The Tesla repair monopolization accusation leads to a lawsuit.
This new legal action against the EV maker has been filed on behalf of Virginia M. Lambrix, a Model S owner who lives in Sonoma County.
(Photo : Photo by Joe Raedle/Getty Images)
A Tesla motor company car logo sits on a car in a dealership at the Dadeland Mall on June 6, 2013 in Miami, Florida. The electric car maker is trying to make a move by selling their cars, that can cost between $62,400 and $82,400, into malls and stores.
Lambrix and other Tesla owners involved in the new antitrust class-action lawsuit claim that the automaker force customers to endure exorbitant repair and part prices.
Lambrix explained that traditional car owners have numerous maintenance and repair options. Many of them can even repair their vehicles themselves.
Since the situation with Tesla EVs is different, complainants claimed that the automaker is monopolizing its EV parts and repairs.
Tesla Repair Monopolization Accusation Leads to Lawsuit
According to Bloomberg's latest report, Tesla EV owners only have two options if their electric cars need to be maintained or repaired.
(Photo : Photo by ODD ANDERSEN/AFP via Getty Images)
Tesla CEO Elon Musk gets back into his Tesla after talking to media before visiting the construction site of the future US electric car giant Tesla, on September 03, 2020 in Gruenheide near Berlin. - Tesla builds a compound at the site in Gruenheide in Brandenburg for its first European "Gigafactory" near Berlin.
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They can ask Tesla to service their EVs or go to a Tesla-approved service center. Aside from the lack of options, another issue highlighted by the new class-action lawsuit is that the giant automaker doesn't allow non-Tesla car parts to be used in repairs.
Lambrix explained that these limitations are there because the EV maker leverages its market power to restrict repair and maintenance services, leading to monopolization.
Why Tesla Don't Allow Non-Tesla Parts?
Via its official Owners Manual website, Tesla highly suggests using only genuine Tesla parts and accessories.
The EV maker said that there are some insurance companies and repair shops encouraging Tesla owners to use non-original or salvaged parts.
Although this can save them money, Tesla said that non-Tesla parts and equipment don't meet its high standards for quality, corrosion resistance, and fit.
"In addition, non-original equipment and salvaged parts (and any damage or failures they might cause) are not covered by the warranty," explained Tesla. As of writing, the class-action lawsuit against Tesla is still ongoing.
Although the EV maker faces other concerns, it still makes efforts to enhance its EV business.
Recently, a new Tesla dummy camera was spotted on the new Hardware 4.0 and we also reported about the new Tesla Model X Ultra Red variant; this new color option is also available on Model S.
For more news updates about Tesla and other giant automakers, always keep your tabs open here at TechTimes.
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