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GREEN CHOICE
We expect the 2025 Model S will be less reliable than the average new car. This prediction is based on data from 2022 and 2023 models, and the Tesla brand score.
The Reliability score is based on our latest subscriber survey of 2018 Tesla Model S owners. The owner comments describe problems respondents experienced with this vehicle.
Infotainment system (audio, GPS, phone), rear entertainment system, backup or other camera/sensors, head-up display.
"Glove box stuck wont open"
Anonymous, NC (2018 Tesla Model S Electric)"The scrolling thumbwheel doesn't work well. I have to scroll it roughly 4 clicks to get it to register once, though that number varies."
Anonymous, CA (2018 Tesla Model S 75D Electric)Cruise control, clock, warning lights, body control module, keyless entry, wiper motor or washer, tire pressure monitor, interior or exterior lights, horn, gauges, 12V power plug, USB ports, alarm or security system, remote engine start, heated or cooled seats, heated steering wheel, headlights, automatic headlights, automatic wipers, wireless charging pad.
"This has happened about 3-4 times in the life of the vehicle. The car is inoperable, but the swap out is relatively quick and can be done with a mobile service so it is not that big of a deal. Wish I could do it myself - just send me a battery."
Anonymous A., GA (2018 Tesla Model S 100D Electric)"it appeared that 12v battery failed but that tested okay -- problem unsure but repair center was able to fix and start car within a day"
Anonymous, IN (2018 Tesla Model S Electric)AC compressor, blower (fan) motor, condenser, evaporator, heater system, automatic climate system, electrical failure, refrigerant leakage.
"It really wan't the blower fan motor but more the pre-cooling for the battery which allows the air conditioner to cool."
Anonymous, UT (2018 Tesla Model S P100D Electric)"AC kept cutting out so Tesla Service evacuated and recharged the system."
Anonymous, NY (2018 Tesla Model S 75D Electric)Squeaks, rattles, wind noises, seals and/or weather stripping, air and water leaks.
"A leak in the coolant system developed and the car became undriveable before I could drive it to the repair facility where it was repaired."
Anonymous, CA (2018 Tesla Model S 75D Electric)"This is a recurring problem. The sunroof rattles on bumpy roads."
Anonymous, CA (2018 Tesla Model S 75D Electric)Electric/hybrid battery pack failure, replacement or malfunction, or cooling.
"This battery had to be replaced completely 2 x in the past 12 months. Both times the car was completely inoperable. Since out of regular vehicle warranty, Tesla denied me a loaner vehicle - out of pocket cost for a rental car was about $2000 since it took them a month to replace the battery (which they did free of charge since under battery warranty)."
Anonymous A., GA (2018 Tesla Model S 100D Electric)"Battery failed after 4 yrs use. Tesla replaced it as it was still under warranty. The car stopped dead on a city road, had to be towed!"
Anonymous, NV (2018 Tesla Model S 100D Electric)Driveshaft or axle, CV joint, differential, transfer case, four-wheel-drive/all-wheel-drive components, driveline vibration, electrical failure, traction control, electronic stability control.
"Rear axle broke at 125000 km."
Anonymous, ON (2018 Tesla Model S 100D Electric)Shocks or struts, ball joints, tie rods, wheel bearings, alignment, steering linkage (includes rack and pinion), power steering (pumps and hoses, leaks), wheel balance, springs or torsion bars, bushings, electronic or air suspension.
Premature pad/rotor wear, pulsation or vibration, antilock system, parking brake, master cylinder, calipers, squeaking, brake failure, regenerative braking.
Windows, locks and latches, doors or sliding doors, tailgate, trunk or hatch, mirrors, seat controls (power or manual), seat belts, sunroof, convertible top, glass defect.
Won't charge at home; won't work with some public chargers; won't fully charge; charge connection; charge port door.
Paint (fading, chalking, peeling, or cracking), loose interior or exterior trim or moldings, rust.
Electric drive failure, replacement or malfunction.
"The "premium audio system" is supposed to play from a usb drive. But it is glitchy and if you get out of the car, it doesn't remember where it was when you come back. This seems small, but you shouldn't have to go searching for where you were while driving the car. It's distracting and dangerous. Also, the icons for all the music are mixed up. Again, seemingly small, but it would be very easy to pick the radio station, streaming service, or album you want to hear based on the icon, rather than by trying to read the text while driving. Finally, these were NOT problems when I first got the car. These showed up after about 9 months of driving it. I have put in a "bug" report several times. Nothing ever came of it besides my wasted time."
Anonymous, CA (2018 Tesla Model S 75D Electric)