Tesla Model s problems

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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.

photo of Tesla Model s car production

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Tesla Model s model years

tesla model s 2023 photo
Model s 2023
Tesla

0

10

25

2.1
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
tesla model s 2022 photo
Model s 2022
Tesla

107

17

29

2
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
tesla model s 2021 photo
Model s 2021
Tesla

147

21

26

2.1
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
tesla model s 2020 photo
Model s 2020
Tesla

0

11

27

2.4
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
tesla model s 2019 photo
Model s 2019
Tesla

0

10

37

2.5
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
tesla model s 2018 photo
Model s 2018
Tesla

0

11

43

2.7
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
tesla model s 2017 photo
Model s 2017
Tesla

0

9

21

2.4
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
tesla model s 2016 photo
Model s 2016
Tesla

0

10

31

2.8
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
tesla model s 2015 photo
Model s 2015
Tesla

0

9

22

3.1
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
tesla model s 2014 photo
Model s 2014
Tesla

342

9

28

2.8
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
tesla model s 2013 photo
Model s 2013
Tesla

437

11

25

3.3
  • 5
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  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
tesla model s 2012 photo
Model s 2012
Tesla

59

8

2

2.5
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  • 2
  • 1

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.

Tesla Model s

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

  1. Coleman Padberg 2025-07-27

    Vehicle year: 2021

    The Tesla Plaid is an impressive car filled with advanced technology. However, after owning it for a few months, I noticed that some of the 'cool' features, such as summon, are not as accurate as I expected. Additionally, the lack of Apple CarPlay or Android can be frustrating, and the steering wheel could be improved. Despite having the car for over a year, I still struggle to find the horn button during emergencies. The service center for Tesla could use some improvement, as it can be difficult to get in touch with someone. However, the car does have some great features, and it is undoubtedly the fastest car on the planet. Overall, while I may not purchase another Tesla vehicle, I appreciate the impressive technology and features that the Tesla Plaid has to offer.

  2. Floy Kuhic 2025-07-18

    Vehicle year: 2022

    After owning our Alfa Romeo Stelvio for a year, we decided to test drive a Tesla Model S performance vehicle. We were impressed with the Tesla's speed, which was even quicker than our Alfa. However, we did encounter some issues during the test drive. The seat did not raise high enough for my wife, who is only 5 ft tall, to comfortably drive the car. Additionally, the air conditioning did not perform adequately on a hot day. Despite these issues, we found the Tesla to be a quiet ride. While the dashboard may not be the most exciting, we appreciated the wealth of information available on the flat screen display. We did have some trouble finding what we were looking for at first, but we quickly got the hang of it. One issue we did encounter was that the passenger door required a bit of force to close properly. We understand that some people have had issues with Tesla's quality control, but we did not experience any major problems during our test drive. The ride was a bit hard and noisy on rough roads, but we still enjoyed the overall experience. It's worth noting that Tesla offers a 7-day return policy, although refunds may take some time to process. We encourage anyone considering a Tesla to do their research and make an informed decision.

  3. Jace Yost 2025-07-16

    Vehicle year: 2023

    At first glance, it may seem like a good option, but upon closer inspection, you may notice that the materials used are not of the highest quality and the assembly is not up to par. Additionally, the mileage may not be as advertised. It's probably best to consider other options.

  4. Kacey Bogan 2025-06-27

    Vehicle year: 2020

    It can be difficult to speak to a live individual when you have a concern with your Tesla vehicle. Additionally, charging stations have become increasingly busy since the release of the Model 3, resulting in wait times of over 20 minutes just to charge. I must admit, I am regretting my decision to purchase an S class Tesla.

  5. Laverne Oberbrunner 2025-06-16

    Vehicle year: 2013

    I am sorry to hear about the issues you have faced with your Tesla Model S. It must have been frustrating to experience a drop in battery life after only 43,000 miles. It is understandable that you were disappointed with the situation, especially considering the amount you paid for the car. It is unfortunate that the Tesla manager was unable to offer a solution that would have satisfied you. It is important to note that Tesla cars are known for their environmental impact, and the production of their batteries can have negative effects. I hope that you are able to find a car that meets your needs and expectations in the future.

Latest positive Tesla Model s car reviews

  1. Wayne Barton 2025-08-02

    Vehicle year: 2013

    I really enjoy driving cars with a bit of a kick, but I always found it frustrating to have to spend $70 on gas every week. Since I drive a lot, I'm not a fan of hybrids with CVTs. That's why I decided to take the plunge and get an all-electric performance car. Even though I usually prefer coupes to sedans, I went with the Model S since Tesla no longer made the Roadster. I'm thrilled with my decision! The service is top-notch, especially when compared to my wife's Lexus. If there's ever an issue, Tesla sends a valet to pick up my car, leaves me with a brand new loaner, fixes and washes it, and then brings it back to my house, all free of charge. The car is quite large, but it still gets almost double the efficiency of a Prius, even when I drive it as fast as I want. Charging it at home is also incredibly convenient compared to stopping for gas. The only downside for me is that it's slightly more prone to interior rattles than my previous vehicles. This could be because it doesn't make any engine noise, but overall it's still much quieter.

  2. Camren Spencer 2025-07-28

    Vehicle year: 2016

    I have a 2016 90D. I bought it used from Tesla through their certified pre-owned program, which allowed me to get my car for a 44% discount from the original price. The car had only 23,000 miles on it and came with a 4-year/50,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty, as well as lifetime supercharging! One of the main reasons I decided to buy a Tesla was because there is a Supercharger only 2 miles from my house, which has allowed me to save the equivalent of $300 a month in gasoline. I also own a 563 hp AMG SLS, but it sits in my garage because the Tesla is just so much fun to drive. If you see a Tesla on the road and you are merging onto an on-ramp or from zero, it's best to let them go first because they will pretty much leave you if you are not in the perfect gear. I had a spot on my screen, so Tesla sent a technician out to my house to replace it, which was a time saver and cost me nothing. Although I love my Tesla, I wouldn't have it as my only car. I think it's a great primary vehicle, but I would want a backup just in case. The fact that I just put solar on my house makes me feel even more socially responsible because I am using only 5% of the gas I used to use, saving hundreds of dollars monthly, and can charge the car with solar power. Now that used pricing is totally within the reach of most people and you can essentially get a used one for the price of a Honda Accord, these make a great case for going electric!

  3. Jimmy Lueilwitz 2025-07-14

    Vehicle year: 2023

    Love this car! I've owned both the 3P and the YP, and this one takes the cake. It's not even a fair apples-to-apples comparison. I've noticed some people on here complaining about the smallest things, but honestly, this car is my absolute favorite to drive. I've owned many cars, and this one is just a dream. The only thing I wish was different is the horn. Hitting that small button for the horn can be quite distracting, but that's about it.

  4. Henderson Reichert 2025-07-13

    Vehicle year: 2014

    I have a 2013 Model 85 with 17k miles on it. The drivetrain, power, and handling are great. While the interior is good, it may not be on par with German cars in terms of quality of materials and assembly, perhaps more like a Volvo. However, Tesla has been addressing issues such as squeaks, creaks, and leaks, which is reassuring. I did experience a whine in the drive unit, but it was promptly replaced, as were the sunroof seals when needed. The software can be hit and miss, feeling like a perpetual beta, but I have found that reading forums and blog comments can be helpful. While the service center may not be as helpful with software issues, version 4.x was okay and the next version fixed my garage opener issue. Although version 5.11 randomly rebooted, 5.12 seemed stable. The addition of a calendar in version 6.0 was a nice touch, but unfortunately, it doesn't sync with my iPhone 6. I ultimately decided to sell my Tesla at 30K and wait until the software stabilizes before considering another purchase. I don't feel like paying $100K to be a tester.

  5. Lavern Kuvalis 2025-07-12

    Vehicle year: 2020

    I'm 54 years old and I have to say, this is the best car I've ever owned! I'm completely spoiled now and can't imagine going back to a regular car. The technology in this car is constantly being updated, just like an iPhone, and it's always exciting to see what new features will be added. The best part? I've had this car for 18 months and it hasn't needed any servicing at all! Plus, not having to stop at gas stations is such a relief. I just charge the car in my garage and it's ready to go in just five or six hours. The stated mileage is spot on too - I get about 300 miles even when driving 10 miles above the speed limit. And if I need to charge up quickly, the super chargers are amazing - they can charge the car from almost empty to 336 miles in just an hour and 20 minutes. The only downside is that it's not the best car for long road trips, as it can be a bit of a hassle to line up super chargers. But for anything under 300 miles, it's perfect!

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