The Model X Headache: Is a Second Buyback on the Horizon?
I’m coming to you from a place of real frustration. If you’ve followed the channel for a while, you know my history with the Model X hasn’t been smooth. Well, we’re back in the “Plaid Studios” (my garage) and unfortunately, we’re talking about service center visits, recurring issues, and the “D” word: Disappointment.
The Service Center Experience: Sunday Scramble
The drama started when Abby got a flurry of notifications that the brake hold and regen were disabled. I tried to drop the car off at the Upland Service Center on a Sunday, only to find it closed [06:20]. When I finally got it in on Monday, the technician confirmed the clicking was “very apparent” [08:26].
One silver lining: Tesla did provide a 2022 refresh Model X loaner [09:13]. It had the Yoke (which I prefer, even if the “vegan leather” was peeling) and free Supercharging, but it’s just not my car.
The Invoice Breakdown: What Went Wrong?
Tesla had the car for about three days. When I got the invoice back, it confirmed my worst fears. They didn’t just find a glitch; they had to dig deep.
| Concern | Resolution / Part Replaced |
| Steering & Braking Alerts | Replaced Steering Rack & Control Module (found corrosion on ground points) [23:02] |
| Clicking Sound at Low Speed | Replaced Battery Skid Plate (Bash Plate) and retorqued suspension [25:22] |
| Forward Camera View | Precision cleaning of inboard windshield (likely a TSB) [26:14] |
| Storage Fee Threat | Tesla now warns of a $100/day fee if you don’t pick up within 24 hours of completion [14:35] |
Why I’m Requesting a Buyback
I love the Model X when it works. Nothing else—not even the R1S—quite matches the specific vibe of the X [17:08]. But having a major component like a steering rack fail twice in a year? That’s a massive red flag.
Tesla is automating everything, including their storage fees, yet they can’t seem to fix a recurring mechanical issue. I’m not a rookie at this—this is my second Model X and potentially my second buyback [18:31]. My confidence is shaken, and I’m just tired of meeting new service advisors because I’m there so often.
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