IsItAGoodCar
Reliability Guide

Common Problems with the
2020 Tesla Model X

By 2020 the Model X had been significantly refined with MCU2 infotainment, improved Falcon Wing door sensors, and better build quality. The earlier mechanical issues were largely resolved, and the Model X had become a more reliable proposition. However, from 2023 UK models became left-hand drive only.

What changed for 2020

  • •MCU2 infotainment — much faster and more reliable
  • •Improved Falcon Wing door sensor reliability
  • •Better build quality and paint consistency
  • •Range and efficiency improvements via OTA updates

Common MOT watch-outs

  • !Falcon Wing door sensors still occasionally fail
  • !Suspension wear at higher mileages
  • !Air suspension compressor noise on neglected cars
3
Known Issues
0
Serious
3
Moderate
0
Minor

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.

Est. Repair Cost: £300–£800
Warning Signs:

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

What to Inspect:
  • Open and close doors multiple times
  • Check for uniform panel gaps when closed
  • Inspect seals for pinching or damage
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

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).

Est. Repair Cost: £600–£1,200
Warning Signs:

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

What to Inspect:
  • Accelerate hard in "Standard" or "High" suspension modes
  • Feel for vibration through the accelerator pedal
  • Check for grease leaks on CV boots
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

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.

Est. Repair Cost: £400–£900
Warning Signs:

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

What to Inspect:
  • Check for play in front wheels while car is lifted
  • Listen for noises during low-speed maneuvers
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Buying Tips for 2020 Tesla Model X

  • ✓The 2020 Model X is significantly more reliable than 2016–2018 examples
  • ✓Still test the Falcon Wing doors thoroughly — it remains a complex system
  • ✓Check for the latest OTA updates which improve range and features
20192021
Check a 2020 Tesla Model X by Registration