What to Do If Your Tesla Is in an Accident: A Step-by-Step Guide

Photo of the back of a Tesla vehicle.

Tesla vehicles are known for their cutting-edge technology, safety features, and innovative design. However, even with advanced systems like Autopilot and collision avoidance, accidents can still happen. Whether it’s a minor dent or a major collision, handling the repair process correctly is crucial to maintaining your Tesla’s safety, performance, and value. If your Tesla is in an accident, you might wonder:

  • Can a regular body shop fix a Tesla?
  • How much does Tesla accident repair cost?
  • Where should I take my car for the best repairs?

This guide will walk you through every step of the process, from documentation to choosing a Tesla-approved collision center, ensuring that your repair is done right.

Step 1: Ensure Safety First

Safety is the top priority after an accident. If the crash is severe, Tesla’s Automatic Emergency Response System (if enabled) may contact emergency services for you. However, you should always check on your well-being and that of others involved.

Immediate Steps to Take After a Tesla Accident:

  • Check for injuries – Call 911 if anyone is hurt.
  • Move to a safe location – If the car is drivable, pull over safely.
  • Turn on hazard lights – Make sure your Tesla is visible to others.
  • Watch for battery damage – If you notice smoke, sparks, or leaking fluid, move away from the vehicle immediately. Tesla batteries can catch fire hours after an accident due to thermal runaway.

If your Tesla shuts down after impact, don’t panic—it’s designed to disable power for safety reasons. However, be sure to mention to first responders that your car is an electric vehicle so they take appropriate precautions.

Step 2: Document the Accident for Insurance Claims

To streamline insurance claims and ensure a hassle-free repair process, you’ll need to gather as much evidence as possible.

What to Document After a Tesla Accident:

Take Photos & Videos

  • Capture images of all damage (close-ups and wide shots).
  • Photograph other vehicles involved, license plates, and road signs.
  • Take a video of the scene to document the surroundings.

Retrieve Tesla Dashcam Footage

  • Your Tesla’s built-in dashcam may have recorded the incident.
  • Go to Controls > Safety > Dashcam to review and save footage.
  • If using Sentry Mode, check saved clips for additional evidence.

Exchange Information

  • Collect names, phone numbers, and insurance details from all drivers involved.
  • Get contact details for any witnesses.

File a Police Report (If Necessary)

  • Required for severe accidents or insurance claims disputes.
  • Many states require a report if injuries or property damage exceed a certain amount.

Step 3: Contact Your Insurance Provider

Once you’ve gathered all necessary information, notify your insurance company.

What to Tell Your Insurer:

  • Accident details (time, location, weather conditions).
  • List of damages (visible and suspected).
  • Tesla dashcam footage (if applicable).
  • Police report number (if a report was filed).

Your insurance provider may require an inspection before authorizing repairs. If your Tesla is insured through Tesla Insurance, you might get faster approval for repairs at a Tesla-approved collision center.

Step 4: Choose the Right Collision Repair Shop

One of the biggest concerns Tesla owners have is:

Can a regular body shop fix a Tesla?

No, and here’s why:

Tesla vehicles are structurally different from gas-powered cars. They use aluminum, ultra-high-strength steel, and proprietary adhesives, requiring specialized repair techniques. A regular body shop lacks the necessary training, equipment, and parts to properly repair a Tesla.

Why You Should Only Use a Tesla-Approved Collision Center:

  • Certified by Tesla – Only Tesla-approved shops have factory training.
  • Tesla OEM Parts – Uses genuine Tesla parts, not aftermarket alternatives.
  • Advanced Calibration – Ensures Autopilot, sensors, and cameras work properly after repairs.
  • Maintains Warranty – Repairs done at non-certified shops may void warranties.

Warning: Unapproved body shops may improperly repair your Tesla, leading to safety issues, panel misalignment, and reduced resale value.

Step 5: Understanding Tesla Accident Repair Costs

One of the biggest concerns after an accident is understanding how much repairs will cost. Unlike traditional gas-powered vehicles, Tesla repairs can be more complex due to the advanced materials, technology, and proprietary components involved.

Factors That Affect Tesla Repair Estimates:

  • Extent of the Damage – Minor scratches or dents may require simple cosmetic fixes, while structural damage could involve more extensive work.
  • Aluminum & Steel Construction – Tesla vehicles use a mix of aluminum and high-strength steel, requiring specialized repair techniques that differ from traditional auto body work. Aluminum repairs, in particular, require dedicated workspaces and specialized welding tools.
  • Advanced Safety & Sensor Systems – Tesla’s Autopilot, cameras, and sensors are integrated into the body panels, meaning even minor exterior damage could require recalibration to ensure everything functions correctly after repairs.
  • OEM vs. Aftermarket Parts – Only Tesla-approved collision centers have access to genuine OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts, which maintain your Tesla’s performance and safety standards. Non-approved shops may use aftermarket parts, which can compromise quality and functionality.
  • Insurance Considerations – Tesla Insurance may streamline the claims process for Tesla-approved repairs, while other insurers may have different policies regarding coverage for OEM parts and repair shops.
  • Battery Protection & Structural Integrity – If the battery housing or structure has been affected, additional inspections and safety measures are required to ensure the integrity of the high-voltage system.

Why Tesla Repairs Can Take Longer Than Traditional Vehicles

Tesla vehicles are engineered with precision technology, meaning repairs often take longer than those for gas-powered cars. Several factors contribute to this:

  • Specialized Equipment & Training – Only Tesla-certified technicians can properly perform structural and cosmetic repairs.
  • Parts Availability – Tesla OEM parts sometimes have longer wait times, depending on demand and supply chain factors.
  • Calibrating Safety Features – After repairs, Tesla’s cameras, radar, and ultrasonic sensors must be recalibrated to ensure that Autopilot, lane assist, and collision avoidance function correctly.

How to Get an Accurate Tesla Repair Estimate

The best way to understand the true cost of repairing your Tesla is to visit a Tesla-approved collision center for an inspection. Many certified shops allow you to submit photos for a virtual estimate, while others require an in-person assessment to check for hidden structural damage.

Since every accident is unique, Tesla accident repair costs can vary widely depending on the model, damage severity, and repair complexity. Consulting with a Tesla-certified repair shop will provide the most accurate and transparent estimate for your specific situation.

Step 6: Schedule Repairs & Get Back on the Road

Once your claim is approved, take your Tesla to a Tesla-approved collision center for repairs.

What Happens at a Tesla Collision Repair Shop?

  • Damage Assessment – A technician evaluates the full extent of the damage.
  • OEM Parts Ordered – Tesla’s parts supply may cause longer wait times.
  • Repairs Begin – Structural work, paint matching, and sensor recalibration.
  • Final Testing – Ensures that Autopilot, sensors, and cameras work properly.

Tesla repairs can take longer than traditional vehicles due to specialized parts and calibration needs. A Tesla-approved repair center will keep you updated throughout the process.

Ensure Your Tesla Gets the Best Repair

If your Tesla is in an accident, choosing the right repair shop is just as important as the repair itself. Never settle for a regular body shop—always opt for a Tesla-approved collision center to ensure your car is restored to its original factory condition.

At Conestoga Collision, we are a repair shop in Berwyn, Pennsylvania that specialize in Tesla accident repairs, using certified technicians,OEM parts, and advanced calibration equipment to get you back on the road safely.

Contact Conestoga Collision today or visit our shop for a professional Tesla repair estimate. Trust your Tesla with the experts!