Tesla’s roadside program in 2026 splits calls into free warranty cases and billed out-of-warranty cases. The local gap is a charge at the car when Tesla sends a tow instead of a 240V Level 2 source. Knowing the split saves time.
What Tesla covers for free
Tesla’s new-vehicle warranty covers certain roadside calls during the warranty period. The exact list varies by model and year, but the common free cases are:
- Tow to the nearest Tesla service center for a warranty repair.
- Lockout assistance when the key fob fails.
- Tire changes for cars delivered with a tire kit.
These are warranty cases. Tesla covers the dispatch and the work because the underlying issue is a manufacturing defect.
What Tesla bills for
Out-of-warranty calls are billed. The cost depends on the model and the call type. Common billed cases include:
- Towing for an out-of-charge situation after the warranty expires.
- Towing for an accident or driver error.
- Tire changes after the original tires wear out.
The Tesla app shows the cost estimate before the driver confirms. The driver can decline and call an independent operator instead.
The local gap
A Tesla that runs out of charge in Bellevue, Seattle, or Redmond may get a flatbed as the default response. The flatbed tows the car to a working charger or a service center. The driver still needs a charge at the destination. The contractor on the other end may not have a 240V Level 2 source.
The local fix is an independent operator who carries native NACS and adds 10 to 20 miles of range in 15 to 30 minutes of Level 2 charging. The operator quotes before starting and bills the driver directly. The cost is often less than a Tesla dispatch.
What the operator needs to know
The driver should have the Tesla’s model, year, and current state ready when calling. The operator asks:
- Can the car roll, shift, or steer?
- Is the dashboard dark or lit?
- What is the current pack percentage, if available?
- Has the car thrown any warning messages?
The operator quotes the work before starting. The driver can accept or decline.
Mobile EV charging at the curb is the standard path. The operator quotes before starting and bills the driver directly. Charge Pro SEA connects you with a local operator who knows the metro.
When to call
Call (206) 202-7018 when your Tesla cannot reach a charger in the Puget Sound region. Charge Pro SEA connects you with a local operator who quotes before starting and bills you directly.