2017 Tesla Model S: common problems and reliability
The 2017 Tesla Model S has 1516 owner-filed NHTSA complaints and 0 recalls on record. The most-reported areas are electrical system and suspension. 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).
Safety record for the 2017 model year
1,516
Owner complaints
0
Recalls
184
Crash reports
16
Fire reports
Source: NHTSA complaints and recalls filed for 2017 Tesla Model S vehicles (US, public record).
Where owners report problems
electrical system
416
suspension
416
steering
168
forward collision avoidance
164
vehicle speed control
132
What owners say across generations
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.
Typical used price
Used Model S listings typically run $16,795–$31,876 across 2012 to 2023 model years.