Tesla is known for their innovative electric vehicles, but one of their underappreciated qualities is their transparent pricing structure. When you shop for a Tesla, there are no hidden fees or add-ons that you would normally get with a dealership. Throughout the whole process, you can get a clear and accurate picture of what you’re going to be paying when you buy a Tesla. Additionally, when you own a Tesla, operational costs are comparatively low with gas savings and minimal maintenance being huge saving points. However, there are still some hidden expenses that come with owning an EV that many may not anticipate.
One of the hidden expenses that come with owning a Tesla is related to charging. While charging your EV is almost always cheaper than filling up an ICE vehicle with fuel, there are additional or unexpected expenses that come from charging itself. For example, charging at home is cheaper than using a public supercharger, but Tesla vehicles do not come with home charging equipment by default. You may need to purchase additional equipment like a mobile connector or wall connector, which can add to the overall cost of ownership.
Another hidden expense to consider is the cost of supercharging. The price of electricity can vary greatly depending on your region, and supercharging can be more expensive than charging at home. Additionally, Tesla has idle fees for busy supercharger stations, which can add to the cost if you leave your car connected after it is finished charging.
Maintenance and repairs for a Tesla can also be a hidden cost. While Teslas have lower maintenance costs compared to ICE vehicles, there are still certain repairs and maintenance costs that you may have to pay for during ownership. Repairs that aren’t covered under warranty can be expensive, and the cost of tires for a Tesla can also add up over time.
Another hidden expense to consider is the cost of premium connectivity for your Tesla. While Tesla vehicles come equipped with standard connectivity features, access to additional features like live traffic visualizations and music streaming requires a premium connectivity package, which comes at an additional cost.
Additionally, the cost of full self-driving (FSD) can be seen as a hidden expense. While basic autopilot features are included with a Tesla by default, upgrading to FSD comes at an additional cost. There are also fees associated with ordering a Tesla, including destination fees, order fees, and additional state or city fees.
Overall, owning a Tesla comes with many benefits, but it’s important to be aware of these hidden expenses to avoid any surprises down the line. By understanding and planning for these costs, you can make informed decisions when purchasing and owning a Tesla.
