Have you ever made a decision that seemed crazy at the time, but turned out to be one of the best decisions you’ve ever made? That’s exactly what happened to me six years ago when I decided to splurge on a Tesla Model 3. At the time, spending more money than I ever thought I would on a car seemed like a risky move, but little did I know that it would completely change the way I viewed electric vehicles and the auto industry as a whole.
Now, with over 144,000 miles on my Model 3, I can confidently say that it was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. But, of course, making such a big purchase comes with its fair share of expenses. In this blog post, I want to break down every single dollar I’ve spent on my Model 3, including repairs, maintenance, and even the savings I’ve had by not buying gas or oil.
When I first purchased my Model 3 in 2018, it cost me $54,000 after taxes and registration, minus the $7,500 tax credit I received. I opted for the red paint, long-range battery, enhanced autopilot, and full self-driving capabilities, bringing my total cost to $56,000. Additionally, I invested in paint protection film, window tinting, various accessories, and a radar detector to enhance my driving experience.
Over the years, I’ve had to deal with a few repairs and maintenance issues, such as door handle malfunctions, window button replacements, and a costly repair for the front control arms and lateral links. However, thanks to Tesla‘s warranty and some DIY fixes, my out-of-pocket costs for repairs and service have been relatively low, totaling around $2,000.
One of the biggest advantages of owning a Tesla is the savings on charging costs. With the ability to charge at home for just 8 cents per kilowatt-hour, I’ve saved thousands of dollars on fuel compared to a traditional gas car like the BMW 3 Series. In fact, I estimate that I’ve saved over $20,000 in gas and oil costs alone over the past six years.
When you factor in insurance, registration, and other expenses, my total ownership cost for the Tesla Model 3 comes out to just over $75,000. Considering the mileage I’ve put on the car and the savings I’ve accrued, it’s clear that investing in an Electric Vehicle like the Model 3 can be a smart financial decision in the long run.
So, if you’re in the market for a new car and want to make the best decision for your money, I highly recommend considering an Electric Vehicle like the Tesla Model 3. Not only will you be reducing your carbon footprint and contributing to a more sustainable future, but you’ll also enjoy significant savings on fuel and maintenance costs. Trust me, it’s a decision you won’t regret.
