Pay for potential warranty fault before inspection?

[ukdood]

Hello everyone,

I recently took ownership a two-year-old Tesla and have been enjoying it so far. However, I’ve noticed a couple of issues. Specifically, the passenger door’s internal timber lining sits nearly 10 mm below the dashboard line, and there is a creaking noise from the front suspension when turning at very low speeds.

I reported these concerns via the service option on the Tesla app, but the response indicated that I need to authorize a cost before they will inspect the vehicle. Having owned other cars, I’ve never encountered this approach before. While I understand that Tesla’s buying and ownership experience differs from other brands, I’m hesitant to agree to any charges without an initial inspection.

I’m aware that the issues I’ve mentioned aren’t uncommon for this model, and I’d greatly appreciate any advice from others who have navigated similar situations.

Many thanks.

[2 sMoKiN bArReLs]

It seems pretty standard for all franchises to authorise a "possible" diagnostic cost just in case the fault is not covered by the warranty.

I've experienced this fairly regularly with VW for example (but have never yet had to pay).

[2 sMoKiN bArReLs]

Speaking as an ex dealer it kind of makes sense. It's easy to waste a chunk of time diagnosing a non warrantable fault.

[ukdood]

Thanks for the replies,

This is a new experience for me, having not encountered anything similar during 20 years of Audi and BMW ownership. Perhaps just lucky or dealer specific.