Tesla Introduces Two-Tier Cleaning Fee Structure for Robotaxi Rides
Tesla has officially introduced a cleaning-fee policy for its Robotaxi service to help maintain vehicle cleanliness as usage slowly ramps up. The new policy was uncovered by Sawyer Merritt.
Tesla has implemented a new cleaning-fee policy for its Robotaxi service as usage gradually increases. Discovered by Sawyer Merritt, the policy establishes a standardized, two-tier fee structure to address unacceptable conditions left in vehicles.
This policy replaces the previous, case-by-case approach, under which Tesla contacted riders individually to resolve cleaning issues. The new framework clarifies expectations and standardizes charges for routine cleaning incidents.
Fee structure
- $50 — Moderate messes: applies to food spills, noticeable dirt, and minor stains or otherwise avoidable messes.
- $150 — Severe messes: covers more serious issues such as biowaste or smoking inside the vehicle, as well as other substantial contamination.
How it works
Tesla says the policy aims to ensure a clean, comfortable environment for all riders. If a vehicle is identified as requiring additional cleaning after a trip, Tesla will assess the type and severity of the mess and notify the rider that a cleaning fee has been applied. An updated ride receipt showing the additional charge will appear in the Ride History section of the Robotaxi app.
Current and future cleaning methods
While Tesla has indicated plans to automate cleaning with the upcoming Cybercab, the company’s current Model Y robotaxis are likely cleaned manually.
Dispute process
If a rider believes a cleaning fee was assessed in error, disputes are handled by phone rather than through an in-app option. Users are instructed to contact the Tesla Robotaxi Support Team to resolve any disagreements.
This policy replaces the previous, case-by-case approach, under which Tesla contacted riders individually to resolve cleaning issues. The new framework clarifies expectations and standardizes charges for routine cleaning incidents.
Fee structure
- $50 — Moderate messes: applies to food spills, noticeable dirt, and minor stains or otherwise avoidable messes.
- $150 — Severe messes: covers more serious issues such as biowaste or smoking inside the vehicle, as well as other substantial contamination.
How it works
Tesla says the policy aims to ensure a clean, comfortable environment for all riders. If a vehicle is identified as requiring additional cleaning after a trip, Tesla will assess the type and severity of the mess and notify the rider that a cleaning fee has been applied. An updated ride receipt showing the additional charge will appear in the Ride History section of the Robotaxi app.
Current and future cleaning methods
While Tesla has indicated plans to automate cleaning with the upcoming Cybercab, the company’s current Model Y robotaxis are likely cleaned manually.
Dispute process
If a rider believes a cleaning fee was assessed in error, disputes are handled by phone rather than through an in-app option. Users are instructed to contact the Tesla Robotaxi Support Team to resolve any disagreements.
