The reaction to our story the other day about Doug, and his Hyundai Ioniq, and the $40 bill he was sent from his mechanic for “oil” for his EV, got me thinking.
So, as an experiment, I imagined that I had taken my Tesla Model 3 standard range plus to a regular garage, and asked for a service. Just to see what happens.
Here is the (imaginery) invoice:
Invoice number 00531
Dinosaurs’ Burner Garage, Bedrock
Car serviced by: Fredrick Stoneflint –  chief Mechanic
Service – 60,000 km Tesla Model 3 SR + Licence plate EWE 420
- Carry out complete global diagnostic system (GDS) check
- Inspect battery terminals & condition – 12V
[Mechanic reports that there appears to be a larger battery to which he was unable to gain access, suggest that this be checked as a matter of urgency]
- Inspect disc brakes & pads
[Mechanic reports suspiciously little wear, discuss driving habits with customer]
- Inspect front suspension ball joints
- Inspect operation of lights, indicators, etc
- Fill up blinker fluid
- Inspect tyres including pressure & tread wear
[ Mechanic reports excessive wear on back tyres – possibly due to launch syndrome]
- Lube door, boot, bonnet hinges & latches and brake calipers
- Air-conditioner oil change
- Oil disposal charge as per environmental protection standards$40
Customer requests
- Unjam glovebox
- Inspect and adjust volume control -teenager reports unable to turn down the karaoke .
Urgent Action – Mechanic unable to find motor, exhaust, petrol tank and many other essential parts etc. These will need to be installed immediately to avoid voiding the warranty.
Total:  $180 – cash/credit/ Karaoke
David Waterworth is a researcher and writer, a retired teacher who divides his time between looking after his grandchildren and trying to make sure they have a planet to live on. He owns 50 shares of Tesla.
David Waterworth is a researcher and writer, a retired school teacher who continues to provoke thought through his writing. He divides his time between looking after his grandchildren and trying to make sure they have a planet to live on. He is long on Tesla.