“If you’re ashamed of your Tesla, maybe it’s time to sell it and buy something you don’t hate.”
That’s the message from Tesla owner Dima Piunov, who recently posted in the Model 3 and Model Y Owners Club on Facebook. His post came after seeing more and more Tesla drivers disguising their vehicles by replacing the Tesla logo with badges from other car brands — Mazda, Honda, even Subaru.
“People who do this are the worst. Sorry. We all see you. Either drive it proudly and ignore the haters, or get rid of it and buy something you don’t hate,” Dima wrote.
But what if you can’t sell your Tesla without taking a huge loss? What if you’ve faced vandalism, verbal abuse, or dirty looks just for driving one?
Tesla Owners Are Feeling the Heat in Certain Cities
Imagine owning a Tesla in cities like Seattle, San Francisco, or Boulder — where EV culture once thrived — and suddenly you’re getting flipped off at stoplights, yelled at by strangers, or even worried someone might key your car or spray paint it overnight.
This is the reality for some Tesla drivers, especially those with Cybertrucks, who now feel forced to hide their car’s identity to avoid confrontation.
Why Some Tesla Owners Are Removing the Logos
On Reddit and Facebook, Tesla owners are opening up about this strange new trend:
- “I’ve seen Teslas with Honda and Mazda logos. It’s not just the Cybertruck — something’s shifted,” said Reddit user molesrcool.
- “I want to cut my losses and move on, but I can’t give this thing away,” one Cybertruck owner said.
- “My Model Y gets ignored, but my Cybertruck gets all the hate,” said user Shygar.
- “I’m not selling out of spite, that would only hurt me,” added x-Mowens-x. “Besides, other cars suck.”
The Elon Musk Effect?
Much of the backlash isn’t about the cars — it’s about CEO Elon Musk.
There’s growing resentment tied to his public persona and politics, and unfortunately, Tesla drivers are taking the heat. From “anti-Musk vandalism” to public shaming, some owners now feel unsafe parking their own vehicles.
The USA Today Report Confirms the Fears
According to USA Today, Tesla owners are being targeted by vandals who disapprove of Musk. While Tesla vehicles come equipped with advanced security systems, many owners still feel exposed.
Here are a few features Tesla drivers should be using:
- Sentry Mode: Monitors surroundings and alerts you via the Tesla app
- PIN to Drive: Adds a layer of protection even if someone enters your vehicle
- Cabin Cameras: Can record attempts to break in or vandalize the car
So… Should You Really Change the Logo?
While some owners are turning their Teslas into “stealth” vehicles, others are encouraging the community to stand firm.
“You bought the car for a reason. If you’re still happy with it, don’t let anyone shame you out of it,” one Facebook user commented.
But not everyone is convinced that staying visible is worth the risk.
Tesla owner Ian David sarcastically shared a photo of his “new passenger” — a rifle in the front seat — after enduring multiple theft attempts and vandalism.
“Two temp plates ripped off, one metal plate stolen, one cup of soda thrown, and too many slurs to count,” Ian wrote.
“Since then, people have left me alone.”
If You’re Concerned, Here’s What You Can Do
- Use Tesla’s Security Features
- Turn on Sentry Mode at all times
- Set up PIN to Drive
- Regularly review your dashcam and cabin camera footage
- Park Smart
- Choose well-lit, visible parking spaces
- Avoid known trouble spots or late-night areas
- Consider adding exterior security cameras at home
- Stay Informed and Connected
- Join Tesla owner groups in your area
- Share tips and local alerts with other EV owners
- Report any vandalism to local law enforcement and Tesla support
In conclusion, When people are covering their Teslas with Mazda logos and still getting hate, it’s clear this is more than a trend — it’s a cultural shift.
Whether it’s about politics, Elon Musk, or public perception, Tesla owners are now stuck in the middle of a growing divide. But one thing’s for sure: you shouldn’t have to hide the car you love.
Your Turn
Do you own a Tesla? Have you dealt with harassment, vandalism, or weird stares just for driving one?
Tell us your story in the comments — especially if you’ve ever swapped your Tesla badge or thought about it. Your voice could help another Tesla owner feel a little less alone.