A recent Tesla Model Y buyer in Kelowna expressed frustration over the minimal personal interaction during her vehicle's pickup, describing the experience as rushed and impersonal. She highlighted the lack of guidance on key features like charging and the absence of a spare tire. While some fellow owners defended Tesla's efficient, app-focused approach, others shared positive personal stories.
Wendy, a new owner of a Tesla Model Y, shared her dissatisfaction with the delivery process on the Tesla Model Y Owners Club Facebook group. She picked up her vehicle in Kelowna on December 23, 2025, and was surprised by what she perceived as a lack of customer care from Tesla staff.
In her post, Wendy wrote: “We picked up our Tesla yesterday in Kelowna. I was shocked by the lack of personal care from the dealership. Having all customer care through the app seems very cold and inefficient to me. After we purchased the car, they tried to hustle us out the door without teaching us anything about it. They said goodbye without even making sure we had a charging cable or system. They didn’t tell us the car didn’t have a spare tire. What do you all do with a flat tire? Is it 100% roadside assistance?”
Wendy's complaints center on the absence of basic instructions, which she feels are essential for a high-value purchase. Tesla's model emphasizes digital tools and minimal in-person interaction, a departure from traditional dealership experiences.
Responses from other Tesla owners varied. Stefanie Gibbs described her own pickup as positive, noting that staff were nice, the car was detailed, and Tesla provided a Model X as a loaner during a later visit. She advised: “YouTube that car! You will learn everything you need to know!”
Chris Dinges pointed to Tesla's high-volume deliveries, observing 38 cars handed over that day with a line of waiting customers. He compared the process to “McDonald’s sells cheeseburgers,” suggesting efficiency over personalization.
Randy Colbath emphasized personal responsibility, stating: “It's your responsibility. You should have educated yourself before picking it up. If you didn't ask questions, that's on you.” He mentioned spending over an hour inspecting his vehicle in Austin.
Rich Spraggs acknowledged the difference from conventional sales, preferring the app-based handover: “Everything is done through the app... I preferred the experience of not having to deal with anyone in person, aside from the three or so minutes I spent during pickup. It is not a dealership!”
This incident underscores a divide among Tesla customers: some value the streamlined process, while others seek more hands-on support during delivery.
