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2018 Tesla Model S

Browse our directory of 2018 Tesla Model S vehicles. Access instant MOT history reports, tax status, and reliability insights for any registration listed below.

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Common Problems & Reliability

0
Serious
3
Moderate
1
Minor

The 2018 Tesla Model S has 4 known issues. 3 are moderate concerns worth inspecting before purchase.

MCU1 eMMC Memory Failure (Recall 21V035)

Moderate

The main touchscreen unit (MCU1) uses an 8GB eMMC chip that has a finite lifespan, eventually leading to system instability or total failure. Tesla issued a voluntary recall (21V035) to upgrade the chip to 64GB.

Symptoms: Screen freezing or rebooting, Longer boot-up times...

Est. repair cost: £0–£1,800

Suspension Control Arm Creaking

Moderate

The front and rear suspension control arms (wishbones) can develop a loud creaking or squeaking noise, particularly when turning or going over bumps, caused by water ingress into the ball joints.

Symptoms: Squeaking noise when turning, Knocking over speed bumps...

Est. repair cost: £300–£700

Air Suspension Leaks

Moderate

The air suspension struts or compressor can fail, causing the car to sag or display suspension fault messages.

Symptoms: Car sits low on one corner, Hissing sound from wheel arch...

Est. repair cost: £500–£1,500

Yellow Screen Border

Minor

A yellow tint can develop around the edges of the main touchscreen (MCU1 and early MCU2) due to an adhesive failure in the display stack.

Symptoms: Noticeable yellow band around screen edges, Discoloration on white backgrounds

Est. repair cost: £0–£1,200

View detailed Tesla Model S fault guide

Buying Tips for the 2018 Tesla Model S

  • ✓Prefer 2018+ models which feature the faster MCU2 infotainment system
  • ✓Check the operation of all door handles multiple times as they are a very common failure point
  • ✓Ensure the car has had the eMMC recall or upgrade performed if it is a pre-2018 model
  • ✓Verify if the air suspension holds its height overnight; sagging indicates a leak

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