Tesla is taking a step towards enabling the right to repair its vehicles by making its Electronic Parts Catalog (EPC) accessible to the public.
This initiative allows owners to purchase and install some parts of their cars independently.
Transparency
The decision to open the EPC aims to enhance transparency by giving Tesla owners access to detailed information about their electric vehicle parts and systems.
This transparency also serves as an educational resource for Tesla enthusiasts keen to learn about updates and changes made to the vehicles over time.
Limitations on Parts Purchases
While owners can now order some parts directly, there are limitations.
Specific items are available for public purchase, while others are restricted and require a service ticket to buy.
However, Historically, Tesla has restricted owners from purchasing and installing parts on their own.
This caution is due to the sophisticated technology in Tesla vehicles, which makes some repairs better suited for trained mechanics and technicians.
Tesla’s updated EPC enables owners to make certain purchases directly, though other parts remain restricted and necessitate a service ticket for acquisition.
Right to Repair Controversy
Tesla’s stance on the right to repair has sparked controversy and led to legal challenges.
After an initial dismissal, U.S. District Judge Trina Thompson in San Francisco reversed her ruling in June 2024.
She stated that owners have the right to demonstrate that Tesla imposed excessive costs for repairs.
Additionally, the company has faced scrutiny regarding lengthy wait periods for repairs and parts, which has further fueled dissatisfaction among customers.
Current Availability of Parts
Part availability spans all Tesla models except the Cybertruck, which currently lacks parts listed in the EPC.
However, this is expected to change as Tesla ramps up production.
Updates to the Electronic Parts Catalog
Tesla’s revamped EPC now allows users to order individual parts or complete assemblies directly via their Tesla accounts.
Previously, customers had to either visit a Tesla Service location or schedule service to procure parts, even if they didn’t require installation from Tesla.
Certain parts, indicated by a shopping cart icon, can now be ordered online, ultimately broadening access.
Notably, users can purchase parts for vehicles they do not own, allowing anyone to acquire specific items, such as a Model S Brake Caliper Service Kit, regardless of owning a Model S.
Messages indicating
“EPC now supports direct-to-customer online ordering for a subset of parts (to be expanded with future releases)”
can be found on relevant pages in the EPC.
Shipping and Limitations
Currently, shipping is only available within the United States, although Tesla plans to expand this service internationally in the future.
Users can order individual parts or in larger quantities as needed.
However, availability varies and currently includes only a limited selection of parts, such as brake rotors.
For more complex repairs, customers need to submit a ticket through the Tesla app.
Moving Towards a Repair-Friendly Future
Tesla’s decision to open the EPC marks a pivotal moment in addressing long-standing consumer concerns regarding the right to repair.
The company is progressively advancing this initiative through various means, including:
- The introduction of Service Mode for all users
- The launch of the EPC
- The enhancement of maintenance history access and service manuals.
Like Apple, which has faced scrutiny over proprietary parts, Tesla seems to be proactively positioning itself to minimize potential legal challenges regarding repair rights.
Teslas are designed for minimal maintenance and easy repair, supported by available service manuals and features like the Cybertruck’s interactive wiring diagram.
For more information, you can check out Tesla’s Electronic Parts Catalog here.