Rich Rebuilds is a dynamic channel dedicated to the fascinating world of electric vehicle modification and repair. Led by Rich Benoit, the channel showcases the ingenuity and passion involved in breathing new life into unique vehicles, often focusing on Teslas and other innovative electric cars. Viewers can expect engaging content that highlights cost-effective solutions and creative problem-solving in the EV space.
The channel's signature style involves tackling ambitious projects, from V8-swapping Teslas to rescuing and refurbishing vehicles like the Fisker Ocean. Rich Rebuilds demystifies complex automotive processes, offering insights into battery replacements, dealership disputes, and the broader landscape of electric vehicle ownership, all presented with a healthy dose of "general shenanigans" and a commitment to transparency.
The channel's signature style involves tackling ambitious projects, from V8-swapping Teslas to rescuing and refurbishing vehicles like the Fisker Ocean. Rich Rebuilds demystifies complex automotive processes, offering insights into battery replacements, dealership disputes, and the broader landscape of electric vehicle ownership, all presented with a healthy dose of "general shenanigans" and a commitment to transparency.
Can You Drown a Tesla Motor?
This episode of Rich Rebuilds details the investigation into the water resistance of a Tesla Model A drive unit after being submerged for ten days. While the car's electronics powered up after pressure washing, the motor itself did not fare as well. The video demonstrates the process of removing ...
Latest Additions
Showing 24 of 217 total titles. Page 9 of 10.
Rant: Nosy Neighbors!
This video is a personal rant from 'Car Guru' detailing a bizarre encounter with a nosy neighbor and the subsequent police involvement. The ... morecore of the story revolves around the vlogger dumpster diving for scrap wood to safely jack up his car, only to be reported for trespassing and illegal dumping by an elderly neighbor, Harold. The police arrive, initially questioning the vlogger about the dumpster incident and his vehicles, including a Tesla. While the police confirm dumpster diving for scrap wood without "no trespassing" signs is not illegal, they confiscate the wood. The vlogger expresses frustration over the neighbor's actions and the police confiscating the wood, questioning the legality of the confiscation. The video touches on environmental impact, with a brief comment from an officer about Teslas being bad for the environment, which the vlogger dismisses internally. Ultimately, the vlogger feels wronged by his neighbor and the situation, ending with him banning the neighbor from his Facebook group. less
Tesla DIY: Installing 3rd Row Rear Jump Seats
This tutorial details a complex DIY installation of rear-facing jump seats in a Tesla Model S, a modification not offered by Tesla service centers. Th... moree process involves significant disassembly, including removing the rear bumper and interior panels, to install a crucial rear bumper reinforcement bar and the seat mounting hardware. The host highlights the need for specific OEM parts, often sourced from eBay due to Tesla's unwillingness to sell certain components like the reinforcement bar. While the installation is presented as achievable, it requires specialized tools, a well-equipped garage, and a willingness to navigate potential challenges like missing clips or slight variations in parts. The video emphasizes the 'hardcore' nature of the modification, suitable for owners determined to add seating capacity, and notes the importance of the jack pad adapters for safe vehicle lifting. The overall verdict is that while difficult, the modification is feasible for dedicated DIYers. less
Tesla Road King And His Hounds
This video features David, a dedicated Tesla owner who has driven his Model S over 120,000 miles across the USA with his dogs. The review highlights t... morehe car's exceptional utility for long-term travel and living, showcasing a custom dog crate and a sleeping setup with a multi-layer foam mattress. David shares his experiences, including issues like a coolant pump failure at 30,000 miles and a rear drive unit replacement at 55,000 miles, both covered under warranty. A second drive unit began showing noise at 95,000 miles, also replaced free of charge. The DC-DC converter failed at 70,000 miles, disabling the air conditioning, a repair not covered by warranty. Despite these issues, David expresses immense satisfaction with the car's quietness and overall suitability for his adventurous lifestyle, even planning to buy it back if it were ever totaled. The video also touches on the owner's unique 'P 105 D' badge, a custom trailer hitch, and extensive adapter collection for charging. less
Rich Rebuilds Talks Salvage Cars With Samcrac
This podcast-style discussion between Rich Rebuilds and Samcrac delves into the intricacies of purchasing and rebuilding salvage vehicles. The core ta... morekeaway emphasizes the critical importance of finding the right people and shops for repairs, particularly for bodywork and paint, which are highlighted as learned skills. Samcrac shares his initial experience with a heavily damaged Ford Fiesta ST, bought for under $3,000, which served as a significant learning lesson despite its extensive damage. The conversation also touches upon the challenges of sourcing parts for specific brands like Tesla, the deceptive practices sometimes employed by salvage yards (e.g., the 'water line scam,' angled photos, missing components), and the risks associated with flood-damaged cars. While acknowledging the potential for good deals, both hosts strongly advise against entering the salvage market with 'blinders on,' stressing thorough research, VIN checks, and understanding auction history to avoid costly mistakes. The discussion also covers alternative acquisition methods like Craigslist and the nuances of using auction houses like Copart and IAA, including the need for dealer licenses or proxies. less
Tesla Vlog: Rich Rebuilds and Friends Work on Maeve
This vlog details the process of removing the drive unit from a wrecked Tesla Model 3, referred to as 'Maeve'. The host, Rich Rebuilds, is j... moreoined by friends from 'Now You Know' for assistance. The video highlights the challenges of working on a damaged vehicle, including torn suspension components and a damaged shock absorber. The removal of the rear drive unit, weighing approximately 900 pounds, is the primary focus. The host expresses satisfaction in salvaging parts from a car that would otherwise be scrapped, emphasizing the potential for reuse and recycling. The discussion touches upon Tesla's engineering, particularly the ease of drive unit removal for maintenance and the effectiveness of its stability and traction control systems. The video concludes with plans to remove the battery and doors in subsequent sessions before the car is sent for scrapping. less
Repairing a Flooded Tesla Model S Part 6
In this installment of the "Repairing a Flooded Tesla Model S" series, Rich provides a detailed update on the painstaking process of reassem... morebling the salvaged vehicle. The episode focuses on the installation of rear chargers, high-voltage cables, and airbags, highlighting the challenges of working with corroded components and fused wiring. A significant portion of the video is dedicated to troubleshooting and initial power-up attempts. While many basic functions like the main screen, door handles, and rear hatch initially work, numerous critical systems remain non-operational, including the horn, sunroof, HVAC, sound system, wipers, charge port, brake lights, air suspension, and headlights. The reviewer's attempt to customize the interior with fabric dye results in an unexpected purple hue, which is later corrected with fabric paint. A pivotal moment occurs when, after reconnecting the battery and drive unit, and crucially tightening a switch on the DC-to-DC converter, the car finally shows signs of life, with some systems functioning and the rear wheels able to turn. However, critical errors persist, preventing the car from shifting into drive. The video concludes with Rich planning a future discussion with his engineer friend Phil to further diagnose the remaining high-voltage faults. less
Tesla Salvage: The Question You Have All Asked
This video chronicles the crucial test of whether a salvaged Tesla Model S, affectionately named 'Delores,' can successfully utilize Superch... morearging after extensive repairs. The reviewer, Rich, expresses significant anticipation, as Tesla often disables Supercharging on salvaged vehicles. He details the car's history as a flood-damaged vehicle, with only the exterior shell remaining from the original. The test confirms that Delores can indeed Supercharge, a major victory that significantly increases the car's value and usability for road trips. Beyond the Supercharging success, the reviewer also discusses notable wind noise issues common in earlier Model S generations (2012-2014), attributing it to sound deadening deficiencies and potentially roof racks. While the car's ability to Supercharge is the highlight, the reviewer acknowledges that the P85 trim might be too much car for his wife, fueling his desire to rebuild another Tesla. The video successfully answers the primary question, demonstrating the viability of Supercharging on a heavily repaired salvage vehicle. less
Tesla Salvage Win: Damn, I'm Good
This video chronicles the resolution of a salvaged Tesla Model S rebuild, focusing on the vehicle's successful pass of its initial salvage inspec... moretion. The creator details the process of converting a wrecked S85 into a P85+ with third-row seating, emphasizing that the rebuilt car is arguably better than its original state. Key takeaways include the challenges of registering a salvage vehicle, the importance of proper documentation (like receipts for major components), and the subjective nature of the inspection process, which seemed more focused on appearance than technical safety. The creator also addresses viewer feedback regarding trailer loading issues, explaining the car's width and fender modifications, and clarifies the headlight customization. The video highlights the creator's commitment to transparency by showing failures and rants, positioning the channel as a real-world guide for living with and repairing salvaged Teslas, especially as warranties expire. less
Tesla Salvage Inspection Failure: It's Not Fair!
The reviewer's attempt to get a salvaged Tesla Model S, nicknamed 'Dolores,' road-legal for inspection was met with significant setback... mores. The day began with logistical challenges, including a poorly maintained rental trailer and a frustrating experience at the U-Haul. The inspection process itself proved to be the major hurdle. Despite the reviewer's efforts in repairing the flood-damaged vehicle and gathering receipts, the inspection official ultimately rejected the car. Key reasons for failure included issues with handwritten receipts, the need for more detailed documentation (like an insurance appraisal report for flood-damaged cars, which the reviewer's insurance provider, Progressive, does not issue), and minor concerns like the glue used on the headlights. The reviewer expressed extreme frustration, highlighting the difficulty of navigating bureaucratic requirements, especially when insurance companies don't provide necessary documentation for salvaged vehicles. The day concluded with the car being rejected, a flat tire, and significant disappointment, leaving the reviewer questioning the worthiness of the endeavor. less
Tesla Model 3: Is It Any Good?
This podcast-style review offers a car enthusiast's perspective on the Tesla Model 3, focusing on its design, interior, and market positioning. T... morehe reviewer finds the exterior design to be a "good-looking car" with hints of the Model S, though notes the front fascia could be improved. The interior is described as "almost too simple," reminiscent of 80s concept cars, with the large central screen being a significant departure from traditional dashboards. A key takeaway is the pricing and range discrepancy: the advertised $35k base model with 210-220 miles of range won't be available until the following year, with initial deliveries focusing on the $44k, 300+ mile range versions, leading to understandable consumer frustration. The reviewer also highlights the charging time and the lifestyle adjustments required, contrasting it with the convenience of gasoline cars. While acknowledging valid points about charging infrastructure and competition, the reviewer ultimately believes Tesla is doing a great job, emphasizing the need for better user education, expanded repair facilities, improved quality control, and responsible Autopilot usage to ensure the brand's continued success and the advancement of EV technology. less
How-to: Install Tesla Model S Rear Onboard Chargers
This video, presented as a 'how-to' for installing Tesla Model S rear onboard chargers, deviates significantly from its title. The creator e... morexplicitly states it's not a proper tutorial but rather a raw recording of installing dual chargers into a previously flooded car, replacing a single charger from a donor wreck. The process itself is described as relatively simple, involving unbolting chargers, disconnecting coolant lines, and unplugging connectors. The video is primarily a 'watch-me-do-it' rather than an instructional guide, with the creator acknowledging the lack of crucial introductory steps due to the car's condition. Much of the video's runtime is dedicated to the creator's extensive 'rants' on various topics, including YouTube content, viewer feedback, and personal channel growth strategies, rather than detailed technical guidance. The creator emphasizes that this is a 'throwaway' video intended to fill content gaps while more substantial series are produced. less
Repairing a Flooded Tesla Model S Part 5
This episode details the extensive process of dismantling a flooded Tesla Model S, which served as a donor vehicle for another project. The host candi... moredly admits the series is becoming lengthy, but emphasizes the complexity and logistical challenges involved in such a salvage operation. Key takeaways include the meticulous removal of components like the dual chargers, front cradle, and drive unit, often requiring specialized tools and significant physical effort. The narrative highlights the difficulties of working with a damaged, non-enclosed vehicle, especially during inclement weather. The episode also touches upon the creator's personal philosophies regarding unsolicited advice and safety, interspersed with humorous anecdotes. The primary focus remains on the practical, albeit arduous, steps of salvaging parts from a severely damaged EV, showcasing the raw, unglamorous reality of automotive repair and recycling. less
Drunken Tesla Rant: Road Trip From Hell
This video is a raw, unfiltered, and often chaotic rant detailing a disastrous road trip to retrieve a salvaged Tesla from Canada. The reviewer, clear... morely under the influence of alcohol, recounts a series of escalating mishaps including passport issues, border detention for pepper spray, a wheel falling off his truck while towing the Tesla, and significant delays at a Canadian repair shop. While the narrative is filled with personal anecdotes and digressions on various topics, the core experience highlights the extreme difficulties and unexpected dangers that can arise from attempting to transport vehicles across international borders, especially when dealing with salvaged or damaged vehicles. The reviewer expresses frustration with Canadian bureaucracy and customer service, contrasting it with a seemingly easier border crossing back into the US. Ultimately, the video serves as a cautionary tale about the perils of such endeavors, emphasizing the importance of thorough preparation and the potential for things to go spectacularly wrong. less
Repairing a Flooded Tesla Model S Part Four
This episode details the ongoing repair of a flooded Tesla Model S, focusing on the extensive damage to wiring harnesses and the acquisition of a dono... morer car from Copart. The host highlights the significant corrosion and the necessity of replacing numerous components, including the HVAC system and associated wiring. The process of sourcing parts from Copart is scrutinized, with warnings about potential fraud and the "as is" nature of sales. The narrative also touches upon the financial investment in two non-working vehicles and the initial steps of disassembling the donor car. A key development is the assistance from a student, enabling the removal of major components like the drive unit and high-voltage battery under challenging conditions. The episode concludes with the host recouping some costs through the sale of salvaged parts, including the drive unit and battery modules, significantly reducing the net cost of the project. less
She Is Taking My Tesla Away!!!
The reviewer provides an in-depth look at a Tesla Model S 60, focusing on its practicality and livability compared to a pickup truck. Key highlights i... morenclude the surprising amount of interior space, particularly for car seats and cargo, making it a viable family vehicle. The reviewer details extensive cosmetic and functional refurbishments done to his own Model S, 'Dolores,' contrasting it with a friend's stock S60, noting the aesthetic improvements like blacked-out trim and flush wheel fitment. A significant development is the wife's positive reception after a few days of driving, overcoming initial reservations about regenerative braking and quietness. She ultimately prefers the Tesla over her minivan, leading to the likelihood that 'Dolores' will become her new car. The reviewer also touches on minor issues like the key fob sensor and TPMS, and future upgrades like new headlights. less
Repairing a Flooded Tesla Model S Part Three
This video, the third in a series on repairing a flooded Tesla Model S, details the author's encounter with a stranded Tesla owner named Phil and... more the subsequent collaborative repair efforts. The narrative shifts from a personal story about helping Phil and his friend to a technical examination of the Tesla's battery pack after submersion in saltwater. The author highlights the severe damage caused by saltwater, with several battery modules disintegrating. Despite the extensive corrosion and the author's reluctance to tackle the complex wiring harnesses, a significant portion of the battery modules (12 out of 16) were found to be salvageable. The video also touches upon the challenges of sourcing parts for Teslas due to serialization and the author's contemplation of acquiring a donor vehicle. The episode concludes with the author preparing to delve deeper into the repair process in the next installment, emphasizing the pervasive salt damage throughout the vehicle. less
Repairing a Flooded Tesla Model S Part Two
This video documents the extensive and challenging process of repairing a Tesla Model S that was submerged in saltwater. The host meticulously details... more the removal of various components, including the heater core, body control modules, subwoofer, charger, and high-voltage junction box, to assess water penetration. A significant discovery was the corrosion on the body control modules, which were not factory-coated, leading to their failure. The high-voltage junction box and charger were also deemed irreparable due to severe salt corrosion. The reviewer highlights the dangers of working with high-voltage systems in a flooded vehicle, emphasizing the need for extreme caution. Despite initial misreadings of voltage, the host eventually confirms the battery pack still holds a charge. The video also touches upon the car's connectivity features and Tesla's ability to remotely disable vehicles. The former owner contacts the host, confirming the car was a 2012 Model S 85 totaled during a nor'easter, explaining the severe water damage. less
Repairing a Flooded Tesla Model S Part One
This video documents the initial stages of a challenging project: restoring a flooded Tesla Model S purchased from Copart. The creator, Rich, details ... morehis decision-making process, driven by the high cost of new Teslas and his desire for a high-tech daily driver. He recounts the difficulties of acquiring the vehicle, its problematic delivery due to weight and stuck brakes, and the initial struggle to even gain entry. The review highlights the pervasive issue of saltwater damage, particularly evident in the interior and wiring harnesses, and the significant hurdles encountered in removing seized seats. A key moment is the successful, albeit risky, powering up of the main computer screen, offering a glimmer of hope amidst the extensive damage and the creator's awareness of Tesla's restrictive parts policy for salvage vehicles. The episode serves as a compelling, albeit cautionary, first look into a complex and potentially costly automotive resurrection. less
Tesla: Kiddy Trip and Paint Job Time
The creator documents the process of preparing their Tesla Model S, referred to as 'Dolores,' for a much-needed paint job and addresses seve... moreral cosmetic issues. The video highlights the extensive work required, including fixing scratches, removing adhesive residue, repainting the front and rear bumpers, and potentially a full wet sand and buff or a complete repaint. The creator also details personal modifications, such as debadging the rear and installing a brighter license plate. A significant portion of the video is dedicated to the logistical challenges of transporting the unregistered and uninsured vehicle to the body shop, emphasizing the risks involved. The creator also shares a humorous anecdote about dropping off their children at daycare, using the car's trunk as an unconventional passenger exit. The review notes the car's air suspension system and the creator's DIY efforts in customizing interior elements. less
Tesla Trip: Hanging Out With "Now You Know"
This video documents a collaborative meet-up between the "Now You Know" channel and the host, focusing on Tesla technology and parts. The ho... morest expresses excitement about being featured on the "Now You Know" podcast and getting to experience a Tesla Model X firsthand, noting its similarity to the Model S due to shared drivetrain components. A significant portion of the video details the dismantling of a Tesla, showcasing various components like the HVAC system, dashboard, actuators, antennas, airbags, and the MCU. The host highlights the lightweight construction of many parts as a counterpoint to the battery's weight. The latter half of the video shifts to an experience with Tesla's Autopilot, with the host being a passenger in a P90D. The reviewer is impressed by the Autopilot's capabilities, particularly its lane-changing and speed control, finding it a remarkable and confidence-inspiring technology that enhances the driving experience rather than detracting from it. The P90D's performance, especially during acceleration and drag races, is also lauded, with the host describing it as a "fat ballerina" – heavy yet agile. The video concludes with the host reflecting on a productive day of acquiring parts and experiencing the P90D's features. less
Tesla Vlog: Tear Down Week: Day 3: Ripping It Out!
This vlog details the third day of a "never-ending saga" focused on disassembling a Tesla Model S, referred to as "Mave." The prim... moreary goal of this session is to remove the MCU (Media Control Unit) and dashboard components, including the instrument cluster and airbag. The host encounters a minor setback when the MCU fails to power on after connecting a salvaged battery, attributing it to the disconnected battery terminals. Despite this, the process of removing the instrument cluster and dashboard panels is shown to be relatively straightforward, requiring minimal tools. The host also successfully removes carbon fiber trim pieces, which are highly sought after. A significant portion of the video is dedicated to the removal of the MCU, highlighting the numerous connectors involved. Additionally, the host removes the steering wheel, airbag, and an autopilot steering column, noting the differences between standard and autopilot versions. The video concludes with a haul of removed parts, including the MCU, trim, cluster, steering wheel, and column, emphasizing the relative simplicity of disassembly for those with the right tools. less
Tesla Vlog: Tear Down Week: Day 2: Cars, Girls, Immature Talk
This vlog documents day two of a Tesla Model 3 teardown, focusing on the removal of high-voltage components like the rear chargers and junction box. T... morehe host, working in challenging rainy conditions, highlights the risks involved due to inexperience and lack of proper safety gear, particularly when dealing with a "generation 2" car. He expresses frustration over damaged parts and the difficulty in sourcing replacements. The video also touches on the car's accident history, including airbag deployment, and the potential value of salvaged components. Despite the technical challenges and the car's poor condition, the host finds a tow hook and a seemingly new 12V battery worth salvaging. The narrative is interspersed with personal reflections, humor, and discussions about New Hampshire's scenery and demographics, as well as a tangent about Elon Musk and Amber Heard. The host emphasizes the importance of electrical isolation procedures, noting that the first responder loop on this vehicle was not cut, indicating a potential safety oversight. less
Tesla Vlog: Tear Down Week: Day 1: Zombie Car
This vlog documents a day of salvaging parts from a severely damaged Tesla Model S, referred to as 'Dolores'. The primary goal was to extrac... moret specific components like pillars, trim panels, and seats to aid in repairing another vehicle. A significant portion of the video focuses on the challenges of working with a flooded and damaged car, including safety concerns due to broken glass and water ingress. Unexpectedly, the "zombie car" (another Tesla Model S) surprisingly powers up, revealing it has only 2,000 miles and functional features like AC, much to the vlogger's astonishment. While the day was intended for part removal, the vlogger admits to accomplishing little due to distractions and helping a friend load a car onto a trailer. The video highlights the difficulties and unexpected outcomes of working with salvaged EVs, emphasizing the need for caution and proper procedures, especially concerning high-voltage systems. less
How to Take Apart a Tesla Door
This video provides a practical, albeit somewhat destructive, guide to disassembling a Tesla Model S rear passenger door, focusing on the removal of t... morehe door panel, glass, and handle. The presenter, Rich, uses a salvaged door damaged by fire, allowing for a less cautious approach, which viewers are advised against if working on a pristine vehicle. Key steps involve removing trim pieces to access screws, disconnecting electrical connectors for the door mechanism and lighting, and carefully prying off the door panel. The process for removing the door handle is detailed, highlighting the need for the window to be fully raised and the trickiness of accessing all securing screws. The video also covers the removal of the window glass, noting the owner's manual recommendation for a specific bracket release, though the presenter opts for a more forceful method. While the video is informative for those needing to replace specific parts, its value is primarily for repair or salvage purposes rather than a general overview of the Model S. less