Owning a Tesla is already an incredible experience. But like any car enthusiast, I wanted to make my Tesla uniquely mine and maximize its potential. Over time, I tried a few upgrades to improve performance, comfort, and style. Each upgrade has made a difference in how I enjoy my Tesla, and I’m excited to share them with you!
This guide covers everything from performance boosts and comfort upgrades to budget tips and maintenance advice, offering a comprehensive overview of the best ways to enhance your Tesla experience.
Why Upgrade a Tesla?
Tesla vehicles are built with top-notch technology and style, but upgrades can help personalize the experience even further. For me, upgrades have brought benefits like enhanced performance, increased comfort, and a personalized look and feel. Plus, some of these changes have added to my car’s resale value, should I ever decide to sell it.
Another thing to consider is that upgrading your Tesla can actually help with maintenance. By adding certain accessories or features, you might even be able to keep parts of your Tesla in better shape. With that in mind, let’s dive into my top upgrades and how they’ve transformed my Tesla experience.
Performance Upgrades
1. Battery Performance and Range Boosters
One of my top priorities was getting the most out of my Tesla’s battery. After some research, I discovered options that help extend battery life, allowing me to go longer between charges. Although Tesla batteries are already efficient, I added a few tools to optimize charging and energy usage.
For instance, I invested in a range booster that helps my battery last longer on road trips. This upgrade has given me peace of mind on longer journeys, knowing I can travel a bit further before needing to find a charging station.
- Pros: Extended range, useful for long trips, and helps reduce the frequency of charging.
- Cons: Some boosters can be pricey and may not add as much range as you hope for.
Budget Tip: If a range booster seems too expensive, consider small battery-saving tricks like planning routes with fewer starts and stops or driving in a more eco-friendly mode.
2. Suspension and Ride Comfort
To improve my car’s comfort on rough roads, I looked into adjustable suspension upgrades. These adjustments gave my Tesla a smoother ride, especially on less-than-perfect roads. The upgrade helps absorb shocks better, making every ride feel luxurious.
- Pros: Improved ride comfort, smoother driving on uneven roads.
- Cons: Installation can be costly and may require professional help.
DIY vs. Professional: Suspension upgrades generally require professional installation to ensure safety and effectiveness. This is one of those upgrades where it’s worth investing in professional expertise.
3. Acceleration and Power Boost
I wanted to experience more power, so I looked into options that enhanced my Tesla’s acceleration. Tesla offers “Acceleration Boost,” and it was worth the investment. With this upgrade, my car feels more responsive and has that extra push I was looking for.
- Pros: Increased power and performance, makes driving more exciting.
- Cons: Might increase battery usage and can reduce range slightly.
Before and After: Before this upgrade, my Tesla was already quick, but the added boost made it even more responsive and engaging to drive. It’s hard to go back once you experience the acceleration boost!
Interior Upgrades for Comfort and Style
1. Seat Covers and Interior Customizations
Tesla interiors are sleek, but adding custom seat covers gave my car a personal touch. I went with a memory foam option that added a layer of comfort, making my seats softer and more supportive. The covers not only protect my seats from wear and tear but also improve the overall feel of the cabin.
- Pros: Extra comfort, protects seats from damage, adds a personalized touch.
- Cons: Certain materials can get warm in the sun, so consider breathability when choosing covers.
Maintenance Tip: Regularly clean and condition seat covers to keep them looking fresh and prolong their life, especially if they’re made of leather or faux leather.
2. Upgraded Sound System
I’m someone who loves good music while driving, so upgrading my sound system was a priority. I added high-quality speakers and some soundproofing for an immersive audio experience. Now, the music is clear, with a deeper bass and richer sound overall.
- Pros: Enhanced sound quality, improved cabin acoustics, more enjoyable drives.
- Cons: Installing a new system might require altering the car’s interior slightly.
DIY vs. Professional: While some sound system upgrades can be done DIY, for best results, it’s often worth having a professional install the speakers and soundproofing materials.
3. Display and Software Customizations
The Tesla display is one of its standout features, and I wanted to make the most of it. I added a screen protector to keep it free from scratches and glare. I also adjusted the settings to make the interface more intuitive and tailored to my preferences.
- Pros: Protects the screen, better visibility, personalization options.
- Cons: Screen protectors can sometimes reduce touch sensitivity, so choose a high-quality one.
Budget Tip: Screen protectors are a small investment with big returns, especially if you frequently use the touchscreen.
Exterior Customizations
1. Paint Protection and Wraps
Teslas are known for their beautiful designs, so keeping my car’s exterior in pristine condition was essential. I opted for a protective wrap that not only shields the paint from scratches and UV damage but also gave my car a unique matte finish. This wrap acts as a barrier against minor scrapes and makes cleaning much easier.
- Pros: Protects paint, adds style, reduces the need for detailing.
- Cons: Wraps can be expensive and require occasional maintenance.
Maintenance Tip: To keep the wrap in top condition, avoid harsh cleaning agents and use a soft cloth. Wrapping is great, but if it starts peeling, it can detract from the look.
2. Wheel and Tire Upgrades
Upgrading the wheels and tires was an easy decision. I chose wheels that are not only stylish but also provide better grip and stability. This upgrade has improved the car’s handling, making every turn feel sharper and more controlled.
- Pros: Improved handling, enhanced safety, added style.
- Cons: Custom wheels and high-quality tires can be costly and require special care.
Environmental Impact: Choosing eco-friendly tires can actually improve fuel efficiency slightly, and there are tire options specifically designed for electric vehicles.
3. Lighting Upgrades
To improve visibility and style, I upgraded my headlights to a brighter, more energy-efficient model. I also added ambient lighting inside the cabin, which adds a soft glow during night drives.
- Pros: Improved visibility, unique style, safer night driving.
- Cons: Some lighting upgrades might require professional installation to avoid electrical issues.
Safety Note: Upgraded headlights can make night driving safer by providing better illumination on dark roads. Just be mindful not to choose lights that are too bright, as they can be distracting for other drivers.
Tech Add-Ons and Gadgets
1. Dash Cam and Security Systems
One of the most valuable upgrades has been adding a dash cam. It’s helpful for recording drives and offers an extra layer of security. Tesla’s built-in Sentry Mode is great, but having a dash cam provides additional coverage and peace of mind.
- Pros: Added security, helpful for recording incidents, peace of mind.
- Cons: Can be an additional expense and may require setup and installation.
DIY vs. Professional: Dash cam installation can be done yourself, but if you’re unfamiliar with car electronics, professional help is recommended.
In conclusion, upgrading my Tesla has been a rewarding experience. From performance to style and convenience, each change has improved my car in unique ways. If you’re thinking about upgrades, start small and focus on areas that will make your Tesla more enjoyable for you. Even minor changes can have a significant impact on your driving experience, and they can make your Tesla truly feel like your own.
Whether you’re looking to boost performance, add comfort, or simply give your car a unique touch, there are countless options available.