Tesla Owners Share Their Biggest Disappointments with Model Y

Want to know what Tesla Y owners find most disappointing about their EV? Sourced directly from the Tesla Owners Australia Facebook group, we’ve found some of the most common issues with the Model Y, how to solve them, and whether they're deal-breakers or just bumps on the road to innovation.

YMODS independently tests and reviews cars and automotive accessories. We may earn an affiliate commission from links on our site. The analysis and opinions are our own.

We don’t know about you, but for the team here at ymods.com.au, jumping into the driver’s seat of a Tesla Model Y still feels like piloting a spaceship – it’s exciting, futuristic, but not without its challenges.

Always curious, we wanted to know what some of the biggest challenges and disappointments Tesla Y owners have faced since bringing home their EVs. So, we tapped into the collective wisdom of the Tesla Owners Australia Facebook group to bring you real-life insights, and, yes, even some disappointments, directly from the drivers themselves.

As amazing as it is to own a Tesla Model Y, there are of course going to be some speed bumps along the way. Below, we’ll explore the common issues and their solutions, and gauge if they really are an issue, or if it’s all just part and parcel of innovation.

Top Tesla Y Issues (And Their Fixes)

Phantom Braking

Phantom braking seemed to be a common issue for Tesla Y Owners. What is phantom braking? Basically, it’s where the car suddenly slows down or stops due to the sensors detecting non-existent obstacles. This can be particularly unnerving on country roads with varying light and shadows.

The fix: Until a software fix arrives, we recommend always maintaining a firm grip on the steering wheel and staying attentive to the road, even when cruise control is engaged.

Is it really an issue? Not every Model Y owner experiences phantom braking, but yes, we can understand how this can be a frustrating (and real) issue for Model Y owners.

Charging Station Congestion

According to plenty of Model Y owners, the surge in popularity of Teslas (and EVs in general) means that finding a spot at a Supercharger station can sometimes be a headache.

The fix: If possible, try charging your Tesla at off-peak hours, or better yet, consider a home charging setup for convenience.

Is it really an issue? To be honest, no. You used to queue at petrol stations, right? This is no different. Sure, you might be waiting a little longer, but it’s all part of the EV journey.

Subpar Paint Quality

Some Model Y owners have expressed disappointment with the Model Y’s paint quality. If you share the same concern, consider investing in paint protection film or a ceramic coating for extra protection and longevity.

The fix: PPF (paint protection film) or ceramic coating wrap for extra protection.

Is it really an issue? No one wants subpar paint quality, but we wouldn’t call it a deal-breaking issue with the Model Y, not when PPF and ceramic coating exists!

Inaccurate Range Estimates

According to some Model Y owners, the estimated range of a Tesla can often be less than what’s displayed, especially during long trips or when driving at higher speeds.

The fix: Plan your trips with ample charging time in mind to avoid unpleasant surprises.

Ist it really an issue? Yes and no. It can be frustrating to think you have more range than you do, but again, for us it’s not a deal breaker. As the EV tech improves, so will range estimates.

Limited Warranty for High Mileage Drivers

If you’re a high-km driver, Tesla’s limited-kilometre warranty can be a drawback. For the Model Y, Tesla provides a New Vehicle Limited Warranty for 4 years or 80,000 kilometres, whichever comes first. Additionally, the Battery and Drive Unit in the Model Y is covered by a warranty for 8 years or 200,000 kilometres, whichever comes first.

The fix: Unfortunately, this is a policy issue and will require Tesla’s attention to address.

Is it really an issue? Tesla’s warranty is pretty much in line with other car makers, including non-EVs. So no, it’s not really an issue in our eyes!

Speed Bumps Are Just Part of the Journey

We all love our Model Ys, and we want the experience of driving them to be as seamless and stress-free as possible. But taking a step back, it’s important to remember that the technology driving these EVs is evolving and improving every day.

So, while some issues can be frustrating, they’re often part and parcel of being on the cutting edge of this technological frontier. Plus, most Model Y disappointments seem to be external to the cars themselves; charging congestion is an infrastructural issue not exclusive to Tesla, and no car owner is immune to strict warranty policies.

At the end of the day, owning a Tesla is as much about the journey as the destination. As a Y Mod river, you’re part of an incredible shift towards sustainable transportation.

Remember, the Tesla tech is currently the best in the EV market, but don’t expect it to do everything – at least, not yet. Some of these reported disappointments are growing pains, not terminal issues, and they should be seen in the context of an evolving and maturing technology.

Patience is a virtue. And in this case, it’s also the key to truly enjoying your Tesla Model Y.

RELATED POST