IsItAGoodCar

Common Problems with the
2019–2021 Tesla Model X

We've identified 3 known issues that can affect the 2019–2021 Tesla Model X. None are considered critical, but they're worth knowing about before you buy.

3
Known Issues
0
Serious
3
Moderate
0
Minor

The 2019–2021 period has 2 more issues than the Tesla Model X average across all year periods.

All Known Issues

Falcon Wing Door Sensors

ModerateBodywork & Rust

The complex sensors (ultrasonic and capacitive) in the falcon wing doors can fail, leading to "ghost" obstacle detection where the door stops opening or refuses to open at all.

Most affected: All Model X variants

Estimated cost: £300–£800Affects: 2016–2021Often appears around: Any

Typical symptoms

  • •Door stops mid-opening
  • •False obstacle detection
  • •Door won't close flush
  • •Warning chimes

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Open and close doors multiple times
  • ✓Check for uniform panel gaps when closed
  • ✓Inspect seals for pinching or damage

Front Half-Shaft Shudder

ModerateGearbox & Transmission

A shudder or vibration felt through the floor and steering wheel under hard acceleration, caused by excessive wear in the front drive shafts (half-shafts).

Most affected: All All-Wheel Drive models, especially Performance/Ludicrous

Estimated cost: £600–£1,200Affects: 2016–2021Often appears around: 20,000–50,000 miles

Typical symptoms

  • •Vibration under heavy acceleration
  • •Wobble felt at 30-50 mph
  • •Clicking noise when turning

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Accelerate hard in "Standard" or "High" suspension modes
  • ✓Feel for vibration through the accelerator pedal
  • ✓Check for grease leaks on CV boots

Suspension Creaking & Thumping

ModerateSuspension & Chassis

Like the Model S, the heavy Model X is prone to premature suspension wear. Front lower control arms and sway bar links are common failure points.

Most affected: All Model X variants

Estimated cost: £400–£900Affects: 2016–2022Often appears around: 30,000–50,000 miles

Typical symptoms

  • •Creaking when steering
  • •Thumping noise over speed bumps
  • •Vibration through steering wheel

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Check for play in front wheels while car is lifted
  • ✓Listen for noises during low-speed maneuvers

Buying Tips for the 2019 Tesla Model X

  • ✓Test the Falcon Wing doors extensively on both flat and sloped ground
  • ✓Check for a shuddering sensation under hard acceleration which indicates drive shaft wear
  • ✓Inspect the panoramic windshield for any chips or cracks, as replacement is very expensive
  • ✓Like the Model S, 2023+ models are Left-Hand Drive only in the UK
2016–2018 Tesla Model X2022 Tesla Model X

Browse 2019–2021 Tesla Model X in our Directory

View MOT history, registration data, and reliability scores for 2019–2021 Tesla Model X vehicles.

View 2019–2021 Directory

Other Tesla Model X Year Periods

2016–20182019–202120222023–2024

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