2024 Tesla Model S Plaid
19in wheels
Luxury Electric Sedan · AWD
Based on battery health, build quality, owner data, EPA range, and market pricing
Above average for 2024 EV Sedans (class avg 69 · top 32%)
Personalize this scoreIs a low score bad?
Last scanned 39 days ago
The 2024 Tesla Model S Plaid (19in wheels) comes with 402 miles of EPA range and 250 kW fast charging, and a mid-pack composite means the records-and-test-drive call matters more than the headline.
Score read
A 72/100 makes this worth pursuing if the price is sane. Software and driver-assist score is 90/100, but owner feedback score is only 52/100. Reddit threads cluster around owner satisfaction and build quality — verify both against the service records. Treat missing repair records as a price problem, not a footnote.
Is it a good deal?
Used examples are running around $76,500 against a $91,630 original sticker, about 83% of new. At that money you want cleaner-than-average service records, completed recall paperwork, and a recent battery report before you sign.
Who this is for
✓ Good for
- ⏱ Daily commuter ≤50 mi/day, predictable charging
- ↦ Road tripper Long trips, needs DC fast network
✗ Avoid if you are a
- $ Bargain hunter Best TCO, reliability + low depreciation
Gotchas
- Serviceable Recall paperwork has to match the exact VIN.
Mitigation Use NHTSA and the automaker lookup, then require repair records instead of a verbal promise.
- Verify Owner feedback is the part to read carefully (52/100).
Mitigation Read the complaint themes and ask whether this VIN has already had those issues repaired.
Pre-purchase inspection
- 1 Run the exact VIN through NHTSA and the automaker recall lookup before discussing price.
- 2 Compare the dashboard range estimate with the EPA 402-mile rating after a full charge.
- 3 Confirm how much of the 8-year/150,000-mile battery warranty remains and whether it transfers.
- 4 If road trips matter, run a short DC fast-charge session and watch whether speed tapers normally.
- 5 Read the complaint themes, not just the count, and ask the seller whether those issues have shown up on this VIN.
VIN status first This model has 6 NHTSA recall records. The exact VIN lookup decides whether the car in front of you is clear.
Complaint context This scan found 38 NHTSA complaint records (1.5 per 10K VINs, low for any vehicle class). Read the themes below before treating the raw count as the verdict.
Price anchor Current market range is $76,500-$76,500. Use that range to compare listings for the same trim, mileage, and condition.
Pricing & Market Value
A72-rated trim trading 17% below MSRP. Higher discounts on higher-quality vehicles score better — this signal is orthogonal to the TrimIndex composite, not part of it.
Score Breakdown
What matters most to you?
Drag the sliders to prioritize what you care about. Your TrimIndex Score recalculates instantly.
Vehicle Specifications
EVs at your price point that match or beat this trim
Price-gated peer set: vehicles within $61.2K–$91.8K market value (±20% of $76.5K). 4 outscore · 2 score within ±2. Mixed across makes — no "spend more, score better" comps.
Model S
- ✓ Notably better build quality
- ✓ Better safety score
- ✓ Better infotainment UX
Air
- ✓ +18 mi more range
- ✓ Better infotainment UX
- ✓ Better safety score
i4
- ✓ Happier owners overall
- ✓ Notably better build quality
EQE
- ✓ Notably better build quality
- ✓ Better infotainment UX
EQS
- ✓ Happier owners overall
- ✓ Notably better build quality
- ✓ Better safety score
2
- ✓ Notably better build quality
- ✓ Better infotainment UX
The federal $4,000 used-EV credit ended Sept 30, 2025.
But 10 states still run their own used-EV rebate programs — some up to $5,000. Pick your state to see what's available for this trim.
Source & disclaimer
Dealers make ~$17,502 on the average car loan.
After the price is set, the finance manager runs four plays to rebuild margin. Every buyer without a pre-approval is a target. Here's exactly what they run — and what stops each one.
78% of dealer loans carry a hidden +1.13% markup above what the lender actually charges. You never see it — it's buried in the contract. · CFPB
Dealer must match or beat your lender — they can't add margin invisibly. The markup play is dead on arrival.
Once you answer, they stretch the term to hit your number. Median result: $4K less off the price, 12 more months on the loan. · Industry avg
Financing is done. Only the sale price is on the table — and the dealer knows it.
Back-office F&I profit averages $1,975/vehicle, up 8.5% YoY. These products exist — but dealer markup is 4–10x what you'd pay elsewhere. · Dealership Guy
Dealer GAP runs $500–1K. Your insurer sells the same coverage for $100–250 over 5 years. Now you know.
"Your loan fell through — come re-sign." This pulls your APR up +5% on average. It's legal. It works because you've already driven the car home. · Ctr for Responsible Lending
A lender commitment letter means the deal is final. "Pending dealer approval" doesn't apply. You can't be yo-yo'd.
That's 15 months of your car payment — handed to the dealer's finance department for nothing.
Takes 2 minutes. No obligation to use it — but you'll walk in with all the leverage.
Pre-approval is a soft credit inquiry — no score impact. FICO treats all auto-loan hard pulls within 14 days as one, so you can still shop rates at the dealer.
NHTSA Recalls (6)
Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2021-2024 Model S and 2021-2025 Model X vehicles. An air bag with the incorrect horn pad may have been installed, preventing the horn from sounding.
An inoperative horn may prevent the driver from alerting other drivers, increasing the risk of a crash.
Check VIN status at NHTSA.govTesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2024-2025 Model 3, Model S, 2023-2025 Model X, and Model Y vehicles. The computer circuit board may short, resulting in the loss of the rearview camera image. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 111, "Rear Visibility."
A rearview camera that does not display an image reduces the driver's rear view, increasing the risk of a crash.
Check VIN status at NHTSA.govTesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2021-2025 Model S and Model X vehicles. The driver's air bag could tear during deployment. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) numbers 208, "Occupant Crash Protection" and 212, "Windshield Mounting."
A torn air bag may not adequately protect an occupant in a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
Check VIN status at NHTSA.govTesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2021-2024 Model 3, Model S, Model X, and 2020-2024 Model Y vehicles. The hood latch assembly may fail to detect an unlatched hood condition after the hood has been opened.
An unlatched hood can fully open, obstructing the driver's view and increasing the risk of a crash.
Check VIN status at NHTSA.govTesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2012-2024 Model S, 2015-2024 Model X, 2017-2023 Model 3, and 2020-2023 Model Y vehicles. In the event of an unbelted driver, the seat belt warning light and audible chime may not activate as intended. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."
A seat belt warning system that fails to alert occupants of an unbelted seat belt can increase the risk of injury during a crash.
Check VIN status at NHTSA.govTesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2021-2024 Model S and Model X vehicles. An incorrect air bag may have been installed when the steering yoke or round steering wheel was replaced with a different style of yoke or steering wheel.
An air bag that is not designed to function with the replacement steering yoke or wheel may deploy incorrectly, increasing the risk of injury during a crash.
Check VIN status at NHTSA.govNHTSA Complaints (38 total · 1.5 per 10K US vehicles · low for any vehicle class)
When parked behind another parallel parked car with no one behind me, it Auto shifted into drive instead of reverse which caused me to collide into the parked car infront of me.
When parked behind another parallel parked car with no one behind me, it Auto shifted into drive instead of reverse which caused me to collide into the parked car infront of me.
When turning right from [XXX] onto [XXX] using my blinker, it sounded three beeps and jerked the wheel left towards the pedestrians in the crosswalk and the turning cars coming from [XXX] onto [XXX]. I was allegedly driving manually, but the car decided to override my input autonomously. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
When turning right from [XXX] onto [XXX] using my blinker, it sounded three beeps and jerked the wheel left towards the pedestrians in the crosswalk and the turning cars coming from [XXX] onto [XXX]. I was allegedly driving manually, but the car decided to override my input autonomously. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Sometimes while making ordinary and safe traffic maneuvers the Lane Departure Warning system sometimes emits a very loud, distracting, and startling emergency chime. In particular it does this while turning into parking garages or driveways, which are already high-workload moments with high likelihood of nearby pedestrians and other vulnerable road users.
Sometimes while making ordinary and safe traffic maneuvers the Lane Departure Warning system sometimes emits a very loud, distracting, and startling emergency chime. In particular it does this while turning into parking garages or driveways, which are already high-workload moments with high likelihood of nearby pedestrians and other vulnerable road users.
My car is displaying a message that the "Front left safety restraint issue". Airbags are off. brought the car in for service, they said they fixed some low voltage pin. Less than a week later the message appeared again. Tesla did not take this issue seriously -- I'm driving around with no airbags? The next available appointment is a month out for Tesla. I've uploaded my Tesla invoice where they fixed it and a photo from today when the message is back again.
My car is displaying a message that the "Front left safety restraint issue". Airbags are off. brought the car in for service, they said they fixed some low voltage pin. Less than a week later the message appeared again. Tesla did not take this issue seriously -- I'm driving around with no airbags? The next available appointment is a month out for Tesla. I've uploaded my Tesla invoice where they fixed it and a photo from today when the message is back again.
While FSD was engaged. It made a sudden aggressive, swerving maneuver with no warning towards the cars next to us, sounded alarms, and then forcefully disengaged nearly causing an accident
While FSD was engaged. It made a sudden aggressive, swerving maneuver with no warning towards the cars next to us, sounded alarms, and then forcefully disengaged nearly causing an accident
I was using summon to pull my car forward out of the parking spot and when I let go of the button the car continue driving forward indefinitely until I chased it down and touch the door handle
I was using summon to pull my car forward out of the parking spot and when I let go of the button the car continue driving forward indefinitely until I chased it down and touch the door handle
I have lane departure disabled, am manually driving under 15mph, and use proper blinker but this “safety feature” causes it to “jerk” the wheel and display warnings to the detriment of safety. This affects the entire fleet and was never an issue before around 2022-2023. Oct 9th - 3:48pm blinker on turning into supercharger on geary blvd Oct 4:09pm changing lanes with blinker on, 4:10pm left turn at intersection with blinker on
I have lane departure disabled, am manually driving under 15mph, and use proper blinker but this “safety feature” causes it to “jerk” the wheel and display warnings to the detriment of safety. This affects the entire fleet and was never an issue before around 2022-2023. Oct 9th - 3:48pm blinker on turning into supercharger on geary blvd Oct 4:09pm changing lanes with blinker on, 4:10pm left turn at intersection with blinker on
Driving into my garage the vehicle is swerving the wheel and sounding alarms that I am “departing a lane” even though I do not have a lane departure Alerts or assistance enabled. Unlike Tesla response to my reports, this is when I am driving manually auto pilot is not engaged like they keep asserting
Driving into my garage the vehicle is swerving the wheel and sounding alarms that I am “departing a lane” even though I do not have a lane departure Alerts or assistance enabled. Unlike Tesla response to my reports, this is when I am driving manually auto pilot is not engaged like they keep asserting
Problem: turn signal based on buttons on the wheel (Tesla removed the stalks) After three months of ownership, I still can't signal in case of emergency, when a fast lane change is required, or when exiting from parking with the wheel turned. Issues: 1. I Can't find the buttons when the wheel is turned (buttons rotate with the wheel) 2. The buttons are located below the hand and not above it, so I need to search for them. I practically need to take my eyes off the road to find the buttons because they have no unique touch and feel. It does not work for emergencies and fast lane changes. 3. The pressure required is not unified. Extreme pressure is required toward the edges of the button and other is no feeling where the edges are.
Problem: turn signal based on buttons on the wheel (Tesla removed the stalks) After three months of ownership, I still can't signal in case of emergency, when a fast lane change is required, or when exiting from parking with the wheel turned. Issues: 1. I Can't find the buttons when the wheel is turned (buttons rotate with the wheel) 2. The buttons are located below the hand and not above it, so I need to search for them. I practically need to take my eyes off the road to find the buttons because they have no unique touch and feel. It does not work for emergencies and fast lane changes. 3. The pressure required is not unified. Extreme pressure is required toward the edges of the button and other is no feeling where the edges are.
I have lane departure, avoidance in lane departure assist both turned off in the settings. Despite this, The alarms are constantly going off (Even when I am not departing a lane). It even overrides my steering inputs incorrectly! 8:28am 5/24/2024 for example, I am pulling into my garage and it’s yanking the steering wheel trying to crash me into the wall. I immediately verified the settings are all still turned off. I have an open service ticket with Tesla where I am supplying them dates and times every time it happens and no one is responding. Previously had them replaced the whole vehicle (lemon law), and it still happening.
I have lane departure, avoidance in lane departure assist both turned off in the settings. Despite this, The alarms are constantly going off (Even when I am not departing a lane). It even overrides my steering inputs incorrectly! 8:28am 5/24/2024 for example, I am pulling into my garage and it’s yanking the steering wheel trying to crash me into the wall. I immediately verified the settings are all still turned off. I have an open service ticket with Tesla where I am supplying them dates and times every time it happens and no one is responding. Previously had them replaced the whole vehicle (lemon law), and it still happening.
The contact owns a 2024 Tesla Model S. The contact stated that after an update was performed over the air (OTA), the scroll option changed, and the contact was unable to control the speed of the vehicle. There was no longer a maximum speed limit. The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was approximately 5,000.
The contact owns a 2024 Tesla Model S. The contact stated that after an update was performed over the air (OTA), the scroll option changed, and the contact was unable to control the speed of the vehicle. There was no longer a maximum speed limit. The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was approximately 5,000.
Today while driving the screen behind the driver steering wheel suddenly shut off and went black. I was unable to see if I am in Drive or reverse or what my speed is.
Today while driving the screen behind the driver steering wheel suddenly shut off and went black. I was unable to see if I am in Drive or reverse or what my speed is.
Speed offset is set to 10% but it keeps setting the max speed 40% higher, and then furthermore exceeds this max speed
Speed offset is set to 10% but it keeps setting the max speed 40% higher, and then furthermore exceeds this max speed
After updating to FSD 13.2.7 yesterday the vehicle turns left at a particular intersection and then drives on the left side of the road the wrong side of the road. Issue has been present for several versions and has been reported repeatedly.
After updating to FSD 13.2.7 yesterday the vehicle turns left at a particular intersection and then drives on the left side of the road the wrong side of the road. Issue has been present for several versions and has been reported repeatedly.
The contact owns a 2024 Tesla Model S. The contact stated that while making a right turn, in self-driving mode, the vehicle began accelerating inadvertently and crashed into the front driver area of the other vehicle. No warning lights illuminated. There were no injuries and medical attention was not needed. A police report was not filed. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 2,000.
The contact owns a 2024 Tesla Model S. The contact stated that while making a right turn, in self-driving mode, the vehicle began accelerating inadvertently and crashed into the front driver area of the other vehicle. No warning lights illuminated. There were no injuries and medical attention was not needed. A police report was not filed. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 2,000.
“Full self driving” was sitting at a red light at 5:07 PM and observed a light a block ahead of us turn green and accelerated through the red light with no warning or time to react
“Full self driving” was sitting at a red light at 5:07 PM and observed a light a block ahead of us turn green and accelerated through the red light with no warning or time to react
10:12am 12/6/2024 autopilot randomly and suddenly starts jerking wheel back amd forth erratically and swerves all iver road onto wrong side of road. When i grab wheel to disengage it sounds alarms and alleges im departing my lane and activates lane departure/ assist despite the fact i have lane departure assist disabled
10:12am 12/6/2024 autopilot randomly and suddenly starts jerking wheel back amd forth erratically and swerves all iver road onto wrong side of road. When i grab wheel to disengage it sounds alarms and alleges im departing my lane and activates lane departure/ assist despite the fact i have lane departure assist disabled
3:17pm nov 18 2024 - I was driving manually and pulled into my driveway and subsequently my garage. I had the blinker on. As I went to turn into the garage, I heard three beeps and no message was displayed on the screen. The vehicle also jerked the steering wheel towards the wall. I have all lane departure warnings, and assistance settings turned off.
3:17pm nov 18 2024 - I was driving manually and pulled into my driveway and subsequently my garage. I had the blinker on. As I went to turn into the garage, I heard three beeps and no message was displayed on the screen. The vehicle also jerked the steering wheel towards the wall. I have all lane departure warnings, and assistance settings turned off.
10:33am driving manually very safely blinker on 5mph to turn into driveway. As i turn, sounds 3 beeps and displays “vehicle departing lane” on screen.
10:33am driving manually very safely blinker on 5mph to turn into driveway. As i turn, sounds 3 beeps and displays “vehicle departing lane” on screen.
When shifting from drive to reverse and beginning to reverse it, the car slammed on the brakes and shifted itself into park. The manual states it should only happen when you unbuckle your seat belt, or open the door while in Drive or Neutral. [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
When shifting from drive to reverse and beginning to reverse it, the car slammed on the brakes and shifted itself into park. The manual states it should only happen when you unbuckle your seat belt, or open the door while in Drive or Neutral. [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Oct 31 4:03pm blinker on turning into gus’ parking garage off noriega I have lane departure disabled, am manually driving under 15mph, and use proper blinker but this “safety feature” causes it to “jerk” the wheel and display warnings to the detriment of safety. This affects the entire fleet and was never an issue before around 2022-2023.
Oct 31 4:03pm blinker on turning into gus’ parking garage off noriega I have lane departure disabled, am manually driving under 15mph, and use proper blinker but this “safety feature” causes it to “jerk” the wheel and display warnings to the detriment of safety. This affects the entire fleet and was never an issue before around 2022-2023.
Oct 31 9:48am my blinker on taking on ramp to highway and it jerks wheel forcing me straight I have lane departure disabled, am manually driving under 15mph, and use proper blinker but this “safety feature” causes it to “jerk” the wheel and display warnings to the detriment of safety. This affects the entire fleet and was never an issue before around 2022-2023.
Oct 31 9:48am my blinker on taking on ramp to highway and it jerks wheel forcing me straight I have lane departure disabled, am manually driving under 15mph, and use proper blinker but this “safety feature” causes it to “jerk” the wheel and display warnings to the detriment of safety. This affects the entire fleet and was never an issue before around 2022-2023.
Oct 25 3:15pm blinker is on for right turn but vehicle jerks wheel left forcing me straight and sounds alarms I have lane departure disabled, am manually driving under 15mph, and use proper blinker but this “safety feature” causes it to “jerk” the wheel and display warnings to the detriment of safety. This affects the entire fleet and was never an issue before around 2022-2023.
Oct 25 3:15pm blinker is on for right turn but vehicle jerks wheel left forcing me straight and sounds alarms I have lane departure disabled, am manually driving under 15mph, and use proper blinker but this “safety feature” causes it to “jerk” the wheel and display warnings to the detriment of safety. This affects the entire fleet and was never an issue before around 2022-2023.
Oct 5th - blinker is on turning into driveway at 1mph and got the alarms / wheel jerking I have lane departure disabled, am manually driving under 15mph, and use proper blinker but this “safety feature” causes it to “jerk” the wheel and display warnings to the detriment of safety. This affects the entire fleet and was never an issue before around 2022-2023.
Oct 5th - blinker is on turning into driveway at 1mph and got the alarms / wheel jerking I have lane departure disabled, am manually driving under 15mph, and use proper blinker but this “safety feature” causes it to “jerk” the wheel and display warnings to the detriment of safety. This affects the entire fleet and was never an issue before around 2022-2023.
Sept 29th 12:35pm passing truck double parked jerked wheel back towards truck I have lane departure disabled, am manually driving under 15mph, and use proper blinker but this “safety feature” causes it to “jerk” the wheel and display warnings to the detriment of safety. This affects the entire fleet and was never an issue before around 2022-2023.
Sept 29th 12:35pm passing truck double parked jerked wheel back towards truck I have lane departure disabled, am manually driving under 15mph, and use proper blinker but this “safety feature” causes it to “jerk” the wheel and display warnings to the detriment of safety. This affects the entire fleet and was never an issue before around 2022-2023.
Sept 27th 8:59am turning into serramonte center, blinker was on, sounds alarms and jerks wheel 6:53 pm into garage my garage jerked wheel swerved towards wall I have lane departure disabled, am manually driving under 15mph, and use proper blinker but this “safety feature” causes it to “jerk” the wheel and display warnings to the detriment of safety. This affects the entire fleet and was never an issue before around 2022-2023.
Sept 27th 8:59am turning into serramonte center, blinker was on, sounds alarms and jerks wheel 6:53 pm into garage my garage jerked wheel swerved towards wall I have lane departure disabled, am manually driving under 15mph, and use proper blinker but this “safety feature” causes it to “jerk” the wheel and display warnings to the detriment of safety. This affects the entire fleet and was never an issue before around 2022-2023.
Sept 26 1:38pm pulling in garage it swerved wheel towards wall and sounded alarms I have lane departure disabled, am manually driving under 15mph, and use proper blinker but this “safety feature” causes it to “jerk” the wheel and display warnings to the detriment of safety. This affects the entire fleet and was never an issue before around 2022-2023.
Sept 26 1:38pm pulling in garage it swerved wheel towards wall and sounded alarms I have lane departure disabled, am manually driving under 15mph, and use proper blinker but this “safety feature” causes it to “jerk” the wheel and display warnings to the detriment of safety. This affects the entire fleet and was never an issue before around 2022-2023.
Sept 25 2:14pm pulling into garage and it swerved towards wall and sounded alarms 7:04pm turning into stonestown shopping center right from stop sign, alarms and jerking wheel force to go straight. Blinker was on. I have lane departure disabled, am manually driving under 15mph, and use proper blinker but this “safety feature” causes it to “jerk” the wheel and display warnings to the detriment of safety. This affects the entire fleet and was never an issue before around 2022-2023.
Sept 25 2:14pm pulling into garage and it swerved towards wall and sounded alarms 7:04pm turning into stonestown shopping center right from stop sign, alarms and jerking wheel force to go straight. Blinker was on. I have lane departure disabled, am manually driving under 15mph, and use proper blinker but this “safety feature” causes it to “jerk” the wheel and display warnings to the detriment of safety. This affects the entire fleet and was never an issue before around 2022-2023.
7:38pm pulling into garage it jerked wheel right towards wall/edge of garage door assembly and sounded audible alarms (was driving manually and lane departure settings are allegedly disabled)
7:38pm pulling into garage it jerked wheel right towards wall/edge of garage door assembly and sounded audible alarms (was driving manually and lane departure settings are allegedly disabled)
My Tesla was parked unlocked in my garage. I came out to drive it and all the doors were locked and would not open with my key card. It also would not unlock with my cell phone app. Tesla customer service also could not remotely unlock it. The vehicle had to be towed to a Tesla Service Center where they forced open the window to gain access. They stated the car needed a new control panel. I have read where Teslas have locked up with children in the car and parent could not gain access to the car. These situations need to be looked into since the Teslas locking up are not isolated incidences.
My Tesla was parked unlocked in my garage. I came out to drive it and all the doors were locked and would not open with my key card. It also would not unlock with my cell phone app. Tesla customer service also could not remotely unlock it. The vehicle had to be towed to a Tesla Service Center where they forced open the window to gain access. They stated the car needed a new control panel. I have read where Teslas have locked up with children in the car and parent could not gain access to the car. These situations need to be looked into since the Teslas locking up are not isolated incidences.
2024 Tesla Model S. Repeated rear tire and rear wheel failures with abnormal wear and possible rear alignment or suspension-related defect. Tesla service history shows repeated rear tire replacements beginning at about 5,165 miles, a later four-wheel alignment, a right rear tire replacement for uneven tire wear under the basic vehicle warranty at about 21,594 miles, a documented bent left rear wheel at about 27,047 miles, a left rear wheel replacement due to crack after a low-pressure/PULL OVER SAFELY alert at about 30,489 miles, and then a right rear tire blowout at about 38,358 miles. In the same March 12, 2026 service record, Tesla also noted inner sidewall damage on the opposite rear tire. Concern is an unresolved recurring rear tire, wheel, alignment, or suspension defect creating blowout risk and unsafe operation. Tesla has replaced tires and wheels but has not identified or corrected the root cause.
2024 Tesla Model S. Repeated rear tire and rear wheel failures with abnormal wear and possible rear alignment or suspension-related defect. Tesla service history shows repeated rear tire replacements beginning at about 5,165 miles, a later four-wheel alignment, a right rear tire replacement for uneven tire wear under the basic vehicle warranty at about 21,594 miles, a documented bent left rear wheel at about 27,047 miles, a left rear wheel replacement due to crack after a low-pressure/PULL OVER SAFELY alert at about 30,489 miles, and then a right rear tire blowout at about 38,358 miles. In the same March 12, 2026 service record, Tesla also noted inner sidewall damage on the opposite rear tire. Concern is an unresolved recurring rear tire, wheel, alignment, or suspension defect creating blowout risk and unsafe operation. Tesla has replaced tires and wheels but has not identified or corrected the root cause.
The design of the emergency opening (No power to normal opening system) of the rear passenger doors is flawed, unsafe and should never have been approved for production. This rear door emergency opening requires an occupant to reach below the seat, remove carpet and pull a manual release cable. During a fire with smoke in the passenger compartment, an occupant may not be able to visually locate the release cable, and has a much higher chance of becoming incapacitated and dying from smoke inhalation, as demonstrated in a Tesla Cybertruck accident with multiple smoke inhalation deaths in California Thanksgiving 2024. Another potential scenario is a frontal impact causing a front seat to move rearward, reducing the floorboard space between the front seat and access to the carpet and release cable. This system needs to be redesigned for this vehicle. If I had known about this system prior to purchase, it would have negatively impacted my buying decision.
The design of the emergency opening (No power to normal opening system) of the rear passenger doors is flawed, unsafe and should never have been approved for production. This rear door emergency opening requires an occupant to reach below the seat, remove carpet and pull a manual release cable. During a fire with smoke in the passenger compartment, an occupant may not be able to visually locate the release cable, and has a much higher chance of becoming incapacitated and dying from smoke inhalation, as demonstrated in a Tesla Cybertruck accident with multiple smoke inhalation deaths in California Thanksgiving 2024. Another potential scenario is a frontal impact causing a front seat to move rearward, reducing the floorboard space between the front seat and access to the carpet and release cable. This system needs to be redesigned for this vehicle. If I had known about this system prior to purchase, it would have negatively impacted my buying decision.
When driving it randomly displayed a message that it’s turning AC on automatically to “prevent fogging” which created fogging and reduced visibility to zero.
When driving it randomly displayed a message that it’s turning AC on automatically to “prevent fogging” which created fogging and reduced visibility to zero.
It randomly turned the AC on automatically “to prevent fogging” which actually caused fogging and panic
It randomly turned the AC on automatically “to prevent fogging” which actually caused fogging and panic
-The front suspension half shafts or CV joints produce a known vibration through the accelerator pedal, steering wheel at 25-40 mph during cold starts for the first 3-5 minutes of driving. This is a factory new vehicle. The problem is regularly addressed on Tesla owner forums, noting it is present in all new Tesla Model S vehicles 2019 through 2024. -CV joint vibration is typically caused my misalignment that can ultimately lead to premature wear and failures in the suspension system and potentially the vehicle pulling to one side unexpectedly, potentially wobbling, and ultimately leading to a failure resulting in a potential impact with another object/vehicle. -Tesla Dealership acknowledged that the vibration concern is coming from the CV half shafts but did not have a solution and described the condition as a known issue that is just "inherent to high performance vehicles." In the past, TSBs were posted guiding users to lower the vehicle to reduce the misalignment, but it ultimately did not solve the problem. However, the TSB highlights/indicates that Tesla is aware of CV misalignment, which causes vibration.
-The front suspension half shafts or CV joints produce a known vibration through the accelerator pedal, steering wheel at 25-40 mph during cold starts for the first 3-5 minutes of driving. This is a factory new vehicle. The problem is regularly addressed on Tesla owner forums, noting it is present in all new Tesla Model S vehicles 2019 through 2024. -CV joint vibration is typically caused my misalignment that can ultimately lead to premature wear and failures in the suspension system and potentially the vehicle pulling to one side unexpectedly, potentially wobbling, and ultimately leading to a failure resulting in a potential impact with another object/vehicle. -Tesla Dealership acknowledged that the vibration concern is coming from the CV half shafts but did not have a solution and described the condition as a known issue that is just "inherent to high performance vehicles." In the past, TSBs were posted guiding users to lower the vehicle to reduce the misalignment, but it ultimately did not solve the problem. However, the TSB highlights/indicates that Tesla is aware of CV misalignment, which causes vibration.
Windshield with distortions causing driving distractions and headaches. I am on my third windshield with the same problem. This seems to be a widespread issue in reviewing online forums.
Windshield with distortions causing driving distractions and headaches. I am on my third windshield with the same problem. This seems to be a widespread issue in reviewing online forums.
Car lacks a turn signal stalk. The turn signal buttons on the steering wheel move with the wheel, making it almost impossible to figure out where to press when the wheel is turned, without taking your eyes off the road. It's not a good idea to take your eyes off the road while turning. This makes signalling while exiting a round-a-bout essentially impossible. In addition, even when going straight, it is easy to press the wrong button & signal left when you intend to turn right and vice versa, unless you look at the buttons. I don't think it is a good idea to keep looking away from the road for this purpose. I thought I'd get used to this & be able to operate them easily after a few thousand miles. So far, after 2,000 miles I still press the wrong button occasionally. This is not safe. This is a distraction.
Car lacks a turn signal stalk. The turn signal buttons on the steering wheel move with the wheel, making it almost impossible to figure out where to press when the wheel is turned, without taking your eyes off the road. It's not a good idea to take your eyes off the road while turning. This makes signalling while exiting a round-a-bout essentially impossible. In addition, even when going straight, it is easy to press the wrong button & signal left when you intend to turn right and vice versa, unless you look at the buttons. I don't think it is a good idea to keep looking away from the road for this purpose. I thought I'd get used to this & be able to operate them easily after a few thousand miles. So far, after 2,000 miles I still press the wrong button occasionally. This is not safe. This is a distraction.
My new car has severe distortion of the windshield and the tailgate glass which could make driving the car unsafe by distorting the lane markings, cars and streets, and/or by inducing dizziness. I took the car to Tesla service and was told that the issue is within specifications and that all other similar Teslas have the same glass issue and replacing the glass would not help the issue. It seems that the glass supplier that Tesla is using has a poor manufacturing quality. The company does not seem to care. I hope you can investigate the issue and request that Tesla address the defective glass with the current supplier or switch to a better quality supplier.
My new car has severe distortion of the windshield and the tailgate glass which could make driving the car unsafe by distorting the lane markings, cars and streets, and/or by inducing dizziness. I took the car to Tesla service and was told that the issue is within specifications and that all other similar Teslas have the same glass issue and replacing the glass would not help the issue. It seems that the glass supplier that Tesla is using has a poor manufacturing quality. The company does not seem to care. I hope you can investigate the issue and request that Tesla address the defective glass with the current supplier or switch to a better quality supplier.
What Owners Are Saying
"Zero issues with mine, picked it up a few weeks ago, very recent build. Even panel gaps, they are perfectly aligned, in fact exceeded my expectations (all panels are equally spaced). As far as interior rattles, no issues at all..... even compared to my BMW or Mbenz. I can even hear the sound of water bottle splashing that is stored deep in the central console under the armrest. Previous owners have warned me about the build quality being a matter of luck, and what I got had exceeded my expectations. I specially liked the wind noise insulation... It was fun to take it on the highway (admittedly there wasn't high speed wind, but still, driving 85 MPH, it acted really well noise wise). I recently did a full PPF... there was not even any chance for them to tuck the PPF in between the front bumper gaps and fenders, or the rear bumper and quarter panel, which is by itself a good sign. I would say that the rear trunk could receive some design enhancement to show a smaller gap with the quarter panel... seems common and unavoidable due to the trunk curvature design Nov 29, 20218,4889,534Camarillo, CA"
"Sitting at the supercharger for 20-30 minutes isn't the worst thing in the world, playing games, playing on phone, etc., but it's still not as good as sitting at home on the couch or recliner while your car charges nicely overnight back up to 80% ready to go every day on your commute. You will love the Model S for commuting versus your 6.2 GM truck. I have a new Duramax 3.0 diesel work truck and it's super nice, but I love sliding back into my MSP in the evenings and weekend. Even my CT5V Blackwing six-speed has been sitting more as I enjoy driving the Tesla quite a bit. Reactions: TBrownTX, El joe, aerodyne and 1 other person May 7, 20232,3153,433Ontario California"
"Dilemma: Model S or BMW iX Hi everyone, I currently have a BMW i X and Tesla model S on order. I initially was fully committed to going with the BMW IX, because I had a less than stellar experience with my previous Tesla model Y. However, the closer I got to delivery date, the more sales tactic/markups etc. I’ve been dealing with with my dealership. This, along with the price drops, enticed me to go test drive a new model S, and I instantly fell in love with it. The quality of the car far exceeded my expectations compared to what I had grown accustomed to with the model Y, and I was pleasantly surprised with the level of storage the car offered for a sedan. Additionally, as someone who does a lot of road trips, I know the Tesla charging network takes a lot of the stress away. Right now I am talking with my dealer to cancel my IX order and go ahead and pick up my model S sometime next week. Since this is a big decision, I just wanted to see what everyone here has as far as thoughts on these two cars, or any experiences that you’ve had: just in case I am overlooking something that I should be considering. My use case is primarily just my wife and I taking our 2 bicycles various places, going on extended road trips (5 to 10 hours at a time), and the occasional hour or two long day trip with our 2-3 nieces and nephews. I did not believe I would like the model S as much as I do, and my impression was that the interior build quality between the two cars is very similar. But, the last thing I want to do is get too emotional about either vehicle, and have the sort of buyers remorse I did with my model Y purchase (which just wasn’t a good fit as a vehicle for me). Thanks! EDIT: Thank you everyone for your input, I’ve sent the email to cancel the iX deposit, and I’m going to take delivery of the Model S next week 👌"
"Tesla Model S 60 Ownership Review. I have been looking around for some reviews of the Tesla Model S 60 but did not seem to find many. I decided to write one up for anyone that is in the market for a Model S and is debating whether to get the 60 or the 85 or more (these are the thoughts of a 60 owner). This is in no way a comprehensive review as I have only had it for 3 months. First off, here are the options on the car. Car Options: Model S 60, Metallic Blue Exterior, Gray Interior, Piano Black, Tech Package, Super Charging Enabled. VIN ~56,000 Delivered Late September 2014. Background: I work in the bay area (CA) for a tech company. I first became interested in Tesla when the Roadster was announced. This led me to convince my parents to use what I made in high school as a tutor to invest in Tesla Stock. Fortunately things turned out quite well and this is the first car I bought. Anyone with a difference of opinions of what I should have bought, well we just have to agree to disagree. I am frugal in all other aspects of life and this was a reward for passing the first quarter of my life without any major hiccups. I have owned the car for a little over 3 months now and the odometer indicates 4700 miles. Most of my daily commute is about 40 miles roundtrip in the Bay Area (California) for work. Below are my thoughts on the S60. Car Design: Can I just say WOW; kudos to Franz and his team for designing such an attention grabbing beauty. I believe it’s one of the most beautiful sedans on the market today. It hits multiple markets for luxury car buyers and tech nuts like myself. I am a huge car guy and not many cars get a 10/10 for exterior and interior looks. Those other cars start at prices around a quarter of a million dollars and well I can’t justify buying something like that at this part of my life. This will be an iconic car for many years to come. I will not go into detail of the interior as many have done already and you can find articles about the touchscreen. However here are some small things that I noted about the car (at least my car and probably not others) and believe honesty is the best policy to potential buyers. 1. For a luxury car, there are some noises from panels creaking or wind noise. It doesn’t help that no engine is there to drown out those noises. If you take the car in, they will treat the panel creaking with noise canceling tape. No fix for the wind noise yet. This may have to do with the rubber and window closure not completely sealing under different climates. 2. The sound system is excellent even without the High Fidelity Audio. 3. The ride is quite good. The coil suspension holds its own (however it is no Mercedes Benz Magic Body quality). If you are looking for complete ride comfort over roads, try the air suspension. 4. Seating (I have the older version seats) is good; in cornering at faster speeds, you will feel yourself sliding slightly. They are comfortable for long drives. 5. The front of the hoo"
"Dec 7, 2018165152Monrovia, CA Jan 7, 20232943Irvine I initially asked for adjustments to the rear bumper because there was a 1 cm gap on the left side near the trunk when I first received the vehicle. Although they rectified this issue at the time, a year later the clips on the rear bumper are coming loose. In addition to that, there are multiple other issues(rear drive unit failed twice within a year), to the point where it seems like the build quality could have been better executed by chimps. Jan 22, 2023484390United States"
"2025 Tesla Model S Plaid - Rattle and Disappointed with Tesla Service... Bought a new 2025 Model S Plaid \~2 months ago (second Tesla, previously had a Model 3 LR). For the price and reputation, the ownership experience has been rough so far: (two vids of the noise...) * **Software issues:** Air suspension + electric braking both failed early on, throwing a flood of alerts. It was kind of a frightening experience, I have to be honest. The car reset after a little while, but it can be a bit dangerous when it happens mid-drive. Both times, I was backing up when this happened. * **Service nightmare:** Scheduled for a rattle in the rear liftgate. The first service center didn’t have the part in time (I was moving states), so they asked that I rebook in my new state (which I was okay with). It did take a month to get an appointment, but I understand they are busy. * **Zero communication when scheduling for service:** I received no updates on the status of the vehicle, and none of my calls were answered when I called the service center. The car said it would be completed the same day, @ 5 PM, but it was only until late at night that I was informed it would roll into tomorrow. I was a bit annoyed with the lack of communication because my work schedule requires me to be on top of it. * **Poor delivery:** The car was returned dirty and at a 20% charge when they had it for TWO DAYS. I figured since I had spent $100,000 on a vehicle, they'd clean it and give it back with a full charge. Every other premium dealer (BMW, Porsche, etc.) cleans before giving it back. Hell, even if you buy a used Porsche and take it to a Porsche dealer, they will quite literally detail the thing before giving it back lol. * **Problem wasn't fixed :(:** They told me the rattle was gone, but it was still there.... and louder the next day. For a $100k+ car, this service feels pretty crap rather than premium. Anyone else having similar issues with Tesla service quality lately? And if anyone can tell me what that noise is and how I can get rid of it that would be great lol, it is annoying."
"Jul 2, 20205,9153,480Kentucky Unfortunate, but happens too often with Tesla's build quality. Luckily, you should be able to get those items ironed out except for a waste of your time. Sep 4, 2017186129Washington This is sad to see. I would have thought Tesla fixed this irritating issue on the refresh (2021+). My 2017 75D has "regularly scheduled" door panel problems. They eventually loosen up over time but never completely fall of since there are two bolts and about 8 plastic clips and 4 metal clips holding it on (Ask me how I know!). The two bolts never give up but the plastic clips have been replaced several times and the metal clips loosen there tension. In fact one of my doors currently has a panel loose. The only solution is to just bang it back in but that gets old. I have had had about a dozen cars over 40 years but this is the first car ever to have loose door panels. They are just cheaply made/designed...and it's just not my car as I have had 6-7 Model S loaners and they all had loose door panels."
"Took delivery of a new MSP, where are my parking sensors or Tesla Vision? Recently, I've encountered an issue with the software of my Tesla Model S. I'm running 2023.2.201, and none of the sensors are working, there's no visual feedback, and there's no beeping sound when I'm close to a wall. I've also been unable to get the software update. Has anyone else experienced this issue, or have any suggestions on how to resolve it?"
Showing 8 of 31 owner excerpts (sorted by sentiment strength)