Tesla drivers are truly a different breed: They are fiercely loyal to their automobiles and often blur the line between car enthusiasts and Tesla brand evangelists. As Tesla continues to gain popularity, its existing passionate driver base will only expand. This passionate user base truly cares about their vehicles and wants to protect their vehicles from the elements. So, what ways can Tesla drivers go about doing this?
Tesla drivers have a variety of simple solutions that they may use to protect their vehicles from the ravages of outdoor exposure. This includes taking special care of their car during the winter months, properly utilizing a car cover, keeping the interior clean, and applying an additional protective layer such as ceramic coating.
Teslas are a fairly significant purchase, so if you’re a Tesla driver who wants to go above and beyond when protecting their vehicle from the elements, be sure to read on, as we will highlight five simple tips to help keep anyone’s Tesla performing in peak shape.
Be Wary of Winter Weather
Most Tesla drivers will be aware that cooler weather can hurt their vehicle’s ability to charge. This is just one potential impact that winter weather can have on a Tesla. Luckily almost all winter-related issues can be solved by regular preventive care and maintenance.
One tip that will help keep your Tesla charged during winter is to plug it in while everything is still hot from a drive. This is because the battery can charge quicker and more efficiently when it has already been warmed up from running.
Park in a Covered Area
While not all Tesla owners have access to a garage, if you do, you should always park inside to avoid unnecessary exposure to the elements. Although it can be a great way to top your rival neighbor’s early 2000s Mercedez they won’t stop talking about, it is better to humbly keep your vehicle in a garage or other covered area (carport) for optimal protection.
Get a Car Cover
For those that must park their Tesla outside in the elements, a car cover is almost a necessity. This is because most models of Tesla are known for their easily chipped or scratched paint jobs that can be too fragile for punishing weather. A car cover, in this instance, can make all the difference in the world, offering a physical barrier of protection between a Tesla’s exterior and the outside world.
The only potential flaw that a car cover may introduce is that if moisture is trapped between it and the car’s surface, mold and mildew problems can quickly develop. This is why the proper installation of a car cover is so important. Additionally, you should avoid leaving a car covered 24/7. Remove the cover and let your Tesla get some fresh air and sunlight.
Apply Additional Protective Coating
One additional method of protecting your car’s paint job is to apply a protective coating or film. In days gone by, this would be done by applying wax and sealant after a car wash. These days, there are less time-consuming methods of protecting a car’s paint. Don’t worry; this doesn’t need to be a do-it-yourself project. Paint protection films and other coatings can often be quickly and economically applied by a local car detailing specialist.
One type of coating that can last for years when properly maintained is ceramic coating. A quality ceramic coat will act as an impenetrable barrier that protects the surface from micro-abrasions and helps alleviate the buildup of grime and dirt residue.
While you might not have heard of Tesla ceramic coating, it is actually applied as a standard protective coat for most models the carmaker produces. This makes ceramic coating a vital part of any Tesla protection system. However, this coating will need to be maintained or reapplied at some point. This is because the coating isn’t meant to last indefinitely.
Additionally, you can add a car bra (also named a front-end cover) to the front of your vehicle for an added protective barrier. These are readily available online and are simple to apply on your own.
Take Care of Chips and Dents Immediately
Given the fragile nature of a Tesla’s standard paint job, if additional protection has already been eschewed, taking care to repair surface imperfections promptly becomes of paramount concern. This is because once a dent or scratch has impacted the surface, it has already weakened surrounding areas and made the entire paint job more susceptible to issues.
Take Care of Your Tesla So It Can Be There for You
As we mentioned in the beginning, Tesla owners are very passionate about their vehicles. So, those Tesla-fanatics that wish to get the most out of their cars would do well to follow the above tips to help prolong their useful life. After all, if you take care of your Tesla, it should always be there for you when you need it.
As a final thought, just be aware that there are certain aspects of protecting your Tesla that are a one-off project, but safeguarding your automobile is a continual, ongoing, intentional effort. You should always look for new and additional protection methods.