The Tesla Model Y is the automaker’s first foray into the world of compact SUVs. An EV similar in design to Tesla’s Model 3 sedan, the Model Y offers a brand new Tesla experience to anyone willing to try out the early versions. However, according to InsideEVs, the Model Y currently has so many flaws that buying it would ultimately be a waste of money.

The many issues with the Tesla Model Y

A significant portion of the Tesla Model Y’s defects are related to its alignment. These issues reportedly crop up all over the body, from the front doors to the tail lights. In fact, InsideEV suggests that a list of the functional aspects of the Model Y would “probably be shorter” than a list of its defects.

The Model Y also frequently displays paint issues. This problem is not new — the Model 3 experiences the same defect. Unfortunately, its appearance in this new vehicle indicates that Tesla, while aware of the problem, has not taken steps to fix it.

Additionally, the Model Y has a few design flaws within the cabin. The right seat belt frequently gets stuck between the rear seat and the C-pillar. The rear seats, which are supposed to fold at the press of a button, are also unresponsive and remain upright.

The Model Y may also experience issues with its frunk. The vehicle will display warnings that the frunk is not fully closed, even when it is. This problem may be caused by a frunk lid that is too thin. 

Why is it risky to immediately buy new models?

Clearly, the Tesla Model Y is riddled with issues. This isn’t necessarily unexpected — new models will, by definition, not have had a chance to react to driver feedback on a mass scale. Unfortunately, the people who choose to buy a new model right away bear the full brunt of any defects that still exist.

This just so happens to be a particularly large issue with Tesla vehicles, which are both expensive and notoriously buggy. According to InsideEV, Tesla Service Centers have been fairly unresponsive when unhappy drivers have brought their Model Y vehicles in for repair.

The appeal of buying a vehicle right after its release lies in being among the first people to experience something new. Ultimately, however, this comes with more downsides than benefits.

Tesla Model Y features and specs

Related: The Tesla Model Y Already has Major Problems

The Tesla Model Y starts at around $54,190. It has a driving range of 316 miles in the all-wheel-drive Long Range model and 315 miles in the Performance model. The latter has a top speed of 145 miles per hour as well as a dedicated track mode.

As for fuel economy, the Performance Model Y gets 112 MPGe on the highway and 129 MPGe in the city, for a combined rating of 121 MPGe. Although the Long Range and Standard models have yet to be tested, Car and Driver estimates that they will have higher ratings than the Performance model.

The interior of the Tesla Model Y strongly resembles the Model 3 sedan, with a large infotainment display and very few buttons. A third row of seats will be optional beginning in 2021, although they’ll cost a lofty $3,000.

Tesla’s Autopilot semi-autonomous driving system comes standard, as do more typical safety features like automated emergency braking and lane-keeping assist. Other Tesla features, such as self-park, will be optional.

Overall, the Model Y certainly has potential for dedicated Tesla fans — but buying one right away means you’ll be setting yourself up for disappointment. If you still want to try a Tesla Model Y, wait until the automaker has had a chance to deal with some of the defects.