In the world of car enthusiasts, there is nothing quite like the thrill of getting your hands dirty and working on your own project car. Whether it’s a classic muscle car or a modern Electric Vehicle, the satisfaction of fixing up a car and making it your own is unmatched. And for one YouTube channel, 0.32, that’s exactly what they do.
In a recent video on the 0.32 channel, the host welcomes viewers back to the garage to reveal what’s back in the garage – a 2013 Tesla Model S85. The car had been at the Tesla Service Center for the past week getting the Drive Unit replaced. The decision to replace the Drive Unit came after the host had initially taken the car to a shop to get an estimate on fixing the bushings, which would have cost $2,000. Instead, the host opted to replace the entire Drive Unit, as there was a clunking sound in the rear that Tesla diagnosed as blown out bushings.
The Drive Unit is essentially the motor assembly that drives the rear wheels of the Tesla, and by replacing it, the host was essentially getting a brand new motor, transmission, drive shaft, and rear differential. The new Drive Unit had an updated part number with improved features to prevent coolant leaks into the inverter, a common cause of Drive Unit failures.
The cost of the Drive Unit replacement was initially estimated at $6,300, but during the process, it was discovered that the high voltage cables needed replacing as well, adding an additional $1,600 to the cost. In the end, the host ended up paying $7,900 for the Drive Unit replacement and high voltage cable replacement. Despite the unexpected additional cost, the host was pleased with the results, noting that the car now ran smoothly and quietly with improved acceleration and regen braking.
But the work on the Tesla didn’t stop there. The host also planned to replace the front suspension components, including the struts, control arms, tie rod ends, sway bar end links, and upper control arm. Additionally, there were plans to tint the windows, do a paint restoration, and blackout the chrome trim on the car.
Throughout the video, the host shared valuable insights and tips for anyone considering buying an older Tesla Model S as a project car. The host emphasized the importance of being aware of potential issues and costs associated with older electric vehicles, as well as the satisfaction that comes from working on and restoring a car to its former glory.
As the video came to a close, the host thanked viewers for watching and encouraged them to stay tuned for more updates on the Tesla project car. With plans for further upgrades and improvements, the 0.32 channel promised to continue sharing the journey of reviving and customizing the Tesla Model S. For car enthusiasts and DIYers alike, the 0.32 channel is a must-watch for inspiration and insight into the world of project car restoration.
