What are the most common Tesla Model S problems?
According to Au7o's research across NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports, the 2021 Tesla Model S has 5 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: 12V Auxiliary Battery / DC-DC Converter Failure Cascade, First-Row Seat Belt Not Connected to Pretensioner Anchor (Recall 23V488), Charge Port Door / Latch Actuator Failure. Of these, 2 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.
Is the Tesla Model S reliable?
The 2021 Tesla Model S has 5 known issues compiled from NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports. 2 issues are rated critical: 12V Auxiliary Battery / DC-DC Converter Failure Cascade and First-Row Seat Belt Not Connected to Pretensioner Anchor (Recall 23V488). Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.
How much does it cost to fix common Tesla Model S problems?
Repair costs for known Tesla Model S issues range from $0 to $1,800, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, 12V Auxiliary Battery / DC-DC Converter Failure Cascade, typically costs $220-$1,800 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.
What is the 2012-2021 Tesla Model S 12V Auxiliary Battery / DC-DC Converter Failure Cascade?
The low-voltage 12V lead-acid battery on early-to-mid Model S (concentrated in 2015-2018 build years) fails prematurely due to a poor original vendor cell plus constant vampire-load strain from always-on electronics. Roughly a third of Tesla NHTSA low-voltage complaints trace her… Repairs typically run $220-$1,800. Severity: high.
What is the 2021-2023 Tesla Model S First-Row Seat Belt Not Connected to Pretensioner Anchor (Recall 23V488)?
Tesla issued a safety recall (NHTSA campaign 23V488, Tesla SB-23-20-004) on model-year 2021-2023 Model S and Model X because a first-row seat belt may not have been properly reconnected to its pretensioner anchor after a prior service step. If the belt is not secured to its ancho… Repairs typically run $0-$0. Severity: high.
What is the 2012-2021 Tesla Model S Charge Port Door / Latch Actuator Failure?
The charge port door fails to open on command, or the internal latch fails to lock/release the charge cable. The actuator motor stops engaging the latch mechanism, or the electrical command isn't fulfilled, so the door won't 'push-to-open,' won't close, or the connector locks/unl… Repairs typically run $150-$700. Severity: medium.
What is the 2013-2021 Tesla Model S Electronic Parking Brake Caliper Seizure (EPB Motor Failure)?
The rear integrated electronic parking brake (EPB) calipers seize or the caliper actuator motor fails, throwing 'EPB_w053 - Parking brake did not release' or 'EPB_w052 - Parking brake functions degraded.' The caliper shaft can seize (often from moisture/corrosion in cars driven l… Repairs typically run $350-$1,600. Severity: medium.
What is the 2021-2024 Tesla Model S Model S/X Refresh Yoke Steering Return Spring Failure?
The 2021+ refresh Model S and X yoke steering wheel has a return spring that can fail, causing the steering wheel to feel notchy or off-center when returning to center after a turn. Some owners report a clicking sound. Round-wheel retrofit became a $700 option around 2022-2023 —… Repairs typically run $0-$1,500. Severity: low.
