Bay Area Tesla Collision Center vs. Third-Party Repair for Rear-Ended Model 3: Advice Needed

[hanhan]

Hello fellow Tesla owners,

I recently experienced a rear-end collision with my Tesla Model 3 and need to get it repaired. I'm currently debating between taking it to a Tesla collision center or a third-party Tesla-certified repair center. The Tesla collision center has a two-month waiting period for appointments, which is quite long.

My primary concern is the quality of the repair work and, more importantly, the safety of the battery after the collision. I'm wondering if there's a significant difference between the Tesla collision center and a third-party repair center in terms of service quality and thoroughness of inspection. Are there any specific advantages or disadvantages to either option that I should be aware of?

 

[Ciaopec]

We have had three repairs (2 MY, 1MS) all at 3rd party certified shops and have been very happy with all three experiences (if we discount the inordinate amount of time it takes Tesla to supply parts).
I seriously doubt any damage to your battery which essentially extends under the car from about axle to axle. A rear end collision would not come close.

 

[Waltjo]

I had my 2018 model 3, with a damaged trunk deck repaired at B & S Hacienda Auto Body - South San Jose, on Winfield Ave. They were easy to work with and they did a first-class job.

 

[KenC]

So, the choice is Tesla or Tesla-certified? Heck, I'd rather take it to a Tesla-certified place over Tesla. The 3rd-party generally has way more experience in repairing vehicles.

 

[mgs333]

1 thing to keep in mind is that Tesla may provide parts to their own collision center sooner than to 3rd party shops. Stories of people waiting 6 months for parts are non uncommon on here.

 

[Shelburne]

Someone backed into my 2020 M3LR in October of 2021. At that time, here in MA there were no Tesla Collision Centers (for all I know, that may still be the case), so I took it to a Tesla Authorized Collision Center. They did a phenomenal job and I would go back there again if the need ever arises.

 

[rogerbohl]

Hello fellow Tesla owners,

I recently experienced a rear-end collision with my Tesla Model 3 and need to get it repaired. I'm currently debating between taking it to a Tesla collision center or a third-party Tesla-certified repair center. The Tesla collision center has a two-month waiting period for appointments, which is quite long.

My primary concern is the quality of the repair work and, more importantly, the safety of the battery after the collision. I'm wondering if there's a significant difference between the Tesla collision center and a third-party repair center in terms of service quality and thoroughness of inspection. Are there any specific advantages or disadvantages to either option that I should be aware of?

I had our "S" repaired at Blakes, a Tesla and State Farm certified center, in Rohnert Park, south of Santa Rosa. Outstanding treatment and work. They have been bought by Crash Champions, but the staff is reportedly the same. I encourage you to chat with them. Details upon request. [email protected]

 

[Oregon Jim]

I’m in Portland Oregon and have been waiting for 10 months for a fairly simple repair. All I need is a new rear bumper. The certified shops here are now quoting 9 to 18 months for any repair. Good thing it’s not serious.

 

[t3sl4drvr]

I had Model S rear-ended and fixed at Tesla San Jose collision center.

• Repair quality was top notch
• Communications were lousy (no communication at all)
• Car was unnecessarily sitting on their yard for two extra weeks. I would have preferred driving it and them communicating honestly when they can start repairing it.