Tesla has been accused of monopolizing the distribution of spare parts and maintenance for electric cars, causing owners to pay more and wait longer for repair services.
Tesla has won a class-action lawsuit accusing the company of monopolizing repairs and selling spare parts at exorbitant prices. The company’s acquittal is significant as about 10% of their revenue comes from maintenance services.
The lawsuit began in March, when a California Tesla Model S owner filed a complaint in San Francisco court, alleging that Tesla overcharged customers for parts and caused them to wait too long for repairs due to alleged monopolistic practices.
In the filing, the customer argues that owners of conventional vehicles have more options when their vehicles experience issues, such as going to a dealership, a private garage, or self-repairing with original parts or parts provided by third parties. Meanwhile, Tesla owners have only one choice: maintenance at the company or Tesla-approved service centers using genuine parts.
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However, US District Judge Trina Thompson stated that the customers in this lawsuit failed to prove that the alleged issues were “widely unknown” at the time of their vehicle purchases, Reuters reported. The judge also said that there is ample evidence showing that customers are aware of the costs involved in owning and operating their vehicles.
Judge Thompson noted, “The plaintiffs allege that they were deceived about the frequency of component failures, accessories, and warranty times. But there is no allegation that, in fact, consumers are unaware of the cost and wait times.”
The judge also pointed out that the customers could not demonstrate that Tesla coerced them into using the company’s services. However, she stated that the plaintiffs may amend their complaint, combining some claims from customers who have paid for repairs and parts for Tesla vehicles since March 2019.
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Despite the court’s ruling, customers still voice legitimate concerns about the high cost of repairing Tesla vehicles, especially compared to other electric cars. According to reports, the cost of repairing electric vehicles is generally not significantly higher than that of traditional internal combustion engine vehicles. However, Tesla’s products have an average repair cost that is about 27% higher than similar-sized vehicles.
Tesla’s official service centers are not the only option available to customers for vehicle repairs. Last year, GM President Mark Reuss revealed that the company’s dealership network had been expanded to include maintenance and repair services for Tesla owners who do not want to bring their “beloved cars” to authorized garages.
Thai Son (Tuoitrethudo)
Reference: Carscoops
