Frustration got the better of me and instead of waiting until tomorrow to collect it, I drove back to Birmingham this afternoon.
Once there I asked why couldn’t they just have told me this morning that the car was only in to be inspected? Had I known this I’d have waited. I was told that they inspect initially to see if they have the ability to carry out the repair at the centre, unfortunately on this occasion the scratch on the paint work requires a third party to correct it. I mentioned that it was clear in the report and pictures submitted initially On my collection day, that it was a paintwork scratch (actually submitted by Tesla and not me in collection), but I was told they still like to inspect before confirming what, how, when and by whom it needs to be done. What a poor business model for after sales service.......
I was then told that the Technician agreed that my drivers door rubber seal needs replacing, they said it’s a common issue but unfortunately the seal still has to be ordered in.
To be fair to the person that dealt with me they were fine, polite, apologetic and seemingly just following protocol.
So I handed back the key to the Model X (anti climax as was expecting it to be better) and went to inspect what hadn’t been done on my car
. The car seemed fine and had been charged up. On entering the car I could see the centre console was open and my SD card disconnected.......I guess this is normal practice if sentry is on?
The drive home although frustrating was much better than being in the Model X courtesy car. However, I can’t help thinking I’ve lost 5 hours of my life which could easily have been avoided.
The car is now booked in for another date mid July, but to be honest I’m now pondering either waiting for the Nottingham SC to open and try that, or fix both issues myself. The seal for example is easy so may try one of the more robust aftermarket versions. The paint can be corrected by a good paint shop, albeit at my cost, but at least I know it will be done properly.
So my first experience at a Tesla SC is not a good one. Over the years I’ve used Audi, Toyota / Lexus, Mercedes, BMW, Porsche and Fiat, with all being fine to excellent and never having this type of experience.
It’s also fair to say that the premises are very down market, a bit disorganised and a touch unkempt. Whilst I’m aware Tesla are still playing catch up in the Vehicle market, they do need to improve in this area also.
Still happy with the car itself, but now know that other aspects of Tesla ownership are slightly compromised.
