A survey by American Trucks reveals that Tesla owners are turning to AI chatbots more than any other brand for do-it-yourself car repairs and maintenance. While 69% of Tesla owners used AI assistance, their success rate and average savings lagged behind competitors like Audi and BMW. The findings highlight a growing reliance on artificial intelligence in automotive self-service.
American Trucks conducted a survey examining how electric vehicle owners are incorporating AI into their DIY repair and maintenance efforts. Among EV owners attempting such tasks, 52% sought help from AI chatbots. However, success was mixed, with only 64% reporting that the AI guidance resulted in a successful fix.
Tesla owners stood out in their adoption of this technology. An impressive 69% of them used AI for DIY projects, surpassing the overall average and outpacing other brands: 64% for Audi owners and 63% for BMW owners. Despite higher usage, Tesla owners experienced lower effectiveness compared to their Audi and BMW counterparts.
Savings varied significantly by brand. A PR representative stated, “On average, Audi owners saved the most by using AI for repairs ($200), followed by BMW ($161), Mercedes-Benz ($161), and Dodge ($153) owners.” In contrast, Tesla owners averaged just $79 in savings. Notably, 8% of all AI users claimed savings exceeding $1,000 over professional mechanic services.
The survey underscores an emerging trend in the EV community, where owners leverage AI tools to tackle repairs independently. While the technology offers potential cost benefits, its reliability remains a point of caution, as not all attempts lead to success.