2016 Tesla Model s problems

General information about Tesla-Model s
Overview of popular issues
Recalls list
Negative car reviews
Positive car reviews

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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Common 2016 Tesla Model s problems

Based on the complaints from owners of the Tesla Model S 2016, several common problems have been reported. Here is a detailed list of these issues:

Body Hardware Problems:
- Complaints include issues with windows, locks, latches, doors, tailgate, trunk, mirrors, seat controls, seat belts, sunroof, and convertible top.
- Specific complaints involve door poppers not reliably working, driver door handle breaking, trunk latch failure, driver seat malfunction, and rear hatch not opening or closing properly.
Electrical Accessories Issues:
- Owners have reported problems with electrical components such as the power steering motor, charging port, and exterior lights.
- Complaints include loss of power steering due to corroded bolts, charging port malfunctions leading to overheating, and issues with exterior lights.
Climate System Concerns:
- Complaints regarding the climate control system have been noted.
- Specific issues may involve problems with the heating and cooling functions of the car.
In-car Electronics Troubles:
- Owners have reported issues with the in-car electronics, including the touchscreen display.
- Complaints may include malfunctions in the vehicle display screen and other electronic components.
Steering and Suspension Problems:
- Complaints have been raised about steering and suspension issues.
- Specific concerns may involve issues with the steering rack, parking brake calipers, and suspension failure.
Drive System Challenges:
- Problems with the drive system have been highlighted by owners.
- Issues such as faulty electric motors, warped brake discs, and suspension control arm failures have been reported.
Brake Difficulties:
- Complaints regarding the brakes have been mentioned.
- Specific issues may include problems with the brake actuator and brake-related malfunctions.

These common problems reported by owners of the Tesla Model S 2016 highlight various areas of concern, ranging from body hardware issues to electrical and mechanical components. Addressing these issues promptly and effectively is crucial to maintaining the performance and reliability of the vehicle.

How long does a 2016 Tesla Model S last?

As a driver, you can expect 300,000-500,000 miles out of the Tesla Model S. Based on this range, we can safely assume that the high mileage for the car is 300,000 miles.

Is Tesla S model reliable?

We expect the 2024 Model S will be less reliable than the average new car.

What's the most common problem with Tesla?

The Most Common Breakdowns in Teslas

Battery and Charging Related Issues. One of the key components in any Tesla vehicle is its high-capacity battery pack. ...
Software and Firmware Glitches. ...
Suspension and Air Suspension System. ...
Door Handle and Window Failures.

What are the disadvantages of Tesla Model S?

Cons: Charging your car at home results in an electricity bill that is not as cheap as I had anticipated. The registration costs are over $1,000, significantly higher compared to the $200 registration fee for my previous car. The car insurance costs considerably more as well.

2016 Tesla Model s complaints

The NHTSA has received 0 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2016 Tesla Model s.

You can leave your car complaint via the special form below.

2016 Tesla Model s recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 10 recalls for different components of the 2016 Tesla Model s.

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.

2024-01-30

Manufacturer: Tesla, Inc.
Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: INSTRUMENT CLUSTER/PANEL
Summary: Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2012-2023 Model S, 2016-2024 Model X, 2017-2023 Model 3, 2019-2024 Model Y, and 2024 Cybertruck vehicles. An incorrect font size is displayed on the instrument panel for the Brake, Park, and Antilock Brake System (ABS) warning lights. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 105, "Hydraulic and Electric Brake Systems" and 135, "Light Vehicle Brake Systems."
Consequence: Warning lights with a smaller font size can make critical safety information on the instrument panel difficult to read, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Tesla began releasing an over-the-air (OTA) software update, free of charge. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-24-00-003.

2023-12-12

Manufacturer: Tesla, Inc.
Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:ADAS:AUTONOMOUS/SELF DRIVING:SOFTWARE
Summary: Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling 2012-2023 Model S, 2016-2023 Model X, 2017-2023 Model 3, and 2020-2023 Model Y vehicles equipped with all versions of Autosteer leading up to the version(s) that contains the recall remedy. In certain circumstances when Autosteer is engaged, the prominence and scope of the feature's controls may not be sufficient to prevent driver misuse of the SAE Level 2 advanced driver-assistance feature.
Consequence: In certain circumstances when Autosteer is engaged, and the driver does not maintain responsibility for vehicle operation and is unprepared to intervene as necessary or fails to recognize when Autosteer is canceled or not engaged, there may be an increased risk of a crash.
Remedy: Tesla will release an over-the-air (OTA) software update, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed February 10, 2024. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-23-00-008.

2023-02-15

Manufacturer: Tesla, Inc.
Components: STEERING:AUTOMATED/ADAPTIVE STEERING
Summary: Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2016-2023 Model S, Model X, 2017-2023 Model 3, and 2020-2023 Model Y vehicles equipped with Full Self-Driving Beta (FSD Beta) software or pending installation. The FSD Beta system may allow the vehicle to act unsafe around intersections, such as traveling straight through an intersection while in a turn-only lane, entering a stop sign-controlled intersection without coming to a complete stop, or proceeding into an intersection during a steady yellow traffic signal without due caution. In addition, the system may respond insufficiently to changes in posted speed limits or not adequately account for the driver's adjustment of the vehicle's speed to exceed posted speed limits.
Consequence: FSD Beta software that allows a vehicle to exceed speed limits or travel through intersections in an unlawful or unpredictable manner increases the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Tesla will release an over-the-air (OTA) software update, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 15, 2023. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-23-00-001.

2022-01-27

Manufacturer: Tesla, Inc.
Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:ADAS:AUTONOMOUS/SELF DRIVING:SOFTWARE
Summary: Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2016-2022 Model S and Model X, 2017-2022 Model 3, and 2020-2022 Model Y vehicles. The "rolling stop" functionality available as part of the Full Self-Driving (Beta) software may allow the vehicle to travel through an all-way stop intersection without first coming to a stop.
Consequence: Failing to stop at a stop sign can increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Tesla will perform an over-the-air (OTA) software update that disables the "rolling stop" functionality, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 28, 2022. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-22-00-001.

2021-12-21

Manufacturer: Tesla, Inc.
Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:HOOD:LATCH
Summary: Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2014-2021 Model S vehicles. The front trunk latch assembly may be misaligned, preventing the secondary hood latch from engaging. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 113, "Hood Latch System."
Consequence: If the primary latch is inadvertently released and the secondary latch is not engaged, the hood could open unexpectedly, obstructing the driver's view and increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Tesla Service will inspect and reposition the latch assembly as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed February 18, 2022. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-21-11-003.

2021-01-29

Manufacturer: Tesla, Inc.
Components: BACK OVER PREVENTION:SOFTWARE
Summary: Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2012-2018 Tesla Model S and 2016-2018 Model X vehicles with a center display equipped with a NVIDIA Tegra 3 processor and an 8GB eMMC NAND flash memory device. When the 8GB eMMC NAND flash memory device for the center display reaches lifetime wear, the eMMC controller will no longer be able to maintain the integrity of the filesystem, causing a failure in some of the center display functions.
Consequence: The eMMC controller wear-out condition can cause the loss of the rearview camera display, defrost/defog control settings, and exterior turn signal lighting, reducing visibility and increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Owners should ensure their vehicles are operating firmware release 2020.48.48.12 or newer, which will alert owners if the eMMC is approaching lifetime wear. Tesla will notify owners, and will replace the VCM daughterboard with one containing an enhanced eMMC controller, free of charge. The recall began March 29, 2021. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-21-21-001.

2019-01-07

Manufacturer: Tesla, Inc.
Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
Summary: Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling all 2014-2016 Model S vehicles equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger frontal air bag, these inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
Consequence: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Remedy: Tesla will notify owners, and Tesla Service Centers will replace the passenger frontal air bag modules, free of charge. The recall began May 29, 2019. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-19-20-001.

2018-03-29

Manufacturer: Tesla, Inc.
Components: STEERING:ELECTRIC POWER ASSIST SYSTEM
Summary: Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2012-2016 Tesla Model S vehicles equipped with Bosch steering racks. The aluminum bolts that attach the power steering gear assist motor to the gear housing may corrode and fracture causing a reduction or complete loss of power steering assist.
Consequence: Loss of power steering assist would require a higher steering effort, especially at lower speeds, which may increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Tesla will notify owners, and Tesla Service Centers will replace the steering gear mounting bolts and add a corrosion-preventative sealer, free of charge. The recall began May 7, 2019. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-18-32-002.

2017-04-19

Manufacturer: Tesla Motors, Inc.
Components: PARKING BRAKE
Summary: Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2016 Model S and Model X vehicles. The electric parking brake calipers have an internal gear that may be improperly manufactured, possibly resulting in the gear fracturing during parking brake application or release.
Consequence: If the gear breaks during parking brake release, the vehicle will not be able to be moved. If the gear breaks during parking brake application, the parking brake may not adequately hold the vehicle, potentially resulting in the vehicle rolling, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Tesla will notify owners, and service centers will replace both the left and right electric parking brake calipers, free of charge. The recall began March 6, 2018. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-17-33-002.

Negative 2016 Tesla Model s car reviews

Jamel Rowe 2025-04-11

In May 2016, I was thrilled to purchase my new Tesla Model S and be a part of the movement towards sustainable energy. I even convinced two of my kids to pre-order the Model 3. Unfortunately, I hit a truck tire tread on the freeway, causing significant damage to the bumper and undercarriage. My car has been at Kniesl's Repair Shop, a Tesla-authorized repair shop in Roseville, CA, for six weeks now, waiting for repair parts. I understand that Kniesl's has three other Teslas in similar condition awaiting parts for up to three months. I reached out to Tesla using the form on their website four weeks ago, but I have not received a response yet. As a Tesla owner, I am disappointed that the repair parts are taking so long to arrive, and I hope that Tesla can improve their post-sales customer service. Have you ever experienced a similar situation with your car? Let's hope that Tesla can resolve this issue soon and continue to lead the way in sustainable energy.
Demond Ferry 2025-04-06

I really enjoyed watching the videos on the Tesla website and was excited to try out the self-driving feature during my test drive. However, I did have a few concerns during the drive. The car kept crossing over the double yellow line and another car honked at me, which was a bit scary. Additionally, the self-driving feature was limited to 35mph on back roads, so it wasn't quite ready for point A to B self-driving yet. Despite these issues, I still found the AP technology impressive, even though it's still in beta mode. The self-park feature didn't work perfectly, but the dealer was able to assist me. It's worth noting that the car requires data, which is free for the first 4 years but then requires payment. Overall, while I wasn't blown away by the experience, I still found it to be a polished and advanced version of what my $30k Forester can do.
Favian Harber 2025-02-05

This car is truly amazing, with minimal moving parts that require service. However, if you ever need service, the experience can be frustrating and disappointing. Occasionally, I have received alerts of 'service required - car may not restart.' But don't worry, you can easily set up an appointment with your local service center. Just keep in mind that you'll need to use the app to do so. If you call the phone number, you'll be directed to use the app, but don't worry, it's easy to use. Even if you have a 'your car may not restart' message, you'll be placed in line for a service appointment. In my most recent experience, I had to wait for 3 weeks, but it was worth it. Last year, I had a critical message telling me to seek service immediately. I did some forum searches and found a different number to call. I was warned that I would be on hold for a while, but it was only 1 hour and 35 minutes before a service rep picked up. He logged in, saw that I had a critical issue, and got me in the next morning. Although the wait can be long, the service is worth it. I highly recommend Tesla to my friends, family, and anyone who asks. My current Tesla won't be my last.
Jairo Von 2024-10-03

Hello! I recently became a Tesla 3 owner and while the driving experience was great, I unfortunately had a flat tire while driving on the freeway. It cost me $250 just to get the car off the freeway since there was no spare tire. I found that roadside assistance was not as readily available as I had hoped and it may take a few days to get to you. While it's a good idea, I don't think it's the most practical car for those of us with daily commutes!
Stephen Labadie 2024-04-28

The car drives smoothly and quietly, which is a great feature for an electric car. However, it is important to note that the battery may deplete faster if super-charged often. As an electric engineer, I have found that the batteries are not the best and may see a reduction in range by year 8 for those who super-charge often. Despite this, I appreciate the fact that it is electric and helps reduce our dependence on imported oil. I initially bought the Tesla because I owned Tesla stocks, but later sold it due to poor service experiences. While the car may have some misalignment of body panels and missing paint, it is still a decent car to consider. It is worth noting that there are now more electric cars to choose from in the market. Thank you for considering Tesla as an option.

Positive 2016 Tesla Model s car reviews

Shane Schneider 2025-04-22

Electric cars are definitely here to stay! They offer amazing range, acceleration, and handling. While the price tag may be hefty, the actual cost during ownership is small in comparison to non-electric cars because of little to no maintenance required. The autopilot feature is a game changer for folks who drive daily in traffic, taking the stress out of driving while being stuck for hours in traffic. Your right foot will be bored and your blood pressure will drop! That alone is worth the entry price for these cars! However, it's important to note that body shop work may take longer due to slow ground transport from a warehouse far away. Tesla customer service could use some improvement, but the product is exceptional. For Texas residents, there is an additional charge for the right to fully pay for your car before shipping, and delivery may take up to 10 days. Despite these minor inconveniences, owning a Tesla is definitely worth it!
Alec Kihn 2025-04-19

At 39000 miles, everything from my original review still holds true. This is the best car I've ever owned, driven, or been a passenger in. It outperforms any exotic car on the road for a fraction of the price and does it without making noise or burning fossil fuel. I have the first version of Auto Pilot (AP1), and it's a technological marvel. Thanks to OTA (over the air) updates, my Tesla is now a better and more advanced car than when I purchased it over a year ago. The only downside is that it will ruin every other car on the road for you. You'll no longer look at a Ferrari, Bentley, Maserati, Rolls Royce, etc. the same way because the Tesla absolutely blows them all away. Note: I just completed a 5000-mile road trip using AP1 99% of the time, and it was so awesome!
Noah Turcotte 2025-03-23

I recently switched from a Ford Fusion Energi to the Tesla Model S P90D and it has been an absolute thrill! Even after two years, the excitement of driving this car hasn't worn off. As my family grows, I'm already planning to upgrade to the Model X. The car is lightning fast, incredibly fun to drive, and provides a great experience every day. I've been blown away by Tesla's exceptional service - they've taken care of so much without even charging me for it. Any minor glitches that have come up over time were fixed quickly. I highly recommend this car to anyone who can afford it and wants to enjoy a noise-free, low-maintenance driving experience. The only real maintenance required is windshield wipers, tire rotation, alignment (if you're clumsy), and possibly brakes.
Rocky Bogisich 2025-02-11

Super quiet, handles like a dream, extremely safe, beautiful, and loaded with sweet electronics and features. It's also roomy and capacious, and requires almost no maintenance. Plus, it's crazy fast and has NO EMISSIONS! It's so nice to never have to stand at the gas station in the rain, in the snow, in a line, inhaling fumes. Just plug it in at home and go to sleep. I've had a lot of nice cars, but this is the best BY FAR.
Quincy Thompson 2025-01-17

After borrowing my wife's P85 for 3 years, I really wanted to get the latest model, but she wouldn't trade hers for the world. So, I broke down and gave up my beloved F355 and my BMW convertibles for the Model S. I must say, the car is amazing! It keeps all the great aspects of our super reliable P85 while adding the surprisingly helpful all-wheel drive, which is even useful in Florida. My first impression was the next-generation leather seats that feel as good as the Ferrari and are an improvement on the 2013 P85. The second is the new premium interior. Although the stock Model S is nice, the premium interior adds to the already beautiful cabin. The third has been the performance. The car with all-wheel drive has amazing acceleration and stunning efficiency. The number of miles per charge is much improved on an already very good number. With the supercharger network here in Florida, I can't even imagine range ever being a problem. I love this car, although I admit I miss my Ferrari a little.

Additional sources

More sources of information about 2016 Tesla Model s problems:

What are some common Tesla Model S problems and how much do ...

https://www.quora.com/What-are-some-common-Tesla-Model-S-problems-and-how-much-do-they-cost-to-fix

May 22, 2023 ... The most common Tesla problem is running out of windshield washer fluid. A gallon costs about $5, and a fill is about a quart, so $1.25. The ...

Considering a 2016 Model S 75D - Anything Missing? | Tesla Motors ...

https://teslamotorsclub.com/tmc/threads/considering-a-2016-model-s-75d-anything-missing.277955/

Aug 24, 2022 ... I'm looking to purchase a 2016 Model S 75D from Carvana after deciding against the MX last night. What are some issues an "older" car may ...

If I were to buy a ten-year-old Tesla Model S, would I be jumping into ...

https://www.quora.com/If-I-were-to-buy-a-ten-year-old-Tesla-Model-S-would-I-be-jumping-into-a-cesspool-of-problems-Would-it-be-in-need-of-a-new-battery-shortly-in-the-future

Jul 8, 2023 ... It depends on the current condition of the car. The older Model S has well known battery issues, and Tesla knew about them while they were ...

2016 Model S Issues | Tesla Owners Online Forum

https://www.teslaownersonline.com/threads/2016-model-s-issues.28854/

May 14, 2023 ... 80% of 250 is 200 miles. With that range, you have no problems going coast to coast. Oh, and it's a Gen 2 (2nd Generation) mobile connector.