called? I've been looking for that full sill type for ages but I don't know what they are called

[@michaeldominguez9553]

A wise man once said, "the metal bucket passed underneath the car made some loud noises as it worked its way to the back where there was kind of a crack and spit out and became a problem for the car behind me" -engineering explained

[@JamesBrown-ux9ds]

'And they both stopped and soon became best friends' - a fairy tale of the past. (A. They don't stop anymore, and if they will continue b. to hate instead.)

[@michaeldominguez9553]

You can see the smirk in his face when he said that, I had to point out his mischievous face hahaha

[@JoshuaC923]

🤣🤣

[@endumiuz]

I don't get it. Can someone explain the joke please?

[@didiermejia780]

@@endumiuz yeah, not funny

[@matt0725]

I fully expected you to say Tesla wanted $500 or something to change that piece of plastic out. Good on them

[@paulsmyers203]

I am in a state where Tesla relies on "rangers" because they have no service centers. I decided to give them a try swapping the 12v battery on my 3 year old car, fully expecting pay something obscene like $300 for part and labor. Apparently it was completely covered under warranty, along with some other stuff the tech did while he was at my house.

[@BirdiesGoCherp]

It's been 4 years since you got the car? Time passes by insanely quickly.

[@sogerc1]

Yeah man, I'm getting old.

[@anthonybelyea1964]

I thought the same I thought it was only like 2 years ago

[@mtl6067]

Me too

[@Frenchyk]

I said the same thing. It feels like it's only been about 2 years or so.

[@markritchie7059]

And he started with a Mid-Range RWD before upgrading to the Performance.

[@F0XD1E]

Blew my mind with that service center invoice. Expected a $100+ job.

[@EngineeringExplained]

Haha same!

[@dielaughing73]

It's absolutely astonishing they'd do anything at all for $11. I'm quite curious how that would work in Australia where Tesla doesn't have dedicated dealerships.

[@larslrs7234]

They recognized him and so he was only charged for wishing him a nice day.

[@anomaly_echelon7994]

@@larslrs7234 Tesla cares about customer experience (For the most part) unlike apple so I bet they'd do the same for any tesla owner regardless of their status or popularity.

[@zheega2184]

They probably know that he is an influencer with a huge audience.

[@markmuir7338]

My Model S is now 6 years old. I've only had minor issues with it, all of which were replaced under warranty. Then the warranty expired (by mileage), and the tailgate got stuck closed. I visited the service center and they quoted $970 to repair it. I knew what parts were needed so they were happy to sell me those instead - for $70. I couldn't be happier!

[@f36443]

Hatch actuator, breaks on all of them eventually

[@AnnGEkelt]

No mate, they werent happy about selling you that part 😁

[@rkan2]

Yeah, it is kind of weird that the parts Tesla actually sell - they sell for really cheap...

[@markmuir7338]

@@rkan2 They sell the plastic upholstery clips are $10 each. I returned those after discovering the Toyota ones are identical, and cost 100x less 😂. But I think that's the exception that makes the rule.

[@markmuir7338]

@@f36443 I really don't like powered tailgates - I don't understand the benefit. They're so much slower to use than a manual one. So the cinch actuator failing on mine added insult to injury 😅

[@MrQlife]

4 years already? I can still clearly remember the first video you made about it. I was following your channel way before that. Can’t believe how fast time flies 🤯

[@dav2mai]

I've come to really hate it when people drop things on the highway because one time in the cold pitch-black evening a piece of heavy timber was lying on the road and blended surprisingly well with the road once the headlights shone on it. With about 50 meters (165 ft) of visibility with faded halogen lights I didn't have enough time to identify the road obstable, safely turn and slow the car. It did enough damage to total the car.

[@EngineeringExplained]

Yikes - that's terrifying. Glad you made it out okay.

[@markmuir7338]

I came across a dark colored mattress on the freeway in the fog, couldn't recognize it until I was pretty close. Cars in neighboring lanes prevented me from safely swerving around it. Thankfully it didn't do any damage to my Model S - I'm glad mine didn't come with variable ride height, otherwise the front fender would've been a goner.

[@vinnytube1001]

Driving on a rural highway in the Appalachians, and cresting a hill. As I come over the crown I see a huge, dead deer in the right hand lane. I happened to be in the left. I can't even imagine how awful it would have been to hit that thing at ~65mph, and it was just a toin coss to have been in the safe lane. Glad you're okay following your incident there.

[@TechSavvyOppa]

I've seen some pretty crazy things in the middle of the freeway... Luckily it was in the daytime... One time, I cam across an entire sofa sitting in the middle lane of an interstate... Another time, I came across a bathtub sitting in the midde-left lane of an interstate... I don't know if it was fiberglass or cast iron, but I didn't want to find out, lol... I'm guessing cast iron, cus a fiberglass one would probably shatter if it fell off a trailer/truck...

[@rp9674]

Should have saved it, lumber is really expensive now

[@spartenz14]

Wow, an actual unbiased review. Amazing. Haha. I've owned a Model 3 for about 4 months now, and you hit the nail on the head. Every downside you mentioned is absolutely the case. Every point isn't a deal breaker but still annoying.

[@EngineeringExplained]

Haha but seriously, it has been years that the wipers go crazy in reverse!

[@spartenz14]

@@EngineeringExplained I've been fortunate enough to only have wiper issues. Auto high beams work fine and I haven't had any phantom braking issues with Autopilot that others have had. I'll take wonky wipers over phantom braking any day. Still tho, shouldn't be a problem at all.

[@mylesrussell]

@@EngineeringExplained Fog and Drizzle... It just doesn't. I end up just manually pressing the wiper engage on the stock. Also, my friends 9k$ mutsubishi mirage has velocity sensitive wipers so when they slow down the wipers pulse less frequently. Hell it can even basically shut off until I press the accelerator for all I care. Love your videos Jason! Cheers

[@markmuir7338]

@@mylesrussell I'm very happy to have a physical stalk to control the wipers on my Model S. Despite 6 years of software updates and a paid-for computer upgrade, the auto windshield wipers and auto high beam features are still completely useless. If the car is left parked in the rain, when you first get in the windshield wipers go on full speed for several minutes - smearing melted rubber all over the windshield. Great! The removal of stalks is preventing me from buying a Plaid. So I'm very grateful to Tesla for saving me so much money!

[@themeach011]

@@EngineeringExplained I don't use the auto wipers on any of my vehicles. One little mini hack for tge tesla wipers is rather than fishing through the menus just give washer button a little tap and it brings up the wiper controls for you. U probably already knew that.

[@dragosmihai3489]

Very nice review and I agree, the acceleration doesn't get old. I've kinda gotten used to calibrate the brain to look way ahead when accelerating, but from "I feel I can keep up with the car" to say that "it's boring"... that's an exageration. My experience is the range is much closer to advertised on most roads in Scandinavia. Hammering on the Autobahn, yes it drains a bit faster.

[@piccalillipit9211]

I had a Mercedes CL600 and I had to learn to look WAY further ahead when overtaking. The problem was not getting past the lorry, it was not shooting so far past it that you could not pull in for the cars in front.

[@charles5290]

Those arm. 😥. Time for the gym! 💪

[@micci123456789]

@pyropulse Do you own one? Or just spread lies?

[@FlorinArjocu]

Maybe not much highway 130 kmph driving?

[@erhanufak]

I am a big Tesla skeptic, and I believe this video makes one of the most objective takes on Tesla, even though it is a praising video. Thanks Jason!

[@xLordJonx]

@Knaught Shure While you have a great point, there are plenty of Tesla owners that say the same thing time and time again. Its just not there yet as a stand alone car. I have plenty of Tesla friends and guess what, they still cannot get ride of their other car which is gasoline based. Some even have tried. When the infrastructure gets way better, meaning locations, locations, locations and oh yeah, working charging stations. Its just not prime time for the masses. Even then, some of the cost for parts, service (that they do or even wont bother to do) is a bit insane. What it comes down to is, if you have the money, the time and the patience, Tesla by far is a great way to get into the EV market. However, the average joe wont be going down this road for a long time.

[@EngineeringExplained]

Thanks for watching Ethan! The cars definitely have their flaws, but overall, it's a really fun ride.

[@giggiddy]

@Knaught Shure Actually the two I personally know say it is a great novelty around town. So is my Vespa and its not over 40k. I live in a hot climate and frequently travel on highways over 80 mph for over 100 miles. The Tesla won't do it, period. Right now, its an expensive novelty. Which I'm down with as I have several vehicles that are in the same category. But to suggest that most can simply ditch a gasoline vehicle and never look back simply isn't true for most. Im not hating on EVs. My next vehicle will be a hybrid SUV because of the range. Cheers

[@MrArcticPOWER]

@Knaught Shure I'm one of those who sold his Tesla for a used gas car. I loved my M3 and oh boy I miss it, but my priorities changed and owning a 50K$ car isn't one of them for the time being. Ev's are still too expensive sadly.

[@collmanben1]

I’m a fan and an owner but your comment is dead on. He’s great that way.

[@CookiePepper]

The noise in the steering column comes from the a white clip inside. I put a 3M double side adhesive tape under it.

[@mrclown7469]

That bucket had one day until retirement 😢

[@EngineeringExplained]

Then it saw the price of gas.

[@giovannifoulmouth7205]

@@EngineeringExplained if that bucket were full of gas, you would've slammed the brakes as if you saw an endangered species lol

[@Cartier_specialist]

I think you won the Internet today. 😂

[@jrherita]

310 miles of range is for the 18" wheel model, not the performance with 20" wheels

[@KF1]

That makes sense. I downsized my truck tires by 2 inches and now I get 15%-20% better mileage at 90km/hr

[@Warduck645]

@@KF1 If you're basing this off your truck's odometer/range gauge it's not going to be accurate due to the change in circumference of the tires unless you're already accounting for this by doing the percent change yourself. The tires are making more revolutions to go the same distance, and the system measures distance based on wheel rotations and converts it distance. My truck used to say I was doing 35mph when I was doing 33mph according to gps. I increased the diameter and now 35mph=35mph. The reduction in rotating mass will definitely help mileage though.

[@KF1]

@@Warduck645 Oh crap you're right. Still better mileage but yeah my numbers are off.

[@darekmistrz4364]

@@username8644 Also one time calculation isn't always reliable because of air vent messing around with a point of when tank is "full". It needs to be 3 full tank cycles to reach a reliable measurement of MPG.

[@ProfessionalFixologist]

Glad your car didn't kick the bucket 😄

[@earthsteward9]

I'm surprised more people didn't make "Tesla kicks the bucket" jokes

[@YomiDave]

Jason, great and concise presentation! I have followed your Tesla M3 owing experience to date and you even convinced me to go from a LR to P, (haven't looked back) apart from the wheels/tyres(tires) which you've addressed. I just haven't changed them out as I haven't wanted to waste the rubber. keep up the great work on the channel!

[@RolandGustafsson]

The acceleration does NOT get old, I've had my M3P 2.5 yrs and still chuckle when I blip the throttle. Oh, and it's your videos of the M3P years ago that caused me to buy it! Your mention of Koenisegg pushed me over the edge. 🙂

[@dorvinion]

I agree, good acceleration never gets old Even with a slightly less peppy LR AWD I can't help but smile when I put my foot down and it leaps forward. Handy on the road when you need to pass someone. Like it so much when we order a MY in the next few days we'll be going with a MYP

[@TheCoolDave]

No it doesn't. When your on the highway and You NEED to pass. Not having it is a big deal...

[@dazone]

You are lucky it didn't hit the oil pan!

[@EngineeringExplained]

Got away lucky!

[@wesgoodhoofd348]

I had a VW Golf back in 2013 that I bumped a curb and damaged the under tray. Like you I was concerned about future issues and had the dealership inspect the bottom of the car and order a replacement cover. Unfortunately the following week it caught fire while parked in my driveway. There was never any mention about whether the events were connected but I'm glad I had someone check it out. I'm glad you didn't have the same experience!

[@FrezoreR]

Well put, and I love that you mention the automatic wipers as they do not get enough criticism. I added them to the quick panel just because they never work.

[@DielectricVideos]

For the windshield wipers I usually just press the button manually when the visibility starts to decrease. It's slightly annoying, but seems more natural than looking down at the bottom of the screen (away from the road) to change wiper modes.

[@cgamiga]

yes, always use the stalk button to kick off the wipers manually. Then the wiper sub-menu popup window appears, you can set manual speed there... or use voice controls. The only main problem is for current pure-vision AutoPilot cars, they require the auto wipers on :(

[@GM-qh2ki]

RainX

[@briannedry5346]

@@GM-qh2ki Rain X car wash, make my M3 sparkle. Awesome product, wash and let the water just flow off by itself.

[@Workmusic1988]

Love my M3P (2021), the biggest issue by A LONG WAY is potholes. Even with the updated wheels, in my first years ownership I've replaced every, single, tyre. Tesla really needs to address the tyres, such as not stretching the tyre (just fit 245s) and increase the tyre wall slightly. PLEASE! Great video btw, loved it. And yeah, the M3P really is insanely fast.

[@EngineeringExplained]

It's worth switching to 18's! Here's my video on it, and helpful links in the video description there: kzbin.info/www/bejne/sKKphWOqqNqmi7s

[@Hamburglarist]

We might be twins. 2021 M3P, and I'm 3 tires down. One of them I hit the pothole literally going 15mph. None of them repairable because of sidewall damage, incredibly frustrating! I'm going to downsize to 19's when the tread on these wear down.

[@808bigisland]

Aloha, Buy quality tires instead of whining? You prefer to wait till your car will kill you with a blow out and now you know what sane people do.

[@collmanben1]

@@Hamburglarist same here. 3 down on a 2021. Ugh.

[@Workmusic1988]

@@Hamburglarist haha! Honestly it's the worst. Maybe it's just me as well but I also had issue with the alloys getting scratched/scuffed more than I expected. In previous cars I've never had the alloy stick out so much. It's like on the Tesla the alloys are ALWAYS first to take the hit :(. Sorry to hear about your damage as well :(.

[@andrewhayden2477]

Great review. We have a MYLR and yeah, the "real world" acceleration seems to be the thing people seem to overlook. 40-70 passing acceleration, even in the non-performance is insane and I feel much more confident when I need to pass someone than I did in our old ICE car where I'd punch the throttle and wait for the CVT to kick in. So far, we haven't seen that much lower a real-world range, but it's still around 80-85% of the rated.

[@Deveonn]

You don’t need to spend 50k for that, my eGolf has the same responsive feeling with just 100 kW. Only when completely flooring I notice the power is equal to my old Model 3 LR.

[@mikescherrer4923]

LMAO you had a CVT

[@DanielRevay]

"wait for the CVT to kick in" lmao

[@seanforsythe78]

lost it at cvt

[@JV-py3lg]

@@Deveonn how much range does the e golf get?

[@jayjohnson3732]

Your experience with the wipers is interesting. I have a M3P made in the fall of 2019. The only consistent complaint I can make is that IF the rain begins with a very light sprinkle, it’s not uncommon that I have to kickstart the wiping using the stalk. Other than that, they work as well as the wipers on the only other car I have driven with that feature, which also has the same issue. My 2007 Boxster S. Edit: When I mounted the same T Sportline wheels that you bought my real world range was around 280 to 290 miles at 70. Now, with 19” aero wheels and UPP front splitter and efficiency spoiler, I see the same range at 80. To be clear, I am assuming those ranges based on achieving 250 to 260 wh/mile.

[@unclemarksdiyauto]

Great review! The service centre actually seems super reasonably priced for stuff!

[@Resist4]

Only for this particular part and service, otherwise they are just as expensive as ICE service centers.

[@unclemarksdiyauto]

@@Resist4 I bet they are! Why would they not be? I don’t plan on owning a electric car soon unless they come down in price and it would have to be a used unit as a second vehicle.

[@rp9674]

Cheap or expensive, depending

[@StormsparkPegasus]

The automatic wipers have always worked really well on mine, but I have a 2021 that was vision-only from the start. Maybe they had some improvements. I haven't had the software issues like black screens and lag you have either. Although mine likely has newer computer hardware as well. Totally agree with you on FSD, it's not worth anywhere near what they're charging for it.

[@Matt-vz8lz]

Great video! I agree with everything you pointed out. Black back up camera feed maybe due to the coax cable being damaged. This has happened to me and Tesla has a recall to replace this wiring harness that they haven't completed yet.

[@simpleseal]

Always enjoy your videos and your take on automotive engineering. How do you like the lift system for raising your car. I had to give up a 2 post lift when we moved last year and have been looking at those portable systems for using in the garage. What brand did you go with? Might make an interesting topic for a future video! Have fun and keep them going.

[@Link30567]

Just asked the same thing, ha!

[@simpleseal]

Where on the same “engineering wave length “!

[@richardnavratil9661]

10:43 nice shoutout to The Straight Pipes and Jakub ripping it through cliche corner

[@EngineeringExplained]

Haha yep! I went and visited them with my Model 3 way back since Tesla doesn't do press cars.

[@richardnavratil9661]

@@EngineeringExplained Oh wow, awesome, didn't know that! I must have missed that review of theirs otherwise I'm sure they mentioned it.

[@JA_Everything]

First of all, love your channel and videos. Have been following for years!!! Keep up the great work! Here a video suggestions; There is some hype on BMW’s PHEV in which they were able to sandwich an electric motor between a gas engine and the transmission. Would love to see how they did this, how does it work, is it a great idea, pros and cons vs other PHEVs that have a gas engine driving an axel while the electric motor drive the other axel.

[@giovannifoulmouth7205]

Comically cheap indeed, I was expecting the quote from the service center to be something like 500$ and instead it was just a fraction of what you paid. As a DIY guy, I would've made the same mistake.

[@Resist4]

I know right?! That has to be a fluke and now Tesla will probably raise the price on it.

[@AllanSustainabilityFan]

@@Resist4 I think it's just that their business model is not around making service a revenue vehicle. Tesla's service is generally close to flat on the balance sheets when you look up their financial filings - the business priorities of a direct sales vs dealership model playing a role here. There are some exceptions, but that's the general business approach: More about speeding up throughput to save on opening more branches, which keeps the overhead down, versus making money on the repair itself. Pros/Cons to that, I think they could use more service centers tbh. That could change some day, who knows, but right now it's different from a dealership that relies on that income to keep the lights on.

[@debochch]

Or perhaps he was recognised as a famous you tube personality and the service managed decided to get some free publicity...

[@AllanSustainabilityFan]

@@debochch We've seen similar reports of this happening with other customers. It's not consistent but when there's a large charge it's usually more in the labor than the bill of materials.

[@sjashari112358]

@@debochch Nah I'm not famous, and I got charged way lower prices than I originally expected. Going to service center, it doesn't feel like these other dealerships trying to push services onto you for profit. Other than maybe parts being on backorder, if they can fix an issue they usually do without making you feel ripped off.

[@kiwijonowilson]

Thanks for the 4 year review! The M3 performance is fantastic but even the M3 RWD (LFP), that I got early this year, has pretty good performance in the real world - the handling and road holding is great on the many winding roads we have in NZ. After the rebate we have available in NZ mine cost about NZD 60K (USD $37,000) versus the 105K it would have cost me to have a performance (where the rebate does not apply and also doesn't apply for the long range). The build quality out of Shanghai plant is really good - I was happy to find no issues (and the same for other friends that bought the M3 recently). Range is stated as WLTP 491km which is rubbish but over 400km on the open road (100kmh) is achievable if the weather and temperature are good (or if you choose to drive a bit slower). This range is fine as I really need a break by the time I need a charge anyway (in fact super charging can be too quick for a break for food and sometimes I elect to go to a slower charger). To be fair it is possible to get 491km if you were driving around town the whole time at 50 - 70kmh, but its rare that someone needs to drive their M3 around town for 491km in a day (9 - 10 hours) - maybe if its a taxi?

[@collmanben1]

You’re very right. Friend has one and your observations are dead on.

[@cgamiga]

Agreed, my LR-RWD acceleration is PLENTY... ~5sec 0-60 blows nearly anything away, and it's seamless and smooth... I recently realized, that is the same/better as my 80s teen dream Lamborghini Countach! Even plain AWD has almost too much power (got a Model S AWD loaner)... performance? or PLAID?!? ludicrous ;) Driving curvy mountain roads w/ one-pedal driving is fantastic, like a stick-shift but w/ infinite-speed low gear. Really, driving a Tesla feels more like flying a fighter jet or LearJet w/ afterburners, than driving a "car"... re range, on roadtrips, almost always the car outlasts my butt and my bladder. and it's done charging, before family is done w/ snack/potty/stretch breaks... and AutoPilot makes long drives very relaxing, MUCH better than ICE cars. Roadtrip dream..

[@ad_fletch]

Ditto (2022 RWD in Australia). Have a slight issue with driver's seat back, but otherwise impressive in build quality and general experience.

[@D3kKromb0x]

Your early reviews and videos on the Tesla model 3 were part of what helped me decide to get one myself. I've been driving a 2020 "stealth" performance for about 2 years now. It has all the performance acceleration but it doesn't have the "performance package", so no spoiler, no red brakes, no aluminum pedals, no lowered suspension, and it came with 18" aero wheels. It is probably from the last batch of "stealth" performances made, sadly no heat pump which I missed by a few months and we get a real winter here so it would have made a difference. You are correct, even after 2 years the acceleration does not get old. You are also correct on the range, but the rated range (mine is 322 miles) is mostly a flaw in the EPA test. I have approached the rated range but it can only be done when the outside temperature is warm and you can't even look at high speed freeway driving. I did a 212 mile round trip and consumed 65% SoC in the process for 231 wh/mi with an average speed of 48 MPH. So basically if you drive like the EPA test in calm comfortable Midwest July weather, then you can get EPA rated range. Now during winter on the other hand, when it was below freezing out and there was some freeway driving into a headwind I did a 175 mile trip and it consumed 84% SoC at 372 wh/mi, I had to supercharge after about 100 miles to help alleviate some range anxiety.

[@darekmistrz4364]

With heat pump real range is getting close to rated range but only while doing city driving

[@cuteshadow]

That Cover replacement for 11$ at the dealer is amazing. (even though its weird that the part is so expensive on ebay)

[@rp9674]

...then $82 for nothing!

[@Muskar2]

@@rp9674 But you can't know that they won't get it resolved without trying. And they're not going to charge you $0 for spending several hours trying to improvise solutions. That would mean the cost would be absorbed by other offers.

[@locksmack]

It's awesome to hear you talk about the handling and talk about your experience with a Miata. I've owned 2 MX-5's and now a Model 3. Yes, they aren't the same, but the Model 3 is still excellent. People don't seem to believe me when I tell them a nearly 2t car handles well.

[@TristanBeach]

I've had a MYP for almost a year and 18000 miles later the acceleration doesn't get old! Took a 5000 mile road trip around the western US with little problem, too (sleeping in the car is nice with HVAC all night). I have had some minor rattles that come and go with temperature.

[@collmanben1]

Hey Jason. Great video once again. I have the 2021 version of your car (exact spec except white interior). Bummer about your rattles in the column and the wiper situation. I have been lucky there. But the fun you mentioned is super true. I’ve had an M3, Mustang, SRT Magnum…etc. The Tesla M3P is an absolute riot to me still. That’s why I bought it and I can’t fathom that getting old. And it’s not a riot relative to EVs. It’s a blast full stop. Anyways…thanks for providing highly entertaining and deeply knowledgeable content!

[@rokibler]

I agree completely. That's why my license plate says "WOOHOO". I've got a 2018 Model 3 RWD with 92,000 miles, and it's still plenty fast and nimble for me.

[@FuncleChuck]

Scary. Looks like you didn’t take too much damage, thankfully.

[@volvo09]

At least it was just a bucket and not a big rock, or an entire wheel and tire!

[@cgamiga]

yup, seeing some of these "ran over debris" stuff has me worrying about getting a skid plate to replace aero covers.. eek

[@erickessler6094]

Fun report & review! Your cost report was handy too. I look fwd to your new Tesla Model 3P Review, some day. After the latest, and soon, casting upgrades. I know Munro Live does teardown, but having You, an Engineer User, do your assessment is unique! I can also see your whiteboard with your costs of use, sale and purchase analysts... hahaha Cheers, Eric

[@Cryowatt]

I bought FSD in the brief period where it was only a $2k upgrade, and I did it for the summon feature that I use regularly. My use case is pretty simple: I have a two car garage with two cars and a motorcycle. I park the motorcycle behind the cars so I need to move my Model 3 out of the way to get the motorcycle out. With all my gear on I can't fit into the car, so summon is actually a legitimate convenience.

[@ravenabstraction]

Those acceleration specs are pretty impressive...

[@Resist4]

I've never had that AC smell in any vehicle, not even my Model 3, because I always run the air on high with the AC off for a few minutes before shutting the vehicle off. And that helps to remove the moisture on the condenser. I don't think your Performance Model 3 was rated at 310 miles of range. But my 2018 AWD LR Model 3 that was rated for 310 miles used to consistently get that, not so much now more like 285 miles. And considering basic Autopilot is now included in all new Model 3's you'd think Tesla would have automatically given it to your car too.

[@IceAce1]

I turn off the AC a few minutes prior to arrival to let the airflow help it get to ambient temperature and dry off.

[@Resist4]

@@IceAce1 I meant to say I run the air on with the AC off for a few minutes. Fixed my post.

[@IceAce1]

@@Resist4 Alright, we have a similar strategy against the foul air then.

[@joegee2815]

Nice. I feel the same way about my chevy bolt. Great daily driver on short commutes or driving around town. Not great for long trips.

[@toddburgess5056]

I'm glad that you like your Tesla, also that was a great review, especially pointing out the 5-60 mph times compared to some HYPER cars wow! My cousin loves his Tesla, he even has his own KZbin channel documenting his experiences with a couple that hes purchased in the last two years. Hes a tall guy, but fits in there somehow lol 😆

[@johnbailey2933]

An excellent summary of your ownership experience so far. I love my year-old M3P and would buy it again - mine came with the spoiler ;-). I also agree that the specified max range is overstated; I draw a similar conclusion after almost 10K miles of in town and road trip driving. I doubt that short fall applies to just Tesla models; like EPA gas mileage on ICE cars, I think the EV's max range supports a theoretical optimum whose conditions are seldom satisfied by the average driver in real world conditions.

[@collmanben1]

Same observation on range. Maybe if we didn’t floor it all the time it’s be closer. But what’s the point of getting the performance model if you don’t want to terrify passengers?

[@inevespace]

Interesting to hear about this "real range", I thought it doesn/t happend with Li batteries. My chinese scooter with lead batteries has 70% range than claimed. I thought it is because of Pb batteries, which are not good for high current discharge, and marketing when they measure range probably at 20km/h, haha. But on such scooter you need to "floor" it constantly.

[@dorvinion]

@@inevespace When consumers think "real range" they think "if I charged to full and got on the highway, how far would I be able to go" The problem is the EPA rates vehicles with a test procedure that involves mixed urban/highway driving. It works ok for gas cars because it generally reflects real-world use where people don't tend to fill up their gas car daily and would like a ballpark figure on how often they have to hit the gas station in day to day use. It doesn't work well for EVs because it bears no resemblance to daily real-world use of an EV where each day you start with a full (80%) tank. Basically, the Urban/highway mixed range rating that the EPA assigns is a meaningless number in an EV.

[@inevespace]

@@dorvinion I don’t see the logic. How starting with full tank is related with EPA rating? If I go for long distance I also try to start with full tank, because don’t want to bother searching gas station in unknown place(depends on country, in some they are very far away)

[@RobertLeclercq]

For your carbon fiber spoiler. Use BLACK SILICONE to seal down the entire spoiler. It will also fill the small gaps at the very ends. Use blue painters tape to hold tension on the spoiler as it dries.

[@Datacorrupter234]

My experience also some frustrations with it, but the overall handling acceleration and performance coming from a 4 door is impressive

[@jamdoodles]

Thanks for your, as ever, even-handed presentation of things!

[@Arpedk]

Love that Tesla service is cheaper than Ebay and Amazon, well done Tesla!

[@gabormiklay9209]

I thought it will cost $600 instead of $12. I'm flattered by Tesla. 👍

[@rkan2]

Tesla is unusually cheap for the parts you can actually buy. Even the drivetrain parts are cheaper than industry, but not cheap though. Labor is the same as other dealers pretty much.

[@brianmiller1077]

I was guessing $60-90 for the part, half hour labor(minimun)

[@trmoore0922]

Great video! A little bit of drama @10:44 also. I'm sure it looks closer than it really was.

[@efficiency_nerd]

Yeah from the video that looks crazy tight...

[@bwxmoto]

You're right, lots of people don't understand how quick that is. That kind of acceleration never gets old. It's about the same as my motorcycle and that thing is pretty nuts on the road. It almost feels too fast for normal roads sometimes.

[@wsu8568]

I got an quote of $300+ for some door weather seal replacement not sure why this part is so comically cheap.

[@EngineeringExplained]

Yeah I was shocked haha.

[@MadIIMike]

You not being a Topic-Related KZbinr might have something to do with it.

[@rkan2]

@@MadIIMike I don't think Tesla gives discounts to KZbinrs..

[@MadIIMike]

@@rkan2 Depending on exposure, almost every manufacturer does. Mercedes for example would likely offer him VIP leasing, where he only pays some part of the running cost or nothing at all.

[@rkan2]

@@MadIIMike I know but I never heard Tesla doing this, especially in the US.

[@81MercTurbo]

Rain-sensing wipers, and auto high-beams, are my two biggest complaints with Tesla... BMW and Mercedes have both of those systems down pat... In our Tesla's I turn those "features" off, sadly.

[@ad_fletch]

At least you can turn auto high beams off.Wish i could turn the headlights completely off by default. It's sunny most of the time in Australia and I don't drive much at night.

[@Teddy_M85]

My 15 MB C300 had horrible auto wipers. Idk what you are talking about honestly. Auto high beams work well for me too, certainly not perfect tho I'll admit.

[@diraziz396]

10:45 - That's a nice set of corners

[@rickeybarnes6471]

I had my spoiler replaced on my 2021 y performance 3 time’s! It kept getting loose on the corner. Tesla design center needs to get with the engineers and figure out this aggravating problem! Also, the wipers don’t work that well. My range is 265 to 270 max at 100 percent but that’s enough to get me where I am going when I travel. I can drive for about 2 and 1/2 hours doing 75 mph before I have to charge. Great video.

[@zuprlazeh]

I would love to see a review and comparison to Polestar 2. I think that can be a good competitor for Model 3.

[@rkan2]

Meh

[@ad_fletch]

Have driven both. Polestar has bigger boot but is cramped inside and many safety features are options. Also no frunk...

[@traolin5877]

I just really wish EV chargers were more available in my part of New England. They have definitely picked up on availability these past 2 years, but still not enough to ease my worries. I really do like Teslas and might get one in the future when I have my own space to charge my car and if the competition is still lacking. I just hope Tesla doesn’t turn into a subscription model for features as some other cars are starting to do

[@surferdude4487]

If you cannot charge at home, you are missing out on a lot of the convenience of owning a BEV.I

[@Firestorm637]

I bought a new Model X in 2017 which I still own. Never been to a service center. Only maintenance are tires and recent cabin air filter. My Porsche 911 with similar msrp costs around $1000/year for oil changes/yearly checkup.

[@Matt-zi3ru]

What! ... no $175 "diagnostic fee" ?!?!?! Great review of your 4-year journey. I live vicariously thru you 🙂

[@BiggMo]

6:39 whiteboards aren’t just useful, they are “remarkable”

[@Ijusthopeitsquick]

I see what you did there.

[@EngineeringExplained]

Ayyeee!!!

[@russael001]

Hello! I noticed a lack of a particular maintenance item - tires. You said you had your ride for 4 years, but you haven't replaced the tires yet. I bring this up as I've read articles that says EVs wear out tires a lot faster than traditional gasoline vehicles. So how many miles do you have on your model 3, and how does the tire wear look? Do you think you'll need to replace them soon?

[@Bbronson]

Instant torque combined with awd and 4,000 lbs will eat up tires quicker. I’ve read forums and depending on driving habits I’ve seen the average seem to be about 25k miles. As low as 10k and as high as 40-50k. Some people baby their cars and others thrash them so depends on your habits.

[@russael001]

@@Bbronson This is why I posed the question. Figured there might be a chance he'd see the comment and answer it, as I'm curious where he is at personally. I've read the same forums and I've seen news blurbs that EVs eat up tires a lot more than regular cars (maybe not sports vehicles or vehicles modified for more power though).

[@darekmistrz4364]

@@russael001 He has two sets of tires: winter and summer. Also he replaced 2 tires because of pothole, so in one of sets he has 2 new tires and 2 a bit older ones. He is probably a year o two from tire replacement

[@JackMott]

On newer cars the cabin filter is easier to replace. Wiring harness is not in the way, and the bolt to remove the cover is at the bottom now, easy to get.

[@allin3639]

Great video. Keep it up Jason!!!

[@Richardincancale]

Sounds like the accident that bought down the AF Concorde - hit a piece of metal that came off a Continental DC10 and ruptured a fuel tank

[@cgamiga]

Tesla and EVs have similar (less explosive) vulnerability: battery pack coolant lines, in front of the pack, right behind that flimsy plastic/fabric aero shield. One good hit, and... youch goes $12k battery pack. Folks do sell metal skid plates...

[@keco185]

I had the squeaky ball joints. That’s been my only big issue so far after 4 years with my model 3.

[@EngineeringExplained]

Interesting, and the urethane fixed it all up?

[@keco185]

@@EngineeringExplained they didn’t bother with the urethane and replaced the entire upper control arm under warranty. It sounds like the urethane is a preventative fix but once you get the squeak they replace it all.

[@Resist4]

This is a known issue that a lot of people are having, I'm not yet. But my warranty runs out at the end the this year and I will be so pissed if I get this issue outside of the warranty. It's my understanding that the urethane thing is just a temporary fix and ultimately the the control arm has to be replaced. And it's such an issue that if one needs replacing they replace both of them.

[@keco185]

@@Resist4 because of how known the issue is, I wouldn’t be surprised if they still replace it for free after the initial warranty is over

[@rkan2]

Just double wishbone/multilink things, really. I dunno why you call it a big issue.

[@pissmyasslynch5325]

I recently scratched my suspension, I was afraid of dmg to the battery pack and took my M3P to the local service center right away. It turned out just to be minor scratches towards the side covers, not even needed to be replaced at all.

[@garethwalker9414]

Love your content and how you deliver it, consistently informative coming from a very nice intelligent kind feeling guy 👌 Quality as Always 👏👍

[@daveo.9172]

I have never really been a car enthusiast but once I started driving EV's I fell in love with the acceleration part. Who would get bored of that? Not this guy!

[@GregoryShtevensh]

I have an ls3 v8... and have had ls1s in the past... acceleration has been my mate for over 15 years

[@GregoryShtevensh]

Of course the only real comment gets censored and removed - stopping us from ever having that conversation

[@DrewskisBrews]

I want Tesla to make an "air pilot" version wherein all the most common, and driving-critical controls have dedicated knobs, switches, or levers. At this point, I'm surprised the turn signal isn't touch-screen operated.

[@Laykun9000]

All the critical driving controls do have knobs, switches and levers. You have a knob for steering, a lever for accelerating, a lever for braking, a lever for your drive mode, a lever for your indicator. The automatic wipers are a little frustrating though

[@tomhejda6450]

@@Laykun9000 A good wiper control is live-saving when a wall of water hits yout car. Been from clear air with unlimited visibility to a layer of water on the windshield in a few seconds, and you have other things to worry about than a fakin touchscreen to control the wipers, which should be a one-gesture operation. And a good heating contol is very critical, and I hate cars that don't have knobs for that. I remember driving someone's car that suddenly started hitting me with freaking cold air a few seconds after I took off, with no way of swithing it off because the parking camara still occupied the whole screen. That was a shitty one. Bring our knobs back!!!

[@rp9674]

The emergency flashers are controlled by biofeedback

[@Laykun9000]

@@tomhejda6450 I would agree but I don't. Leave knobs in cheap economy cars. Make premium cars even easier to learn and use by making voice activation faster and more accurate. Almost every subsystem in a Tesla is controllable through voice, even the wipers. But I also have no problem with wipers being on the stalk either. Heater control? Don't really need knobs or a touch screen for that, just ask it for your desired setting.

[@apricity69]

2018 M3P owner here. I concur. Most of the problems are related to winter weather. In mild weather the car has very few downsides. The biggest negative is the millions of bugs splattered on the nose.

[@blakesterdrums1647]

I've had my model 3 extended range since June 3rd, and unlike many people, my auto wipers work for the most part great. If they don't start to wipe a mist or light sprinkle, I just tap the button on the turn signal, they wipe, and then they seem to continue correctly. Maybe the sensors have improved over the 4 years since you purchased, or maybe I'm just ok with the way they work for me

[@Roddy451]

I find it interesting that long-term maintenance reviews on BEVs have a tendency to miss the same things: A full wheel alignment check/adjust, tire rotations, brake fluid check/replace, brake caliper slide pins clean/re-lube, and a suspension check (besides the alignment). Typically, you want to do an alignment check every year, brake fluid check every two, brake check, and re-lube the pins every year (especially in cold weather/snow climate), and tire rotation (if doable) every 6k. A full suspension check should go hand in hand with the alignment check. There are other miscellaneous like wiper blades, which used to be every six months, but good quality blades now last up to a year. I also do the weatherstrips on the hood, doors, and trunk/hatch every six months. It is something easy and very minor but well worth it. 😉

[@src549]

Tesla specifies a "brake fluid health check and replacement (if necessary)" every two years. Jason didn't list that as a maintenance item although he may have done his own brake fluid check (it wouldn't have cost him anything if he had the tester already). I'm guilty of the same -- my Model 3 is two years overdue for a brake fluid change which I plan to rectify this fall. You're spot on with your list. When you say weatherstrips I'm assuming that you mean lubing them with a silicone spray.

[@cgamiga]

Both EVs and ICE need some of those services, for wear&tear items, that's understandable, and never meant NO service for EVs... esp tires...but the point is all OTHER services, are Not Applicable for EVs, since... the parts don't EXIST to fail! Engine oil, water/fuel pumps, transmission/clutch, alternator, starter, smog, catalytic, O2/MAF/EVAP sensors, belts/hoses, spark plugs, head gaskets,muffler/exhaust... ALL of which have failed on my previous ICE cars, are GONE! Yes, do have to check the moving parts that DO exist, eg wheels/suspension. Your service checks seem to be bit overkill? Tire rotations are free at many tire stores. Brake fluid check IS recommended each 2yrs, $20 w/ mobile tech (or buy your own test strips cheap.) Caliper lubes are really only needed in snowy/salty areas... pads & rotors, almost NEVER (100k's mi) for EVs, due to the regen braking. Alignment is up to driver, for any car, and if no unusual wear is detected at regular rotations, shouldn't be needed?

[@Roddy451]

@@cgamiga At no point does anybody say EVs require no service. The suspension, alignment, and a few others are maintenance items that every car requires yet it is not mentioned on a 4-year car. Four alignments times the average price is $400 dollars missing as a maintenance cost. EVs require a bit less maintenance but to say you only had to pay for a set of air filters is deceiving. A proper brake job is about $80 every year, etc.

[@jamesjack1147]

You don’t need alignment every year if your suspension is properly designed. I have only done one alignment in 6 years on my Q5, and it felt the same after alignment which means it didn’t even need it. A long time ago, I drove a Corolla and it needed alignment all the time because of flimsy suspension

[@Roddy451]

@@jamesjack1147 That is why I used words like "Typical", "Recommended", "Should", etc. I never said shall or required. I've seen plenty of car owners that do not follow basic maintenance, heck, at times never had the engine oil and filter replaced. By the way, read carefully, I said "alignment check" every year. As it turns out, a suspension system and your tires are submitted to the biggest abuse of any component. By the way, read carefully, I said "alignment check" every year. The said components do not have a cooling system, or a circulating lubrication system with a filter, and they get exposed to the elements.

[@MakingMadeSimple]

I also think that "one trick car" comment is so silly. On top of having insane acceleration, it handles well. It's also very practical, and it arguably has the best user interface. I don't see how that's one trick haha.

[@3644Darrell]

Drive it on a road course and you will understand. You will only make it a few laps before the battery overheats and goes into limp mode. The brakes will also overheat and it will eat tires. It's good in a straight line, but that's it. It's a commuter car.

[@BitJam]

@@3644Darrell A car not designed for the track is not optimized for the track. Heavens to Betsy! I won't repeat the list of cool features that Jason gave in the video. The idea that it's a one trick pony because it was designed for the 99.9% of the population who never use the track is absurd.

[@3644Darrell]

@@BitJam no EV is optimized for the track. They all suck on road courses. They are only good for straight line acceleration. That's the only thing they do better than an ice car. Hence the term: one trick pony. You EV humpers have no rational thought.

[@MakingMadeSimple]

@@BitJam precisely. It's designed more-so as an everyday car, that simply happens to have a massive list of amazing features, one of which happens to be the acceleration. I understand the battery can overheat, but combustion engines can do the same. Most people daily drive much more often than they track the car, making it a great choice for almost anyone.

[@BitJam]

@@MakingMadeSimple I agree. Kyle Conner on Out of Spec Motoring has gone over all of this including the track limitation of even the Model Plaid. The top end Porsche is much better but even it has limits. Kyle's channel helped convince me to buy a Model Y a year ago (when it was more than $13K less than it is today). The car is amazing! My first car, many moons ago, was a 1963 Chevy Super Sport Convertible with a chromed out 409. That car was beast in its day but it pales in comparison to the MY. I'm very impressed with Jason's integrity. He's such a motorhead but he give EVs their due. Good job!

[@chicomtl]

Actually, you don't need to go to the screen to change the speed of the wipers. Pressing button on stock and moving left to right the scroller on the steering will do the trick. And my assumption for wipers going crazy while backing, is extra water on roof pooring in waves with the momentum. Anyway, great video. Keep up the great work !

[@sp0rtadd1ct]

Luckily for you your Tesla service center actually is nice. I had an issue with my suspension and did a temporary fix until the car out of warranty. Once its out of warranty, they quickly noted the source of the problem and charged me massive dollar to replace the defective parts. Note: rear upper arm suspension squeaking.

[@JamesKirk1988]

As you mentioned, the usable acceleration is the primary benefit. Also, to save tire, I almost never "Launch" the car, and just quickly ease into the throttle. Will still destroy just about any other car on the road with acceleration. While it's 60-100MPH speed is less impressive on paper compared to it's 0-60, it's still faster than most vehicles, and is great for passing!

[@ElroyMcDuff]

It never gets old. I haven't lost an "on-ramp race" so far. You know them, the impatient types that think they're in a bigger hurry than everyone else & try to pass using a lane that gives out on a two lane on-ramp. Not on my watch! 😋

[@Radium3D]

Yeah Tesla parts are SO cheap compared to stealers!!! Always ask service center before eBay if you have a Tesla

[@nfspeedy2]

Thanks for this informative video! Did you really drove the car 4 years without changing the brake fluid?

[@pierredieperink4523]

I assume with regenerative braking the brake system "works" less and generates less heat resulting in longer life vs a normal braking system?

[@nfspeedy2]

@@pierredieperink4523 The brake fluid is hygroscopic. That means its water attracting. So the humidity makes it necessary to change the fluid every 2, at least every 3 years. Even if the car was not driven over this period. The boiling point will reduce over time. So the risk for air bubbles and corrosion damage is increased.

[@michaelheimbrand5424]

I may be a bit of an old fart. Since I gave up on "modern" cars and got myself a Volvo 240, I had eight years of 100% trouble free driving. It´s 32YO now and I have been hitting a lot worse stuff than buckets. And you don´t have to look away from the road to turn on the wipers. And it doesn´t need a camera because it doesn´t have any dead angles. It may be the opposite of a Tesla, but it´s comfortable and nice to drive and very practical (it´s an estate). And it will outlive us all, and the fuel tank doesn´t experience any degradation. But I´m glad to hear you didn´t suffer any bad damage on your Tesla. I´m thinking about that guy that "Rich Rebuilds" helped. He also drove over something and the coolant connections broke on the battery. Tesla quoted him a whole new battery when it only needed new coolant connections. Rich could fix it with cheap stuff, but think about how bad it is if someone has to replace a crazy expensive battery because Tesla treat their customers like Apple.

[@Buggabones]

Video games where you get early access are not finished.. But people buy them. Why would you buy a feature that isnt ready yet? You're investing. You pay a cheaper price to enter, and when the game is finished, it is release at full price. Same will happened with FSD. You're paying 12k for an unfinished product because when its actually finished it will be 20-25k.

[@EngineeringExplained]

Or you spend 12K, own the car for 5-7 years, sell it, and never get what you paid for. Surely you don't buy a video game 5 years in advance.

[@jamesengland7461]

FSD isn't as much a product as a business model- you may be able to eventually rent out your autonomous car. It's a franchise fee, in a sense. Also, it's phenomenally good! That should be worthy of some engineering explanation.

[@Buggabones]

@@EngineeringExplained Yeah I can see your point. Forgot how long its been available. Hmm, that is tricky and tesla may need to compensate old buyers who never got full access. If you sell the car, you should be compensated for not receiving the finished product then if that's the case.

[@jerrard89]

I am a mechanical engineer, much like you, Jason, I also love driving especially fast cars and stick shifts. Earlier this year I got a MYP with FSD because my wife wanted FSD. I thought I wouldn’t like it and would rarely use it. WRONG! Turns out I use it (essentially enhanced autopilot) for daily same route boring highway commute every single day. I’ve got the FSD beta just a couple of months ago. Again, I didn’t think I’d use it since I have a pretty fun local windy road commute in the evening. AGAIN, to my surprise, I love using it even with its imperfections. To a point where now we need a minivan for my fam but not being able to get Tesla’s ADAS/FSD system on one feels like a deal breaker for us. Getting a model X is quite expensive and never in a million year I thought I’d consider it. But now, giving it a consideration because of FSD. Model X is still very expensive for us and likely wouldn’t get it, but it’s one of the contenders now, all because of FSD. Just my 2cents.

[@EngineeringExplained]

Glad to hear that you like it! Obviously it has gotten better over the years, but it's still beta after years and years of "next year." I think that soaked up a lot of money that likely wouldn't have been spent knowing this.

[@Shiftheads]

Have a Pacifica hybrid and model 3 P. The Pacifica hybrid adaptive cruise works better than my Tesla unfortunately. You get a tax credit on the van though so check it out. 60 MPG lifetime so far at 20k miles

[@jerrard89]

@@EngineeringExplained Yea, the points you made in the vid are fair. I’m just pointing out that there are ppl like myself who enjoys the system as an ever improving ADAS system and think it’s worth the money, setting aside how they market and term the system. I’d definitely like it to be transferable to a new/different Tesla even with a fee since it essentially is a SW package.

[@jerrard89]

@@Shiftheads Pacifica hybrid is definitely on our shortlist. Glad to hear about the adaptive cruise working well. Tesla’s vision only adaptive is definitely a step down from radar based adaptive (I’ve driven a model S with radar) for now but it’s getting better lately. But what I enjoy the most is auto steer (lane keep) which works way better on tesla than everything else I’ve tried on the market.

[@Resist4]

FSD and especially the FSD beta, but EAP is nice, yet basic autopilot is really all anyone needs. I have FSD beta and stopped using it because it makes city driving stressful for me, as it makes too many mistakes.

[@thesassmaster88]

Great video!! What is your jack setup there??

[@Jjengering]

I have PPF on my Model 3 and got an aftermarket CF spoiler that looks and feels identical to the stock one... The tape it came with was useless, so I bought some aftermarket stuff and my spoiler has been on for about a year now with no issues. Can provide the names of the items if you need.

[@dunteman_racing]

Great video, love the quick jacks! Best investment I made for my car.

[@ec6933]

So for the spoiler.... Could you not just superglue it?... It would just bond to the paint protection layer? And bond HARD? Just thinking out loud here

[@EngineeringExplained]

Yeah, an adhesive like superglue would probably give a better bond than tape. As long as you do it clean! The 3M install is actually really clean (you don't see the tape). Just kept coming off.

[@ec6933]

@@EngineeringExplained right, I've used a lot of 3m tape and super glue in my time lol I just think that with the spoiler being designed to do what it does I'm picturing super glue being a better adhesive because it SHOULD have allot less flex and therefore loosen less over time having constant force applied

[@mrnabzio4488]

That wiring harness check was for the HVIL circuit, quite common for water ingress in that connector which can cause issues with HVIL circuit leading to vehicle not starting

[@darekmistrz4364]

What is HVIL?

[@dhawthorne1634]

The '04-'08 Mazda 3 had a hellish air filter. The Goodyear we have been going to for inspection and maintenance for the past 15 years usually tries to cut us a break on pricing or will throw thing in with other jobs that will already be digging into that area. We asked about the cabin air filter replacement and the franchise owner quoted us $50, cost and labor. Not wanting to take advantage because they always treated us very well, my dad asked "you sure?" without even thinking about it. After a quick lookup, the owner quickly backtracked, thanked us for the heads up and re-quoted at $100 but he'd offer a free oil change since it was coming due around the same time as the next inspection.

[@jamesjack1147]

The over optimistic range is a common practice among all automakers. But it is not so penalizing to lie in a combustion engine since it only takes 5 mins to fill up

[@jordanschultz2232]

Lower control cover came off on my model 3 after some spirited driving, would have taken it into Tesla and saved money and time if I knew it was only 3 bucks

[@MadIIMike]

Do you think it would only be 3 bucks for someone who hasn't got a Topic-Related channel with over 2M subscribers?

[@jordanschultz2232]

@@MadIIMike hmm..

[@rkan2]

@@MadIIMike Yes, but I think the labour would be cheaper. You can go look at Tesla's EPC and call up (and order) parts that don't require VINs and other stuff for purchase. For example as somebody recently covered - anybody can buy a bumper without paint but oh no when they are painted it is only for the service centers or approved bodyshops...

[@charlesdalton985]

A great look at the car, with years of real world driving to back it up. It’s interesting to note how many of your frustrations with the car are handled very well by other manufacturers. The rain sensing wipers in my car have truly spoiled me, the fit and finish is spot on. Given all the other things Tesla has accomplished, I find these two (as examples) odd inconsistencies. Regardless, thank you, per your usual standards - well done!

[@Beer_Dad1975]

Fit and finish will no doubt continue to improve over time as they improve their production lines. The wipers thing is really odd though, something that's been a luxury car standard for decades now you'd think they'd just source the same parts from some other manufacturer, and it'd just work the same as everyone else.

[@karlreuning6615]

Thanks for sharing real world repair cost.

[@johnseavey6622]

My lowly 2012 Nissan Versa 106000 miles all I've done is front brakes once and a c v axel boot which was my fault driving in deep mud . What can I say about a $13600 car brand new in 2012.

[@RogerM88]

An interesting next video, could be about the use and abuse of big casting pieces in Tesla. Pumped with hype by many, as Munro. Meanwhile ignoring the risk of stress fractures caused by fatigue, or damage in minor impacts.

[@bolt5564]

This would be a fantastic video.

[@Resist4]

I think Sandy Munro knows more about the reliability of using castings over most people.

[@RogerM88]

@@Resist4 many people forget Munro base work, it's to save production costs to the Automaker. Not to improve reliability and overall build quality for the Costumers.

[@RogerM88]

@@Resist4 for a reason many Automakers didn't jump straight to big structural casting pieces, decades ago. Besides possible issues with stress fractures cause by fatigue to the casting, you also could have problems of economy of scale with rejected castings.

[@Resist4]

@@RogerM88 Since Sandy worked in the industry for many years he knows more than you about it. But just because automakers didn't jump into castings doesn't mean it was the right choice.

[@jeffcantor3298]

Another great overview of the ownership experience. One quick question: Can you share a link to the jack I see you're using in this video? I'm assuming it's run on compressed air and looks like a great option for any car and especially for Teslas where the there are very limited jacking points.

[@lundyholland7487]

Yes! I need those jacks as well

[@EngineeringExplained]

This is the style of jack (quickjack). Only thing you need to do is make sure the model you buy fits your car's wheelbase: amzn.to/3QxmGpo

[@hassenfepher]

Kudos on the acoustic panels in the garage.

[@sukhpreetsinghmankoo]

Knock knock who's there? Rich rebuilds enter building with his fluet. 😂😂😂

[@EngineeringExplained]

Haha, I actually called Rich and he told me I should just buy it on eBay. Last time I listen to Rich! (Sarcasm by the way, Rich is the best).

[@sukhpreetsinghmankoo]

@@EngineeringExplained 😂😂😂

[@jkliao6486]

Would it have caused more damage to a conventional car because more are exposed than a Tesla?

[@EngineeringExplained]

May have ripped out an exhaust.

[@cgamiga]

@@EngineeringExplained or gas tank, or oil/transmission pan, brake line,....! I am just flabbergasted looking at ICE mechanic video channels like "Just Rolled In" etc and seeing all the complex crap that can break/rust/fail on them! So glad I have simple EV w/ no more parts to fail!!

[@webx135]

Protip for keeping the acceleration feeling spicy. - Buy a set of the S3XY buttons. - Place one of the buttons behind the wheel where a paddle shifter would be. - I set my to the following. 1-click: Chill acceleration. 2-clicks: Sport acceleration. I don't recommend toggle, as you'll have to remember what state it's in. Minor inconvenience averted, but it's nice having exactly what you requested. - In the car settings, set the acceleration to "Chill". That way it will always default to Chill when you get in. This way, you spend most of your time in "Chill" mode, which is decidedly less frustrating when dealing with slow accelerating cars around you, and is nice while cruising. But when you need the power, just click-click and you get the full punch again. To me, my Model Y LR+ feels faster than ever, despite nothing actually changing. I just get used to chill, so when I need sport, it always feels fresh.

[@darekmistrz4364]

Actually it's much better for all drivetrain components and tire wear to drive on Chill by default

[@N8KNY]

I just brought my ‘19 M3P in for some warranty work at the local service center. I had the rear spoiler adhesive starting to fail and I got a complete replacement. I also had the cabin filters replaced and only paid the $50, no labor charge. My left turn signal tap-to-signal wasn’t working and the whole assembly was replaced and resolved the issue. I complained about the side cameras having a bright glare at night from the rear brake lights when using them for blind spot monitoring. Initially I was told it was “within normal operating parameters” and I would have to pay out of pocket for the new cameras that have the issue fixed. I asked for a quote but never heard back. I then received my initial quote before dropping the car off and they had the side cameras included as warranty items. So another item that was replaced for free under warranty. The 12V battery had a warning about needing replacement, and even that was still included under warranty. And finally they replaced the rear charging door assembly due to a TSB. I never experienced any issue but this was a nice preventative measure being done. Honestly came away very impressed and even had a red M3LR to use as a loaner while the work was being done.