The Most Common Tesla Problems
Despite their sleek design and high-tech attributes, common issues with Teslas include unexpected loss of engine and poor quality materials.
Written by Annette Maxon
Reviewed by Melanie Reiff
Though sleek and high-tech, many Tesla problems can be costly and even dangerous. Common issues range from autopilot system failures and faulty power steering systems to the unexpected loss of engine power and poor build quality.
When the first Tesla came on the market in 2008, the luxury price tag and EV capabilities made it available to an elite few. But since its notorious debut, Tesla has expanded not just its lineup of electric cars but also the range of prices, which is why the formerly niche manufacturer can now be found almost anywhere.
Despite their popularity, Tesla cars aren’t perfect. With a wide range of common problems and expensive solutions, these cars can pose a challenge when it comes to maintaining them for years to come.
That’s why
Jerry
, the car insurance super app, decided to create this guide to cover the most common Tesla problems out there. This article will cover general problems, model-specific issues, and how to find the best car insurance
for your luxury vehicle. Just because you paid a lot for your Tesla doesn't mean your Tesla insurance costs
have to be high, too!What are the most common Tesla problems?
Arguably one of the most popular electric cars out there, not to mention one of the most luxurious, Tesla has skyrocketed from niche to commonplace in recent years. However, that doesn’t mean that Teslas are problem-free.
Across the manufacturer’s four different models, the most common Tesla problems are:
- Issues with autopilot capabilities and cruise control adjustment
- Failed power steering system
- Occasional loss of power
- Unable to be towed
- Poor build quality
- Prematurely worn-out battery
To make it easy, check out the most common Tesla problems by the model in the chart below:
Model | Starting price | J.D. Power reliability rating | Most common problems | Years to avoid |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Model S | $101,440 | N/A | Door handles conducting heat, faulty transmission | 2019, 2020 |
Model X | $116,440 | N/A | Autopilot failure, poor windshield visibility, faulty steering system, unexpected acceleration | 2017, 2019 |
Model 3 | $48,440 | N/A | Shuts down while driving, loss of power, lock system malfunctions, faulty touchscreen | 2017, 2018, 2019 |
Model Y | $64,440 | N/A | Unexpected stopping, poor wheel alignment, sudden loss of tire pressure, faulty seat belt retention system | 2020, 2021 |
Roadster | $200,000 | N/A | Battery failures, faulty tire pressure monitor system, excessive road noise | only one year available |
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4.7/5 rating on the App Store | Trusted by 5+ million customers and 7 million cars4.7/5 app rating | Trusted by 5M+ driversMost common Tesla Model S problems
Average annual repair cost: $267
CarComplaints.com complaints: 24
The Tesla
Model S
has only grown in popularity for its sleek, high-tech features. However, this luxury model comes with a host of transmission system issues, including reports from drivers that the entire transmission needed to be replaced. Other common problems for the Model S range from poor manufacturing quality to sudden loss of power, and faulty universal joints on the drive shaft. Also, beware of the door handles—if left in the sun, the streamlined handles will conduct heat, burning some owners when they try to open their cars’ doors. However, the Tesla Model S made the list of best electric vehicles of 2021 so it's still a good car overall.
Most common Tesla Model X problems
Average annual repair cost: $317
CarComplaints.com complaints: 7
It’s clear the Tesla
Model X
has high-tech features that are still being fine-tuned. Numerous drivers have reported that the autopilot system doesn’t work at all or malfunctions later on in the car’s life. Model X drivers have reported “ghosting” effects in the windshield, which is when the size of the massive windshield causes drivers to develop double vision. Not only does it disorient drivers, but it also reduces the vehicle’s overall visibility.
This model has also been known to have a faulty steering system that is prone to make steering exceedingly difficult. Also, some drivers have experienced unexpected acceleration. What’s worse is that given the dangers that come with this massive acceleration problem, mechanics don’t have a sure-fire way to fix it.
Most common Tesla Model 3 problems
Average annual repair cost: $169
CarComplaints.com complaints: 6
A Tesla
Model 3
owner is no stranger to the headaches that often come with this model. However, breathe a sigh of relief knowing that its average annual cost of repair is lower than other Tesla models. This model also makes the list of low-budget electric cars
worth buying. Common problems with the Model 3 include complete failure of the touchscreen system and getting locked out of the car (remember: Teslas use an electronic lock system and an app, so drivers don’t have a physical key). More seriously, some Tesla drivers have experienced a sudden loss of power, even while driving. Some techs traced the issue to a faulty high voltage controller.
Most common Tesla Model Y problems
Average annual repair cost: $217
CarComplaints.com complaints: 0
Newer to the Tesla lineup, the
Model Y
is off to a rocky start since Consumer Reports gave the car a 2/5 reliability score. Most of the issues can be traced back to the high-tech electric vehicle transmission system. What’s more, faulty wheel alignments, unexpected stops caused by collision avoidance system malfunctions, sudden loss of tire pressure, and broken seat belt retention systems are among some of the most commonly reported Model Y problems.
Most common Tesla Roadster problems
Average annual repair cost: $282
CarComplaints.com complaints: 0
Back in 2008 Tesla debuted the original Roadster, only to recall nearly 400 of the high-end vehicles for safety concerns. However, this model was not forgotten since the second-generation Roadster is slated to hit the market in 2023.
Even though this second-gen model has only been driven by a select few, users have already experienced everything from battery failures to a faulty tire pressure monitoring system. Only to add to the list of problems are the Roadster’s excessively noisy rides, water intrusion in the headlamps, overheating, and brake failure.
Are Tesla cars reliable?
Sadly, no. Even though the manufacturer has mastered the art of sleek, luxurious design, the cars themselves have consistently been rated as one of the most unreliable cars on the market. In 2021, the experts at Consumer Reports ranked Tesla 27th for reliability out of 28 car makers.
Especially given the high price point, it’s important to know that these electric vehicles come with many common (and often costly) problems.
The least reliable Tesla model: 2013 Tesla Model S
Most common problems: Whining or grinding noises upon acceleration, door handle failure, loose interior panels
NHTSA complaints: 374
The luxury sedan was introduced to combine the best of a high-performance sports car with a spacious, passenger-friendly vehicle. Though the manufacturer achieved this goal, the 2013 Model S has earned the most customer complaints because of its noisy ride.
Ironically, this high-speed car is known to have a range of whining or grinding noises that happen upon acceleration. Additionally, poorly-installed interior trim panels are the cause of excessive rattling noise when the car is in motion.
What’s more, is that the door handle system is prone to failing early on in the car’s life. If your exterior or
interior door handle
fails, you'll be in serious predicament.The most reliable Tesla model: 2021 Tesla Model 3
Most common problems: Faulty electrical system, structural problems
NHTSA complaints: 317
Even though the Model 3 is the cheapest of the bunch (starting at $37,990), that doesn’t mean it’s not a good car. Rather, the opposite is true! When the pros at Consumer Reports took a look at the Tesla models, the more budget-friendly Model 3 received the best reliability score.
Between solid performance overtime, low running costs, a 263-mile driving range, and revamped interior, it's no wonder that this 2021 model has been applauded by the pros.
However, the 2021 Model 3 still has its challenges with common problems such as faulty electrical systems or poor structural quality.
How to buy hassle-free car insurance
It can be a headache trying to find
car insurance
that doesn’t break the bank—especially for luxury vehicles like the ones made by Tesla. That’s why thousands of users have turned to Jerry to help them find the best policies without any hassle. A licensed broker, the Jerry
super app
takes only seconds to sign up for, and it’ll find you the best insurance options in less than a minute. Once you’ve reviewed the app’s in-depth comparison of the different plans, make your pick and the app will handle the rest. From signing you up for your new plan to canceling your old policy, the Jerry
experts have you covered every step of the way. Even when it comes to expensive and problem-prone cars like Tesla, Jerry will make sure you have the coverage you need to have peace of mind on the road. Find a
Tesla insurance cost
that works for your budget with help from Jerry.“Jerrysaved me $80 a month! I have a Tesla Model Y and really wanted to lower my rates. And they did! I really recommend you give this a shot!” —Nick M.
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How long do Teslas last?
Teslas are designed to last 300,000 to 500,000 miles.
Why is Tesla unreliable?
Despite their sky-high price and countless high-tech features, Tesla cars are unreliable because of their frequent transmission problems, poor structural materials, paint defects, and some serious safety concerns. These safety concerns range from faulty autopilot systems to the car unexpectedly losing power while driving.
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