Hey everyone, DennisCW here! Today, I want to dive into a topic that often raises eyebrows among electric vehicle (EV) enthusiasts and potential buyers: the cost of Tesla battery replacements. You’ve probably heard horror stories about EV batteries costing $10,000, $20,000, or even $30,000 to replace. But let me break down the real truth about EV batteries and share some solutions that can save you from breaking the bank. Plus, I’ll throw in my top recommendations for Tesla accessories to enhance your ownership experience. Let’s get started!
First off, let’s address the elephant in the room: battery replacement costs. Yes, it’s true that replacing an EV battery can be expensive, but here’s the good news—most Tesla batteries come with a solid warranty. Typically, you’re covered for 8 years or 100,000 to 120,000 miles, depending on the model and whether you’re buying new or used. As long as you’re within that warranty period, you’re golden. This is why I always stress the importance of buying a new Tesla or a slightly used one with some warranty left on it.
A follower named Zach recently pointed out something spot-on: most people don’t even keep their cars long enough to outlast the battery warranty. Compare that to traditional gas-powered cars, where the powertrain warranty often ends at 50,000 miles, and you’re on the hook for pricey engine or transmission repairs. With EVs, long-term ownership is a breeze—there’s virtually zero maintenance beyond wipers, tires, and minor items.
Now, let’s say you’ve got a Tesla with high mileage—like a 2022 Tesla Model 3 with 138,000 miles that you snagged for $14,000 from Hertz—and the warranty has expired. What happens if the battery dies at, say, 200,000 miles? Don’t panic! There are affordable solutions out there that don’t involve shelling out $20,000 or more.
I came across a service called Resell that offers battery replacements at a fraction of the cost. Here’s a quick breakdown of their pricing:
The process is simple: you ship your vehicle to them (they cover the shipping cost), they install the new battery, and you pick up your Tesla good as new. What’s even cooler? Some owners have upgraded from a standard range to a long-range or performance battery for just a bit more, unlocking extra range and power. I’ve spoken to a few folks who’ve done this, and it works like a charm. So, don’t let battery fears stop you from buying a Tesla—there are options out there!
Alright, now that we’ve cleared up the battery myth, let’s move on to the fun part: accessorizing your Tesla. There are tons of accessories out there—maybe even too many—but I’ve narrowed it down to my top three must-haves for any Tesla owner:
All-Weather Floor Mats
My number one recommendation! Tesla interiors are sleek, but they’re not immune to dirt, mud, or spills. A good set of all-weather floor mats will protect your car and keep it looking pristine. I’ve categorized my picks into three tiers:
Phone Mounts
Tesla’s minimalist interior means you’ll need a reliable spot to mount your phone for navigation or calls. A sturdy phone mount is a small investment that makes a big difference in convenience and safety.
Center Console Organizers
Tesla doesn’t come with a built-in center console storage solution, which can leave your essentials scattered. I use a center console organizer from Jawa on all my Teslas—it’s a game-changer for keeping things tidy.
I’ve got links and discount codes for all my recommended accessories in the description below and on page two of our Best Deal Spreadsheet. A huge thanks to everyone who’s used my links to support the channel—it means the world to me!
Owning a Tesla or any EV doesn’t have to be a scary financial commitment, especially when it comes to battery replacements. With robust warranties and affordable aftermarket solutions, you’re covered even in worst-case scenarios. Plus, with the right accessories, you can elevate your Tesla experience to a whole new level.
So, whether you’ve just bought your Tesla or are about to pull the trigger, rest easy knowing you’ve got options. Have questions about batteries or accessories? Drop them in the comments below—I’m happy to help. And don’t forget to check out the links for deals on my favorite Tesla gear. Thanks for reading, and I’ll catch you in the next post!
-DennisCW
Tesla enthusiast and EV expert. Sharing tips on maximizing your Tesla ownership experience.