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Yesterday, as I was scrolling through the “Tesla Tips & Tricks” group on Facebook, I stumbled upon a post that caught my attention immediately. It wasn’t just another Tesla owner showing off their new range stats or a shiny wrap job. No, this was something entirely different. A gentleman named Adam Jones, from Canada, had shared a story about his recent purchase: a used 2017 Tesla Model X 100D with only 15,500 miles on it. But there was a catch: the whole floor and seats in the back were missing.

Adam wrote, “Hey everyone. So I bought a used Model X, and apparently, it used to be a Tesla mobile mechanic car. The whole floor and seats are missing. I was just wondering if anyone has any suggestions on what I can do, or where I can find the 5 seats that go in the back. Tesla is charging me an arm and a leg.”

Now, you’ve got to admit: this is not your typical used car story. Adam mentioned that he bought this Model X because he got a great deal. And with just 15,500 miles on the odometer, it’s practically new. But what he didn’t realize was that this car, used for Tesla’s mobile mechanic services, was stripped down to maximize cargo space for tools and equipment. That left Adam with a spacious, albeit incomplete, Tesla.

I chatted with Adam and he sent me a few additional images.

The Search for The Model X Seats

Adam’s predicament sparked a lively discussion in the comments. Many Tesla enthusiasts offered practical suggestions. The most straightforward solution? Find the rear seats from a salvage yard. Junkyards often have an updated online inventory, so you can search by make and model without wasting time visiting in person. These places typically have seats from totaled Teslas, and some will even install them for you, saving you the hassle of doing it yourself.

Another critical point for Adam to consider is the legal side. In some states, it’s actually illegal to sell a vehicle without the proper seating as it was originally manufactured. If the seller was a dealer, Adam might have legal recourse. Even if the vehicle was sold “as is,” retail laws in certain areas could obligate the dealer to provide and install the missing parts. Adam would need to check his local laws to see if this applies to him.

The Creative (and Hilarious) Solution for Repairing This Model X

But not everyone was focused on practicality. A commenter named Ronald Dennis suggested a more unconventional approach: “Take that thing to Home Depot and build in some flooring and carpeting and throw a couch in there! Some cabinetry, fridge, for example.”

And honestly? It’s not a bad idea. With some creativity, Adam could turn this Model X into a unique mini RV. Tesla vehicles already have impressive features like climate control and access to power, making them ideal for camping or road trips. This could open up a whole new use for a Model X that might otherwise sit in a garage waiting for seats.

If Adam needs some inspiration, he might want to check out this story of a man who built his own Tesla Cybertruck on a budget. It’s proof that with a little ingenuity and elbow grease, the possibilities are endless.

Why This Matters

Adam’s story highlights something we often forget when buying a used vehicle: the history matters. While the low mileage was certainly a selling point, it’s clear that this Model X had a very specific job before it ended up on the resale market. For those considering a used Tesla, it’s a reminder to dig deeper into the vehicle’s past.

And for those of you wondering whether a Model X is worth the hassle in snowy climates or for long road trips, you might find comfort in this article about a Model X owner who laughs at the naysayers. It’s all about understanding the versatility of this vehicle and making it work for your needs: seats or no seats.

What’s Next for Adam?

Adam has a few paths forward. He could go the salvage yard route and restore the Model X to its original setup. He could turn it into a custom camper, giving him a unique way to enjoy Tesla ownership. Or, he might even have a case against the dealer, depending on his local laws.

For those interested in customizing their Tesla interiors, there are companies offering vegan upholstery options and custom-made interiors. Adam might take this opportunity to make his Model X truly one-of-a-kind.

What Do You Think?

Have you ever purchased a used vehicle that came with unexpected surprises like Adam’s Model X? If so, how did you handle it? Would you restore it to its original condition, or would you turn it into something entirely different, like Ronald suggested?

Let us know in the comments! And if you’ve ever considered turning your Tesla into a Christmas display, you might find this story both amusing and cautionary. Share your thoughts below, please. I can’t wait to hear your experiences and ideas.

Armen Hareyan is the founder and the Editor in Chief of Torque News. He founded TorqueNews.com in 2010, which since then has been publishing expert news and analysis about the automotive industry. He can be reached at Torque News Twitter, Facebook, Linkedin, and Youtube. He has more than a decade of expertise in the automotive industry with a special interest in Tesla and electric vehicles.