Here’s Another Reason Why I Like My Tesla Cybertruck, I Just Got A $4,000 Service Bill From the Dealer On My Ram 2500 Diesel

Is a Tesla Cybertruck cheaper to maintain than a Ford F-150 or a Ram 2500?

If Nick Miller had done the recommended service items on his Ram 2500 diesel pickup that the dealer recommended, it would have cost him $4,067.90. On the Cybertruck Owners Facebook post, Nick says it's another reason he likes his Tesla Cybertruck more than his Ram 2500.  

Nick says, "Here's another reason why I like my Cybertruck more. I just got a $4000 in "service" recommendations from the dealer on my Ram 2500 diesel."

Here is what the Ram dealer recommended.

• Oil change due to 0% life on dash - $294.25
• Both fuel filters due to 0% life on dash - $706.19
• EGR SVC W/CCV filter $1,304.28
• 4x4 service (front diff, rear diff, transfer case SVC) - $823.90
• Complete fuel system service (fuel tank, throttle body) - $576.72
• Cabin air filter (caf and cleaning ducts) - $246.05

Total Bill: $4,067.90

Note: The customer asked us to reset the fuel filter and LOF lights because the customer has had those services done recently. 

Nick declined all the unnecessary services, and he says he took his truck to a local diesel performance shop. They did the 'necessary' work, which was much cheaper than the dealer. He says, "The dealer's prices are insane." 

Is the Traditional Dealer Service Model Broken? 

In Nick's Facebook post comments, Matthew R Crook says, "The traditional car dealership model is, in my opinion, one of the biggest flaws of the internal combustion vehicle ecosystem. These businesses aren't built around selling cars—they're built around profiting off service. And that model has evolved into something bordering on a racket."

"Case in point: I had a Nissan Altima about ten years ago that threw a check engine light. The dealership charged a $250 diagnostic fee to spend five minutes reading a code and telling me it needed a new O2 sensor. Their quote for the repair? $1,200, diagnostics included."

"Skeptical, I did a quick YouTube search and learned the fix was shockingly simple: a $65 part I could order on Amazon and about 15 minutes of effort—no special tools (just a wrench). Remove the engine cover, unscrew the old sensor (positioned conveniently right on top of it), unplug it, and install the new one. Done.

"So yes, I paid the $250 for the 'diagnosis,' but I walked away feeling completely taken advantage of. That was the day I stopped trusting dealerships. Unless a warranty covers service, I avoid them (dealers) entirely."

"There's a level of dishonesty baked into this model—charging premium prices for basic tasks under the guise of complexity. It's not just outdated; it's exploitative."

That Brings Up the Question

Nick says the lower maintenance is why he likes his Cybertruck. Are maintenance costs on a Tesla Cybertruck less expensive than those of a Ford F-150 or a Ram 2500?

Electrek says the Tesla Cybertruck will likely have lower maintenance and repair costs over five years than a Ford F-150 or a Ram truck. Studies indicate that the Cybertruck could save owners around $19,000 to $20,000 over five years due to lower fuel and maintenance expenses. 

Here's a more detailed breakdown:

• Lower fuel costs: The Cybertruck is an electric vehicle that uses electricity for power instead of gasoline. Electricity is generally cheaper than gasoline, leading to lower fuel costs. 
• Fewer moving parts: Electric vehicles have fewer moving parts than gasoline-powered vehicles. This can translate to fewer mechanical issues and lower repair costs. 
• Lower maintenance: Electric vehicles often require less maintenance than gasoline-powered vehicles. For example, they don't have oil changes, spark plugs, or exhaust systems. 
• Tire costs: While the Cybertruck's tires are more expensive than those of some gasoline-powered trucks, they also have a higher mileage rating, potentially offsetting the initial cost. 
• Steering by wire: The Cybertruck uses a steer-by-wire system, which can be more complex and potentially more expensive to repair than a traditional steering system. 
• Major repair probability: A Cybertruck has a 21.63% chance of needing a major repair within 10 years, slightly higher than the industry average for luxury pickup models. 

How has Tesla changed the traditional maintenance and dealer service model?

The Tesla Cybertruck, like other Teslas, significantly alters the traditional maintenance and dealer service model by:

1. Reduced Maintenance Needs:

Due to its electric drivetrain, KBB says Cybertrucks require less frequent servicing than gasoline vehicles, eliminating the need for oil changes, coolant flushes, and spark plug replacements. 

2. Direct-to-Consumer Sales and Service:

A report from LinkedIn says Tesla operates primarily on a direct-to-consumer model, selling vehicles directly to customers and providing service through company-owned service centers, bypassing traditional dealerships. 

3. Specialized Expertise:

While maintenance is reduced, servicing Cybertrucks, particularly their advanced features like Autopilot and Full Self-Driving, requires specialized technicians and diagnostic tools. 

4. Software Updates and Mobile Service:

Tesla often utilizes software updates and mobile service technicians to address issues, reducing the need for in-person service visits. 

5. Simplified Buying Process:

Tesla's online ordering system and fixed pricing eliminate haggling and create a more transparent buying experience. 

Conclusion

The Tesla Cybertruck's lower fuel costs and fewer moving parts will likely lead to lower maintenance and repair costs over five years compared to a Ford F-150 or Ram pickup. 

The traditional dealer service model faces increasing scrutiny. Some argue it's "broken" due to high prices, pressure-selling tactics, and the perceived lack of transparency in service.

Nick and other Cybertruck owners are generally pleased with the Cybertruck's lower maintenance costs due to fewer moving parts and no oil changes. However, the Cybertruck's unique design and materials can lead to higher repair costs for some components, according to a MotorTrend analysis.

How About You?

Do you own a Tesla Cybertruck? Is your electric truck less or more expensive to maintain than a Ford F-150 or Ram pickup? If so, join the community by clicking the red Add New Comment link below and share your experience with us and other truck owners.

Check out my Tesla Cybertruck story: My Tesla Cybertruck Just Drove Itself Back To the Dealer Because of the Heavy Debt I Owe, Come Back Cybertruck

I am Denis Flierl, a Senior Torque News Reporter since 2012. My 30+ year tenure in the automotive industry, initially in a consulting role with every major car brand and later as a freelance journalist test-driving new vehicles, has equipped me with a wealth of knowledge. I specialize in reporting the latest automotive news and providing expert analysis on Subaru, which you'll find here, ensuring that you, as a reader, are always well-informed and up-to-date. Follow me on my X SubaruReport, All Subaru, WRXSTI, @DenisFlierl, Facebook, and Instagram.

Photo credit: Denis Flierl