Tesla Owners caught in anti – Musk controversy as ‘SwastiCar’ flyers surface in San Francisco

Posters cautioning Tesla owners about driving Elon Musk’s vehicles have appeared in San Francisco, following increasing backlash against his DOGE policies.

As Elon Musk faces ongoing criticism for his DOGE policies, Tesla showrooms and electric vehicles throughout the United States have become targets, with anti-Musk flyers reportedly appearing around San Francisco.

A report from the San Francisco news channel KRON reveals that unidentified individuals have posted warnings on light poles and cars, advising Tesla owners to avoid driving vehicles from Musk’s company. Flyers with the message “Sell your swasticar…Don’t be carplicit” have been spotted around the city, displaying images of Musk’s controversial hand gesture, which has been widely criticized as resembling a “Nazi” salute.

Photograph: Angela Weiss/Getty Images

The criticism follows Musk’s controversial involvement in the Trump administration. Appointed to head the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), Musk has cut federal budgets and programs, while also revealing significant job cuts to curb government spending. These moves have ignited widespread frustration across the U.S., fueling growing backlash against the billionaire.

Tesla owners claim they are bearing the consequences of driving vehicles linked to Musk’s company, as posters and flyers urge them to sell their cars. Images of these flyers have spread across social media, with many Tesla drivers recognizing the ongoing controversy. “I agree, I don’t like Elon, and I don’t support what he’s doing—it’s awful. I’m personally not a fan of Musk, and I get why people are boycotting Tesla,” said Jackie Burgos, a Tesla owner from San Francisco, in an interview with KRON.

However, they argue that selling their vehicles isn’t feasible, as Tesla’s resale value has dropped significantly in the current climate. To distance themselves from Musk, some owners have resorted to adding stickers to their cars. Popular messages include “Anti-Elon Tesla Club,” “I bought this before we knew Elon was crazy,” and “Elon killed my resale value.” One sticker company reports selling 50,000 of these bumper stickers globally since 2023.