Avoid: 2018, 2017, 2016, 2015 (lowest Year Scores on complaints per year on the road, crash reports and recalls)
Best: 2012 · Best recent: 2020
12 model years of NHTSA owner complaints and recalls · How we grade
Across 15 model years, the Tesla Model S has 15,987 owner-filed NHTSA complaints and 153 recalls on record. The most-reported areas are suspension and electrical system. 2016 drew the most complaints (7,852), 2012 the fewest of the years on the road 3+ years (59).
Source: NHTSA complaints and recalls filed for Tesla Model S vehicles (US, public record). Typical used asking price $19,899–$42,587.
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.
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 2026 | 6 |
| 2025 | 6 |
| 2024 | 38 |
| 2023 | 120 |
| 2022 | 139 |
| 2021 | 179 |
| 2020 | 80 |
| 2019 | 160 |
| 2018 | 640 |
| 2017 | 2,653 |
| 2016 | 7,852 |
| 2015 | 3,230 |
| 2014 | 365 |
| 2013 | 460 |
| 2012 | 59 |
Highest: 2016 (7,852 complaints). Lowest: 2012 (59).
Sentiment is mixed and varies significantly by vehicle generation.
Multiple expensive failures per year out of warranty, including door handles, trunk latches, 12V battery systems, infotainment screens, and suspension components (control arms).
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.
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.
Significant annual repair expenses reported for vehicles outside the factory warranty period.
Cited as primary reasons for high failure rates in mandatory vehicle inspections (e.g., TÜV in Germany).
Owner insights cover all generations of the Model S. Individual model years are broken down above.
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