2023 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.

2023 Tesla Model s

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Common 2023 Tesla Model s problems

Based on the complaints from owners of the Tesla Model S 2023, several common problems have been reported:

  • Software Malfunctions:
    • Complaints have surfaced regarding software issues in the 2023 Model S, X, and Y vehicles, particularly related to malfunctioning backup cameras and rear-view camera display failures.
    • A surge of complaints highlighted concerns about safety due to unreliable driving functions caused by faulty software versions.
  • Suspension and Steering Problems:
    • Thousands of Tesla owners have experienced premature failures of suspension or steering parts, including issues with upper and lower control arms, fore and aft links, half shafts, and steering racks.
    • Tesla has been accused of blaming drivers for these failures, denying some problems, and seeking to shift repair costs to customers, despite internal knowledge of flawed parts and high failure rates.
  • Power Steering Outages:
    • Instances of sudden power-steering outages have been reported, leading to steering difficulties and safety concerns for drivers.
    • Some owners have described terrifying experiences where power-steering failures nearly caused accidents, emphasizing the critical nature of these malfunctions.
  • Safety Concerns and Recalls:
    • Tesla faced a significant recall of nearly 200,000 vehicles, including the 2023 Models S, X, and Y, due to safety issues related to self-driving technology and potential accidents caused by rear-view camera failures.
    • The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) highlighted the risks associated with these malfunctions, prompting Tesla to address the issues through software updates and recalls.

These reported problems with the Tesla Model S 2023 underscore various challenges faced by owners, ranging from service and reliability issues to critical safety concerns related to software malfunctions, suspension, and steering problems.

2023 Tesla Model s engine

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.

How long will the 2023 Tesla Model S battery last?

There should be between 300,000 and 500,000 miles of use out of a Model S's battery, or 1,500 battery cycles if you believe Tesla. That equates to an average lifespan of 22-37 years.

What is the common problem with Tesla cars?

Noises and Rattles

Some Tesla owners have reported hearing unusual noises or rattling sounds from the suspension system, especially when driving on rough roads. These noises may indicate a need for inspection and potential repairs.

What is the recall on the Tesla 2023?

Tesla has issued a voluntary recall on certain model year 2023 Model S, Model X and Model Y vehicles to inspect the pitch angle of the forward-facing cameras and where necessary, adjust the angle to specification.

2023 Tesla Model s complaints

The NHTSA has received 0 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2023 Tesla Model s.

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

2023 Tesla Model s recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 10 recalls for different components of the 2023 Tesla Model s.

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.
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.
2024-01-22
  • Manufacturer: Tesla, Inc.
  • Components: BACK OVER PREVENTION: SENSING SYSTEM: CAMERA
  • Summary: Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2023 Model S, X, and Y vehicles equipped with full self-driving computer 4.0 and running a software release version 2023.44.30 through 2023.44.30.6 or 2023.44.100. Software instability may prevent the rearview camera image from displaying.
  • Consequence: A rearview image that does not display while in reverse decreases the driver's visibility and increases the risk of a crash.
  • Remedy: Tesla has released an over-the-air (OTA) software update, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 22, 2024. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-24-00-002.
2023-12-19
  • Manufacturer: Tesla, Inc.
  • Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:DOORS:LATCH
  • Summary: Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2021-2023 Model S and X vehicles. The cabin doors can be unlocked during a crash. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 214, "Side Impact Protection."
  • Consequence: An unlocked door may unlatch and open during a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
  • Remedy: Tesla has released an over-the-air (OTA) software update, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed February 17, 2024. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-23-00-009.
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.
2023-11-03
  • Manufacturer: Tesla, Inc.
  • Components: STEERING: STEERING WHEEL/HANDLE BAR
  • Summary: Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2021-2023 Model S and Model X vehicles. An incorrect air bag may have been installed when the steering yoke or round steering wheel was replaced with a different style of yoke or steering wheel.
  • Consequence: An air bag that is not designed to function with the replacement steering yoke or wheel may deploy incorrectly, increasing the risk of injury during a crash.
  • Remedy: Tesla Service will inspect and replace the driver air bag as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 2, 2024. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-23-20-005.
2023-07-14
  • Manufacturer: Tesla, Inc.
  • Components: FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: SENSING SYSTEM: CAMERA
  • Summary: Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2023 Model S, Model X, and Model Y vehicles. The forward-facing camera may be misaligned, causing some of the active safety features such as emergency braking, forward collision warning, and lane assist to become unavailable without alerting the driver.
  • Consequence: Safety features that are unavailable without any warning to the driver may increase the risk of a crash.
  • Remedy: Tesla Service will inspect and adjust the pitch angle, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 12, 2023. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-23-17-006.
2023-07-14
  • Manufacturer: Tesla, Inc.
  • Components: SEAT BELTS:FRONT
  • Summary: Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2021-2023 Model S and Model X vehicles. The front-row seat belts may not be connected properly to the pretensioner anchors, which can cause the seat belts to detach.
  • Consequence: A detached seat belt may not properly restrain an occupant during a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
  • Remedy: Tesla Service will inspect the front-row seat belts and connect the seat belts to pretensioner anchors, or replace the seat belt assemblies, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 12, 2023. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-23-20-004.
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.

Negative 2023 Tesla Model s car reviews

  1. Tyrel Stracke 2025-01-05

    The design of this car is amazing! I really enjoy using the auto pilot on the highway, although it can be a bit annoying having to jiggle the steering wheel (yoke) to let the car know you're still there. Unfortunately, the build quality is not up to par. There are panel gaps all over the place and even though they have a tool to fix it, they only rehung my door and left the rest crooked. This is unacceptable for the price. The crooked panels cause a loud whistling sound at higher speeds, which they initially refused to fix. After 14 service visits and 5 weeks out of service in the first 3 months of ownership, they finally found the problem: a missing roof seal. However, they had to replace the roof twice and now it rattles and squeaks. They gave up on fixing it and said it wasn't a warranty issue for a brand new car. I also had 2 parking sensors fail. Despite all of this, I was still excited when I finally got my car. The technology is quite impressive, but the build quality and service were abysmal. As a side issue, the range isn't quite what they say it is, more like 300 miles on a long range with 19-in wheels. That being said, it's still enough for me. I did notice that sentry mode uses about 10% of the battery while parked at work.I am one of the people who paid for full self-drive, but currently, the only benefit I get is that it changes lanes for me on the highway. It's like a very good cruise control, but not quite what was promised. Despite this, I must say that the engineering is impressive, although the build quality leaves something to be desired.

  2. Shawn Kilback 2024-11-22

    It's important to do your research before purchasing a new car from Tesla. Unfortunately, this customer had a negative experience with their 2023 Tesla Model S, encountering issues with the GPS and Camera software, car computer, Premium Software package, roof rack installation, door seal, and window. They are currently seeking resolution through Lemon Laws. We understand that this can be frustrating and hope that Tesla can address these concerns in a timely and satisfactory manner.

  3. Winston Spinka 2024-11-02

    Cons: The car was delivered brand new with a faulty front cruise sensor after waiting in line for 6 months, which rendered the cruise functions unusable with an error message. It took 8 phone calls to the call center to receive a phone call back from the service center, and 2 visits to the showroom were of zero help. The door vibrates from day 1, and the computer functions stop working without cause at least once a week, requiring a reset of the car. The headlight went out at 4 months, and the $2200 repair was claimed to be due to a collision, voiding the warranty, despite there being no collision or structural damage. It was likely damaged in transit, but Tesla refused to take responsibility. The Tesla chargers were out of stock for months, but you can pay an extra $300 for them on eBay because they sell them to non-owners. Service appointments commonly have 3-week waits, and updates occur frequently. The app to unlock/connect to the car only worked after continually deleting and reloading it on the phone. Pros: It's fast, and kids think it's cool. You don't have to stop at a gas station. This company's service continues to decline, and when buying a $150K+ vehicle (I have owned many), you expect far more than this. This trend will die or changes will be made.

  4. Casey Hansen 2024-08-21

    I prepaid for the self-driving package years in advance, but unfortunately, I only received a beta version. A few weeks later, I was involved in an accident and my Tesla caught fire, resulting in the car being totaled. Despite having previously purchased the self-driving software, I was surprised to learn that an additional $15,000 was required to access it again. I expressed my frustration to Tesla, but unfortunately, they were unable to transfer the software to my new vehicle. Although I was disappointed, I decided to purchase a new Model S. Shortly after delivery, I learned that Tesla was offering a transfer of self-driving software for those who purchased a Tesla this quarter. I wish the salesperson had informed me to wait just a few days. Despite this, I still feel that Tesla could have done more to accommodate returning customers. I am disappointed in the lack of appreciation for customer loyalty. Additionally, I found that the 405-mile range was actually closer to 250 miles and that the cars are prone to catching fire. My advice to others would be to avoid paying the $15,000 for self-driving software, as it is not covered by insurance and can be lost in the event of an accident. Overall, I am disappointed in my experience with Tesla and Elon.

  5. Miller Beer 2024-07-22

    I was disappointed with my experience with Tesla. Although I trusted them due to their reputation, I was unable to test drive the actual unit I was buying, which should have been a red flag. On delivery day, I noticed vibration in the steering column and the cruise control didn't work. Despite five service visits and about 90 days later, the issues persisted and Tesla ended up buying the car back. While I appreciate that they did what was right in the end, I have decided not to purchase another car from them.

Positive 2023 Tesla Model s car reviews

  1. Presley Roberts 2025-01-01

    The car itself is amazing, but there are some areas that need improvement. It seems that Tesla could benefit from improving their delivery process and service. Unfortunately, my Plaid broke down on the third day, and it took three days to get it towed due to my location. I was without a car for two weeks. When I spoke with the service representative, they mentioned that they have been having some issues with the new Plaid models. If you only have one car, I would recommend considering purchasing a backup car or SUV just in case.

  2. Brock Yundt 2024-11-16

    Wow, what can I say! An amazing car. It's very comfortable and really fast, but not too fast. The on-demand performance is great. The yolk took some adjustment, but now I can't go back. The software updates give you a new experience each time. The large screens work at a superior level. I highly recommend driving one before reviewing or even reading reviews!

  3. Derrick Yundt 2024-06-12

    I have the 23 model s. My 3rd Tesla. It's an incredible vehicle - the fastest, smoothest, and best handling car ever! However, I have had some issues with their service, which has been less than satisfactory. It seems like the corporate suits who run the service department don't quite understand how to service and sell vehicles. Despite this, the vehicle itself is truly amazing!

  4. Tremaine Renner 2024-06-01

    This car is extremely comfortable and luxurious. I have owned seven series and other classes in the past, but this car is just better as an overall package. The ride comfort, safety, and reliability are second to none, and the performance is impressive!

  5. Foster Shanahan 2024-05-23

    From the moment you get in, you'll feel like you've entered a spaceship. It's clear that the same mind that makes rocket ships and flies astronauts to the ISS also made this. And that's before you even hit the accelerator pedal. At that point, everything you see and feel is instantly behind you. It's truly the most exhilarating ride of your life, with a 0-60 in 1.9 seconds. If you take a ride and still think Edmunds has any idea what they're talking about, you might have a few screws loose.

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Additional sources

More sources of information about 2023 Tesla Model s problems:

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

New Model S build quality | Tesla Motors Club
New Model S build quality | Tesla Motors Club
https://teslamotorsclub.com/tmc/threads/new-model-s-build-quality.312425/

Sep 25, 2023 ... It also has issues with the air conditioning occasionally not working properly. Is this typical of newer generation Teslas? Screenshot 2023-09- ...

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

2015 Model S 85D - New Owner | Tesla Motors Club
2015 Model S 85D - New Owner | Tesla Motors Club
https://teslamotorsclub.com/tmc/threads/2015-model-s-85d-new-owner.303820/

Jun 6, 2023 ... I would hand-wavily say these are some of the more common problems that people have seen on the 2015 S85D. I'm not going to try to summarize ...

Other years of Tesla Model s

tesla model s 2012 photo
Model s 2012
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59

8

1

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tesla model s 2013 photo
Model s 2013
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437

11

18

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tesla model s 2014 photo
Model s 2014
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342

9

17

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tesla model s 2015 photo
Model s 2015
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0

9

15

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tesla model s 2016 photo
Model s 2016
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0

10

20

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tesla model s 2017 photo
Model s 2017
Tesla

0

9

12

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  • 1

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2023 Tesla Model s photo