Can You Get a Tesla Service Without Appointment? Tricks, Tips

So this just happened; you require emergency assistance with your Tesla and need it to be fixed ASAP! Or you forgot to book in a Tesla service and you’re wondering if you can just pitch up and be served. So, does Tesla do walk ins?

You can get a Tesla service even without an appointment. You can go to a nearby service center and talk to personnel there about your concern. If it’s a safety issue, they’ll likely cater to you as soon as possible. Tesla does encourage to make a booking to make the experience as seamless as possible.

As per usual, there is more to it than this simple answer. So check out the rest of this article.

Getting Your Tesla Serviced Without an Appointment

However, I highly suggest you give them a call in advance to let them know you’re coming for the day. That way, you give them a heads up and enough time to prepare for your concerns.

If you’re coming in without an appointment, make sure you’ve assessed the issue as thoroughly as you can. Take note of anything out of the ordinary. The issue may seem minor to you, but it could be a sign of something more serious that should be addressed ASAP. 

Tesla-Service-Book-Appointment

Scheduling a Tesla Service Through the Tesla App

Aside from giving the service center a call, there are other ways to set a service appointment with Tesla in advance. 

For example, you can use the Tesla app to schedule an appointment. Just look for the service tab, then input the details of your concern. You can even send them pictures of the issue. 

If your scheduled service is missing in your Tesla App, check out these options that I explained in this article.

When making your request, try to be as detailed and accurate as possible. This allows Tesla to make preparations for the service appointment, such as ordering parts or estimating costs. 

Watch this YouTube video, “How To Request Tesla Service Using the App,” to see how it works: 

Depending on your concern, Tesla may give you the option of going to a service center or using a mobile service. 

What To Expect From a Tesla Service Center Appointment

If you choose the service center option, here are a few things you need to remember:

  • Respond to Tesla when they contact you. After placing a service request, the Tesla team may reach out to you for additional details or questions. Be as responsive and detailed as you can. That’ll help the service team prepare for your visit. 
  • Check and approve the cost estimate before your appointment. You’ll receive a cost estimate through the app. If you have any questions or concerns about the price, reach out to them as soon as you can.
  • If needed, bring your key fob, key card, and charging cable. The charging cable is especially important if the issue is about charging.
  • Stay updated on your car service through the Tesla app. You can leave your car at the service center, and depending on the issue, Tesla may offer you an alternative ride. In the meantime, check for updates and note the pickup date through the app. 

Getting Mobile Service for Your Tesla

Depending on your concern and location, you may not have to drive to the service center. Instead, Tesla can send a mobile service technician to your home, workplace, or anywhere else you want to get your car serviced. Convenient, right? 

If you plan to get mobile service for your Tesla, keep these things in mind: 

  • Set an appointment through the Tesla app. Again, make sure to share as much detail as possible about your concern. Note that the mobile service may not be offered at all locations, nor will it address every potential issue. 
  • Don’t install the pending software update. On the service day, your phone may show a pending software update. Don’t install it; instead, wait for the technician. 
  • Provide a cool area or space with restroom access for the service. The site shouldn’t be below 40°F (5°C) degrees or above 105°F (40°C). Don’t forget to give restroom access to the technician. Finally, keep your pets away during the service.
  • Respect technicians’ privacy. Avoid taking photos, videos, or other media during the process. The last thing a technician needs is to be hassled on social media by random individuals needing their services for free.

Anyway, on a similar note, if you’d like to find out if you Can You Use Uber Credits for Tesla Service?, check out this related article that I wrote.

Other Things You Should Know About the Tesla Mobile Service

Aside from the process of having your Tesla repaired by a mobile service technician, here are other things you should know about Tesla’s mobile service:

  • If you need to cancel or change your appointment, do it at least 24 hours in advance. Since the technician needs to come to you without the benefit of a physical service center behind them, they need to be as thoroughly prepared for the appointment as possible. If, say, you found an issue that you didn’t include in your previous request, you need to inform them ASAP.
  • Mobile service is, to date, only available within North America. Sorry to everyone outside the continent mentioned above: You’ll have to make do with setting up physical appointments with your nearest service center for now.

DIYing Basic Maintenance Procedures

Going to the service center or scheduling appointments can be a hassle, especially if the issue is pretty minor. You don’t need to run to Tesla for every problem! 

Tesla’s website has a set of Do It Yourself Guides that owners can refer to when conducting DIY and basic maintenance procedures. These guides are for the Model 3, Model S, and Model X. You can also check your Owner’s Manual for more information. 

Fun Fact: A Tesla Owner Has Done His Own Car’s Repairs 

If you’re nervous about making your own simple repairs, you might want to take inspiration from the guy who took apart his own Model S.

This allowed him to do his own repairs, which have been pretty successful (at least, as far as we know). He’s supposedly been able to put on 2,000 miles (or approximately 3219 kilometers) after fixing the car, which is impressive. 

Teslas Don’t Need Annual Maintenance

Unlike most cars, Teslas don’t need oil changes, spark plug replacements, and other maintenance procedures. It’s pretty resilient, which is a significant perk for Tesla owners.

On that note, if you would like to find out if Teslas need any kind of oil changes or lubricants, then check out this helpful article that I wrote on the topic.  

But if you want to keep your car in optimal condition, there are maintenance service procedures Tesla recommends, as summarized in the table below. You can visit their website to see the recommended schedules per model

Maintenance Service Recommended Schedule 
Cabin Air Filter2-3 years 
HEPA Filter3 years 
Tire Rotation6,250 miles (10,058 km) or >= 2/32 tread depth difference
Brake Fluid Test2 years
Air Conditioning Service2-6 years 
Lubricating Brake Calipers (for winter areas)12 months or 12,500 miles (20,117 km)
This table shows the recommended schedule for Tesla Maintenance Procedures

Did You Know: Tesla Has Roadside Assistance

You can be the most cautious car owner (conducting optional maintenance, having every minor issue repaired, etc.), and still encounter issues that require immediate assistance. Luckily, if you ever find yourself stuck on the road, Tesla has your back through their Roadside Assistance

Tesla’s Roadside Assistance is available every day, 24/7. It’s for breakdowns, flat tires, lockouts, out-of-range, and other car emergencies. You can request it through the app or call the numbers on their website.

You can also view more about Roadside Assistance in this article that I wrote called: “Is Tesla Roadside Assistance Free?” I discuss what they cover and more.

Statistics: 1 Autopilot Tesla Car Crash for Every 4.31M Miles (6.9M Km)

Speaking of roadside assistance, you’re not likely to contact it for car crashes. Tesla’s 2021 4th Quarter Report found that only 1 of their cars crashes every 4.31 million miles (6.9 million km) while on autopilot mode.

If not on autopilot, the statistic is 1 for every 1.59 million miles (2.6 million km). Both figures are much less than the numbers for other automobiles, which is 1 for every 484,000 miles (778,922 million km). 

Frequently Asked Questions 

Can I Service My Tesla Myself?

You can service your Tesla by yourself. Tesla has DIY guides for Models 3, S, and X. However, if you don’t think your confidence and skills are up for it, it’d be best to seek professional help.

How Long Does a Tesla Service Take?

Tesla service can take a few hours to two days, depending on the type of service or extent of the damage. If parts need to be ordered, it may take longer. In the meantime, Tesla may give you a loaner.

EV Speedy’s Take

It is a convenient fact that Teslas don’t require as much service as regular cars. If you also consider the fact that Tesla isn’t known for their service excellence, it might be a good idea to actually make an actual booking for your service.

If it is an emergency, you can rest assured that Tesla will do their very best to accommodate you. They will not turn you away and they may even give you a Tesla loaner; then you can be on your merry way. Just be sure to consistently follow up with them about the status of your car.


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Erwin Meyer
Erwin Meyer

A renowned Tesla enthusiast, and successful entrepreneur, enlightens global audiences through his compelling EV narratives. Discover more about his electric journey on his About Me page. Venture to read Erwin's incredible story that's reshaping the future of motoring. Want to spark a conversation with Erwin? Visit his Contact page, and let’s electrify the world together.