Winter Tire Plans -- Changing My Recommendations

Years ago I was quite devoted to the "mission" of getting more people aware of how superb Finnish snow tires were, as represented by Nokian. However, as our winters have gotten milder I've turned from full-on snow tires to "all weather tires" and discovered that Nokian was... well, let's just say I'm not impressed:

Under the Frunk: Rerouting the AC drain line to prevent battery damage/failure

Many Tesla Model S battery pack failures have been traced to water ingress/moisture issues. Partly this is due to aging pack seals, but it's also commonly linked to the factory placement of the AC drain line. Click through for an easy DIY every Model S owner should do:

Tesla TPMS issues and how to fix them - system variations, sensor options and troubleshooting

There are basically two types of Tesla TPMS and I'll explain the differences between them and how to troubleshoot the earlier system (in particular) when replacing/updating your sensors.

Will it fit? Getting dimensional with the Model S (finally)

Like many of you, I've found myself wandering through the hardware store with a project in mind and ready to start pulling lumber...  And then caught myself wondering, "Will it fit??" After years of this I finally got around to answering that question once and for all.

Tesla Model S sway bar link replacement and suspension system walkthrough, common failures explained

I had a loud knocking/rattling in my front suspension which I traced to sway bar links. One joint failed, other side was going to fail SOON-- both uppers, due to corrosion and failing boots. Was an easy DIY for under $100. 

My Tesla Charger Failed After 5 Years

RED LIGHT OF DEATH!
Fortunately this was a rather easy out-of-warranty "repair"-- but it still cost me $300+!

Unplugged Speaker Caused "Treble" For Years

I'm a bit sheepish to admit this-- well, more amazed really... 

When my panoramic roof was replaced in 2017 (and about 35,000 miles ago) it seems my "tweeter" speaker on the passenger side was never plugged back in... and it took years for me to notice.

First Accident - Part 5: Three Shades of Grey

Our Tesla had been sodomized by a Honda minivan, found to be dissolving deep under the bumper and delayed because of wrong parts sent from the factory while we swigged gas in The Gangster... But finally the call came: she was ready.  It was time to get our Serena back.

Tank Slapping Tesla Veers Back Into Retail.... For Now

Yeah, I know... the title is a head-scratcher to many of you. A tank slapper is defined by motorcyclists as a type of control problem wherein the bike shakes violently back and forth, also known as a "death wobble." It can happen to cars too, where bad driving (or impacts) result in a sudden or violent oscillation of the fuel load. Typically drivers will repeatedly over-correct the skid in these situations until the sloshing subsides or they completely lose control.

It seems an appropriate metaphor for the recent developments at Tesla, ironically, as the company seems unable to just pick a direction and stick to it.

Tesla Disrupts Retail by Closing Their Own Stores

There it is, ladies and gentlemen. The long-awaited Tesla Store, snuggled in a nest of affluence at Ross Park Mall in Pittsburgh's northern suburbs has unceremoniously closed. If Elon is to be believed, that gate won't open for customers until a new company name adorns the header.