Tesla Model s problems
The Tesla Model S is a battery electric executive car with a liftback body style built by Tesla, Inc. since 2012. The Model S features a battery-powered dual-motor, all-wheel drive layout, although earlier versions featured a rear-motor and rear-wheel drive layout.
Development of the Model S began prior to 2007, under the codename "WhiteStar". The Model S was officially announced on June 30, 2008, and a prototype vehicle was unveiled in March 2009. The Model S debuted on June 22, 2012. A revised, dual-motor, all-wheel-drive version, known as the 60D, debuted on October 9, 2014. The 60D was followed by the 70D, which made dual-motor and all-wheel drive the standard, followed by the 85D, P85D, and P90D. Along with these updates, Tesla offered the Autopilot driving assistance system. The first major design refresh came in April 2016 when the Model S was updated with a new front hood design. In October of the same year, hardware became standard that supports Tesla's Full Self Driving (FSD) capability. As part of the update, integrated standard cameras around the car were added. In February 2017 the Tesla Model S P100D debuted, which included a revised motor and was the first electric vehicle to have an EPA estimated range exceeding 300 miles (483 km). The second major design refresh, codenamed "Palladium", was introduced in June 2021, offering a new "Plaid" performance model, along with a revised interior, powertrain, and suspension.
The Model S became the first electric car to top the monthly new-car-sales ranking in any country, leading twice in Norway, in September and December 2013 and in Denmark in December 2015. Sales passed 250,000 units in September 2018. The Model S was the top-selling plug-in electric car worldwide in 2015 and 2016, although it was later surpassed by the Model 3. Upon its release, the Model S received positive reviews, with praise for its acceleration and range, although initial models received criticism for their high cost and braking issues.
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Tesla Model s model years
Common Tesla Model s problems
Common Problems with Tesla Model S Cars
Based on complaints from owners, the Tesla Model S has faced several issues that have affected its reliability and performance. Some of the most common problems include:
- Exterior accessories problems: The 2013 Tesla Model S faced several complaints related to exterior accessories, such as sensor and door issues. These problems were commonly between $1,000 and $2,000 to repair.
- Interior accessories problems: The 2014 Tesla Model S had issues with interior accessories, including problems with the charging port, which faced a significant recall.
- Electrical problems: Electrical issues have been reported in various Tesla Model S years, including problems with the vehicle display screen and other electrical components.
- Suspension problems: Suspension failure has been reported in the 2013 Tesla Model S around 50,000 miles, as well as other suspension-related issues in various model years.
- Transmission problems: Transmission issues have been reported in the 2013 and 2014 Tesla Model S, with some cars requiring replacement of the transmission.
- Battery problems: Battery failure has been reported in the 2013 Tesla Model S due to coolant and heater malfunctioning.
- Door problems: Door knobs, door handles, and door latch/lock issues have been reported in various Tesla Model S years, causing inconvenience and requiring repairs.
- Seat problems: Seat incline and seat heater issues have been reported in the 2016 Tesla Model S, requiring seat replacement and costing thousands of dollars.
- Sunroof problems: Leaking sunroofs have been reported in various Tesla Model S years, causing inconvenience and requiring repairs.
- Touchscreen malfunctions: Touchscreen malfunctions have been reported in various Tesla Model S years, affecting the car's infotainment system and other functions.
While these issues have affected the Tesla Model S's reliability, many of them are covered by the regular 4-year/50,000-mile warranty. However, they can be costly to repair once the warranty term has expired. Despite these concerns, overall owner satisfaction with the brand is quite high, and the Model S is still a popular choice among electric vehicle enthusiasts.
How reliable is Tesla Model S?
The 2024 Tesla Model S has a predicted reliability score of 75 out of 100. A J.D. Power predicted reliability score of 91-100 is considered the Best, 81-90 is Great, 70-80 is Average and 0-69 is Fair and considered below average.
What's the most common problem with Tesla?
Battery and Charging Related Issues
One of the key components in any Tesla vehicle is its high-capacity battery pack. While Tesla's battery technology has come a long way, issues related to charging and battery life can still arise.
What year is the Tesla Model S most reliable?
Overall, the Tesla Model S is not a very reliable selection if you care about dependability. If you get the car, we recommend the 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, and 2022 options for the best results.
What is the lifespan of a Tesla Model S?
You can get 300,000-500,000 miles out of the Tesla Model S. However, to reach this number, it's critical to care for your electric vehicle. Even small items like not overcharging your battery will make a big difference in the long run. With excellent care, your Model S will provide thousands of miles with ease.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Tesla Model s years
We have researched Tesla problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Tesla Model s cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Tesla Model s model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Tesla Model s model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Tesla Model s years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Tesla Model s car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Tesla Model s , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Electrical system problems
- Unknown or other problems
- Suspension problems
- Steering problems
- Forward collision avoidance problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Tesla Model s vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Model s model years
A total of 108 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Model s model years
There were a total of 31 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Model s model years
There were a total of 50 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with deaths by Model s model years
There were a total of 20 complaints that resulted in a death. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 1092 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Tesla Model s . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Tesla Model s vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Tesla Model s 2014
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-26
- VIN: 5YJSA1H18EF
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: The rotor seal on the Large Drive Units on Tesla Model S and X fail, causing coolant to leak into the drive unit, flooding it and damaging the inverter. This leads to a replacement cost from Tesla for approximately $7 - $8,000. As this is a design failure this should be a recall and Tesla should at least repair all units prior to their failure or replace them with an updated motor.
Tesla Model s 2021
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-23
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-25
- VIN: 5YJSA1E50MF
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: Due to the yoke not having a traditional horn button it is hard to remember to push the tiny capacative touch button... very dangerous. Also the yoke feels more dangerous than a normal wheel.
Tesla Model s 2021
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-17
- VIN: 5YJSA1E5XMF
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
- Summary: See attached document for complaint.
Tesla Model s 2021
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-07
- VIN: 5YJSA1E52MF
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: I received recall notice for 24V-554 on 9/22/2024. The recall notice informs that Tesla will resolve the recall safety defect by over-the-air update via the car's WIFI capabilities. I have informed Tesla that my car's WIFI capabilities are broken and I scheduled service for October 3rd. Tesla informed that parts for my vehicle are not yet ready and rescheduled my service for October 24th. I informed Tesla that I am missing a required safety recall update, and asked if they able to push the update to me via the car's internet or otherwise remedy the issue of my car not having capability to resolve the safety defect. Tesla responded "Due to contraints at the service center we unfortunately had to reschedule you" for October 24th. The Safety Recall notice informed that if the manufacter is unable to remedy the safety defect within a reasonable time, I may notify the NHTSA.
Tesla Model s 2013
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-04
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-07
- VIN: 5YJSA1CP5DF
- Components: STRUCTURE,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: When parked and opening the drivers door or rear passenger doors, the front passenger door will unlatch. Something is setting off the relay to open the front door when other doors open. Does not happen 100% of the time, but 50%+
Tesla Model s 2021
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-19
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-19
- VIN: 5YJSA1E62MF
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: There is a repeated issue with my vehicle and I looked it up online and it seems all Tesla Model S vehicles have this issue. This is the 2nd time I've had this same issue. As I go over any bumps, accelerate, or decelerate there's a clicking sound coming from the front wheels. While driving there's a whistling sound. Based on websites and videos I've seen all over the internet, it's the result of a loose nut and bolt. It apparently continually occurs because of the very high amount of torque these cars have and the quality of the parts used for this torque doesn't suffice. Tesla needs to fix this on all their Model S vehicles. Instead apparently all they do at service center is apply grease to the affected area to temporarily make the noise go away but that grease melts away annually.
Tesla Model s 2021
- Date Of Incident: 2024-05-05
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-18
- VIN: 5YJSA1E51MF
- Components: STEERING,SUSPENSION,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: Front suspension has a popping and creaking sound when driving and turning steering wheel. Safety issue as sounds something is loose but Tesla says no issue it’s the body flexing which is even scarier to hear the panels rattling if this is in fact true. Tesla will not do anything about it. Additionally the brakes and rotors squeal when pressed at slow speeds coming to full hard stop. Both front and back. Both brakes and rotors have 90% life and according to Tesla shouldn’t need replacing until 90k miles due to the regen braking. The braking system does not engage as it should or how it is designed and car has 40k miles. Tesla uses the excuse that that they don’t cover this as it’s a wear and tear component. Which another issue because they don’t know the reason of why it’s doing this. They want customers to pay and replace the brakes and rotors. Many owners with same car experience this issue and is a design defect that can pose safety issues
Tesla Model s 2014
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-10
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-10
- VIN: 5YJSA1H18EF
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: Overnight while plugged in and after the battery showed it was fully charged, the battery suddenly lost charge, and the car sent repeated alerts to immediately pull over and stop driving. A notice on the car showed mileage was reduced and to immediately schedule a service call. After returning home, I downloaded to the car a recent software update that cleared the error. However, after the software upgrade, Tesla messaged that they did removed tests and the high voltage battery must be replaced.
Tesla Model s 2022
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-26
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-26
- VIN: 5YJSA1E5XNF
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: The yoke steering is not intuitive and makes it really hard to instinctively press the horn or use the directionals, without taking your eyes off the road. This presents a serious safety hazard especially in the case of an emergency, where milliseconds count to avert an accident. At a minimum the horn button should be placed on the center of the steering or be replaced with a traditional wheel. In fact, if the car were to spin out of control, the rectangular shape of the yoke would likely prevent me from regaining control of the car. When I purchased the car in 2022 a regular steering wheel was not option. Tesla is now allowing retro fits but at a significant cost to the owner. There have been several instances in the two years where i pressed the center of the yoke with no effect, which could have led to an accident. I am surprised this kind of serious hazard is still permitted to exist and I kindly ask for your immediate attention.
Tesla Model s 2021
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-17
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-17
- VIN: 5YJSA1E65MF
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: Tires wear less than 1k miles. Deflate, side wall wear, separation, tread wear etc. Have purchased around 8 tires from January 2022 - Present FRONT - 265/35/ZR21 101Y Extra Load REAR - 295/30/ZR21 102Y Extra Load Michelin honored tire failure for side wall separation then denied all other claims. And this is the only tire Tesla has on hand since there is no spare.
Tesla Model s 2021
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-28
- Date Complaint: 2024-07-30
- VIN: 5YJSA1E68MF
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: To avoid collision on the highway with a deer crossing in front of me, I braked very hard. The left rear brake caliper mount broke as a result. I did not lose brake fluid pressure, thankfully but this could’ve been a catastrophic failure. I contacted Tesla who seemed indifferent and blaming the incident on my driving and the mileage of the car ( 48,000 ). I have never in my life heard of a caliper mount breaking on any car with any number of miles. I’m sure it happens, but it should not happen on a car with 1000 hp.
Tesla Model s 2013
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-16
- Date Complaint: 2024-07-24
- VIN: 5YJSA1CNXDF
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Without warning, vehicle suddenly stopped accelerating while driving on freeway. Driver had to manouver to avoid a potentially fatal situation. Manufacturer's service center noted this malfunction was due to a failed Drive Unit (electric motor.) Only during incident was there any warning to driver - dashboard indicated "PRND" in red. No prior symptoms at any point were noted by driver in advance. This specific Drive Unit was a replacement unit that lasted only around 40,000 miles (stated by vendor records - installed at approx. 131,000 miles three years ago.) Drive Units on these vehicles can fail at similar mileage due to a known manufacturing defect. This vehicle and early model S vehicles are impacted. This defect is due to a flawed design of a rubber seal that causes coolant fluid to leak into the Drive Unit and results in sudden catastrophic failure. Manufacturer has been aware of failing Drive Units for years. Manufacturer does not notify drivers about this potentially deadly design flaw. Drivers are unaware about this issue so vehicles can be checked for proactive maintenance. Also, vehicle does not show any advance indication of sudden lack of acceleration. This major safety issue has been noted by other drivers in online forums: [XXX] [XXX] [XXX] [XXX] [XXX] [XXX] / [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Tesla Model s 2014
- Date Of Incident: 2023-11-26
- Date Complaint: 2024-07-10
- VIN: 5YJSA1S19EF
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: Vehicle failed to charge at a tesla charging point. 60 miles from home , raining, had to have vehicle towed to house. Failed to charge at home charging point. Cost to have tesla fix, too expensive. Took 4 months to find another charge port for vehicle Vehicle continues to have issues
Tesla Model s 2014
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-25
- Date Complaint: 2024-07-10
- VIN: 5YJSA1S19EF
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: The steering assist failed while driving. Causing near collision and very difficult to drive.
Tesla Model s 2022
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-03
- Date Complaint: 2024-07-05
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 5YJSA1E59NF
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: I was driving on the highway utilizing the full self-driving mode. There was traffic and I was behind an 18-wheeler. The 18-wheeler turned into the right lane, but because of the traffic, it couldn't completely clear the lane so the rear was slightly sticking. The Tesla stopped because it couldn't clear the lane while the 18-wheeler was sticking out. I didn't intervene because it had stopped. Then all of a sudden, it surged forward causing the Tesla's right side mirror to be hit by the 18-wheeler's back. The right side mirror's paint job was completely taken off. I didn't have time to intervene because of the sudden surge.
Latest 5 recalls Tesla Model s
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 136 recalls for different components of the Tesla Model s.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Tesla Model s 2022
- Report Received Date: 2024-07-24
- Manufacturer: Tesla, Inc.
- Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:HOOD:LATCH
- Summary: Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2021-2024 Model 3, Model S, Model X, and 2020-2024 Model Y vehicles. The hood latch assembly may fail to detect an unlatched hood condition after the hood has been opened.
- Consequence: An unlatched hood can fully open, obstructing the driver's view and increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Tesla has released an over-the-air (OTA) software update, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 24, 2024. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-24-00-012.
- Model: Tesla Model s 2023
- Report Received Date: 2024-07-24
- Manufacturer: Tesla, Inc.
- Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:HOOD:LATCH
- Summary: Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2021-2024 Model 3, Model S, Model X, and 2020-2024 Model Y vehicles. The hood latch assembly may fail to detect an unlatched hood condition after the hood has been opened.
- Consequence: An unlatched hood can fully open, obstructing the driver's view and increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Tesla has released an over-the-air (OTA) software update, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 24, 2024. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-24-00-012.
- Model: Tesla Model s 2021
- Report Received Date: 2024-07-24
- Manufacturer: Tesla, Inc.
- Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:HOOD:LATCH
- Summary: Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2021-2024 Model 3, Model S, Model X, and 2020-2024 Model Y vehicles. The hood latch assembly may fail to detect an unlatched hood condition after the hood has been opened.
- Consequence: An unlatched hood can fully open, obstructing the driver's view and increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Tesla has released an over-the-air (OTA) software update, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 24, 2024. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-24-00-012.
- Model: Tesla Model s 2019
- Report Received Date: 2024-05-28
- Manufacturer: Tesla, Inc.
- Components: SEAT BELTS:FRONT:WARNING LIGHT/DEVICES
- Summary: Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2012-2024 Model S, 2015-2024 Model X, 2017-2023 Model 3, and 2020-2023 Model Y vehicles. In the event of an unbelted driver, the seat belt warning light and audible chime may not activate as intended. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."
- Consequence: A seat belt warning system that fails to alert occupants of an unbelted seat belt can increase the risk of injury during a crash.
- Remedy: Tesla will release an over-the-air (OTA) software update. Owner notification letters were mailed July 26, 2024. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-24-00-008.
- Model: Tesla Model s 2013
- Report Received Date: 2024-05-28
- Manufacturer: Tesla, Inc.
- Components: SEAT BELTS:FRONT:WARNING LIGHT/DEVICES
- Summary: Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2012-2024 Model S, 2015-2024 Model X, 2017-2023 Model 3, and 2020-2023 Model Y vehicles. In the event of an unbelted driver, the seat belt warning light and audible chime may not activate as intended. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."
- Consequence: A seat belt warning system that fails to alert occupants of an unbelted seat belt can increase the risk of injury during a crash.
- Remedy: Tesla will release an over-the-air (OTA) software update. Owner notification letters were mailed July 26, 2024. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-24-00-008.
Latest negative Tesla Model s car reviews
Latest positive Tesla Model s car reviews
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Vehicle year: 2017
I recently purchased a 75D and it has far exceeded my expectations! Although the 75D is not the quickest of the Tesla bunch, I find it plenty fast for my needs. The acceleration is impressive, quick, and quiet. Compared to a similarly priced Mercedes or Lexus, the seats on a long trip do not provide the same level of comfort. However, everything else about the car is just plain cool and technologically advanced. The view out the glass roof is amazing for rear passengers. It is on the pricey side, but it's no longer on my bucket list. After 14 months of ownership, I still find it impressive and fun to drive. The visibility out the rear-view mirror isn't great, so I always drive with the rear camera on and viewed on the top half of the iPad-like display - love this feature. The original navigation system had flaws, but a recent software upgrade improved it - now powered by Google Maps. Occasional free software upgrades continue to improve the vehicle. It's nice to have free lifetime supercharging on long trips. When using the nav system, the computer calculates if there is enough charge to get to your destination. If not, it will direct you to supercharging locations along the way. Another follow-up after 27 months - it still feels amazing to drive after 2+ years. I had a minor noise issue with the front window, but the service center took care of it quickly. While there, I requested a performance software upgrade (my model did 0-60 in 5.3 secs) and it was loaded free of charge (now 0-60 in 4.3) - a huge difference. Once again, not
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Vehicle year: 2019
I have owned several luxury sports cars from brands such as Audi, BMW, Lexus, and Porsche. However, I grew tired of sitting in traffic, getting poor gas mileage, and contributing to global warming with my gas-guzzling sports car. My next car was going to be a 911 or A8, but I decided to take a risk and try something new. The Model S from Tesla has exceeded all of my expectations. Although the interior may not be as luxurious as other brands, it quickly becomes comfortable and pleasant. The performance is extraordinary, and the fact that I can drive it all week and plug it in at home is a game-changer. No more gas stations, oil changes, or tailpipe emissions. I absolutely love this car and have not grown tired of it after 10 months of ownership. Tesla has a massive technological advantage, and until others catch up, this is the only choice for me. I encourage you to make the leap to an electric car and experience the difference. It's a similar leap to when we went from old cathode ray tube TVs to LCDs or flip phones to smartphones. I doubt you'll regret the decision and miss your old car!
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Vehicle year: 2019
Hi there, I wanted to share my experience with the car. Unfortunately, I've been having some issues with a loud clunking noise and the top sunroof trim coming off. I scheduled a service with Tesla, but it was cancelled and they informed me that they will send a mobile service instead. It has been over 2 weeks now and I'm still waiting for the service. This has happened to me before and I'm feeling quite disappointed. I was hoping for better service from Tesla, especially with all the promises for product and process excellence. Thank you for listening.
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Vehicle year: 2017
I never thought I would be buying a Tesla, but after my business partner bought a Model P 100d and took me for a ride, I was blown away. As someone who owns two Porsches, both turbos, I can confidently say that the Tesla was the fastest car I have ever been in. I went and test drove one myself and was so impressed that I bought one the next week! One of the things I love most about my Tesla is not having to buy gas!
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Vehicle year: 2013
I've been driving a Mercedes CLS 63 AMG for four years now. Unfortunately, with 66,000 miles on it, I was informed that the intake manifold was cracked. There was no explanation as to how it could have happened. However, I decided to invest my money in a Tesla S and it has been an absolute blast to drive! The car is incredibly quick and responsive, and I've already saved over $1,000 in gas. Plus, it's eco-friendly with no emissions. I simply plug it into my house charger and it charges within an hour or two when I get home. My electric bill has only gone up by $15 a month. I've had a few questions along the way, but the guys at Tesla have been amazing - they're friendly, efficient, and always willing to help.
Are you having problems with your Tesla Model s?
Torey Koelpin 2025-10-09
Vehicle year: 2023
I have owned 3 Teslas in the past, including a P-85, P-85-D, and P100-D. However, I have noticed a decline in the quality of the vehicles and I am hesitant to purchase a 4th Tesla S Performance/Plaid vehicle due to the high price and potential risks. Unfortunately, the service staff have been unable to fix certain quality of drive functions, such as the auto high beam lights and wind noise on the P-100 front windows. Despite providing video evidence of the issues, they claim they cannot fix them. As an early adopter of Tesla (within the first 15,000 Model S sold), I am disappointed with the service I have received. Thank you for your attention to this matter.
Dan Hessel 2025-10-04
Vehicle year: 2022
I recently purchased a '22 Tesla S Plaid with all the options and I must say, the car looks stunning on the outside. Although the interior is quite basic for the price point, it is smart in several ways. The air conditioning is well designed, the seats are comfortable and adjust well, and the infotainment system is top-notch, likely the best in the industry. The acceleration is nothing short of amazing and it's sure to excite any car enthusiast. However, there are a few issues that I have noticed. The paint quality is not up to par and the car dents easily. The wheels also seem to be prone to damage, which is something to keep in mind. Additionally, the brakes need improvement as the Plaid model doesn't have the stopping power it needs, which I believe is a safety concern. It's important to note that this is a very heavy car. After a month of driving, I noticed a noisy squeak when braking and reversing, which was concerning. The app for service even has an option for squeaky noises. Furthermore, the interior and body of the car started to make little noises while driving that I haven't experienced in cars at this price point. In summary, the Tesla S Plaid has the acceleration of a $150k car, a great infotainment system, but the bodywork of a $20k car and not the right brakes. The autonomy is decent though. It's a unique product that may not age well.
Hazel Green 2025-09-25
Vehicle year: 2022
I recently purchased a 2021 Tesla Model S for almost $120,000. Unfortunately, I have had some issues with the car such as the yoke wheel peeling off, plastic parts breaking, and doors getting jammed. Despite these issues, I have found it difficult to get in touch with customer service as there is no telephone number provided. However, I am hopeful that Tesla will address these concerns through their app. As a luxury car company, I expected better customer service, but I am confident that Tesla will work to improve their customer experience. While I regret leaving Mercedes for this car, I am hopeful that Tesla will learn from their mistakes and improve their product.
Mark Rogahn 2025-09-24
Vehicle year: 2023
In December 2020, I purchased a Tesla Model S long range to replace my old Lexus. I must say, it's the best car I've ever driven! The acceleration is faster than a Porsche, it handles curves better than a BMW, and the ride is smoother than a Lexus. Of course, the benefits of an all-electric car that can be charged at home are well known by now. However, I did encounter some issues after the initial excitement wore off and the reality of owning a car that cost nearly $90k set in. Firstly, the storage space is limited, and the cup holders are inconveniently placed. Secondly, the user interface of the massive screen is not well designed, especially for someone that needs reading glasses. Lastly, the autopilot feature is still in beta and not ready for city driving. Unfortunately, I did experience some problems with the car, and it took over 3 weeks to get an appointment with their service center. It was difficult to get anyone on the phone to even find out if my car was safe to drive. When I reached out to them to get an earlier appointment, I received a curt one-line reply that they were fully booked. It's disappointing that a premium car maker that charges $90k would treat their customers like this. Hopefully, Tesla will become more customer-centric in the future.
Allan Dietrich 2025-09-22
Vehicle year: 2023
I recently purchased a 2021 Tesla Model S for almost $120,000. Unfortunately, I have had some issues with the car such as the yoke wheel peeling off, plastic parts breaking, and doors getting jammed. Despite these issues, I have found it difficult to get in touch with customer service as there is no telephone number provided. However, I am hopeful that Tesla will address these concerns through their app. As a luxury car company, I expected better customer service, but I am confident that Tesla will work to improve their customer experience. While I regret leaving Mercedes for this car, I am hopeful that Tesla will learn from their mistakes and improve their product.