More drivers have been considering whether an electric vehicle might be a good fit for them. That is especially true of those looking for ways to cut the cost of gas and keep more cash in savings .
But an electric car like a Tesla is not for everyone. So, as you try to weigh the pros and cons of going electric, here are some types of drivers who should steer clear of a Tesla.
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1. Don't like new technology
One of the great things about Teslas is their cutting-edge technology. For example, these cars come with touch screens that help you control basic functions, and the vehicles offer great navigation features.
But a Tesla may not be for you if you’re someone who has had the same smartphone for years and generally doesn’t like upgrading to the latest gadgets.
Own a car? Here's 7 warning signs you're paying too much for car insurance. 2. Worried about recalls
Tesla has had a number of recalls, including seat belt and steering assist issues. There have also been some recent high-profile fires involving Teslas.
If you don’t want to worry about constant recalls, you may want to settle for a more reliable car. Check online for recalls as part of your car research to help you find the best make and model for you.
3. Nervous without a spare tire
Teslas do not come with a spare tire. The company skipped the spare to eliminate additional weight and create more storage space.
The prevalence of roadside assistance programs has made it easier to get help even if you don’t have a spare tire. Still, if not having a spare tire makes you uncomfortable, a Tesla might not be for you.
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4. Worry about finding a charging station
“Range anxiety” is a big issue for some drivers who are considering the switch to an electric vehicle. You may be concerned that you won’t get to a charging station in time and will get stuck somewhere on the open road.
More charging stations are popping up across the country, so it may be easier to find a station and charge up as needed. However, the lack of infrastructure can still be an issue for some drivers.
5. High electric bills
Electricity rates vary from city to city. If rates are high where you live, buying a Tesla and charging it at home might be costly.
Or, perhaps you have a large home that requires more electricity to run it, or have high-energy appliances and systems. A Tesla will cause those already high electric bills to climb even higher.
These costs can add up, so take your electric bill into consideration when buying an electric car.
6. Don’t like complicated repairs
Teslas can be more complicated to repair than other vehicles, making it harder than usual for you to save money on car costs when it comes to this EV.
In addition, getting parts can be difficult. Finally, not every garage has the know-how to fix a Tesla. So, if the car needs fixing, it might be a headache to get it serviced.
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Research has shown that a Tesla doesn’t always perform as well in extremely low temperatures.
As the air gets colder, your range may decrease, which is a big deal when driving a car like a Tesla.
If you’re in a place where the temperatures drop steeply during the winter months, a Tesla might not be the best option for you.
8. Budget-conscious
A Tesla isn’t a great car to consider if you’re trying to buy a vehicle on a budget.
The base-model price of a Tesla can start at $40,630 for a Model 3 and go up from there. The Model X has the highest base price, at $77,990.
Pro tip: The cost of a Tesla can be high. One of the best ways to build wealth is to steer clear of building up debt . So, unless you have a lot of cash to burn, buying a Tesla with all the bells and whistles might not be the best choice.
9. Don’t believe the hype
Some drivers may appreciate the glamor of driving a Tesla or see it as a status symbol.
But there are many other drivers who just want a car that can get them to school or the office, and maybe help them run a few errands.
If you don’t buy the hype, there are still plenty of vehicle options for you in either gas or electric versions.
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Bottom line
If you’re trying to save money on gas, an electric vehicle might be an option to consider. But it also needs to be a good fit for your everyday driving needs.
For example, if you are working hard to retire early , buying an expensive Tesla can set that effort back.
So, before you take the plunge, check with your local Tesla store to get more information and see if these vehicles are right for you.
Money tips that can work for everyone
No matter what your bank account balance is, there's always an opportunity to optimize and improve your finances. Here's a quick checklist of things you can look at today.
Focus on paying off your debt . Debt can hold you back from making progress with your overall financial well-being. Aside from cutting expenses, there are tools that can help you pay off debt faster like balance transfer credit cards and debt counseling.
Earning extra income can give you breathing room. If finances are tight, earning some extra money to supplement your income can make a huge difference. A new job is one option to consider, but if you're not ready to make a big change or already retired, a part-time side job could be a better choice.
Cut your expenses. It sounds painful and so not fun, but it doesn't have to be. Take a look at your biggest expenses because that's where you'll probably find the biggest savings. For example, auto insurance rates have been soaring so shopping around for a new insurance company can be the fastest way to cut your bill. Also, look for ways to cut your grocery bill (despite rising inflation).
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