Collection of Roadster Tips

By Pete Gruber | April 25, 2023 |

In this Newsletter, we show you how to charge your Roadster for optimum battery life, and avoiding battery killing options like storage and range mode, and why.

Roadster VIN Decoder

By Pete Gruber | April 13, 2023 |

In this Newsletter, we show you the VIN map for Tesla Roadsters.

Charging a Tesla Roadster

By Pete Gruber | March 2, 2023 |

In this Newsletter, we show you how to charge your Roadster for optimum battery life, and avoiding battery killing options like storage and range mode, and why.

Finding Roadster CAC Values

By Pete Gruber | February 12, 2022 |

In this Newsletter, we show you how to enter the hidden Roadster diagnostic menu, previously reserved for only techs, to see how your main battery is aging.

Lost or Broke Your Roadster Keyed Lugnut?

By Pete Gruber | May 4, 2021 |

BACKSTORY The Roadsters came from Tesla with 4 locking keys, one on each wheel.  With age, repeated use, and overzealous tire shop techs using impact wrenches (which these were never designed for), the keys eventually break. When they break, finding a replacement is a real challenge, and removing them without a key, is usually a…

Why is Tesla buying back their Roadsters?

By Pete Gruber | October 16, 2020 |

Starting in fall of 2019, Tesla corporate began actively soliciting original Roadster owners if they wanted to sell their outright, or trade-in their car. 

How well are Roadster Battery Packs aging?

By Pete Gruber | August 15, 2020 |

The original Lithium Ion Roadster ESS (Energy Storage System) Battery Packs are 10-12 years old.

Tesla Roadster VDS Error Code Descriptions

By Pete Gruber | August 5, 2020 |

This is a list of errors displayed on the Vehicle Display Screen (VDS) in a Roadster, and what they mean.

Age Related Failures (now manifesting)

By Pete Gruber | May 14, 2020 |

Tesla Roadsters are aging, going on 12 years old, and new parts, component, and firmware issues are cropping up. 

Buying Tips and Valuation

By Pete Gruber | April 8, 2020 |

Tesla’s first vehicle, the Roadster, can be a good investment, and loads of fun to drive. This little iconic car is what made Tesla the success it is today, and launched the EV revolution. Any car enthusiast understands limited supply (2400 built) first edition status, all means collectible some day. Before you jump in and buy one, here are some considerations: