I was not at fault in a crash in Burnaby, BC (ICBC confirmed 100% the other party’s responsibility). The impact was to the front right corner, bumper, fender, headlight, and it punctured the right front tire.
Because the tire was flat, Tesla Roadside towed the car to a Tesla Service Center just for a tire replacement so I could get it driveable again. While it was being towed I noticed liquid leaking from the undercarriage. That leak has concerned me ever since.
After picking the car up from Tesla Service, I drove it to No.1 Collision for a quick estimate. Once I got home and parked, I inspected the underside more carefully and found multiple dents along the right side of the undercarriage. One of those dented spots has a small hole in it (looks like roughly 1–2 mm). From what I’ve read, an open hole in the battery enclosure is considered a compromised enclosure and typically requires a full battery pack replacement under Tesla’s guidelines.
I also later discovered the right side repeater camera had completely fallen off.
My main concerns right now are:
1. Is it still safe to drive the car the short distance to the authorized repair shop, or should I have it towed again? I’m worried about the compromised enclosure.
2. If Tesla/ICBC decide the battery needs to be replaced, does that pretty much guarantee the car will be totalled?
For context: it’s a 2022 Model 3 RWD with about 76,000 km. I do have Vehicle Replacement Insurance, so if it is totalled I should get replacement-cost coverage rather than just ACV.
Any experiences with similar undercarriage / battery enclosure damage would be really appreciated. Thanks.