[Tesla Model Y Triangle Accident #2] Repairing was as Hard as the Accident: The Booking Battle and Handling Lost Plates

Direct Answer & TL;DR

Immediate check-in was not an option: While I sought a rapid repair, no center was available for immediate entry. I successfully adjusted my schedule to the Tesla Dongtan Collision Center, which had more immediate availability.
Handle Your License Plates Carefully: If you lose a plate, a police report is step one. You must bring the remaining rear plate to the vehicle registry office for a successful reissuance on your first visit.
Expecting Professional Restoration: Although the booking process was arduous, I completed the check-in with high expectations for a professional repair that meets Tesla’s high global standards.

Introduction: A Repair Journey as Taxing as the Accident Itself

The physical and psychological shock of an accident is profound, but for Tesla owners, the subsequent uphill battle of checking the car in for repairs can be just as—if not more—distressing. Unlike conventional ICE vehicles that can simply be dropped off at a neighborhood garage, Tesla repairs require specialized service centers or authorized body shops, which makes reservations highly competitive. Before the initial dismay even fades, the logistical challenge of booking a service center begins. This post chronicles the journey of switching to the Tesla Dongtan Collision Center due to long wait times elsewhere, along with the unexpected hurdle of a lost license plate.

Tesla Collision Center Booking Strategy

Switching Service Centers

Immediately after the accident, I attempted to book the Tesla Yongin Collision Center via the app, only to find the earliest availability was 3 weeks away. Since the vehicle could not be left unattended for that long, I adjusted my booking and dropped the car off at the Tesla Dongtan Collision Center, which offered a more flexible schedule.

Inquiry at Authorized Body Shops

I also contacted three Authorized Body Shops listed on the Tesla website. Interestingly, every body shop I contacted requested photos of the accident damage before even considering a check-in slot.

Tesla Collision Support Page The Collision Support section on the official Tesla website, detailing different types of repair centers.

[!NOTE] Why do they ask for photos first? Body shops require photos to forecast parts procurement and manage floor space. Repair durations vary wildly based on parts availability (e.g., front panels), so photos likely allow them to filter and prioritize slots effectively.

Lost License Plate: Why ‘Reissue’ is Necessary

The front license plate was lost during the accident. There are technical and legal reasons why simple duplication is not allowed:

Crime Prevention: To prevent lost plates from being used for illegal activities, you cannot reissue the same number.
Required Documents: A ‘Lost Property Report’ from the police is mandatory.
The Return Rule: You must return the remaining (rear) license plate to the vehicle registry office to receive a brand-new set of numbers.

[!CAUTION] Important Note for Reissuance: To be honest, I forgot to bring the rear license plate this time, so I had to postpone the process. Remember that you MUST detach and bring the remaining plate to get a new one! Above all, the best approach is to ensure you gather and don’t lose the license plate at the accident scene.

[!TIP] Always check the accident site thoroughly before towing. Replacing a license plate number requires updating insurance, parking registrations, and Hi-Pass accounts, which is a significant administrative burden.

Towing and Check-in: Heading to Tesla Dongtan Collision Center

On the scheduled day, I requested a tow truck from my insurance company and sent the Model Y to the Tesla Dongtan Collision Center.

Tesla Model Y being loaded onto a tow truck Vehicle being towed to the service center. Looking forward to a perfect repair and return.

Check-in Completed at the Service Center

I received confirmation that the Model Y, sent via tow truck, safely arrived at the Tesla Dongtan Collision Center. Inside the facility, numerous vehicles were already lined up, awaiting their turn for repairs.

Model Y checked in at the Tesla Dongtan Collision Center Model Y waiting for its turn inside the facility. Hoping for a perfect restoration here.

Conclusion: Hard-won Repairs and Expectations for Professional Restoration

I have learned firsthand that the process of booking and dropping off a Tesla for accident repairs is far from easy. However, since it is a Tesla Authorized Collision Center, I have high expectations for a quality repair that adheres to the manufacturer’s professional standards.

Beyond just surface repairs, I sincerely hope the car’s technical integrity and safety are perfectly restored to its pre-accident condition. In the following posts, I will share the detailed repair process and the final results.

Tesla Authorized Collision Center Environment An authorized collision center adhering to Tesla’s professional guidelines. Looking forward to seeing the Model Y back on the road in perfect condition.

🔗 References

Tesla Accident Contact Information (For Korea)

Tesla Customer Support (including Roadside Assistance): ☎ 080-617-1399 (24/7, 9 AM – 8 PM)
Tesla Korea Official Blog: Collision Centers & Authorized Body Shops