Imagine buying a $100,000 Tesla Cybertruck, shipping it across the world, and then watching it become completely useless after a software update. That’s the harsh reality for one owner in Costa Rica, whose truck has now been bricked and undriveable for over six months — with no clear solution in sight.
Meet “Simlocation,” the Owner With a Dead Cybertruck
In a post shared to the Cybertruck Owners Club, a user named Simlocation revealed that his Cybertruck stopped working after Tesla’s December 2024 holiday update.
“I have a Cybertruck with 2,000 miles on it. It has been stuck since the December holiday update. We noticed that the left vehicle control (VCleft) is broken, and the 48-Volt battery has died.”
That update — one of Tesla’s routine over-the-air pushes — rendered his truck completely unresponsive. Now, more than 180 days later, the Cybertruck is still stuck in his garage, unable to start, drive, or even release the parking brake.
The Problem? He Lives in Costa Rica — And Tesla Doesn’t
Tesla doesn’t currently operate in Costa Rica, meaning there’s no service center, no mobile ranger, and no technical support on the ground. And Tesla won’t send help internationally to regions where it has no official presence.
Despite the risk, Simlocation imported the truck privately, only to discover that when something goes wrong with a Tesla — especially the software-dependent Cybertruck — you’re stuck without the right infrastructure.
He Tried Everything — Even YouTube’s Rich Rebuilds
Desperate for help, Simlocation posted this public plea:
“Can someone help me get a Ranger, a technician, or Rich Benoit (from Rich Rebuilds) to fix these issues? I’m in a gray area, which is why I can’t bring the truck to a Tesla service center.”
He even replaced the 48-volt battery and the VCleft control unit on his own — and got as far as accessing Tesla’s diagnostic “Toolbox.” But he’s now stuck on a keycard authentication step he can’t bypass.
The Community Reacts: Shock, Frustration, and Sympathy
Other Cybertruck owners didn’t hold back.
Keith from New York wrote:
“You haven’t had use of your truck since December? Tesla should give you a new one, no question.”
Paul from Florida offered practical advice:
“Send an overnight express letter to HQ Service — Palo Alto. Look up zip.”
But Simlocation says he’s already tried.
“I call Tesla headquarters multiple times, and it doesn’t work.”
His situation is a clear warning for anyone considering importing a Tesla into a non-supported country.
The Bigger Risk: No Service = No Car
Unlike gas cars, Teslas — especially the Cybertruck — are heavily reliant on software, electronics, and remote updates. One faulty component or firmware glitch can disable the vehicle entirely.
And without Tesla-certified support nearby, you can’t just go to a local mechanic.
To fix it, Simlocation may need to:
- Ship the truck back to the U.S.
- Pay for repairs
- Ship it back to Costa Rica
This could cost tens of thousands of dollars, and because the Cybertruck is bricked, even getting it onto a shipping trailer is complicated.
This Isn’t Just About Costa Rica
Tesla fans around the world — from India to Southeast Asia — are passionate about owning these vehicles. But this story is a reminder that passion doesn’t replace infrastructure.
Without official service networks, a Tesla can go from futuristic machine to immobile paperweight overnight. That risk is magnified with newer, more complex models like the Cybertruck.
Your Turn: What Would You Do?Should Tesla be responsible for helping customers in unsupported regions? Would you risk importing a Tesla into a country with no service network?