So, You Want to Vandalize a Tesla?
Elon Musk has been all over the news lately, and Tesla’s riding that wave right along with him.
We’re always keeping an eye on trends that could impact our clients’ premiums.
Lately, there’s been a buzz about Tesla vehicles—and not just because of their sleek design or electric efficiency. A recent article by Rob Stumpf on Tesla Vandalism Hero (March 17, 2025) highlights a troubling issue: Tesla insurance rates might be climbing due to vandalism tied to CEO Elon Musk’s controversial political moves. For Tesla owners in our region, this could hit close to home.
Let’s unpack it and see why smashing a Tesla isn’t the genius move it might seem—plus, some solid reasons EVs are still worth a look.
Why could Tesla Rates Spike?
Across North America, Tesla owners are reporting spray-painted cars, shattered windows, and even arson—acts aimed not at the drivers but at Musk himself. And no, it’s not because they double-parked at the co-op. It’s all aimed at Elon Musk, who’s apparently ruffled some feathers with his political antics. Activists are treating Tesla’s like piñatas, and insurers are raising an eyebrow.
Comprehensive claims (that’s the coverage for vandalism, in case you’re new here) are on the rise, and as Insurify data journalist Matt Brannon warns, “If vandalism involving Tesla vehicles continues to rise and doesn’t go back down, we could see rates rise for comprehensive coverage in the future.” Bankrate’s Shannon Martin added that while it’s not as bad as totaling your car in a ditch, these claims still nudge premiums up for every Tesla owner—even the ones who’ve never rolled through a stop sign or let Full Self-Driving take the wheel on a sketchy backroad.
What Does This Mean?
You’re probably thinking, “Come on, we’re in Rural Alberta—nobody’s spray-painting Tesla’s out here. Not like we’ve got a ton of them rolling around anyway.” Fair point. Our small-town, “everyone knows everyone” vibe doesn’t exactly scream protest central.
But here’s the not-so-fun part:
Insurance claims don’t just mess with the person filing them—they’re a group project we all get graded on. Sure, Tesla rates might spike if vandalism keeps trending, but it’s not just their problem. Every claim ripples out, and insurers could bump up rates for all of us—yep, your trusty Ford or Chevy too.
With over 50,000 EVs buzzing around Canada by mid-2024 (thanks, Statistics Canada), this isn’t some big-city drama we can ignore. More claims, more costs, and suddenly we’re all paying for someone’s bad day with a spray can. Awesome, right?
Teslas Are Basically Crime-Scene CSI
If you’re tempted to grab a can of spray paint and go rogue, here’s a heads-up: Tesla’s are smarter than your average car. They’ve got Sentry Mode, this nifty little trick that turns them into rolling security cams. Cameras on all sides catch everything—every scratch, every smash, every “oops, I didn’t mean to.” That footage can head straight to the cops or insurance, so you’re not just risking a slap on the wrist—you’re risking a starring role in a very unflattering video.
And get this: if vandalism spikes and claims go up, it’s not just Tesla owners who’ll pay. Everyone’s insurance rates could creep up— your pickup included. So, maybe skip the vandalism and save us all the headache?
The Upside: EVs Are Still a Win
Before you write off Tesla or EVs entirely, let’s look at some broader data that might sway your decision—especially since we’re all about finding you the best coverage at the best price.
Cost Savings Over Time: EVs like Tesla’s lineup can save you money on fuel and maintenance. Natural Resources Canada estimates that EV owners save $1,500–$2,500 annually on fuel compared to gas vehicles, even with Alberta’s relatively low gas prices. Tesla’s also skip oil changes and have fewer moving parts, cutting repair costs. A 2023 Consumer Reports study found EVs cost 50% less to maintain over their lifetime than gas cars.
Safety That Doesn’t Mess Around: Teslas ace safety tests like it’s their day job. The Model 3 snagged a 5-star NHTSA rating in 2024, with Autopilot keeping crashes in check. A 2023 IIHS report says EVs have 20% fewer injury claims than gas cars—thank the low center of gravity and tank-like battery setup.
Seriously, They’re Built Tough: Case in point: January 2023, a Tesla Model Y took a 250-foot dive off a California cliff. Four people inside, and they walked away with just scrapes. NBC News and InsideEVs called it “unreal”—credit the safety cage and battery design that soaked up the hit. Some studies even peg Tesla’s as 2.5 times safer than non-Tesla’s in crashes.
Oh, and Ford—sorry for borrowing your “Built Tough” catchphrase. Those trucks of yours are legends in their own right.
What Can Tesla Owners Do?
Real talk: you can’t stop vandals from being jerks, but you can play it smart. Keep that comprehensive coverage locked in—it’s your safety net. Park in a garage or somewhere bright so Sentry Mode can do its thing.
Don’t let the haters ruin your ride.
Our Takeaway as Your Local Broker
At McDonalds Insurance, we’re here to help Alberta drivers navigate these bumps in the road. Tesla’s vandalism woes might push premiums up, but EVs still offer compelling savings and safety perks that could offset the sting—especially if you’re charging up with Alberta’s affordable electricity rates (around $0.08/kWh). Whether you’re sticking with your Tesla or eyeing a switch, give us a call.
We’ll dig into the latest data, compare quotes, and tailor a policy that keeps you covered without breaking the bank.
Have questions about insuring your Tesla or another EV? Drop us a line—we’d love to chat about your options!
A note from the Author:
Full transparency : I’m an big EV enthusiast. I’ve owned a Tesla Model 3 & Model S over the years—and frequently drive a Model Y. Beyond that, I’ve had a BMW i4 M50 (twice, because why not?), a Rivian R1S Launch Edition, and now I’m in a GMC Sierra EV. I’ve also test-driven a bunch: BMW i5 M60, BMW iX, Chevy Blazer EV, Lucid Air Grand Touring, Audi GT RS e-tron, Rivian R1T, and F-150 Lightning.
As a broker at McDonalds Insurance, I’m here to help you find the best coverage—but I’m spilling all this because, yeah, I’m pretty biased toward EVs, and its likely apparent in my writing. Still, I have tried to be as neutural & fact based as possible.