Tesla has announced a significant enhancement to its warranty policy for customers in Australia and New Zealand, introducing a new 5-year, unlimited-kilometre New Vehicle Limited Warranty. This update replaces the previous coverage of 4 years or 80,000 km, aligning Tesla more closely with industry standards and addressing local consumer expectations. The new warranty will retroactively apply to vehicles delivered from January 1, 2026, providing additional peace of mind for recent buyers of the Model 3 and Model Y.
Comprehensive Coverage Under the New Warranty
The updated warranty encompasses a wide array of critical aspects of vehicle ownership. Key protections include coverage against corrosion, paint durability, and the functionality of multimedia systems. The unlimited kilometre feature applies to vehicles used under normal conditions, which is particularly advantageous for private owners who may engage in long-distance commutes or road trips. For commercial users, the warranty terms differ slightly, capping coverage at 5 years or 150,000 km, whichever comes first, a competitive offering for the market.
Tesla has clearly defined what constitutes “commercial use” under the new warranty. This includes vehicles utilized for rideshare, taxi services, hire cars, rentals, courier work, driving schools, security services, and tour operations. By clarifying these terms, Tesla aims to provide transparency for business owners considering adding a Tesla to their fleet.
Battery and Drive Unit Warranty Remains Strong
While the basic vehicle warranty has expanded significantly, the Battery and Drive Unit Limited Warranty remains unchanged. The battery and drive unit for the Model 3 and Model Y Rear-Wheel Drive variants are covered for 8 years or 160,000 km, including a guarantee of at least 70% battery capacity retention during this period. For Long Range or Performance models, the coverage increases to 192,000 km over the same duration, ensuring that vital components are protected well into the vehicle’s lifecycle.
This latest warranty enhancement marks another milestone for Tesla in Australia, which has been expanding its presence since the launch of the original Roadster in 2011. According to Thom Drew, Country Director for Australia and New Zealand, this move aligns with Tesla’s broader strategy to meet local market expectations. Drew stated, “Tesla Australia & New Zealand is thrilled to pioneer Global Firsts that redefine the driving experience for our customers.”
Expanded Services and Infrastructure
In conjunction with the new warranty, Tesla is also highlighting its 5-year Roadside Assistance program, available 24/7 across Australia. This service is particularly beneficial for new electric vehicle owners. One notable feature is the Mobile Tyre Repair program, where dedicated vans can perform puncture repairs or full tyre replacements on-site. If repairs are not feasible at the roadside, Tesla offers a loaner wheel program, allowing customers to continue driving while their damaged wheel is assessed.
Tesla continues to lead in charging infrastructure, boasting the largest global fast-charging network. The Supercharger network in Australia is a primary advantage for Tesla owners, with approximately 60% of these chargers now accessible to non-Tesla electric vehicles. This initiative supports the wider electric vehicle community while maintaining a premium experience for Tesla users. Superchargers can provide up to 282 kilometres of range in just 15 minutes, making charging convenient for daily usage.
The introduction of the new warranty is a significant step towards enhancing electric vehicle adoption in Australia. The previous 4-year warranty had been a point of contention when comparing Tesla to traditional automakers. By extending the warranty to 5 years and eliminating the kilometre limit for private users, Tesla has effectively removed a barrier to entry for potential buyers. This change reflects a maturation of Tesla’s operations in the region, demonstrating a responsiveness to local consumer needs.
The updated warranty strengthens Tesla’s position in the market, making the Model 3 and Model Y more appealing options for consumers. It will be interesting to observe how this move influences other premium brands to reassess their own warranty offerings in light of Tesla’s commitment to the Australian and New Zealand markets. For further information, visit Tesla’s official support page on vehicle warranties at [Tesla Support](https://www.tesla.com/en_au/support/vehicle-warranty).
