Tesla Model 3’s Are Like Gremlins; Don’t Get Them Wet or Else
Tesla is responsible for a massive surge forward in the automotive industry over the last 10 years. EV tech and the promise of driverless cars have changed how we will look at cars, trucks, and motorcycles for the rest of the time. Though, Tesla model 3 owners have been a little less excited about taking part in the auto industry’s future because of an annoying and expensive flaw.
Tesla Model 3 does not do well with water
Autoblog says that a few Model 3 owners have reported spending big bucks to repair the car’s back bumper after it appeared to fall off randomly. Apparently, due to a design flaw in the rear bumper, it can collect water after going through a large puddle or even after a hard rain. The water’s weight is too much for the bumper to handle, and it breaks off the car.
Tesla’s service bulletin
Autoblog goes on to say that Tesla has officially posted a service bulletin for any Model 3 made before May 21, 2019. The bulletin says that cars may suffer damage if driven on roads with “poor drainage” or “pooled water.”
The service bulletin describes the damage specifically as, “In these rare instances, the rear fascia might detach from the vehicle and harnesses and/or body fasteners/mounts might also be damaged,” it continues. “This document clarifies that damage caused during these instances is covered under warranty .”
Sometimes simplicity is king
Autoblog says, in May of 2019, Tesla changed the rear bumper design of the Model 3 to include a pre-cut section designed to allow a tow hook. This section allows for the water to be drained, avoiding any water collection.
Although this pre-cut section added after May 2019 appears to fix this problem, there has been at least one case so far of a 2020 Tesla Model 3 with the same issue. The bumper repair cost the owner $3,800.
The Tesla Model 3 has had issues before
Autoblog also says that CNBC reported the Tesla Model 3 experienced a slew of quality control issues when the car’s first run was set to ship. The factory that built the Model 3, Model S, and Model X produced high numbers of faulty parts. The production delays, likely due to these faulty parts, go all the way back to 2017.
That being said, Tesla might over-promise from time to time, but at least they are catching some problems before they leave the factory. In this particular case though, watch out for rain if you wanna keep your bumper, Model 3 owners. At least, make sure to never feed them at night.
