From the moment I sat in the driver’s seat, I realized Tesla ownership is completely different from any car I’ve driven before. Here are 12 things that truly surprised me as a new Tesla owner — the good, the weird, and the “wait, is that normal?”
1. You Don’t Actually “Start” the Car
There’s no start button. Once you sit down with your phone key or key card, your Tesla is ready to drive. Just press the brake and shift into gear.
It felt strange at first, but now it’s second nature — no more fumbling for keys or pushing buttons.
2. Everything Happens Through the Touchscreen
There are barely any physical buttons. Want to open the glove box? It’s on the screen. Need to adjust your mirrors or steering wheel? Screen again.
At first, I kept looking for knobs — but after a week, I realized it’s actually faster and more customizable.
3. The Acceleration Feels Like a Rollercoaster
Even the base Tesla Model 3 or Y launches like a sports car. I expected it to be quick, but not this quick.
When I hit the pedal for the first time, my head hit the seat — and I laughed out loud. Instant torque is real.
4. Regenerative Braking Changes How You Drive
When you lift your foot off the accelerator, the car slows down — fast — without you touching the brake.
It was weird at first, but now I barely use the brake pedal. It makes driving smoother and even charges the battery a little.
5. The App Does Everything
Unlock the car, start the AC, check the charge, honk the horn, open the trunk — all from the Tesla app.
I once opened the car for a friend while I was miles away. That’s when I realized: this isn’t a normal car. It’s a computer with wheels.
6. No Gas, Oil, or Engine Noise
There’s zero engine sound — just a quiet hum. And there’s no oil changes, gas stations, or traditional engine problems.
It makes driving more peaceful, and maintenance a lot simpler (and cheaper).
7. People Will Ask You Questions
Strangers asked me, “How much range do you get?”, “How do you charge it?”, “Does it drive itself?”
It’s like owning a conversation starter. If you don’t like attention, be ready for some — especially at charging stations.
8. Autopilot Is Impressive… But Not Perfect
Tesla Autopilot can steer, accelerate, and brake on highways. It’s amazing, especially on long trips — but you still have to pay attention.
Once, it got confused by faded lane markings. So while it’s smart, it’s not fully self-driving yet.
9. Charging at Home Is a Game-Changer
I plug in overnight and wake up with a full “tank.” No more gas station stops or range anxiety in the city.
It’s cheaper, too — my electricity bill only went up slightly. Long trips require planning, but for daily life? It’s effortless.
10. Tesla Updates Itself Like a Smartphone
One morning, my car had new features I didn’t have the day before — thanks to a free over-the-air update.
It feels like the car keeps getting better. New driving features, games, even light shows — all added without a trip to the shop.
11. Build Quality Isn’t Perfect
Let’s be honest — Teslas are high-tech, but not luxury-finish. I had a minor panel gap and a weird noise in the first week.
Service fixed it quickly, but it reminded me: you’re buying cutting-edge tech, not a Rolls-Royce.
12. It Changes How You See Driving
Driving my Tesla made me enjoy being behind the wheel again. It’s quiet, fast, smart, and honestly… fun.
Gas cars now feel outdated. I never thought I’d say that — but here we are.
Did you recently get a Tesla? What shocked you the most? Drop your experience in the comments — I’d love to hear what caught you off guard.