Tesla Repair & Maintenance Guide
Founded 2003 · Austin, Texas, USA
Brand origin: United States. Origin does not determine factory location or parts compatibility.
Browse Tesla models and years →Tesla is the largest electric-vehicle manufacturer in the world, with a vertically integrated drivetrain, battery, and software stack. The Model Y is the best-selling vehicle globally by some measures.
Popular Tesla models
Common Tesla problems
12V battery failure
Earlier lead-acid 12V auxiliary batteries fail unpredictably and brick basic vehicle functions. Newer cars use a lithium 12V.
MCU (media control unit) eMMC failure
Pre-2018 cars wear out the embedded flash storage, requiring an MCU swap.
Door handle motor failure
Model S retracting door handles can fail to deploy in cold weather.
Tesla maintenance tips
- Rotate tires every 6,250 miles — Tesla EVs are heavy and chew front tires.
- Replace the cabin air filter every 2 years (every year with the HEPA option).
- Brake fluid test every 2 years; brake pads themselves last 100,000+ miles thanks to regenerative braking.
Frequently asked questions
Do Teslas need oil changes?
No. Tesla EVs have no engine oil. The single gear-reduction drive unit uses a sealed gear oil that does not require regular service.
How long does a Tesla battery last?
Tesla battery packs typically retain 85–90% of original capacity at 200,000 miles. Pack replacement out-of-warranty runs $13,000–$20,000.