Tesla Model S reliability: common problems by model year
Across 7 model years, the Tesla Model S has 7,245 owner-filed NHTSA complaints and 41 recalls on record. The most-reported areas are electrical system and suspension. 2015 drew the most complaints (2,588), 2012 the fewest (59).
7
Model years tracked
7,245
Owner complaints
41
Recalls
364
Median per year
Source: NHTSA complaints and recalls filed for Tesla Model S vehicles (US, public record). Typical used asking price $16,795–$31,876.
Which Model S years have the most problems?
Complaint volume by model year. Raw NHTSA totals, not adjusted for sales volume or time on the road, so older and higher-selling years accumulate more. Every year links to its full breakdown.
Sentiment is mixed and varies significantly by vehicle generation. Long-term owners of older models (specifically pre-2021, with mentions of a 2015 model) report severe dissatisfaction with long-term reliability and ownership costs, describing the vehicle as p
Poor long-term reliability (older models): Multiple expensive failures per year out of warranty, including door handles, trunk latches, 12V battery systems, infotainment screens, and suspension components (control arms). Frequency: very frequent (for older models).
Full Self-Driving (FSD) / Autopilot system flaws: Phantom braking, unreliable object detection due to cameras-only sensor suite, hard braking for shadows, erratic lane changes, and general inability to be trusted without constant supervision. Frequency: very frequent.
Subpar build quality and interior materials: Described as "low build quality," lacking the refinement, comfort, and quietness expected in the luxury segment. Interior criticized for minimalist design choices that compromise functionality and luxury feel. Frequency: recurrent.
High ownership costs out of warranty: Significant annual repair expenses reported for vehicles outside the factory warranty period. Frequency: recurrent (for older models).
Suspension and brake failures: Cited as primary reasons for high failure rates in mandatory vehicle inspections (e.g., TÜV in Germany). Frequency: recurrent.
Owner insights cover all generations of the Model S. Individual model years are broken down above.