Le lapin heureux, I am now curious as to two things:
(1) what are other car companies update policies? (my experience with VWAG is "if it ain't broke, we don't fix it"). For Tesla, I think it's we provide OTA updates for the software features you already own.
(2) what are the other drawbacks with Tesla (as I've never driven one)?
I haven’t had first-hand experience with other companies’ policies on software updates, so I can’t make direct comparisons.
Tesla’s Autopilot is on another level, but it isn’t immune to phantom braking either. Because it usually performs so well, you tend to let your guard down, which can leave you less prepared to react when it suddenly brake for no apparent reason.
Another drawback is the wipers, which don’t use a traditional rain sensor but instead rely on the cameras. They used to perform terribly, though recent updates have made them generally a bit better.
Tesla’s customer service, however, is completely dehumanised. For example, when I needed my tyres rotated, I had to request a service ticket through the app. They scheduled an appointment, issued an invoice, and only after I’d paid was I able to collect my vehicle. It set me €50 back, and they had even forgotten to confirm the tyre rotation in the service menu.
Nothing serious but they make it deliberately hard for the customer to complain…
Would we buy a Tesla or MG again? That depends on what the competitors bring to the market in a few years.
For the Tesla, my criteria were tech, ability to handle long trips, and regular updates.
For the MG, wifey’s criteria were value for money, fun factor, and the fact that they offered an excellent trade-in deal for her previous car.
No regrets so far, actually!
