[Pfhreak]

I'm guessing they have software that contains a full bill of materials for each vehicle. Boeing does this for every individual plane, and a plane is significantly more complex than a Tesla. I'm sure they are very aware of how many of each parts are out there on the road. I wouldn't be surprised if the vehicles themselves periodically phone home with use information so they can predict wear and tear.

[lallysingh]

AFAIK that's pretty standard for most manufacturers. I can look up my SUV's VIN online and get its full configuration.

[greglindahl]

You can get the basics of a Tesla from the vin, but there are more details than just the basics.