On Day 3 of Tesla Model 3 Ownership, While Parked on a Jobsite in DC, Someone Either Kicked or Punched My Car Under The Driver Side Mirror And Left a Creased Dent For Me

Buying a brand-new Tesla is supposed to be an exciting and rewarding experience, representing not only a leap into innovative technology but also a personal milestone. However, that excitement quickly turned sour for J. Anders Thueson, a new owner who discovered damage that may have been intentional. Thueson shared his troubling story in the "Tesla Model 3 and Model Y Owners Club" group on Facebook. Just three days after purchasing a brand-new Tesla Model 3, Thueson found a creased dent under the driver-side mirror while parked at a jobsite in Washington, DC. Despite having Sentry Mode activated, the cameras captured no evidence of the incident, leaving him puzzled and disturbed. His immediate thought was whether the dent had somehow escaped his notice prior to purchase or if it was indeed a deliberate act.

Here's how he described the incident:

"On day three of ownership, while parked on a jobsite in DC, someone either kicked or punched my Tesla Model 3 under the driver side mirror and left a creased dent for me to see every time I get in the car. I reviewed the sentry videos, but nothing was there, making me wonder if somehow, I missed the dent before buying. Regardless, because of where it is and a lack of paint damage or severity, I have to believe it was a hate crime. I have become an ultra-defensive driver, letting people do what they do and avoiding all challenges, as there have been a few. Is anyone experiencing similar aggression?"

Tesla Drivers Are Noticing a Pattern

Thueson’s experience quickly resonated within the Tesla owners’ community, as others shared their own similar worries and encounters.

Michael Damery voiced his concern about rising tensions and fears around security:

"I've had no direct threats to this point. Regrettably, I am beginning to feel unsafe about traveling in the Tesla. Security is becoming an issue. Some of the chargers are in isolated locations. The individuals behind this form of terrorism are sick. We have no intention of selling the Tesla, other than to buy a new one. Too bad a small group of individuals are having so much influence. I doubt it will hurt Elon's financial well-being. A lot of retirement funds hold Tesla stock. These antics are hurting non-Tesla owners also. There are also other brands of EVs that use Tesla chargers. The security of those individuals is being challenged also. I think it's probably time for Elon to come back and focus on Tesla. The company needs him."

Michael's comment reflects the evolving public sentiment around Tesla. Much of this shift can be attributed to the increasingly polarizing figure of Tesla's CEO Elon Musk, whose outspoken presence on social media and controversial political decisions have sparked strong opinions on both sides. In today’s highly politicized climate, some individuals are projecting their frustrations not just onto the brand, but onto Tesla owners themselves. 

Whether it's resentment toward Musk's personal views or resistance to the EV movement in general, the result is a sad rise in hostility. This is something that Tesla drivers like Damery are concerned about more in recent times, especially in vulnerable or isolated areas like charging stations.

Following Damery’s account, Sharon Raymond posted a striking visual, writing:

"Here’s my son's car! Nothing to mine yet. Just people flipping me off!"

This horrible act of vandalism goes far beyond your typical mischief, this is the kind of picture that stops you mid-scroll and makes you realize this isn’t just about cars anymore. A growing wave of resentment towards Tesla is taking place here.

Reggie Andaya then added a cautious perspective as a potential buyer who now feels hesitant:

"I've been wanting to get a Tesla but I'm holding off for now. Sucks that people are going through this while they haven't done anything."

For many potential buyers, the idea of owning a Tesla is no longer just about range, performance, or software, it’s now tied to concerns about how they might be treated on the road or even at charging stations. This kind of apprehension could slow down EV adoption if left unaddressed, not because the cars aren’t capable, but because the politically charged environment around them feels as if it’s at an all-time high, especially after this most recent presidential election.

Even deliveries haven't been immune to problems. Phil Brooke highlighted the importance of careful inspection upon receiving the vehicle:

"The Tesla store delivered a damaged vehicle to me. Get right on it if you suspect manufacturing defects."

With Tesla’s direct-to-consumer model and fast-paced production environment, some owners have been receiving vehicles with panel misalignments, paint imperfections, or unnoticed damage. That’s why Phil’s advice to act quickly is especially important. Getting ahead of potential quality concerns from delivery is one of the few things owners can control from day one.

Arising Tension

As I said, Thueson’s experience is sadly not isolated. There has been an increasing number of reports suggesting rising hostility toward Tesla vehicles and their owners. Yet, as one Tesla owner who has clocked 55,000 miles enthusiastically noted, the love for these cars and their innovative technology generally outweighs the negativity.

Some Tesla drivers report that aggression can be subtle but just as impactful. This includes tailgating, unnecessary honking, or blocking charging stations. These are all behaviors that reflect a broader discomfort among some drivers toward the growing EV presence. It's part of what many owners consider the "EV backlash," a wave of frustration that may stem from fear of change, disinformation, or socio-political sentiments unfairly projected onto car owners. Despite the setbacks, the appeal of the Tesla Model 3 remains strong. Many drivers who make the switch report feeling a sense of driving satisfaction that's hard to match.

Can Sentry Mode Keep Up with the Rise in Aggression?

Tesla owners have increasingly relied on Sentry Mode, a feature designed to record incidents around the vehicle. Despite the occasional shortcomings, this security tool has aided many owners. However, incidents like Thueson's, where nothing appears in the footage, highlight that even advanced tech has its limits. As electric vehicles become increasingly mainstream, with many owners ditching gas vehicles entirely, the conversation around vehicle safety and security will inevitably become more urgent.

Some owners are also looking at vehicle quality control and service reliability as important parts of the conversation. As a recent buyer picking up a 2025 Tesla Model 3 for their 82-year-old mom noted, Tesla still impresses in terms of ease-of-use and accessibility. However, others urge caution. If you suspect damage or quality concerns from the start, it’s best to escalate the issue early, something reinforced by stories like one Model 3 buyer who got help from a local service center.

Tesla continues to grow its infrastructure, improve its software, and expand the reach of its support network, but the tension some owners face on the road is a reminder that EV adoption is as much a cultural shift as it is a technological one. Especially taking into consideration today's politically hot climate.

A Moment That Says So Much About Where We Are Right Now

From my perspective, incidents like these are troubling but also indicative of the broader societal adjustments to disagreements. Teslas, especially the Model 3, symbolize change. They are a departure from traditional automotive norms that some may find challenging or even threatening.

Cars have always been an extension of our identities and beliefs, making them targets for misplaced frustrations. The hostility that Thueson experienced serves as a reminder that automotive culture is not just about innovation; it's about acceptance, adaptation, and respect. These incidents, while disheartening, also underscore the importance of cultivating greater understanding and patience for each other. Excluding political opinion and sticking to the golden rule of treating others the way we want to be treated. This is something that regrettably seems more lacking these days.

Lessons Learned

For owners and potential buyers alike, this experience offers critical insights:

1. Inspect Thoroughly: Always thoroughly inspect your vehicle upon delivery. Manufacturing defects or unnoticed damage can appear, and early detection can prevent later confusion.
2. Utilize Technology Wisely: While Sentry Mode and similar technologies offer excellent safeguards, they're not foolproof. It's essential to maintain realistic expectations about their limitations.
3. Maintain Emotional Balance: It's natural to feel violated or targeted but maintaining a balanced perspective can help reduce stress and anxiety, ultimately keeping you safer on the road.
4. Foster Community Support: Sharing experiences helps build awareness, alerts others, and encourages community solidarity, ultimately creating a safer environment for everyone.
5. Know Your Rights and Options: If you're receiving your car with damage or feel unsafe on the road due to aggression, don't hesitate to contact Tesla support or local authorities. Many Tesla owners have found satisfaction through persistence and knowledge of their options. One buyer who got a Hertz Tesla for a shockingly low price managed to navigate the system effectively thanks to proactive diligence.
6. Mutual Respect Regardless of Opinion: I tried to save the best for last. This is undoubtedly the most important lesson in this case. Hatred can be a real terrifying force. The world is already full of hate, the last thing we need is more of it. This doesn't just go for those who aren't a fan of Musk and the critics of Tesla, but for everyone. We all must make our world a better place together.

Share Your Experience

Have you encountered similar aggression or hostility toward your Tesla or EV?

How do you handle safety and security concerns when driving your EV, particularly in unfamiliar areas or on long road trips?

Let us know of your thoughts in the comments below.

Aram Krajekian is a young automotive journalist bringing a fresh perspective to his coverage of the evolving automotive landscape. Follow Aram on X and LinkedIn for daily news coverage about cars.

Image Sources: Tesla Gallery and Sharon Raymond’s comment from the “Tesla Model 3 and Model Y Owners Club” public Facebook group.