Tesla admits design flaw led to vehicle rear bumper falling off when driving in puddles of water - Electrek

[admin]

https://electrek.co/2020/10/19/tesla-admits-design-flaw-rear-bumper-falling-off-water/

Another example of "never buy the first year(s) model of any car"..... we need to give them years to work the kinks out first.

[admin]

From the service bulletin:

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In rare instances, certain components on Model 3 vehicles built at the Fremont Factory before May 21, 2019 might be damaged when driving through standing water on a road or highway with poor drainage or pooling water.

Looks like only this only applies to Model 3's produced before May 21, 2019.

 

 

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If symptoms are present and the vehicle is eligible, replace the rear fascia diffuser with one that has a covered opening for a tow hitch (with improved wade performance) [...]

So basically if you have the hitch access cutout on the rear understand panel (shown here), then you already have the new improved panel and this service bulletin doesn't apply.

 

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Repair Bulletin: This repair bulletin provides instructions on addressing a noted condition or possible customer concern regarding the operation of Tesla vehicles. These instructions should only be performed by trained professionals.

Looks like you can just raise the concern, refer to this service bulletin (SB-20-12-003), and they will perform the work under warranty.