2020 Tesla Model x problems
The Tesla Model X is a battery electric mid-size luxury crossover SUV built by Tesla, Inc. since 2015. Developed from the full-sized sedan platform of the Tesla Model S, the vehicle notably uses falcon wing doors for passenger access.
The Model X has an EPA size class as an SUV, and shares around 30 percent of its content with the Model S, half of the originally planned 60 percent, and weighs about 10 percent more. Both the Model X and Model S are produced at the Tesla Factory in Fremont, California. The prototype was unveiled at Tesla's design studios in Hawthorne, California on February 9, 2012. First deliveries of the Model X began in September 2015. After one full year on the market, in 2016, the Model X ranked seventh among the world's best-selling plug-in cars. A refresh of the Tesla Model X was introduced in 2021, offering a new "Plaid" performance model, along with a revised interior, powertrain, and suspension.
As of September 2023, the Model X is available as a Long-Range version with an estimated EPA range of 348 miles (560 km) and a high performance "Plaid" version with an estimated EPA range of 333 miles (536 km).
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Common 2020 Tesla Model x problems
The Tesla Model X, despite being a popular luxury SUV, is not without its common problems. Here are some of the issues that owners have reported, based on complaints and reviews from various sources:
- MCU (Media Control Unit) Failure: The MCU is responsible for managing various functions in the Tesla Model X, including the stereo and temperature control. Some owners have reported issues with the MCU freezing or becoming unresponsive. Tesla may repair or upgrade the MCU under warranty, and updating the software can help prevent certain problems.
- Control Arm Issues: Control arm problems can affect the suspension system of the Model X, leading to issues with ride quality and handling. Regular maintenance and inspections can help catch these issues early. If your Model X is making strange noises or is difficult to drive, have a professional check the control arms.
- In-Car App Issues: Tesla's in-car applications are designed to provide convenience and enjoyment, but some owners have reported issues with crashes and improper loading. If the app problems persist after updating the firmware, try performing a soft reset. If the issues persist, contact Tesla's help desk.
- Problematic Safety Features: Autopilot and Full Self-Driving are two of Tesla's cutting-edge safety features, but some Model X drivers have reported issues with the autonomous emergency braking and lane-keeping functions. Always use the most recent software for your car, and if troubles remain, contact Tesla support.
- Battery Drain: Some Model X owners have reported issues with the battery draining too quickly, leading to the car falling short of the advertised range. This issue is further compounded by the fact that the car frequently falls short of the advertised range.
- Suspension, Forward Collision Avoidance, and Electrical System Issues: These are among the top complaints received by the NHTSA from vehicle owners.
- Vibrating Front Wheel Motors and AC Fan Issues: These are specific issues reported by some Model X owners, with one owner reporting a vibrating issue that has not been fixed after multiple repairs and 30,000 miles driven.
- Recalls: The 2020 Tesla Model X has been recalled 9 times by NHTSA, indicating a higher-than-average number of issues with the vehicle.
- Rattles and Squeaks: Some owners have reported issues with rattles and squeaks, which can be a sign of more significant issues with the vehicle's suspension or other components.
- Longevity and Mechanical Issues: Some owners have reported concerns about the longevity of the Model X and the potential for it to become a money pit after the warranty is up.
In summary, while the Tesla Model X is a popular and innovative luxury SUV, it is not without its common problems. These issues range from software glitches to mechanical issues and safety concerns. If you are considering purchasing a Model X, it is important to be aware of these issues and to keep up with regular maintenance and inspections to catch any potential problems early. If you do experience issues with your Model X, contact Tesla's support team for assistance.
What are the disadvantages of the Model X?
Power And Range Hampered By Battery And Charging Woes
Despite boasting impressive initial range and performance figures, concerns surrounding battery life, charging difficulties, and a stark contrast to the Model 3's capabilities have tarnished the Model X's reputation.
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.
Why did Tesla stop making Model X?
The Model S and Model X were removed from sale in December 2021, to enable the manufacturer to concentrate on the growing demand for its cheaper Model 3 and Model Y cars.
Are 2020 Teslas good?
Overview. Now in its fourth model year, the Tesla Model 3 manages to be efficient, luxurious and fun to drive. For those reasons and more, the Tesla Model 3 is Edmunds' top-rated Luxury Electric Vehicle for 2020.
2020 Tesla Model x complaints
The NHTSA has received 0 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2020 Tesla Model x.
You can leave your car complaint via the special form below.
2020 Tesla Model x recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 10 recalls for different components of the 2020 Tesla Model x.
- 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.
- Manufacturer: Tesla, Inc.
- Components: FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: WARNINGS:EXTERNAL/PEDESTRIAN ALERT
- Summary: Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2013, 2018-2021 Model S, 2020-2021 Model X, 2018-2022 Model 3, and 2020-2022 Model Y vehicles. A factory reset muted the Pedestrian Warning System (PWS) sounds. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 141, "Minimum Sound Requirements for Hybrid and Electric Vehicles."
- Consequence: Pedestrians may be unaware of an approaching vehicle if the PWS sounds are muted, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Tesla released an over-the-air (OTA) software update, release 2023.44.30.14, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 27, 2024. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-24-00-006.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Manufacturer: Tesla, Inc.
- Components: STEERING:ELECTRIC POWER ASSIST SYSTEM
- Summary: Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2017-2021 Model S and Model X vehicles. The electronic power assist steering (EPAS) system may experience a loss of power steering assist when driving on rough roads or after hitting a pothole.
- Consequence: A loss of power steering assist can require greater steering effort, especially at low speeds, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Tesla has released an over-the-air (OTA) software update to recalibrate the EPAS system, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 31, 2022. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-22-00-014.
- Manufacturer: Tesla, Inc.
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE
- Summary: Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Model Y, Model X, Model S, and 2017-2022 Model 3 vehicles. The Boombox function allows sounds to be played through an external speaker while the vehicle is in motion, which may obscure the Pedestrian Warning System (PWS) sounds. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 141, "Minimum Sound Requirements for Hybrid and Electric Vehicles."
- Consequence: Pedestrians may be unaware of an approaching vehicle if the PWS sounds are obscured, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Tesla will perform an over-the-air (OTA) software update that will disable the Boombox functionality when the vehicle is in Drive, Neutral and Reverse modes, including Summon and Smart Summon, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 6, 2022. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-22-00-003. Note: This recall supersedes recall 22V-063. Vehicles configured with Summon or Smart Summon and already remedied under 22V-063 will need to have the new remedy software installed.
- Manufacturer: Tesla, Inc.
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE
- Summary: Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Model S, Model X, Model Y, and 2017-2022 Model 3 vehicles. The Boombox function allows sounds to be played through an external speaker while the vehicle is in motion, which may obscure the Pedestrian Warning System (PWS) sounds. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 141, "Minimum Sound Requirements for Hybrid and Electric Vehicles."
- Consequence: Pedestrians may be unaware of an approaching vehicle if the PWS sounds are obscured, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Tesla will perform an over-the-air (OTA) software update that will disable the Boombox functionality when the vehicle is in Drive, Neutral and Reverse modes, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed April 5, 2022. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-22-00-003. Note: This recall has been superseded by Recall 22V-235. Tesla's number for the new recall is SB-22-00-003.
- 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.
- Manufacturer: Tesla, Inc.
- Components: FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: SENSING SYSTEM: CAMERA
- Summary: Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2017-2021 Model S, Model 3, Model X, and 2020-2021 Model Y vehicles operating software version 2021.36.5.2. A communication error may cause false forward-collision warning (FCW) or unexpected activation of the automatic emergency brake (AEB) system.
- Consequence: Unexpected activation of the AEB system may cause the car to stop suddenly, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Tesla Service has released an over-the-air (OTA) software update, free of charge. The recall began October 25, 2021. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-21-00-004.
Negative 2020 Tesla Model x car reviews
Positive 2020 Tesla Model x car reviews
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I've been driving my 2020 Model X Long Range Plus for about two months now and I'm absolutely loving it! With a full charge, I can go up to 351 miles which is just phenomenal! I highly recommend getting the 20in rims as they provide a softer, more luxurious ride and better range compared to the 22in wheels. It's the perfect car for long road trips and charging up is not as much of a burden as I initially thought it would be. Overall, I would definitely give The Tesla Model X a 5-star rating and recommend it to anyone looking for a great car!
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The Model X is incredibly spacious! In fact, we were able to comfortably fit two midsized dogs in boxes in the trunk, two teenagers in the back, and everyone's stuff for a winter vacation in the 5-seater. It's perfect for trips! The car has a fun and futuristic feel, and it's only slightly more expensive than the S. While some may find the falcon doors to be a bit unique, we personally love them. They're extremely practical compared to normal doors, and we've had no serious repairs over the 15 months we've owned it. Any minor issues, such as wind noise from a door or a dropped sensor, were fixed quickly and with a free loaner car to try. The only thing to note is that the paint may require a wrap if you're concerned about its longevity.
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We are thrilled to announce the arrival of our new 2020 Model X! Having owned BMW's and Cadillac's in the past, we can confidently say that we are excited about where the future is heading. The autonomous driving feature is a true game changer and we hope that Tesla will make this technology available to everyone to make our roads safer. There are so many things to love about this car, including its impressive acceleration, grounded weight distribution, and free supercharging for life (road trip, anyone?). All premium features, including towing, are now included at no extra cost. The real-world range holds up even in the cold once the battery thermalizes, and the infotainment system with luxury speaker surround is perfect for watching Netflix, Hulu, or YouTube while charging. Plus, constant updates and upgrades are provided at no additional cost. The front seats are also incredibly comfortable, making long drives a breeze. As for opportunities, we suggest adding a DC outlet in the vehicle, offering a 240V outlet (like the CyberTruck will have), updating the Model 3/Y with faster charging battery technology, and providing an
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I'm happy to share my review of this SUV after driving it for almost 1000 miles. Thanks to Tesla, we now know how amazing electric car technology can be. The instant acceleration is mind-blowing and the ride is smooth and quiet. The autopilot feature is outstanding and the motor is unbreakable. Plus, owning a Tesla means you don't have to deal with annoying car salesmen. One of the best things about owning a Tesla is that the car never feels old thanks to continuous over-the-air software updates, just like an iPhone. The range is impressive, but it's best suited for daily drives of less than 200 miles. If you need to drive further, you'll need to take some time to charge. The interior is simple yet full of useful technology, unlike many German cars that can be overly gadgety. The rear doors are a bit unusual, but kids love them. We had a great experience using the Supercharger network and it wasn't busy at Barstow. We were able to charge 150 miles in just 30 minutes and even got a free overnight charge at the hotel. After experiencing this new world of driving, it's hard to imagine going back to an Audi, BMW or MB. Thank you for considering my review!
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At first, I wasn't interested in this car. However, my spouse convinced me to buy an electric car and this one met our needs perfectly. While there are some unnecessary gadgets, I would have preferred better cup holders or interior lighting instead of more arcade games. Also, if you're not a people person, be prepared for everyone to speak to you when you have your falcon doors open. In terms of infrastructure, the industry does have multiple charging compatibility issues, but in the three years we've owned it, the amount of charges has increased dramatically. I've driven long trips across the Midwest and have never had any issues. Even at Lake Ozark, there is a supercharger at Target. The car is incredibly fast and safe, and has the best reliability of any car we've ever owned. Previously, I owned multiple MBs, which I thought were far sexier than my Tesla, but there is nothing sexy about constantly scheduling service appointments. I have had zero issues with my car after three years! I cannot believe how well this car does in the snow. It's amazing that via software upgrades, you get the benefit of increased range, new features, and of course, we just got full self-driving which is going well. Overall, I would tell you that this is a car I originally didn't want, but it has turned out to be an incredibly reliable, safe, and convenient car for our family that we will have for a very long time.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2020 Tesla Model x problems:
Is the model X really so unreliable? : r/TeslaModelX
Sep 7, 2023 ... Older Model X (2014-2020) had acceleration shudder issue from the front-drive unit half shafts vibrating during hard acceleration in normal ...
Considering buying a 2019/2020 X - concerned about “X issues ...
Nov 2, 2023 ... Discuss Tesla's Model S, Model 3, Model X, Model Y, Cybertruck, Roadster and More. Register.
New to Tesla, 2020 model x possible purchase : r/TeslaLounge
Jul 7, 2023 ... There's a "shudder" issue that shows up eventually in every Model X eventually. If you floor the car a lot, the front driveshafts may need to be ...
Model X - worthwhile or more trouble? | Tesla Motors Club
Oct 24, 2022 ... I've pointed out flaws on just about every Tesla here, with the majority of the issues being inconsistent panel gaps and alignment. If you have ...
Common Problems With Tesla Model X and Their Fixes | PimpMyEV
Oct 9, 2023 ... Concerns with battery life and charging: Battery depletion and improper charging have been cited as complaints by a subset of Model X owners.
Other years of Tesla Model x
Are you having problems with your 2020 Tesla Model x?
Blaze Hammes 2025-11-13
I leased my Model X two months ago and unfortunately, it started showing signs of needing service while I was driving home one day. When I called the service center, they tried to troubleshoot the issue over the phone, but the representative was unable to figure out the problem and asked me to bring the car in. The closest service center to me is in Syosset, NY. The next morning, when I planned to take the car in, I tried calling ahead to let them know I was coming and to see if they had a loaner car available. Unfortunately, I was unable to get through to anyone and the automated system kept sending me in circles. The service center encourages customers to make appointments through the Tesla app, but I had already made an appointment for a Bluetooth repair a few days prior and the app does not allow for multiple appointments. After spending an hour trying to get through to someone at the Syosset service center, I decided to drive there without an appointment. Unfortunately, when I got to the car, I realized it wouldn't turn on. I called the emergency road service and they sent someone to tow my car to the service center. The service center was quite busy, but the staff was friendly and helpful. They informed me that my car would need to stay for a few days for diagnostics and that they did not have a loaner car available. However, they did provide me with a $300 Uber voucher and assured me that they would stay in touch via text. As a physician who travels to different locations throughout the day, I was concerned about relying solely on Uber. I asked if there was an option for a rental car, but unfortunately, there was not. Despite this setback, I was able to make arrangements to use my son's car and he used Uber for his job. After two days, I received a text from the service representative informing me that my car would need more time. Although this was disappointing, I appreciated the friendly and helpful service I received from the staff at the Syosset service center.The rear drive unit needs to be replaced, so we will have to order it. I have sent you another Uber voucher for $500. The last text I received from them was on 08/09, and since then, the Uber voucher got canceled without any notification. I texted them, but there has been no response. I gave them the car on 08/06/20, and today is 08/14/20. We need a dependable car, especially since sometimes I have to run to the ER in the middle of the night. I have always leased cars because we can't afford to wake up and find the car having problems. I never spent more than an hour in Lexus, BMW, or Audi service stations. There was always someone who would talk to you and keep things ready for you before you arrived. Do we really have time for this? What if you don't have another car? Can you take Uber to go around? If you can, then yes, take this expensive car and ride Uber. However, if the car breaks down during a long drive, it could be a problem. Tesla cars have a hit or miss system when it comes to service. Some have no problem and are happy with it, but should we get this car depending on luck? Two of my friends who were excited to get this car after I did are thinking again, and I doubt they will buy this car. Even after hearing all this, if you still decide to get one, don't forget to pray every day that the car doesn't give any problems. I called their salesperson, and he is going to look into what's happening and get back to me because he is the only person I could get hold of to talk to. Overall, we need a dependable car, and Tesla needs to invest in their service to make it more reliable.
Morris Kassulke 2025-10-07
The issue with the new $98k Model X was reported through the Tesla app, and despite multiple follow-up service calls over a period of three months, the vibration issue remains unresolved. The matter is currently being addressed by legal representatives.
Haskell Swift 2025-09-17
I bought this car for my wife as a special gift, but it was quite an investment at $125K. Unfortunately, we experienced some issues with the doors closing unexpectedly and the garage door closing on the car as we pulled in. The wing doors also rubbed against the panels, causing some paint to chip. Additionally, we had some trouble with the cruise control and auto drive, which caused some unexpected braking. After 20,000 miles, we decided to trade it in and purchased a new Audi Q7, which we find to be of much higher quality and more convenient.
Jaylon Hyatt 2025-06-09
Here is my list after 3 months of having the Model X. Unfortunately, we have experienced some issues with the car. It came with two broken wheel well plastic frames, and the middle seats malfunctioned and had to be replaced. Additionally, the screen malfunctioned and a chip had to be replaced. Since we got it back from that service, the seats no longer respond to preset settings for each driver, and the passenger seatbelt tightens no matter the situation and does not release, only keeps getting tighter to the point you are pinned to the seat. Smart summons has only worked well 2 times, and the rubber around the window bent and creased. The rubber also looks unfinished on both front doors. The driver side window rolls up and down very slowly and rubs the window on the way up, which you can notice on the window where it's rubbing. I have to manually connect my phone each time I get in because it no longer does it automatically, even though it's set to priority phone. Regenerative braking works whenever it wants to, never consistent. We paid an extra $10,000 for the self-driving premium package, Full Self-Driving Capability. Unfortunately, every time we have used it, it nearly crashed and definitely would if our hands were not on the wheel. It doesn't gradually lose control; it's a jerk reaction. Each time we have tried it, it jerked toward the divider on the highway. It speeds up when going to an off-ramp for an exit, and when the highway has turns or curves, it doesn't recognize to slow down. The back truck closed on me, and the doors don't respond if a child is under it; only in front of it. Additionally, the middle seats do not recline enough to feel like you are laying back, and the front console cannot fit two coffee cups next to each other. We are currently looking into a refund. We apologize for any inconvenience this may have caused.
Emmanuel Littel 2025-05-24
Hey there! If you're considering purchasing a Tesla X, I wanted to share my personal experience with their customer service. In my opinion, there are some areas where they could improve. However, I understand that everyone's experience may differ. If you're interested, I'd be happy to chat more about it and share some other options that might be worth considering. Thanks for reading!