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 ...
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Showing 24 of 217 total titles. Page 1 of 10.
I Bought a Dead $50,000 Electric BMW for $500 Because the Dealer Was Wrong
The reviewer purchased a $50,000 BMW i3 for a mere $500 after a dealer deemed it irreparable. Initially, the car was completely dead, exhibiting multi... moreple high-voltage faults and lacking essential functions like heating and charging. After addressing these initial issues, the primary challenge became the range extender (REX), a critical and expensive component. The video documents the process of diagnosing and attempting to fix the REX, involving a bet with a friend over whether the car could be made to drive and the REX to function. Despite initial successes in getting the car to drive and charge, the REX proved problematic, running poorly and triggering check engine lights after a temporary activation. The reviewer also explored common i3 issues, such as a failed high-voltage heater, and attempted fixes like changing spark plugs and coil packs. Ultimately, while the car was revived from its 'dead' state to a 'neglected' state, the REX was not fully repaired to a healthy operational standard, leading to a lost bet but providing valuable insights into the car's condition and potential for further repair. less
I Bought A $50,000 Electric BMW For $500 Because The Dealer Said It Wasn’t Worth Fixing
This video documents the ambitious acquisition and repair of a $50,000 BMW i3 for a mere $500, after a dealership deemed it uneconomical to fix. The r... moreeviewer highlights the i3's unique features, including its carbon fiber construction and recycled interior materials, while also noting its known issues with electronics and the peculiar range extender (REX) system. The initial diagnosis revealed multiple faults, including charging issues, a non-functional heater, and problems with the REX. The core of the repair focused on a corroded high-voltage heater module, which was identified as the cause for both the charging and heating failures. After replacing the module, the car successfully began charging and the heating system was restored. However, issues with the REX unit and engine misfires remain, suggesting further work is needed. The reviewer also humorously details the purchase of a second i3 as a parts car, further complicating the project but providing a backup for necessary components. less
I Bought a Dead $80,000 Electric Cadillac for $3,500… and the Dealership Wanted $30,000 to Fix It!
The reviewer details the final chapter of their Cadillac ELR project, taking the car to a dealership for diagnostics and a potential battery replaceme... morent quote. The dealership experience is highlighted as surprisingly low-pressure, with staff seemingly unfazed by the reviewer's appearance, contrasting with expectations of potential bias. The core of the video focuses on the ELR's battery replacement cost, which the dealership quoted at $12,000 (excluding labor), with a past repair costing $30,000. This is deemed prohibitively expensive. The reviewer also conducts a test drive to assess fuel efficiency, achieving an impressive 50.1 MPG by strategically using electric and gas modes, demonstrating the car's potential for efficient operation despite its age and battery degradation. The video concludes with a teaser for a new, red project vehicle, a defunct electric Coca-Cola van, which the reviewer finds intriguing despite its apparent unreliability and unique design flaws. less
I Bought a Dead $80,000 Electric Cadillac for $3,500 and Fixed It With Sandpaper
Rich Rebuilds successfully resurrected a $3,500 Cadillac ELR, a luxury hybrid coupe that was originally an $80,000 vehicle. The primary issue preventi... moreng the generator from engaging was a faulty mode switch, which the host managed to repair using sandpaper to clean the contacts. Despite initial concerns about the 10-year-old battery, it tested as good, showcasing GM's robust battery management system and liquid cooling, which has allowed it to retain significant capacity after 250,000 miles. The vehicle also required new front brakes. The generator still failed to engage after these repairs, leading the host to suspect an ignition system issue. After further investigation, it was discovered the electric motor was spinning the engine without ignition. Replacing the ignition coil pack resolved this, finally allowing the engine to run. The host questions the value of spending $5,000-$7,000 on a new battery for a $3,500 car, posing the question to viewers whether it's worth the investment or if the car should be driven as-is. less
I Bought a Dead $80,000 Electric Cadillac for $3500 and the Fix Was Embarrassingly Simple
The Rich Rebuilds channel tackles a 2014 Cadillac ELR, a luxury hybrid based on the Chevy Volt, purchased for a mere $3,500. Despite its original $80,... more000 price tag and advanced features for its time, the car presented significant issues: a non-functional hybrid system, a leaking coolant system, and considerable rear-end body damage. The repair process involved diagnosing a coolant leak, which was eventually traced to a cracked 'T' in the cooling system, and addressing a warped valve cover gasket. While the engine was coaxed into running, it would immediately shut off, and the car remained undrivable, indicating further, yet-to-be-diagnosed problems. The video highlights the challenges of repairing older, complex luxury vehicles, especially when dealing with rare parts and extensive damage, ultimately leaving the ELR's full restoration incomplete within this episode. less
I Got a Free Fisker Ocean and Fixed It With a $20 Key
Rich Rebuilds successfully resurrected a 'free' Fisker Ocean that was written off by insurance, transforming it from a $70,000 paperweight i... morento a functional vehicle within 72 hours. The project involved significant DIY repairs, including fixing a severely damaged hood for minimal cost, repairing the charging port, and replacing recalled door handles with an upgraded version. A key challenge was programming a new key fob, which was ultimately achieved using a laptop and provided software, allowing the car to start and drive. The reviewer highlights the Fisker Ocean's surprisingly good driving dynamics and accurate range prediction, even comparing it favorably to some Tesla models in terms of real-world range. Despite initial skepticism and the car's troubled brand history, the Fisker Ocean proved to be a capable, albeit unconventional, EV. The vehicle was then given a 'rally' inspired wrap, further enhancing its aesthetic appeal. less
Dealer Marked My $5000 Tesla Dead, They Were Wrong
This video chronicles the ambitious rebuild of a $5,000 Tesla Model 3, which was initially deemed 'dead' by a dealer. The creator details th... moree extensive work involved, including replacing the battery, front motor, and rear motor to transform it into a Performance variant with impressive acceleration. The latter half of the video focuses on the car's unique pink and black aesthetic customization, including custom wheels and calipers, and the subsequent delivery to the owner, who is revealed to be the creator's daughter. While the rebuild process highlights significant technical challenges and solutions, particularly with module programming and suspension repairs, the aesthetic choices are polarizing and presented with a humorous, self-aware tone. The creator acknowledges the car's performance potential might be underutilized by the new owner but emphasizes the overall success of the project and the satisfaction of bringing a salvaged vehicle back to life. less
They Said This Fisker Ocean Was Unfixable - I Used Illegal Parts to Prove Them Wrong
The reviewer acquired a 2023 Fisker Ocean for a remarkably low price, describing it as 'dead' and facing significant challenges due to the c... moreompany's bankruptcy and scarcity of parts. The video details the extensive efforts to revive the vehicle, highlighting issues such as a damaged hood and front end, a dead 12V battery, and malfunctioning door handles. Notably, the reviewer had to use an 'illegal' replacement door handle, as the original was part of an NHTSA stop-sale due to potential occupant entrapment. Despite these hurdles, including a frozen charge port and a non-driving condition attributed to a low battery, the reviewer managed to get the car to power on and unlock. The video emphasizes the difficulty in sourcing parts and the unique, often frustrating, engineering decisions made by Fisker. The reviewer ultimately reveals the car was acquired for free, making the extensive repairs a worthwhile endeavor for him. less
I Spent $100K on 40 Acres for Cars — Did I Get Scammed?
The creator documents the challenging initial phase of developing a 40-acre
Can an Electric Motor Replace a Horse?
This video documents the ambitious and somewhat absurd project of converting a traditional Amish horse buggy into an electric vehicle. The host highli... moreghts the buggy's surprisingly spacious interior, designed for tours, and its basic yet robust construction, featuring wooden wheels and leaf-spring suspension. Initial tests reveal the buggy's extreme lightness and surprisingly low rolling resistance, suggesting minimal power is needed for propulsion, though initial torque for acceleration is a concern. The primary challenge identified is adapting a modern steering system to the buggy's unique pivot-based front end, which lacks traditional spindles. The reviewer also notes the inadequacy of the existing brakes, emphasizing the need for a significant upgrade, potentially including air brakes or regenerative braking if an electric motor is implemented. The project aims for sustainability, replacing 'real horsepower' with electric power, with the host believing horses would prefer fields to pulling tourists. The video also touches on the construction, materials, and even the historical context of Amish buggies, contrasting them with modern EVs. less
Why Used Fisker Karmas Are So Cheap (After 27 Breakdowns)
This video delves deep into the costly reality of owning a used Fisker Karma, highlighting the numerous issues that lead to its low resale value. The ... morereviewer details 27 breakdowns experienced, showcasing common failures in the high-voltage battery, generator, cooling systems, electronics, and rear-drive module (RDM). While the car's design is praised, the specialized nature of its repairs and the high cost of parts and labor are significant deterrents. The specialist estimates that bringing a Karma up to a reliable standard can cost between $18,000 and $30,000 on top of the purchase price. The video concludes that while a bare minimum repair to get the car running and charging might cost around $5,000, a recommended comprehensive fix, including preventative measures and essential repairs, pushes the total investment well over $20,000, making it a questionable financial decision for most buyers. The reviewer ultimately decides against further investment, deeming the car a money pit. less
Inside a Porsche 918 Battery That Survived a Fire
This video provides an in-depth look at the battery pack from a fire-damaged Porsche 918 Spyder, a $2 million hypercar. The reviewer highlights the ex... moreceptional engineering and robust thermal management system, noting its superiority over the McLaren P1's battery. Despite being over a decade old and surviving a fire, the 918's battery remains functional and visually impressive, showcasing features like liquid cooling with direct contact thermal plates and modular design. The reviewer praises Porsche's use of high-quality materials, such as billet aluminum and rubber tubing, contrasting it with less durable components found in other vehicles. The video also touches upon the complexity of high-voltage systems and the importance of safety features like pre-charge resistors. Ultimately, the Porsche 918 battery is lauded as a 'work of art' and a testament to advanced EV engineering for its time, outperforming contemporary rivals in durability and design. less
I Swapped a Dead Tesla in 20 Minutes… Here’s What Happened
This video chronicles an ambitious attempt to convert a standard range rear-wheel drive Tesla Model 3 into an all-wheel drive performance model within... more a tight 20-minute timeframe. The host, Rich Rebuilds, details the extensive process of swapping major components, including motors, inverters, subframes, and crucial electronic modules from a performance donor car. Despite meticulous planning and execution, the conversion proves far more challenging than anticipated, exceeding the time limit significantly. The primary obstacles encountered were the complex module swapping, particularly the "brain" of the car, and issues with software compatibility and communication between the new components and the older system. The car ultimately fails to become operational within the video's scope, leading to a humorous but disappointing conclusion where the host's daughter is relegated to a Fisker. The review highlights the intricate nature of EV conversions and the potential pitfalls of VIN mismatches and software integration, even with identical donor parts. less
I Drove This 1300 HP Chinese EV — Now I Know Why Tesla Doesn’t Want It Here
The Zeekr 001 FR, with its staggering 1300 horsepower, is presented as a serious contender to Tesla's Plaid, offering a raw, track-focused drivin... moreg experience that impressed the reviewer. While the Plaid is noted for its smoothness and refinement, the Zeekr is described as feeling more like a sports car, handling exceptionally well on winding roads with active seat bolstering and tight coilovers. The interior is praised for its luxurious Alcantara and carbon fiber accents, though the reviewer expresses a strong dislike for the touchpad controls for functions like hazard lights and the glove box. The frunk is disappointingly small. A significant point of contention is the car's unavailability in the US market, raising questions about why it's being reviewed for American audiences. Despite its immense power and impressive handling, the reviewer notes that the traction control system still needs refinement, and the car is deemed too powerful for public roads. Ultimately, the Zeekr 001 FR is lauded as a testament to how far the EV game has come, especially from a four-year-old company. less
57 Hours. 27 Breakdowns. One Terrible Fisker Karma Road Trip
This video chronicles a disastrous 2000-mile road trip in a Fisker Karma, transforming a planned 30-hour journey into a 57-hour ordeal filled with 27 ... morebreakdowns. The reviewer highlights numerous critical issues, including persistent overheating, power loss at high speeds, a malfunctioning AC system, and a complete failure of the drivetrain, leaving him stranded multiple times. The car's small gas tank necessitates frequent, short stops, exacerbating the time lost. Despite its striking exterior design, the Fisker Karma is deemed impractical and unreliable, with a severely underpowered engine and a host of electronic and mechanical failures. The reviewer's experience underscores the significant risks associated with purchasing and daily driving this particular vehicle, ultimately concluding it's a beautiful but fundamentally flawed machine. less
Our Tesla Battery Just Died… Now the Real Work Begins
The Rich Rebuilds channel tackles a common and costly EV issue: a dead Tesla Model 3 battery. The presenter details the frustrating experience of a ba... morettery failing at 160,000 miles, well out of warranty, leading to a hefty $12,000-$14,000 repair estimate from Tesla. The video documents the complex DIY process of removing the battery, highlighting the significant labor involved compared to older models, requiring seat removal and extensive disassembly. A major setback occurs when the replacement battery arrives, only to be discovered as the wrong type for a rear-wheel-drive car, necessitating a pivot to converting the car to all-wheel drive by purchasing a new front motor. While the DIY repair and subsequent performance upgrade are ambitious, the video underscores the potential for high repair costs and the intricate nature of EV maintenance, especially for those attempting it themselves. The reviewer's frustration with the car's design and the unexpected complications are palpable. less
The Slate: America’s $20K Answer to China’s Cheap EVs (Exclusive Access)
The Slate electric pickup truck presents an intriguing proposition as America's answer to affordable Chinese EVs, with a starting price around $2... more0,000 (though the reviewed model is closer to $28,000 before accessories). The vehicle's core appeal lies in its extreme modularity and customization, allowing owners to add accessories and upgrades over time as their budget allows. Key features highlighted include a 'bring your own device' infotainment system, a versatile rack ecosystem, and a modular body design that can be reconfigured into SUV variants. The engineering team emphasizes sustainability through reductive design, minimizing parts and tooling. However, potential drawbacks include the high cost of accessories, which could quickly inflate the price beyond the initial attractive figure, and the risk of the vehicle being too niche for the average consumer who might prefer a factory-configured option. The rear-wheel-drive configuration and a projected range of up to 240 miles (with the larger battery) are noted, with DC fast charging capable of reaching 80% in about 30 minutes. The vehicle's serviceability and repairability are also strong points, with easily replaceable composite panels and an open-source approach to design. less
The Tesla Battery Scam: Dealer Said Rebalance, It Was Toast
The reviewer details a cautionary tale about purchasing a used Tesla Model 3, specifically highlighting the deceptive practices of some dealers. After... more being told a battery issue was a simple "rebalance," the reviewer discovered the battery was severely degraded and required replacement. The video showcases the diagnostic process, revealing significant battery management system (BMS) errors and a state of charge imbalance, confirming the need for a full battery replacement rather than a simple fix. While the car's interior and overall structure held up reasonably well for its 160,000 miles, the battery's failure is presented as a common, yet often undisclosed, issue with older used Teslas. The reviewer emphasizes that a "rebalance" is not a solution for a failing battery pack and advises potential buyers to be wary of such claims. The video also touches upon the complexities of Tesla's service mode and the challenges of battery repair or replacement. less
I Drove 700 Miles for a Software Update Because Fisker Went Bankrupt
The reviewer details a challenging experience with a Fisker Ocean, primarily due to the company's bankruptcy and lack of support. After purchasin... moreg a low-mileage, nearly new Ocean for a significantly reduced price, the reviewer faced issues with outdated software, specifically concerning regenerative braking and the absence of brake hold on hills, which were deemed unsafe. The inability to receive over-the-air updates due to Fisker disabling fleet connectivity necessitated a 700-mile trip to a service center for a multi-day software update. The video highlights the scarcity of service options and the DIY nature of repairs for these vehicles. Despite the significant hurdles and the company's collapse, the reviewer acknowledges the car's stylish design, smooth and quiet ride, and surprisingly accurate range estimates. The service center also addressed known issues like the coolant pump and various electrical connector problems. Ultimately, the reviewer finds the car to be a compelling, albeit risky, proposition for DIY enthusiasts seeking a unique EV at a low price point, especially after the software and hardware fixes. less
Why the World's First V8 Tesla Failed
This video chronicles the ambitious and ultimately problematic journey of converting a flooded Tesla Model S into a V8-powered vehicle. The creator, R... moreich, details the extensive modifications, including engine swaps, transmission tunnel fabrication, and the integration of a supercharged LS engine. While the initial V1 build successfully reached SEMA, the project has since been plagued by issues, including overheating and a lack of consistent attention, leading to the car being passed around various shops. The creator expresses a bittersweet return of the car, acknowledging the significant engineering involved but also the need to reverse-engineer many of the subsequent modifications. The video highlights the challenges of custom builds, the desire for a unique statement car, and the creator's intention to refine the V1 into a more reliable daily driver, despite the current need for extensive troubleshooting and mechanical adjustments. less
We Built a Solar Off-Grid Electric Kei Truck Camper, Just in Case the World Ends
The Rich Rebuilds channel presents a unique project: converting a Honda Kei truck into a solar-powered off-grid camper. The reviewer highlights the ap... morepeal of a smaller, more affordable alternative to van conversions, especially for solo camping. The Kei truck chosen, despite needing some maintenance, was in surprisingly good condition, with minimal rust. Key upgrades included addressing the valve cover gasket, spark plug tube seals, distributor cap, and fuel filter. The build incorporates practical features like a diesel heater for warmth and a composting toilet. For off-road capability, the truck is fitted with a lift kit and UTV tracks, though installation proved challenging. The solar panel setup, while functional, is noted as being slower than desired, suggesting a need for more panels. The final aesthetic, with an army tan paint job and a bike rack, gives it an aggressive, outdoorsy look. The reviewer expresses satisfaction with the outcome, deeming it rugged, functional, and suitable for future adventures, even if the track installation was a significant hurdle. less
Why Tesla Needs Me Now More Than Ever. Here Is Why Everyone Was Wrong About Them
The reviewer, Rich Rebuilds, dramatically shifts his stance on Tesla and Elon Musk, moving from past criticism to fervent support. The video chronicle... mores his attendance at a Tesla protest and a supposed conversation with Elon Musk, culminating in his decision to purchase multiple Cybertrucks. He acknowledges past criticisms, like the "low testosterone" comment about Model 3 owners, and the controversial horse anecdote, but now dismisses them as misunderstandings or jokes. The Cybertruck itself is presented as a revolutionary vehicle, despite acknowledging its high price, used market value of $85,000, panel misalignments, and the social stigma of owning one, evidenced by his children's reluctance to be seen in it and public egging. The reviewer frames any negative attention or damage to Teslas as "domestic terrorism" and defends Musk against various controversies, including his business practices and personal conduct, by reinterpreting them as media spin or jokes. Ultimately, the video is a strong endorsement of Musk and the Cybertruck, positioning them as world-changing innovations. less
I Drove The Cheap Chinese Cars That Are Illegal In The USA. Now I Know Why
The reviewer explores a selection of Chinese electric vehicles (EVs) and hybrids, highlighting their surprisingly high quality, advanced features, and... more aggressive pricing compared to American counterparts. Several models, including the Aito M9, Denza Zeni GT, and the 'i car' (likely referring to a BYD model), are praised for their luxurious interiors, innovative technology (like massage seats, projectors, and even fridges), and impressive range. The reviewer notes that some designs borrow heavily from established luxury brands, but the execution and value proposition are exceptional, with prices often 30-50% lower than comparable US vehicles. A significant point of discussion is the lifetime powertrain and battery warranty offered on some models, a feature absent from most American manufacturers. The reviewer concludes that the quality, features, and pricing of these Chinese EVs present a substantial threat to the US automotive market, explaining why they are not readily available in the US. The video also touches on the prevalence of Chinese-made goods in general, setting the stage for the automotive discussion. less
Dodge Daytona EV: Solving Dodge's Theft Issue One Car at a Time
The Dodge Daytona EV is presented as a groundbreaking electric muscle car, but the review suggests it falls short of expectations. While praised for i... morets improved handling, spacious interior, and practical hatchback design compared to previous Dodge models, the vehicle is criticized for its outdated technology, poor one-pedal driving calibration, and lack of essential EV features like route planning and battery preconditioning. Reviewers found it heavy and lacking the raw, engaging experience expected from a muscle car, likening it more to a luxury EV or even a Hyundai Ioniq. The artificial engine sound is also a point of contention, with a desire for a more authentic or switchable sound. Despite its potential for the future with software updates, the current iteration is deemed a "non-starter" and a "great 2018 car" that is overpriced for its performance and features, especially when compared to more advanced and affordable EVs like the Tesla Model S Plaid. The reviewer concludes that Dodge has arrived late to the EV party with a product that doesn't resonate with either traditional muscle car enthusiasts or experienced EV buyers. less