The 2016 Tesla Model S has 2416 owner-filed NHTSA complaints and 0 recalls on record. The most-reported areas are suspension and electrical system. Owners most often flag 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).
Source: NHTSA complaints and recalls filed for 2016 Tesla Model S vehicles (US, public record).
Across the 7 Model S model years we track, complaint volume runs from 59 (2012) to 2,588 (2015). With 2,416 complaints, the 2016 Model S sits abovethe model's median of 364.
These are raw NHTSA complaint totals, not adjusted for how many cars sold or how long each model year has been on the road. Older and higher-selling years accumulate more complaints.
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,…
Owner insights cover all generations of the Model S. See the full Model S owner picture and every model year.
Used Model S listings typically run $16,795–$31,876 across 2012 to 2023 model years.
Compare every Model S year side by side to see how 2016 ranks against the rest.