Okay, I guess the EDIT POST option times out after a while, so I'll put the remainder of the main post here.
I’d like to solicit the forum’s advice on how to proceed.
The way I see it, I have several options:
1)
Bite the bullet and pay the Ranger fee. Now, paying $1500 for something that would normally be covered by warranty and performed at no cost if I lived closer to a service center does rankle a bit, but this is by far the simplest solution. I just wish I knew if this was something I need to have done ASAP. I’m planning a trip to the service center anyway, but not until summertime.
2)
Make the drive with a failing 12V battery. This is the riskiest option since the battery could give out at any time and leave me stranded. Tesla has indicated that if I can meet up with the Ranger somewhere on his scheduled rounds, they would waive the $1500 fee. However, this only works if he’s actually going to
be in the area at all. It’s also going to involve several weeks on the road (I’m over 2000km from Vancouver), accommodations, meals, etc. A bit much just to change a battery, wouldn’t you agree?
3)
Carry on as normal. The car still drives as expected, and I don’t go very far in a day. Worst case scenario is it won’t start at the grocery store and I have to pay to get it towed back home. Aside from some embarrassment and bad PR for EVs everywhere (yet
another EV running out of charge and needing a tow)
Personally, I’m leaning toward Option 3 for now. Model S 12V battery problems are as old as the hills so I’m sure there are many many discussions and threads on the topic. Can anyone provide me a link to some of the more useful ones? (the TMC site redesign is the bane of my existence) Any tips for prolonging what life remains in my 12V? Would trickle charging it help at all?
Thanks.