Even though Tesla has challenged the auto industry in many ways, it still manages to warranty its vehicles in traditional terms. Tesla has become good at “poking the bear,” with its battery-based powertrains, but that does not excuse Tesla owners from providing proper care and maintenance. That’s where the company’s warranties and additional coverage come in.

Tesla’s New Vehicle Limited Warranty includes a 4-year/50,000-mile warranty for comprehensive coverage, and an 8-year/unlimited mile Battery and Drive Unit limited warranty. Both warranties are designed to cover and repair or replace any defects in materials or workmanship of any parts that may fail during the warranty coverage period.

Tesla Maintenance Guidelines

As a non-traditional car company, Tesla and its cars are different, and as such, require none of the traditional services like oil, filter, brake pad and spark plug replacements, all thanks to the differing wear characteristics of an electric vehicle. Instead, the company offers pre-paid maintenance plans, which allow owners to purchase future service at today’s prices. They can extend to 3 years/37,500 miles or 4 years/50,000 miles.

12,500 Miles or 12-Month Service Intervals

Tesla calls for once a year servicing at authorized Tesla centers with intervals of 12 months/12,500 miles. Among the items attended to are a change of the key fob battery, a multi-point inspection, a tire rotation, wheel alignment, and wiper blade replacement.

Two Year Interval

At the 2-year interval, the Tesla mechanics perform all of those services and add replacement of the A/C desiccant bag, brake fluid, and in-cabin air filter.

Extended Warranty Plans

Tesla does offer an extended warranty plan that extends coverage for either 2 years/25,000 miles or 4 years/50,000 miles, once the original warranty expires. Prices vary according to model, but buyers will receive a discount of $500 if the extended plan is purchased within 180-days of initial delivery by Tesla. There is no discount beyond the 180-day threshold.

The plan can be purchased by owners who buy new or pre-owned vehicles with warranty plans in place. There is a 30-day/1,000-mile grace period in which buyers are able to purchase the extended warranty, if their original coverage has ended. The plans are not available on vehicles purchased from third-party dealerships.

The plan is transferable, but it may not be available in every state, which is an inconvenience the company is trying to correct. Finally, the extended plans cannot be added to the vehicle’s total purchase price and paid through your vehicle financing plan. They must be purchased separately. Contact your local Tesla Center for more information.