Tesla sued in California: Speedometer manipulation in e-cars?

Have you ever noticed an inexplicable jump in the odometer of your Tesla? Exactly this is what a class action lawsuit in California accuses the car manufacturer of. Affected owners claim that Tesla engages in odometer manipulation to prematurely end warranty periods and reduce repair costs.

Background of the lawsuit

In December 2022, plaintiff Nyree Hinton purchased a used Tesla Model Y with 36,772 miles on the odometer. Shortly thereafter, suspension problems occurred, and he took the vehicle for repair.

Unexpected mileage jumps: Hinton documented almost 72 miles per day suddenly, instead of the usual 20 miles.
Warranty expiration: The increased mileage pushed the car over the 50,000-mile limit of the Basic Vehicle Limited Warranty and caused another repair to be denied.
Return to normal values: After the warranty expiration, the daily mileage returned to the expected level.

Accusations of odometer manipulation

Algorithmic estimation instead of physical measurement

According to the lawsuit, Tesla uses not mechanical but algorithmic odometers:

Factors: Energy consumption, driving style, acceleration data
Efficiency values: Aggressive driving is allegedly assessed with lower efficiency, thereby calculating a longer distance.

The lawsuit alleges that Tesla systematically exaggerates the distance driven to minimize warranty claims and increase margins.

Possible consequences for owners

Premature warranty end: Less protection through Basic Warranty (4 years or 50,000 miles)
Increased depreciation: Higher mileage reduces residual value
Pressure to Extended Warranty: Customers feel pressured to purchase more expensive extended warranties

Reaction and Outlook

Tesla has not yet made a public statement. The class action is directed at all Californian Tesla buyers and lessees and is based on consumer protection laws. If the court confirms the allegations, Tesla faces significant compensation payments and recalls to fix odometer manipulation.