Common Tesla Problems
Select a model below to discover known faults, common MOT failures, estimated repair costs, and buying tips.
Select a Tesla Model
Tesla Model Y
The Tesla Model Y took the phenomenal success of the Model 3 and repackaged it into a highly practical, spacious family SUV. It quickly became one of the best-selling cars in the UK, prized for its cavernous boot space, elevated driving position, and the security of the Tesla Supercharger network. While the ride quality on early models was criticized for being excessively firm, later updates (and the "Highland" refresh) significantly improved comfort. It is an incredibly dependable family hauler, though the minimalist interior lacks the plushness of a similarly priced Audi or BMW. It is the ultimate family EV for those who prioritize range, space, and seamless charging.
Tesla Model 3
The Tesla Model 3 democratized the brand's technology, bringing massive EV range, performance, and the Supercharger network to the compact executive segment. In the UK, it became an absolute phenomenon, particularly for company car drivers benefiting from low Benefit-in-Kind (BiK) tax rates. It offers a starkly minimalist interior dominated by a single central screen, which takes some getting used to. Reliability is generally good concerning the battery and drivetrain, but early models (pre-2021) suffered from inconsistent paint quality and suspension knocks. It is the default choice for anyone transitioning to a premium EV, offering an unbeatable blend of range, tech, and charging infrastructure.
Tesla Model X
Tesla's flagship SUV featuring the iconic Falcon Wing doors. While highly practical and fast, it is arguably Tesla's most complex and maintenance-intensive model.
Tesla Model S
The Tesla Model S is the groundbreaking luxury saloon that proved electric vehicles could offer blistering supercar performance and genuine cross-country range. In the UK, it shattered the dominance of the German executive class, offering access to the unmatched Supercharger network and constantly evolving over-the-air updates. Early models (2014-2017) are known for rapid depreciation due to "first-generation" build quality issues, but later "Raven" models are highly refined. Note that from 2022, Tesla controversially stopped producing Right-Hand Drive models for the UK. It suits tech-savvy executives and early EV adopters wanting massive range and straight-line speed.
About Tesla Reliability
Common Tesla trouble spots
- •Suspension control arm failure (squeaking/knocking) is a very common issue across all models.
- •Retractable door handles on Model S and Falcon Wing door sensors on Model X are frequent failure points.
- •Condensation in rear light clusters can lead to LED failure and MOT issues.
- •Heat pump failures on 2021-2022 Model 3/Y can result in a loss of heating in winter.
- •Paint thinning and stone chip vulnerability, especially on the sills and rear wheel arches.
What to check on used Teslas
- ✓Check the suspension carefully; control arm failures are common and manifest as squeaks or knocks over bumps
- ✓Inspect panel gaps and paint quality, especially on earlier US-built models compared to later Chinese or German versions
- ✓Verify that the car comes with the necessary charging cables (Type 2 and 3-pin) and check the health of the charging port pins
- ✓For Model S and X, test every motorized door handle and the Falcon Wing doors multiple times
- ✓Use the service menu (if accessible) to check for recent alert codes and battery health metrics
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