# Now that a Tesla is marked down $15K, would you do it?

**URL:** <https://boards.straightdope.com/t/now-that-a-tesla-is-marked-down-15k-would-you-do-it/978239>\
**Category:** Miscellaneous and Personal Stuff I Must Share\
**Created:** [January 14, 2023, 10:07pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/now-that-a-tesla-is-marked-down-15k-would-you-do-it/978239 "2023-01-14T22:07:00Z")\
**Posts on this page:** 20\
**Page:** 4

<div class="post-metadata">

**Author:** ![digs](https://sea3.discourse-cdn.com/straightdope/user_avatar/boards.straightdope.com/digs/32/14889_2.png) [@digs](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/digs)\
**Post date:** [January 16, 2023, 4:03am UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/now-that-a-tesla-is-marked-down-15k-would-you-do-it/978239/61 "2023-01-16T04:03:30Z")

</div>

> [@bobot](#):
>
> I don’t forsee putting any of my money into Musk’s pocket.

That’s been my position ever since I heard of Teslas. I like a lot of the things about the car, but not the CEO. Nor would I buy a car that could be altered on the fly (“Oops, software update, your car is possibly going to brake to an abrupt stop. We’ll be working on that, and we hope you’re not going 75 on the freeway.”)

Especially if that software can controlled by a madman.

.

> [@Stranger\_On\_A\_Train](#):
>
> Tesla isn’t going away anytime soon but whether the current CEO will retain his position is another question entirely.

Now, THAT gives me hope. I’d have to start my EV calculations all over again and see…

---

<div class="post-metadata">

**Author:** ![Riemann](https://sea3.discourse-cdn.com/straightdope/user_avatar/boards.straightdope.com/riemann/32/3133_2.png) [@Riemann](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/Riemann)\
**Post date:** [January 16, 2023, 4:06am UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/now-that-a-tesla-is-marked-down-15k-would-you-do-it/978239/62 "2023-01-16T04:06:40Z")

</div>

> [@digs](#):
>
> my EV calculations

[EV](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Expected_value) ([EV](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Electric_vehicle)) has changed.

---

<div class="post-metadata">

**Author:** ![Saint\_Cad](https://sea3.discourse-cdn.com/straightdope/user_avatar/boards.straightdope.com/saint_cad/32/18907_2.png) [@Saint\_Cad](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/Saint_Cad)\
**Post date:** [January 16, 2023, 4:29am UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/now-that-a-tesla-is-marked-down-15k-would-you-do-it/978239/63 "2023-01-16T04:29:56Z")

</div>

We do. Very cheated.

---

<div class="post-metadata">

**Author:** ![Happy\_Lendervedder](https://sea3.discourse-cdn.com/straightdope/user_avatar/boards.straightdope.com/happy_lendervedder/32/8488_2.png) [@Happy\_Lendervedder](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/Happy_Lendervedder)\
**Post date:** [January 16, 2023, 4:59am UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/now-that-a-tesla-is-marked-down-15k-would-you-do-it/978239/64 "2023-01-16T04:59:34Z")

</div>

And this is why I’m buying a Ford Lightning (when they’re available). I know Ford, I grew up with Ford, I know people that design Fords, I trust Ford, I bought an F-150 in 2015 that still purrs like a kitten with 190,000 miles. I just wouldn’t put any of my hard-earned money into Tesla; not the cars, not the stock. And thank you for sharing your professional experience on this.

---

<div class="post-metadata">

**Author:** ![Heracles](https://sea3.discourse-cdn.com/straightdope/user_avatar/boards.straightdope.com/heracles/32/487_2.png) [@Heracles](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/Heracles)\
**Post date:** [January 16, 2023, 5:13am UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/now-that-a-tesla-is-marked-down-15k-would-you-do-it/978239/65 "2023-01-16T05:13:50Z")

</div>

> [@Stranger\_On\_A\_Train](#):
>
> I am also not interested in autonomous driving at this point of the technology which seems to be the main distinction between Tesla and its competitors (now that other BEVs are offering comparable range) or being tied to a proprietary charging platform, so if I were in the market for such a vehicle (…)

I’ll just point out that Teslas are no longer tied to a proprietary charging platform. They now offer a CCS Combo adapter for recent Teslas that allows them to charge at non-Tesla Level 3 chargers.

And of course the included J1772 adapter works just fine to connect a Tesla to other Level 2 charging stations.

---

<div class="post-metadata">

**Author:** ![Gatopescado](https://sea3.discourse-cdn.com/straightdope/user_avatar/boards.straightdope.com/gatopescado/32/5711_2.png) [@Gatopescado](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/Gatopescado)\
**Post date:** [January 16, 2023, 6:25am UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/now-that-a-tesla-is-marked-down-15k-would-you-do-it/978239/66 "2023-01-16T06:25:17Z")

</div>

> [@Stranger\_On\_A\_Train](#):
>
> …but most are canny enough to engage in such opprobrious behavior and advocacy in public.

Cromulant Excoriation

---

<div class="post-metadata">

**Author:** ![DesertDog](https://sea3.discourse-cdn.com/straightdope/user_avatar/boards.straightdope.com/desertdog/32/11503_2.png) [@DesertDog](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/DesertDog)\
**Post date:** [January 16, 2023, 7:19am UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/now-that-a-tesla-is-marked-down-15k-would-you-do-it/978239/67 "2023-01-16T07:19:16Z")

</div>

> [@Sam\_Stone](#):
>
> there might be a ‘con’ out there who might buy a Tesla because they’ve decided Musk is one of them?

Only if it makes an obnoxious noise when the throttle is punched or, better yet, rolls coal.

---

<div class="post-metadata">

**Author:** ![Tride](https://sea3.discourse-cdn.com/straightdope/user_avatar/boards.straightdope.com/tride/32/13907_2.png) [@Tride](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/Tride)\
**Post date:** [January 16, 2023, 2:18pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/now-that-a-tesla-is-marked-down-15k-would-you-do-it/978239/68 "2023-01-16T14:18:33Z")

</div>

I was wondering about you. I’d be pissed. The used market is taking a huge hit also.

---

<div class="post-metadata">

**Author:** ![enipla](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/e/54ee81/32.png) [@enipla](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/enipla)\
**Post date:** [January 16, 2023, 2:24pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/now-that-a-tesla-is-marked-down-15k-would-you-do-it/978239/69 "2023-01-16T14:24:48Z")

</div>

> [@scabpicker](#):
>
> Really, I’m planning on selecting my next vehicle based on how much is controlled through the touchscreen, because a touchscreen is the worst interface for a car that was ever conceived.

Agree. My 4 Runner has three big fat knobs for controlling and adjusting the heat. I don’t have to take my eyes off the road.

The radio has a big knob for on/off/volume. But a touch screen for stations. Your supposed to be able to do it with voice control I think.

But really, with Sirius XM you sort of need a computer interface there are hundreds if not thousands of stations. I still hate it.

---

<div class="post-metadata">

**Author:** ![Ruken](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/r/f475e1/32.png) [@Ruken](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/Ruken)\
**Post date:** [January 16, 2023, 3:21pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/now-that-a-tesla-is-marked-down-15k-would-you-do-it/978239/70 "2023-01-16T15:21:31Z")

</div>

> [@enipla](#):
>
> But really, with Sirius XM you sort of need a computer interface there are hundreds if not thousands of stations.

I’ve only used this in rental cars but most still had physical buttons to advance stations, and it seemed like they’re clustered by type. Count me in with the anti-touchscreen crowd. Not that I have anywhere to charge at home.

---

<div class="post-metadata">

**Author:** ![enipla](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/e/54ee81/32.png) [@enipla](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/enipla)\
**Post date:** [January 16, 2023, 3:48pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/now-that-a-tesla-is-marked-down-15k-would-you-do-it/978239/71 "2023-01-16T15:48:32Z")

</div>

I’ll admit that the touch screen in the 4 Runner (2019) has a very bad interface. The navigation system sucks as bad as the radio controls. At least compared to my wifes Subaru.

With the Nav system, I’ve often said “Screw this, I basically know where I’m going” Ya can’t input an address. Or it doesn’t recognize it. If my Wife is with me we’ll just put it into a phone and one of us is the navigator. The Nav system is that bad.

---

<div class="post-metadata">

**Author:** ![Crafter\_Man](https://sea3.discourse-cdn.com/straightdope/user_avatar/boards.straightdope.com/crafter_man/32/458_2.png) [@Crafter\_Man](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/Crafter_Man)\
**Post date:** [January 16, 2023, 3:55pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/now-that-a-tesla-is-marked-down-15k-would-you-do-it/978239/72 "2023-01-16T15:55:12Z")

</div>

I’ve never really given much consideration to buying an EV. There needs to be more advancements in battery tech before I consider it. I would consider a hybrid, though; I think those make more sense at this time.

---

<div class="post-metadata">

**Author:** ![Procrustus](https://sea3.discourse-cdn.com/straightdope/user_avatar/boards.straightdope.com/procrustus/32/2994_2.png) [@Procrustus](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/Procrustus)\
**Post date:** [January 16, 2023, 4:47pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/now-that-a-tesla-is-marked-down-15k-would-you-do-it/978239/73 "2023-01-16T16:47:05Z")

</div>

The navigation in our Tesla (Model X) is the best I’ve ever used. The radio/satellite interface is the worst, by far. As far as touchscreens go, the Model X doesn’t have a tablet glued to the dash, like the Model 3 and Model Y. It’s integrated and looks fine. Except for the audio system (another manufacturer that doesn’t see the need for an “off” button.) the touchscreen is fine.

---

<div class="post-metadata">

**Author:** ![Gyrate](https://sea3.discourse-cdn.com/straightdope/user_avatar/boards.straightdope.com/gyrate/32/3588_2.png) [@Gyrate](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/Gyrate)\
**Post date:** [January 16, 2023, 4:48pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/now-that-a-tesla-is-marked-down-15k-would-you-do-it/978239/74 "2023-01-16T16:48:42Z")

</div>

> [@kanicbird](#):
>
> Tesla has some of the exact thing I try not to get in my life, basically subscriptions. If I buy a car I do it because I don’t want recurring fees, and don’t want updates that can break things that are working just fine.

This. Although I too would want to avoid enriching Musk, the wider issue is that I’ve seen nothing about Teslas that appeals to me, and the idea of shelling out for a car with that amount of attached strings is a definite turn-off.

Were I in the market for an EV or hybrid right now, I’d probably go with a Hyundai Ioniq. But I’m not.

---

<div class="post-metadata">

**Author:** ![zimaane](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/z/a3d4f5/32.png) [@zimaane](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/zimaane)\
**Post date:** [January 16, 2023, 5:06pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/now-that-a-tesla-is-marked-down-15k-would-you-do-it/978239/75 "2023-01-16T17:06:11Z")

</div>

The cheapest Tesla, the model 3, starts at $43,900, which is more than I’ll spend on a car now, so no.

There are used cars available more cheaply of course, but they don’t qualify for the tax credit (?).

Are Plug In Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs) still a thing? That’s my plan for my next vehicle purchase in a few years.

---

<div class="post-metadata">

**Author:** ![WildaBeast](https://sea3.discourse-cdn.com/straightdope/user_avatar/boards.straightdope.com/wildabeast/32/6_2.png) [@WildaBeast](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/WildaBeast)\
**Post date:** [January 16, 2023, 5:37pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/now-that-a-tesla-is-marked-down-15k-would-you-do-it/978239/76 "2023-01-16T17:37:13Z")

</div>

Maybe the price drop does make the Tesla slightly more appealing to me, but I still don’t really like it as much as other EVs. Particularly I don’t like Tesla’s philosophy of just using one big screen for everything. I’m sure I’d get used to it, but I would really rather have some gauges right in front of the driver. My current favorite EV is the Polestar 2, and that would be my first choice if I had to replace my car today. But in reality I don’t plan on replacing my car any time soon. When I do it probably will be with an EV, and it will depend on what EVs are on the market then.

Other people mentioned Tesla’s charging network, but with my driving patterns I’ll most likely be doing 99% of my charging at home, so that isn’t much of a consideration for me.

---

<div class="post-metadata">

**Author:** ![Procrustus](https://sea3.discourse-cdn.com/straightdope/user_avatar/boards.straightdope.com/procrustus/32/2994_2.png) [@Procrustus](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/Procrustus)\
**Post date:** [January 16, 2023, 6:00pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/now-that-a-tesla-is-marked-down-15k-would-you-do-it/978239/77 "2023-01-16T18:00:03Z")

</div>

> [@WildaBeast](#):
>
> Particularly I don’t like Tesla’s philosophy of just using one big screen for everything. I’m sure I’d get used to it, but I would really rather have some gauges right in front of the driver.

Models X and S have gauges in front of the driver.

> [@WildaBeast](#):
>
> Other people mentioned Tesla’s charging network, but with my driving patterns I’ll most likely be doing 99% of my charging at home, so that isn’t much of a consideration for me.

Same here, but for that 1% it’s nice to have a simple and efficient charging network. The other ones I have tried have been buggy.

---

<div class="post-metadata">

**Author:** ![WildaBeast](https://sea3.discourse-cdn.com/straightdope/user_avatar/boards.straightdope.com/wildabeast/32/6_2.png) [@WildaBeast](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/WildaBeast)\
**Post date:** [January 16, 2023, 6:03pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/now-that-a-tesla-is-marked-down-15k-would-you-do-it/978239/78 "2023-01-16T18:03:13Z")

</div>

> [@Procrustus](#):
>
> Models X and S have gauges in front of the driver.

Ok, but the Model 3 is the Tesla model I’d be most likely to consider, based on price and size.

---

<div class="post-metadata">

**Author:** ![Procrustus](https://sea3.discourse-cdn.com/straightdope/user_avatar/boards.straightdope.com/procrustus/32/2994_2.png) [@Procrustus](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/Procrustus)\
**Post date:** [January 16, 2023, 6:06pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/now-that-a-tesla-is-marked-down-15k-would-you-do-it/978239/79 "2023-01-16T18:06:34Z")

</div>

> [@WildaBeast](#):
>
> but the Model 3 is the Tesla model I’d be most likely to consider, based on price and size.

Understood. I know a guy who has a Model 3 and loves it. (I think some of the SDMB also have 3s.) I was put off by the touchscreen but like you say, you probably get used to it.

---

<div class="post-metadata">

**Author:** ![epbrown](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/e/e47774/32.png) [@epbrown](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/epbrown)\
**Post date:** [January 16, 2023, 9:47pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/now-that-a-tesla-is-marked-down-15k-would-you-do-it/978239/80 "2023-01-16T21:47:03Z")

</div>

> [@zimaane](#):
>
> Are Plug In Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs) still a thing? That’s my plan for my next vehicle purchase in a few years.

Yes, they are. I’d like a full EV, but when I analyze things a PHEV is likely the best fit. With my current driving patterns, I’d be able to get by with battery-only over 90% of the time, with the convenience of fill-ups on road trips.

Then there’s the full-nerd option, the solar-powered [Aptera](https://aptera.us/vehicle/).

[Previous page](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/now-that-a-tesla-is-marked-down-15k-would-you-do-it/978239.md?page=3)

[Next page](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/now-that-a-tesla-is-marked-down-15k-would-you-do-it/978239.md?page=5)
