This is an exciting time! As you have a fairly long drive home, I'd want to make sure the car has at least a 90% charge. Once you get that range figure, you should be able to extrapolate what a full charge will get you in terms of range. Also be sure to plan your trip back beforehand to see any supercharging spots you may need to stop at just in case. You can use the 'A better route planner' site for a more accurate picture of what you can expect in terms of range needs.
As for Tesla, they are normally pretty punctual (or have been in my case) but do not feel rushed. Take your time going over the car and be sure to ask anything you want answered (make a list of questions beforehand and bring them with you if needed).
Things specifically to check:
- Make sure you have a mobile charger with the J1772 and 14-50 adapters (your car should have all three in a round black bag).
- Check for any obvious damage that was not disclosed in the pictures. The car was moved around since the pictures were originally taken.
- Tesla (depending on service/delivery center) has been good about cleaning/detailing the cars more recently so I don't think there will be any issues with that.
During the delivery process, you will sign a few documents. Once the docs are signed, they should offer to set up the app on your phone - make sure you can sign into the app and see the car on your account. The delivery process is fairly painless and usually takes just a few minutes. Don't be surprised if they don't allow you to see/inspect the car prior to you signing but again this is delivery-center dependent. You will leave with the keys and a temporary plate that should be installed on the car. That's pretty much it. All docs you sign will show up in your account.
Within 30 days, you should receive the title to the car in the mail so you can register it with your local DMV. One thing I was told was that if for whatever reason, you do not receive the title prior to around 5 days before the temp tag expires, call the delivery center to have the temp tag extended (state-dependent) so you do not run the risk of having the temp tag expire and not being able to register the car.
Finally to check battery version, look for the sticker located on the battery behind the passenger wheel well.
Been so helpful since day 1, Danny, thank you so much!
If they don't charge me 100% and I have to Supercharge, do you know if I can confident that whatever the car shows as range, will work? I intend to not push AT ALL on this journey, it should be a normal, non cold day.
I'm interested in check the battery version, any pointers on doing this on my own?
Also can I view any screens to verify if certain features are available?
I know for the most part Tesla will tell me to eff off... But, do you know what exactly would be within my right to get corrected in case of surprises and what constitutes a walk away?
Also, chances are, your delivery will go fine. Remember: most persons report the negative experiences on forums. Most dont create accounts and post to say "all went as expected/normal". So dont get swayed by the negative stories
enjoy your pickup!
Hoping so, myself! Thank you!
It sounds like a typical experience.
Why should Tesla repaint the bumper or reduce the price? It's a used car, not a refurbished or certified pre-owned car. They will fix issues if it affects the safety of the car or how it drives under the warranty. Otherwise, you're on your own.
If you don't like it someone else will buy it. I don't think Tesla really cares about keeping you as a customer.
Truth, though never experienced such an indifference towards lack of customer service. Then again, no one has this product :-(...
Considering some SC's don't allow an inspection, is there any type of return window if not satisfied or additional undisclosed damage is discovered? 48 hours or something along those lines? Seems risky to drop a large chunk of change "sight unseen."
Wondering the same, though, I think it's as-is after you drive off...
- Order at least two charger network cards, ASAP. EVGo and Chargepoint are tops.
- Charge to 100%. Its OK. The car won't explode. Do it because your are going X-country and you also need to experience how 'taper' works. Don't let it sit for more than 3 hours after that.
- Get software updated to latest 2020.12.x release (while Supercharging should be OK, unless the update time is > the charging time)
- Familiarize yourself with the nearest Supercharger, destination charger etc. nearest your house
- If you average more than 30 mi consider a WC. If you average more than 45 mi daily, definitely get one.
- If you are picking up in the Dallas area, I recommend visiting the Southlake Supercharger. Its top 3 in the state for amenities nearby.
- The Supercharger in West Austin is very nice, I'm told.
- Have them show you where the 'tow hook' is. You may never need it. I needed it on the second day I owned my car, and never again.
- Get an account on Plugshare, then check-out the 'Activity Feed' to see what the local 'charger scene' is all about.
- Be sure to keep your charge level to 135% of the distance you are driving, unless you have bad weather or up-hill to go.
... and one more thing.
If you want to minimize carbon inputs to your car - I've studied the Texas grid (ercot.com) to find any times that the wind sourced energy appears. About half the nights, the wind is strongest at 3:00AM. Maybe 15-20% its the adjacent hours. Just set your car's timer to charge at 2:30AM every night, and you will tap the most renewable electricity (as a proportion) on the grid. When I say strong, I mean supplying 50% of the electricity rolling around, as a proportion of grid demand (at least in Spring). Keep the wind at your back, and at 3:00AM.
Lots of great info, my friend, thank you! Are you from Austin, TX area?
I'm not sure why you emphasized buying charging cards and such? Do you totally expect the Supercharger network to not be enough?
Good call in the tow hook! Do you know if they'll let me inspect the car before signing something?
Thank you again!
