2013 Tesla Model S Problems & Owner Complaints

Electrical System 195 7 crash 14 fire 11 injury 2 death

“A STOLEN TESLA CRASHED IN WEST HOLLYWOOD, KILLING THE DRIVER. PHOTOS SEEM TO SUGGEST THAT THE DRIVER SIDE AIR BAG MAY NOT HAVE DEPLOYED. ALLEGEDLY LIGHT POLES SPLIT THE CAR IN HALF. THE LIGHT POLES SEEM TO BE THE BREAKAWAY TYPE. SUGGESTING THERE MAY BE A STRUCTURAL WEAKNESS THAT ALLOWED THE TESLA TO BREAK IN HALF, FRACTURING THE BATTERY, CATCHING PIECES OF BATTERY ON FIRE, AND EXPLODING BATTERY CELLS, SENDING FLAMING SHRAPNEL THROUGH THE NEIGHBORHOOD. *TR”
NHTSA complaint #10609716, 2014 · crash · fire · 1 death(s)

“TIMOTHY DEVINE WAS KILLED AFTER DRIVING HIS VEHICLE OFF THE ROAD AND DOWN THE CANYON. THE TESLA STARTED A BRUSHFIRE THAT WAS SO BAD THAT 180 FIREFIGHTERS WERE CALLED IN AND MALIBU CANYON ROAD WAS CLOSED FOR OVER 9 HOURS. TANG, A SPOKESMAN FROM THE HIGHWAY PATROL SAID THAT TIMOTHY DEVINE WAS SO BADLY BURNED HE WASN'T RECOGNIZABLE AS A PERSON AND THAT FIRE HAD MELTED THE CAR DOWN TO NOTHING. WAS THIS SUICIDE OR DRIVER ERROR? WAS THIS KNOWN PROBLEMS WITH STEERING, UNINTENDED ACCELERATION, BRAKE FAILURE, ETC. WAS THIS FATAL CRASH, FIRE AND EXPLOSIONS THE THE FAULT OF THE DRIVER AND OR THE FAULT OF…”
NHTSA complaint #10730863, 2015 · crash · fire · 1 death(s)

“TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 TESLA MODEL S. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE CHARGING CORD BECAME EXTREMELY HOT AND THE CONTACT WAS BURNED AFTER MAKING CONTACT WITH THE CORD. THE PLASTIC PART OF THE CORD HAD ALSO MELTED. THE CHARGING CORD WAS DISCONNECTED AND THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE, WHO ADVISED THE CONTACT TO CALL THE FIRE DEPARTMENT. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT FOUND THE CHARGING CORD TO BE DEFECTIVE. THE CONTACT FILED A COMPLAINT WITH THE MANUFACTURER. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 5,500.”
NHTSA complaint #10557033, 2013 · fire · 1 injury(ies)

Unknown Or Other 122 7 crash 3 fire 4 injury 2 death

“REPORTEDLY: 2013 TESLA MODEL S FATAL CRASH ON APRIL 27 2018 ABOUT 7:30 PM. THREE SURVIVORS WERE HOSPITALIZED FOR THEIR INJURIES. TEENAGERS ON THEIR WAY TO PROM AT A HIGH RATE OF SPEED CRASHED. THE NOW DECEASED 17-YEAR-OLD PASSENGER, WAS IN THE BACKSEAT APPARENTLY NOT WEARING A SEATBELT, AND WAS EJECTED AND SHE DIED 3 DAYS LATER. BUTLER COUNTY SHERIFFS OFFICE IS AN INVESTIGATIVE AGENCY. A SEARCH WARRANT WAS ISSUED FOR THE AIRBAG MODULE. THE CRASH OCCURRED AT MILLIKIN ROAD IN LIBERTY TOWNSHIP, OHIO. THE TEEN DRIVER HAS BEEN CHARGED WITH VEHICULAR HOMICIDE. IT SEEMS THE DRIVER WAS AT FAULT, IF SO…”
NHTSA complaint #11097338, 2018 · crash · 1 death(s)

“TIMOTHY DEVINE WAS KILLED AFTER DRIVING HIS VEHICLE OFF THE ROAD AND DOWN THE CANYON. THE TESLA STARTED A BRUSHFIRE THAT WAS SO BAD THAT 180 FIREFIGHTERS WERE CALLED IN AND MALIBU CANYON ROAD WAS CLOSED FOR OVER 9 HOURS. TANG, A SPOKESMAN FROM THE HIGHWAY PATROL SAID THAT TIMOTHY DEVINE WAS SO BADLY BURNED HE WASN'T RECOGNIZABLE AS A PERSON AND THAT FIRE HAD MELTED THE CAR DOWN TO NOTHING. WAS THIS SUICIDE OR DRIVER ERROR? WAS THIS KNOWN PROBLEMS WITH STEERING, UNINTENDED ACCELERATION, BRAKE FAILURE, ETC. WAS THIS FATAL CRASH, FIRE AND EXPLOSIONS THE THE FAULT OF THE DRIVER AND OR THE FAULT OF…”
NHTSA complaint #10730863, 2015 · crash · fire · 1 death(s)

“The rear view camera did not deploy when I was backing out of a driveway and I was struck by another vehicle. The police determined it was a no-fault accident. My insurance company deemed me primarily responsible. I was unable to see any oncoming traffic because the camera was not working and there were obstacles to seeing oncoming traffic. The car was deemed totaled by the mechanic and my insurance company. The car battery died soon after the accident and the vehicle remains in my garage and is immovable. I sustained minor head, neck and back injuries.”
NHTSA complaint #11443631, 2020 · crash · 1 injury(ies)

Suspension 91 11 crash 6 fire 8 injury 1 death

“THIS IS THE CAR WHICH SWERVED OVER A CLIFF AND KILLED THE DRIVER. HTTPS://WWW.EASYEXPORT.US/VEHICLE-FINDER/LOT-16405175/2013-TESLA-TESLA-NON-REPAIRABLE-CA-SAN-JOSE HTTP://WWW.PRESSDEMOCRAT.COM/NEWS/3318773-181/PD-DEFAULT-STORY-HEADLINE-XY?GALLERY=3314901&ARTSLIDE=0 I HAVE ATTACHED PHOTOGRAPHS THAT SHOW NOT ONLY THAT THE STEERING KNUCKLE HAS SNAPPED BUT THE TREAD IS WORN OFF THE TIRE. THIS CAN ONLY HAVE HAPPENED WHILE THE CAR WAS DRIVING ON THE ROAD. THIS WAS ALMOST CERTAINLY THE CAUSE OF THE CRASH. THIS SAME EFFECT OF SNAPPED SUSPENSION WITH WORN TIRE CAN BE SEEN IN MANY OTHER TESLA CR…”
NHTSA complaint #10928135, 2014 · crash · 1 death(s)

“HERE IS A TESLA IN THE JUNKYARD. HTTPS://M.IAAI.COM/VEHICLEDETENC.ASPX?AUCTIONID=0&ITEMID=23837634&ROWID=31&PAGESOURCE=VEHICLERESULTS THE BACK RH WHEEL ASSEMBLY HAS TORN OFF AND EXITED THROUGH THE REAR OF THE CAR TEARING OFF THE BACK BUMPER. THE CAR HAS THEN HAD A MAJOR COLLISION. IT IS MOST UNLIKELY THAT IT IS A MERE COINCIDENCE THE BACK WHEEL HAS FALLEN OFF. THE ALLOY SUSPENSION COMPONENTS ARE MUCH TOO FRAGILE AND HAVE FAILED MANY TIMES ON THESE VEHICLES. PLEASE INVESTIGATE. NOTE: I AM NOT THE OWNER OF THE VEHICLE JUST A CONCERNED CITIZEN. DATE OF ACCIDENT AND INJURY DETAILS ARE AN…”
NHTSA complaint #10938616, 2016 · crash · 2 injury(ies)

“HERE IS ANOTHER TESLA IN THE JUNKYARD HTTPS://M.IAAI.COM/VEHICLEDETENC.ASPX?AUCTIONID=0&ITEMID=23837634&ROWID=30&PAGESOURCE=VEHICLERESULTS IT HAS BEEN IN A MAJOR FRONT END COLLISION. ALMOST CERTAINLY CAUSE BY THE BACK WHEEL FALLING OFF! PLEASE INVESTIGATE THIS. EVERY TESLA ON THE ROAD IS IN DANGER OF HAVING A WHEEL SNAP-OFF AT ANY INSTANT. PLEASE NOTE THAT INJURY REPORT IS JUST AN ESTIMATE BASED ON THE SEVERITY OF DAMAGE. DATE OF CRASH IS AN APPROXIMATION. *TR”
NHTSA complaint #10936350, 2016 · crash · 2 injury(ies)

Power Train 35

“The vehicle has suffered a catastrophic, intermittent low-voltage network crash caused by a failing Body Control Module (BCM), resulting in multiple dangerous safety-critical failure modes. On a previous occasion, the vehicle woke up with severe network faults and automatically forced itself into Neutral. When the driver stepped out to get the child and shut the door, the system crashed entirely and the exterior electronic door handles failed to present, trapping an infant child inside the running vehicle. Most recently, while driving in a rainstorm, the vehicle suffered a complete failure of…”
NHTSA complaint #11746345, 2026

“While driving my 2013 Tesla Model S at normal road speed, the vehicle suddenly lost all propulsion without any warning. I had to coast and maneuver across traffic to avoid being hit before the car came to a stop. After shifting into Park, the vehicle displayed DI_w072 and DI_f072 gate‑drive faults, which indicate inverter/drive‑unit failure and match a pattern reported by other early‑model‑year Tesla owners. This sudden loss of motive power created a serious safety hazard, including risk of rear‑end collision and exposure to oncoming traffic while disabled. • No alerts appeared before the fail…”
NHTSA complaint #11741781, 2026

“Premature HV Battery BMS Failure After Tesla Replacement – Safety Risk of Fire and Sudden Power Loss”
NHTSA complaint #11685191, 2025

Steering 29 2 crash 1 fire 1 injury 1 death

“THIS IS THE CAR WHICH SWERVED OVER A CLIFF AND KILLED THE DRIVER. HTTPS://WWW.EASYEXPORT.US/VEHICLE-FINDER/LOT-16405175/2013-TESLA-TESLA-NON-REPAIRABLE-CA-SAN-JOSE HTTP://WWW.PRESSDEMOCRAT.COM/NEWS/3318773-181/PD-DEFAULT-STORY-HEADLINE-XY?GALLERY=3314901&ARTSLIDE=0 I HAVE ATTACHED PHOTOGRAPHS THAT SHOW NOT ONLY THAT THE STEERING KNUCKLE HAS SNAPPED BUT THE TREAD IS WORN OFF THE TIRE. THIS CAN ONLY HAVE HAPPENED WHILE THE CAR WAS DRIVING ON THE ROAD. THIS WAS ALMOST CERTAINLY THE CAUSE OF THE CRASH. THIS SAME EFFECT OF SNAPPED SUSPENSION WITH WORN TIRE CAN BE SEEN IN MANY OTHER TESLA CR…”
NHTSA complaint #10928135, 2014 · crash · 1 death(s)

“HERE IS A REPORT OF A TESLA CRASH AT AN INTERSECTION. HTTP://INSIDEEVS.COM/TESLA-MODEL-S-GETS-WRECKED-OWNER-SAYS-VEHICLE-SAVED-HIS-LIFE-IMAGES-OWNER-TESTIMONIAL/ THE REPORT BLAMES THE OTHER DRIVER AND CREDITS THE TESLA WITH SAVING THE OWNER FROM INJURY. THE CLAIM THAT THE HYUNDAI HIT THE TESLA AND THEN REBOUNDED AND HIT THE TESLA ONCE MORE IS QUITE UNUSUAL. THE PHOTOGRAPHS ARE HIGH RESOLUTION AND IF THEY ARE BLOWN UP AND EXAMINED CLOSE UP YOU CAN SEETHE THAT TIP OF THE STEERING KNUCKLE IS BROKEN OFF (CLOSE UP PHOTOGRAPH OF THE ACTUAL PART -WHICH WAS PURCHASED BY A REBUILDER- HERE: HT…”
NHTSA complaint #10894694, 2013 · crash · 1 injury(ies)

“HERE IS AN AUCTION LISTING OF A TESLA THAT HAS CAUGHT FIRE. HTTP://SALVAGE-BID.COM/RESULT.PHP?VIN=[XXX] THE PJHOTOGRAPHS SHOW THAT THE LH TOP BALL-JOINT HAS PULLED OUT FROM THE STEERING KNUCKLE. THIS IS NOT THE RESULT OF THE FIRE BECAUSE THOSE PARTS ARE SOLID METAL AND NEITHER THE STEERING KNUCKLE NOR THE WISHBONE HAVE MELTED. THE SUSPENSION FAILURE IS CONSISTENT WITH THE PATTERN OF SIMILAR FAILURES THAT APPEAR TO HAVE BEEN THE CAUSE OF CRASHES. PLEASE INVESTIGATE THIS RECURRING FAILURE INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR”
NHTSA complaint #10897285, 2016 · fire

Vehicle Speed Control 25 13 crash 3 injury

“ON 8/6/2020 AT APPROXIMATELY 3:50 PM [XXX], I [XXX] WAS PARKING MY 2013 MODEL S 85 TESLA IN MY CARPORT. I HAVE LIVED AT THIS ADDRESS FOR 7 MONTHS AND HAD PARKED MY CAR THERE WITHOUT INCIDENT NUMEROUS TIMES. I WAS NOT DISTRACTED NOR INTOXICATED IN ANY WAY; I WAS SIMPLY PARKING MY CAR. AS I WAS ABOUT TO PUSH THE PARK BUTTON ON THE TESLA, SUDDENLY THE CAR UNINTENTIONALLY ACCELERATED, OUT OF CONTROL, THE BRAKE DIDN'T WORK, AND CONTINUED TO LEAP FORWARD AT FULL SPEED, CAUSING ME TO CRASH THROUGH THE GATE, AND BACK OF MY CARPORT, BOUNCING ONE TRASHCAN OFF MY SHED DOOR AND PUSHING ANOTHER ONE, AS I…”
NHTSA complaint #11348946, 2020 · crash · 1 injury(ies)

“ON NOVEMBER 1, 2019, I WAS SLOWLY BRAKING AND START TURNING RIGHT INTO MY DRIVEWAY ON THE 2013 TESLA MODEL S. I FELT A SURGE OF THE VEHICLE AND 1 SECOND LATER, THE VEHICLE LANDED ON TOP OF THE STAIRCASE OF MY HOUSE ENTRANCE AND DRIVEWAY. I DID NOT PRESS ON THE ACCELERATOR AT ALL WHEN I SLOWLY TURNING INTO THE DRIVEWAY.THE VEHICLE SPED ON ITS OWN FOR ONLY A SPLIT SECOND. I CALLED TESLA ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE. THE REPRESENTATIVE CONTACTED ME AND DIRECT ME TO A REPAIR SHOP AND HE TOLD ME THAT HE WOULD HAVE THE VEHICLE'S INFORMATION TO BE SENT TO THE ENGINEERS TO FIND OUT WHAT HAPPENED. I HAD MY VEH…”
NHTSA complaint #11302076, 2019 · crash · 1 injury(ies)

“IT WAS A 2HR45MIN DRIVE INTO WORK ON AN ICY BLIZZARDY MORNING, DRIVING MY 2013 MODEL S RWD P85 WITH 90,000MI. HAVE OWNED THIS CAR FOR 4 YRS. MADE IT TO WORK SAFELY AND THE LAST 6 FEET IN THE PARKING GARAGE, GOING ABOUT 3 MPH PULLING AT A RIGHT ANGLE INTO A PARKING STALL. HAD BRAKE PEDAL DEPRESSED, SHIFTED MY FOOT TO TAP ON THE ACCELERATOR TO INCH FORWARD AND NEXT THING YOU KNOW, CAR IS ACCELERATING FULL THROTTLE INTO A CEMENT WALL. CRASHED HEAD ON AND AIRBAG DIDN'T EVEN DEPLOY. SAT FOR A MOMENT TO CATCH MY BREATH AND TRY TO PROCESS WHAT HAPPENED. SENT "BUG REPORT" ON TO TESLA CENTRAL FRO…”
NHTSA complaint #11180431, 2019 · crash · 1 injury(ies)

Fuel/Propulsion System 24 3 crash 1 fire 8 injury 1 death

“A STOLEN TESLA CRASHED IN WEST HOLLYWOOD, KILLING THE DRIVER. PHOTOS SEEM TO SUGGEST THAT THE DRIVER SIDE AIR BAG MAY NOT HAVE DEPLOYED. ALLEGEDLY LIGHT POLES SPLIT THE CAR IN HALF. THE LIGHT POLES SEEM TO BE THE BREAKAWAY TYPE. SUGGESTING THERE MAY BE A STRUCTURAL WEAKNESS THAT ALLOWED THE TESLA TO BREAK IN HALF, FRACTURING THE BATTERY, CATCHING PIECES OF BATTERY ON FIRE, AND EXPLODING BATTERY CELLS, SENDING FLAMING SHRAPNEL THROUGH THE NEIGHBORHOOD. *TR”
NHTSA complaint #10609716, 2014 · crash · fire · 1 death(s)

“IT WAS A 2HR45MIN DRIVE INTO WORK ON AN ICY BLIZZARDY MORNING, DRIVING MY 2013 MODEL S RWD P85 WITH 90,000MI. HAVE OWNED THIS CAR FOR 4 YRS. MADE IT TO WORK SAFELY AND THE LAST 6 FEET IN THE PARKING GARAGE, GOING ABOUT 3 MPH PULLING AT A RIGHT ANGLE INTO A PARKING STALL. HAD BRAKE PEDAL DEPRESSED, SHIFTED MY FOOT TO TAP ON THE ACCELERATOR TO INCH FORWARD AND NEXT THING YOU KNOW, CAR IS ACCELERATING FULL THROTTLE INTO A CEMENT WALL. CRASHED HEAD ON AND AIRBAG DIDN'T EVEN DEPLOY. SAT FOR A MOMENT TO CATCH MY BREATH AND TRY TO PROCESS WHAT HAPPENED. SENT "BUG REPORT" ON TO TESLA CENTRAL FRO…”
NHTSA complaint #11180431, 2019 · crash · 1 injury(ies)

“I WAS BACKING OUT OF MY GARAGE AND THE LEFT REAR END OF MY CAR HIT A CAR PARKED BEHIND ME. MY CAR IMMEDIATELY SPED UP IN FORWARD DIRECTION IN AN ARC CAUSING ME TO HIT JUST INSIDE GARAGE ON THE LEFT . I TRIED TO BRAKE AND TO PUT IT INTO PARK AND NOTHING WAS WORKING. IT FINALLY WENT INTO NEUTRAL AND QUIT HITTING THE GARAGE. THERE WAS LOTS OF SMOKE AND I THOUGHT CAR WAS ON FIRE. THERE WAS LOTS OF BURNED RUBBER UNDER MY LEFT REAR TIRE CAUSING THE SMOKE. NONE UNDER RIGHT SIDE. THERE WERE WORKERS AT THE HOUSE (CAR BEHIND ME) AND THEY SAID IT WAS THE CAR DOING IT. I WASN'T SURE WHAT WAS HAPPENING. I…”
NHTSA complaint #11396170, 2020 · crash

Engine 21 3 crash 1 injury

“IT WAS A 2HR45MIN DRIVE INTO WORK ON AN ICY BLIZZARDY MORNING, DRIVING MY 2013 MODEL S RWD P85 WITH 90,000MI. HAVE OWNED THIS CAR FOR 4 YRS. MADE IT TO WORK SAFELY AND THE LAST 6 FEET IN THE PARKING GARAGE, GOING ABOUT 3 MPH PULLING AT A RIGHT ANGLE INTO A PARKING STALL. HAD BRAKE PEDAL DEPRESSED, SHIFTED MY FOOT TO TAP ON THE ACCELERATOR TO INCH FORWARD AND NEXT THING YOU KNOW, CAR IS ACCELERATING FULL THROTTLE INTO A CEMENT WALL. CRASHED HEAD ON AND AIRBAG DIDN'T EVEN DEPLOY. SAT FOR A MOMENT TO CATCH MY BREATH AND TRY TO PROCESS WHAT HAPPENED. SENT "BUG REPORT" ON TO TESLA CENTRAL FRO…”
NHTSA complaint #11180431, 2019 · crash · 1 injury(ies)

“SLOWLY PULLING INTO A PARKING SPOT AT A STRIP MALL, I RELEASED MY FOOT OFF OF THE GAS, LIGHTLY TAPPED BRAKE AND THE CAR "UNINTENTIONALLY ACCELERATED" INTO A PALM TREE IN FRONT OF A BRICK PILLAR AT A STRIP MALL. I BACKED OUT TO ASSESS THE DAMAGE. HUSBAND WAS WITNESS IN DRIVER'S SEAT. THIS IS THE 2ND TIME THIS HAPPENED TO ME, (LAST YEAR AT A GROCERY STORE PARKING LOT) ALTHO THE FIRST TIME NO DAMAGE WAS DONE AND NO REPORTS WERE FILED. POOR DECISION IN HINDSIGHT! SINCE NO PERSON WAS INJURED, THE POLICE DEPT WOULD NOT TAKE A REPORT. INSURANCE WAS CALLED AS WELL AS TESLA. TESLA TOOK 6 DAYS TO PULL…”
NHTSA complaint #10839579, 2016 · crash

“I PREVIOUSLY FILED A COMPLAINT TO NHTSA ON 9/24/2013 WITH NHTSA ID NO. 10545230. I NOTICED SIMILAR ISSUE WAS REPORTED BY 3 OR 4 OTHER TESLA OWNERS: (1) 9/26/2013 NHTSA ID NO. 10545488, (2) 9/29/2014 NHTSA NO. 10639849, (3) 9/29/2014 NHTSA NO. 10639935, AND (4) 6/8/2015 NHTSA ID NO. 10723925. THERE WAS ANOTHER SIMILAR CASE IN CAMARILLO CA AS REPORTED BY VENTURA COUNTY STAR ON 3/29/2013 BUT APPARENTLY WAS NOT REPORTED TO NHTSA. THERE WERE SO MANY SIMILAR INCIDENCES HAPPENED WITH ONLY A LIMITED NUMBER OF 2013 AND 2014 TESLA MODEL S ON THE ROAD, SOMETHING IS NOT RIGHT WITH THE MODEL S. TESLA CANNO…”
NHTSA complaint #10725634, 2013 · crash

Service Brakes 21 10 crash 1 death

“TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2013 TESLA MODEL S. WHILE THE CONTACT'S HUSBAND WAS MAKING A RIGHT TURN AT AN UNKNOWN SPEED, THE VEHICLE FAILED TO STOP WHEN THE BRAKES WERE APPLIED AND CRASHED INTO A SIDE DITCH. THE FRONT DRIVER'S SIDE AIR BAG DEPLOYED WITH EXCESSIVE FORCE, CAUSING MULTIPLE INJURIES TO THE DRIVER. AS A RESULT, THE DRIVER WAS PRONOUNCED DEAD AT THE SCENE. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN IMPOUND LOT WHERE IT WAS DEEMED A TOTAL LOSS. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO A DEALER FOR DIAGNOSTIC TESTING. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED AND DID NOT ASSIST. THE FAILURE MILEAGE W…”
NHTSA complaint #11279662, 2015 · crash · 1 death(s)

“- Vehicle accelerated while I was pressing the brake on my 2013 Model S Tesla Car - My vehicle rammed into another vehicle waiting at the traffic light resulting in damage to both the cars as well trauma for the female driver in the other car - I see exact complaints have been filed by many others - Tesla has rejected these complaints and blamed it on the driver - There were no warning indications”
NHTSA complaint #11674924, 2025 · crash

“I PULLED INTO A PARKING SPOT GOING UNDER 5MILES AND MY VEHICLE SUDDENLY ACCELERATED AT FULL SPEED. THE CAR SUDDENLY STOPPED A FEW FEET LATER BEFORE DOING PROPERTY DAMAGE TO THE BUILDING. I HIT A TRASH CAN. THE INSURANCE COMPANY TOTALLED THE CAR. TESLA HAS THE INFORMATION ABOUT THE VEHICLE. IF I HAD BEEN THERE 2 HOURS LATER I WOULD HAVE KILLED SOMEONE WHO WAS LINED UP OUTSIDE THE STORE TO BUY A PS5. TESLA'S POSITION IS THAT I MOVED MY FOOT FROM THE BRAKE AND HIT THE ACCELARATOR AT FULL SPEED. THAT'S RIDICULOUS. NO ONE WOULD DO THAT. MY TESLA WAS ONE OF THE FIRST ONES IN DALLAS. IT IS A 2013…”
NHTSA complaint #11474391, 2022 · crash

Structure 19 2 crash 1 injury

“ON NOVEMBER 1, 2019, I WAS SLOWLY BRAKING AND START TURNING RIGHT INTO MY DRIVEWAY ON THE 2013 TESLA MODEL S. I FELT A SURGE OF THE VEHICLE AND 1 SECOND LATER, THE VEHICLE LANDED ON TOP OF THE STAIRCASE OF MY HOUSE ENTRANCE AND DRIVEWAY. I DID NOT PRESS ON THE ACCELERATOR AT ALL WHEN I SLOWLY TURNING INTO THE DRIVEWAY.THE VEHICLE SPED ON ITS OWN FOR ONLY A SPLIT SECOND. I CALLED TESLA ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE. THE REPRESENTATIVE CONTACTED ME AND DIRECT ME TO A REPAIR SHOP AND HE TOLD ME THAT HE WOULD HAVE THE VEHICLE'S INFORMATION TO BE SENT TO THE ENGINEERS TO FIND OUT WHAT HAPPENED. I HAD MY VEH…”
NHTSA complaint #11302076, 2019 · crash · 1 injury(ies)

“SLOWLY PULLING INTO A PARKING SPOT AT A STRIP MALL, I RELEASED MY FOOT OFF OF THE GAS, LIGHTLY TAPPED BRAKE AND THE CAR "UNINTENTIONALLY ACCELERATED" INTO A PALM TREE IN FRONT OF A BRICK PILLAR AT A STRIP MALL. I BACKED OUT TO ASSESS THE DAMAGE. HUSBAND WAS WITNESS IN DRIVER'S SEAT. THIS IS THE 2ND TIME THIS HAPPENED TO ME, (LAST YEAR AT A GROCERY STORE PARKING LOT) ALTHO THE FIRST TIME NO DAMAGE WAS DONE AND NO REPORTS WERE FILED. POOR DECISION IN HINDSIGHT! SINCE NO PERSON WAS INJURED, THE POLICE DEPT WOULD NOT TAKE A REPORT. INSURANCE WAS CALLED AS WELL AS TESLA. TESLA TOOK 6 DAYS TO PULL…”
NHTSA complaint #10839579, 2016 · crash

“Front impact bumper separated from mount on one side due to rust. Noticed a noise from front of car when going over small bumps in the road. If we had been in an accident, the impact bumper would not have provided adequate protection for the passengers or vehicle components near the drivers front where the mount had separated from the bar. No other inspections have occurred. Pictures and info can also be found here: [XXX] Issue found during replacement of upper control arms. (image has an upper control arm that was removed from the same car at the same time with little/no rust) INFORMA…”
NHTSA complaint #11671434, 2025

Visibility/Wiper 18

“17 inch main Screen is bubbling and leaking fluid”
NHTSA complaint #11470168, 2022

“Wiper motor linkage on these vehicles break, leaving only the driver side wiper functional.”
NHTSA complaint #11464417, 2022

“I brought in the car to be parked as part of NHTSA Recall No. 21V-035. The "fix" provided has led to my center console in the Model S to shutdown completely. I contacted Tesla to inform them that their fix as part of the recall has actually led to more problems.”
NHTSA complaint #11461840, 2022

Exterior Lighting 15

“Vehicle lights turned off while driving home with my family. Pulling over and turning off and on the car reset the problem. When lights turned off I received a warning light identifying a faulty right headlight and faulty left headlight. No accident and vehicle is currently outside manufacture warranty.”
NHTSA complaint #11727760, 2026

“The contact owns a 2013 Tesla Model S. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V035000 (Back Over Prevention, Visibility, Exterior Lighting) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted and it was confirmed that parts were not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.”
NHTSA complaint #11453426, 2022

“The contact owns a 2013 Tesla Model S. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V035000 (Back Over Prevention, Visibility, Exterior Lighting). The contact stated that the recall repair was performed twice however, the vehicle experienced an unknown computer failure. The contact stated while driving at various speeds, the seats moved independently. The contact was unaware of a warning light being illuminated. The contact stated that the driver’s side seat would revert to the seat settings of the second driver independently while the vehicle was in motion. The contact had ta…”
NHTSA complaint #11485517, 2021

Air Bags 8 3 crash 1 fire 7 injury 2 death

“A STOLEN TESLA CRASHED IN WEST HOLLYWOOD, KILLING THE DRIVER. PHOTOS SEEM TO SUGGEST THAT THE DRIVER SIDE AIR BAG MAY NOT HAVE DEPLOYED. ALLEGEDLY LIGHT POLES SPLIT THE CAR IN HALF. THE LIGHT POLES SEEM TO BE THE BREAKAWAY TYPE. SUGGESTING THERE MAY BE A STRUCTURAL WEAKNESS THAT ALLOWED THE TESLA TO BREAK IN HALF, FRACTURING THE BATTERY, CATCHING PIECES OF BATTERY ON FIRE, AND EXPLODING BATTERY CELLS, SENDING FLAMING SHRAPNEL THROUGH THE NEIGHBORHOOD. *TR”
NHTSA complaint #10609716, 2014 · crash · fire · 1 death(s)

“TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2013 TESLA MODEL S. WHILE THE CONTACT'S HUSBAND WAS MAKING A RIGHT TURN AT AN UNKNOWN SPEED, THE VEHICLE FAILED TO STOP WHEN THE BRAKES WERE APPLIED AND CRASHED INTO A SIDE DITCH. THE FRONT DRIVER'S SIDE AIR BAG DEPLOYED WITH EXCESSIVE FORCE, CAUSING MULTIPLE INJURIES TO THE DRIVER. AS A RESULT, THE DRIVER WAS PRONOUNCED DEAD AT THE SCENE. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN IMPOUND LOT WHERE IT WAS DEEMED A TOTAL LOSS. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO A DEALER FOR DIAGNOSTIC TESTING. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED AND DID NOT ASSIST. THE FAILURE MILEAGE W…”
NHTSA complaint #11279662, 2015 · crash · 1 death(s)

“THE FIRST REPORTED TESLA CRASH IN CHINA, IT APPEARS THAT THE DRIVERS STEERING WHEEL AIRBAG DID NOT DEPLOY. WHILE CHINA IS NOT IN THE JURISDICTION OF NHTSA, THE INFORMATION CAN BE USED PROACTIVELY FOR SAFETY IN THE US, INSTEAD OF BEING REACTIVE. HTTP://WWW.CARNEWSCHINA.COM/2014/07/11/FIRST-TESLA-CRASHES-IN-CHINA/......UPDATED 07/15/14 *BF”
NHTSA complaint #10610088, 2014 · crash

Back Over Prevention 8

“The contact owns a 2013 Tesla Model S. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the center display screen malfunctioned, causing the rearview camera to intermittently fail. Additionally, the failure caused a delay while switching gears to drive(D) and to park(P). The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and determined through the Tesla App that the VCM daughterboard needed to be replaced with one containing an enhanced eMMC controller. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Nu…”
NHTSA complaint #11505178, 2022

“The contact owns a 2013 Tesla Model S. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V035000 (Back Over Prevention, Visibility, Exterior Lighting) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted and it was confirmed that parts were not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.”
NHTSA complaint #11453426, 2022

“The contact owns a 2013 Tesla Model S. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V035000 (Back Over Prevention, Visibility, Exterior Lighting). The contact stated that the recall repair was performed twice however, the vehicle experienced an unknown computer failure. The contact stated while driving at various speeds, the seats moved independently. The contact was unaware of a warning light being illuminated. The contact stated that the driver’s side seat would revert to the seat settings of the second driver independently while the vehicle was in motion. The contact had ta…”
NHTSA complaint #11485517, 2021

Wheels 7

“2019, 2020, 2021, 2022 Prior 2022 I shared with Tesla several times about my tires constant notification on the dashboard for low air. Tires were constantly being checked due to the dashboard display. I was told by Tesla it was covered, but no repair was done. When Tesla mobile or service only air was placed into the tires. Then I was told by Tesla mobile & calling 1800 when service, then when recall was performed it should fix the problem. Vehicle was not driven often due to black screen and tire issues/dashboard display. 2022 eMMC is finally replaced but now the warning on the dashboard r…”
NHTSA complaint #11469332, 2022

“To whom it may concern, Tesla Model S, and potentially other vehicles, have notorious issues with their front suspension fore links perhaps causing unsafe driving conditions. The topic has been brought up on Tesla forums numerous times and countless drivers are experiencing the same issue due to faulty parts provided during the manufacture of Tesla vehicles. The issue causes turning tightness, tire rubbing, and complete car driving capability failure, usually at low speeds. With the frequency of the complaint and the potential danger it could cause should the front suspension fully fail at…”
NHTSA complaint #11438759, 2021

“TIRE PRESSURE MONITORING SYSTEM FAULT LIGHT AND LOW TIRE PRESSURE LIGHT ON. TESLA SAYS THE BAOLONG SYSTEM INSTALLED IS FAULTY AND FAILING, AND A CONTINENTAL RETROFIT MODULE IS NEEDED. MANY PEOPLE HAVE REPORTED THIS ISSUE. TESLA CHARGES OVER $700 FOR THIS FIX. IF SO MANY PEOPLE ARE HAVING ISSUES WITH THIS, WHY NOT RECALL IT?! TESLA SAYS THERES NO WAY TO RESET THE SENSOR. ONLY OPTION IS TO REPLACE IT.”
NHTSA complaint #11298612, 2020

Electronic Stability Control (Esc) 6

“2013 TESLA S P85 MCU WILL NOT BOOT UP AFTER OVER THE AIR SOFTWARE UPDATE BETWEEN OCTOBER 2 T O OCTOBER 9TH WHILE I WAS ON A VACATION. OTA SOFTWARE VERSION 2020.24.6.11”
NHTSA complaint #11366786, 2020

“2013 TESLA S P85 WITH MANUFACTURE QUALITY CONTROL PROBLEMS. MY CURRENT CONCERN IS THAT MY MEDIA CONTROL UNIT (MCU) TOUCH SCREEN IN MY MODEL S MANUFACTURE IN 2013 FAILURES OF THE TOUCH SCREEN WITH BUBBLES ON THE LCD TOUCH SCREEN AND SOMETIME JUST LINES ON THE LCD DISPLAY WHEN IT IS HOT UNDER THE SUN. THE CAR TAKES A LONG TIME TO START UP AFTER DRIVER GET INTO THE DRIVER SEAT- SOMETIMES IT CAN TAKE UP TO 3 MINUTES TO START UP THE CAR AND, LINES ON LCD DISPLAY, STICKY GLUE LEAKING DOWN UNDER THE DASH AREA FROM THE PASSENGER SIDE. THIS MCU AND LCD TOUCH SCREEN IS THE ONLY CONTROL THAT CAN BE USE…”
NHTSA complaint #11337482, 2020

“TESLA IS LIKE A LAPTOP WITH WHEELS. IF THE LAPTOP'S HARD DRIVE DIES, THE CAR WON'T WORK. THAT IS WHAT HAPPENED TO MY 2013 TESLA MODEL S P85+. THE CAR'S MAIN COMPUTER HAD A COMBINATION OF FAULTY DESIGN IN HARDWARE(SMALL EMMC MEMORY CHIP) AND SOFTWARE(HIGH FREQUENCY LOGGING TO EMMC MEMORY) RESULTING THE MEMORY CHIP FAILED AFTER 120,000 MILES OF DRIVING. AFTER THE FAILURE, THE CAR WILL NO LONGER DRIVE FOR MORE THAN 23 MILES OR BE CHARGED BEYOND 23 MILES OF RANGE. THE AIR CONDITION STOPPED WORKING, THE MAIN CONTROL SCREEN STAY BLACK. THE CAR WILL RECEIVE NO CONTROL. THE ORIGINAL RANGE IS 245 MI…”
NHTSA complaint #11329285, 2020

Lane Departure 5

“The car suddenly has a powertrain issue, but it is a widely known problem with some estimates of 66% of all early Teslas having a powertrain issue by 60k miles. Mine happened at 56k. There is clearly a defect with early Tesla powertrains, as they increased the warranty to 8 years or 50k miles. My car is now at 9 years, and because of the low mileage due to covid, they will not cover the powertrain issue of the car. The following are links proving significant issues of my car. https://www.greencarreports.com/news/1093907_tesla-model-s-drivetrain-warranty-rises-to-8-years-same-as-battery-p…”
NHTSA complaint #11467079, 2022

“Part II AFTER I EMAILED TESLA KEARNEY MESA SERVICE STATION, WITH MY CONCERN ABOUT THEIR BILLING FOR THE RECALL AND CUSTOMER SERVICE; I WAS SENT A NEW BILLING. MIND YOU, ALL MY ISSUES ARE RELATED TO THE RECALL AND TESLA SCHEMES AND FALSEHOODS. SEE ATTACHED”
NHTSA complaint #11457920, 2022

“The vehicle's main center console doesn't work, even after a recall notice from Tesla. Tesla tried to see what was going on with my car, but they could not find it, but 5-10% of the time my car still has a center console screen not working. There is a defect and these times it is very dangerous to drive the car.”
NHTSA complaint #11432706, 2021

Equipment 4 1 fire

“DESPITE THE 14V006000 RECALL BEING ISSUED ABOUT A MONTH AGO, CUSTOMERS ARE COMPLAINING THAT THEY HAVE NOT RECEIVED A RECALL NOTIFICATION, SO THEY HAVE BEEN UNAWARE OF THE FIRE HAZARDS AND ONLY FOUND OUT ABOUT IT ONLINE AFTER THEIR CHARGE CONNECTORS FAILED AFTER THE RECALL. ALLEGEDLY ON JANUARY 9, 2014 TESLA CEO ELON MUSK CLAIMED THAT RELATED RECALLED TESLA MODEL S. ADAPTERS WOULD BE MAILED OUT WITHIN TWO WEEKS. YET A MONTH LATER CUSTOMERS AND ALLEGEDLY EVEN TESLA SERVICE CENTERS HAVE NOT RECEIVED THE REPLACEMENT ADAPTERS. THE PROPOSED RECALL AS IT STANDS SEEMS TO BE INSUFFICIENT BECAUSE THE ON…”
NHTSA complaint #10563948, 2014 · fire

“The contact owns a 2013 Tesla Model S. The contact stated upon attempting to remove the charger from the vehicle charging port, the charger remained plugged in. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and sent a certified technician who assisted in releasing the charger. The certified technician diagnosed that the charging port and the charger cord had melted and needed to be replaced. The manufacturer informed the contact that he would be responsible for the cost of repair. The contact became aware of NHTSA Campaign Number: 14V006000 (Equipment). The vehicle was not repaired. The failure…”
NHTSA complaint #11470474, 2022

“TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 TESLA MODEL S. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING 20 MPH, THE MEDIA CONTROL UNIT AND THE DASHBOARD LIGHTS FLICKERED ON AND OFF BEFORE BECOMING INOPERABLE. THERE WAS NO WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE CONTACT DROVE TO THE RESIDENCE. THE NEXT DAY THE CONTACT DROVE THE VEHICLE TO TESLA (811 S SAN FERNANDO BLVD, BURBANK, CA 91502) WHO DIAGNOSED THE FAILURE TO THE MEDIA CONTROL UNIT. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 41,000.*DT THE FAILURE OF THE MEDIA CONTROL UNIT HAS OCCURRED MANY TIMES BEFORE THE CONTACT MADE THIS REPORT. THE ABOVE REPRESENTS THE LATEST OCCASION OF INCIDENT. SOM…”
NHTSA complaint #11388216, 2016

Seats 4 1 injury

“HERE IS A SALVAGE CAR THAT HAS HAD A SEVERE REAR END IMPACT. HTTP://WWW.COPART.COM/US/LOT/29148486?SEARCHID=342174653 IT APPEARS THAT THE DRIVERS SEAT-BACK HAS COLLAPSED. THIS IS NOT GOOD. "IT IS ESTIMATED THAT APPROXIMATELY 50,000 REAR IMPACT INJURIES OCCUR PER YEAR IN THE US ALONE. ELEVEN HUNDRED OF THESE ARE FATAL. ANOTHER 1,600 ARE LIFE THREATENING INJURIES SUCH AS BRAIN DAMAGE, BURNS AND PARALYSIS. THE PROBLEM OCCURS WHEN A VEHICLE IS STRUCK FROM THE REAR AT MODERATE SPEEDS, OFTEN BETWEEN 25 AND 32 KILOMETRES PER HOUR, CAUSING THE SEAT BACK TO COLLAPSE IN FRONT BUCKET AND SPLIT BACK…”
NHTSA complaint #10894687, 2016 · 1 injury(ies)

“DOOR HANDLE PROBLEMS THE HANDLE FAILS EVERY 6MONTHS SHOULD BE A RECALL DRIVE TRAIN ISSUES”
NHTSA complaint #11218792, 2019

“THE VENTILATION IN THE 3RD ROW OF 1ST GENERATION OF MODEL S IS AWFUL. KIDS DONT LIKE TO SIT SIMPLY BECAUSE IT'S TOO HOT AND UNACCEPTABLE EVEN WITH FULL A/C ON. TESLA ACKNOWLEDGED THIS VERBALLY BUT WONT DO ANYTHING TO FIX IT.”
NHTSA complaint #10876278, 2016

Visibility 4

“The contact owns a 2013 Tesla Model S. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the center display screen malfunctioned, causing the rearview camera to intermittently fail. Additionally, the failure caused a delay while switching gears to drive(D) and to park(P). The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and determined through the Tesla App that the VCM daughterboard needed to be replaced with one containing an enhanced eMMC controller. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Nu…”
NHTSA complaint #11505178, 2022

“The contact owns a 2013 Tesla Model S. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V035000 (Back Over Prevention, Visibility, Exterior Lighting) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted and it was confirmed that parts were not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.”
NHTSA complaint #11453426, 2022

“The contact owns a 2013 Tesla Model S. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V035000 (Back Over Prevention, Visibility, Exterior Lighting). The contact stated that the recall repair was performed twice however, the vehicle experienced an unknown computer failure. The contact stated while driving at various speeds, the seats moved independently. The contact was unaware of a warning light being illuminated. The contact stated that the driver’s side seat would revert to the seat settings of the second driver independently while the vehicle was in motion. The contact had ta…”
NHTSA complaint #11485517, 2021

Forward Collision Avoidance 3

“November 20, 2025 To the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) Office of Defects Investigation Subject: Safety Defect Complaint – Tesla Model S I am submitting this complaint regarding a serious and dangerous safety defect involving my Tesla Model S. Safety Defect Summary:    •   After the high-voltage battery failed, the vehicle would not enter Neutral.    •   I had to use Tow Mode in the middle of a street on a hill to avoid blocking traffic.    •   Once in Tow Mode, the car could not enter Park and the emergency/parking brake would not engage.    •   The car became com…”
NHTSA complaint #11700490, 2025

“The contact owns a 2013 Tesla Model S. The contact stated while driving 57 MPH, the Forward Collision Avoidance: Automatic Emergency Braking was inadvertently activated. The emergency brake fault and parking brake fault warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was steered to the side of the road and inspected. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed that unknown parts needed to be replaced. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 95,143.”
NHTSA complaint #11594388, 2024

“Sept 30, 2022. Driving East bound on interstate 10 ,east of Tallahassee FL, car started flashing dash RED. Car applied brakes while going 70 mph. Car made me pull off the road because of applied braking. It would not release the brakes. I called Tesla Roadside assistance, "you have a flat tire". Attached are screenshots. I didn't have a flat tire. Had to get towed 300 miles home. Next day brakes released, drove car. I keep getting error codes everyday. Car has been in service, "nothing wrong". This a safety Hazzard, imagine in heavy traffic on a bridge.”
NHTSA complaint #11494985, 2022

Parking Brake 3

“The contact owns a 2013 Tesla Model S. The contact stated that the parking brake seized while leaving a charging station, and the vehicle screeched into oncoming traffic and stalled. The parking brake warning light was illuminated. The local dealer was contacted, and an appointment was scheduled. The vehicle had not been charged prior to a snowstorm, and the battery became fully drained. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, where it was determined that the main battery and 12-Volt battery needed to be replaced before the diagnostic test. The vehicle was repaired, but the failure reoccurr…”
NHTSA complaint #11720889, 2026

“The contact owns a 2013 Tesla Model S. The contact stated while driving 57 MPH, the Forward Collision Avoidance: Automatic Emergency Braking was inadvertently activated. The emergency brake fault and parking brake fault warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was steered to the side of the road and inspected. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed that unknown parts needed to be replaced. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 95,143.”
NHTSA complaint #11594388, 2024

“The contact owns a 2013 Tesla Model S. The contact stated he heard an abnormal noise and the parking brake failed to release. The contact stated that the parking brake fault warning light was illuminated. The contact stated that he reset the parking brake system but continued to experience the failure. The vehicle was not drivable. The contact towed the vehicle off the highway. The contact continued to reset the parking brake until the parking brake disengaged and he was able to drive to his residence. The contact took the vehicle to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed with needing the pa…”
NHTSA complaint #11498942, 2022

Seat Belts 3

“This issue appears to be related to a known MCU failure affecting early Tesla Model S vehicles. The touchscreen exhibits screen melting/discoloration and eventually goes blank or becomes inoperative. When this occurs, critical functions including occupant detection indicators, seatbelt warnings, and windshield defrost controls may become unavailable. The loss of these functions creates potential safety risks involving visibility, occupant protection, and driver awareness while operating the vehicle."”
NHTSA complaint #11744090, 2026

“This issue appears to be related to a known MCU failure affecting early Tesla Model S vehicles. The touchscreen exhibits screen melting/discoloration and eventually goes blank or becomes inoperative. When this occurs, critical functions including occupant detection indicators, seatbelt warnings, and windshield defrost controls may become unavailable. The loss of these functions creates potential safety risks involving visibility, occupant protection, and driver awareness while operating the vehicle."”
NHTSA complaint #11744091, 2026

“2013 TESLA S P85 MCU WILL NOT BOOT UP AFTER OVER THE AIR SOFTWARE UPDATE BETWEEN OCTOBER 2 T O OCTOBER 9TH WHILE I WAS ON A VACATION. OTA SOFTWARE VERSION 2020.24.6.11”
NHTSA complaint #11366786, 2020

Tires 3

“I purchased a 2013 Tesla Model S P85+ in March of 2022 and by April of 2022 the rear left tire separated at the corner of the side wall ( side facing underneath the vehicle). By July of 2022, I had another incident with the same problem. After repairing that problem, it happened again the following week. I took it for repair and two days later, it happened again. I have come to learn from other Tesla owners that the vehicle is heavy and that the tires can not adequately support the tires which is leading to this defect. It is a safety issue to have tires blowing out on the highway when…”
NHTSA complaint #11475238, 2022

“TL THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 TESLA MODEL S EQUIPPED WITH LIONHART LH-FIVE TIRES, SIZE: 245/35/R21 (NA). WHILE DRIVING VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE VEHICLE PULLED TO THE LEFT. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN UNKNOWN TESLA DEALER IN TORRANTE, CA WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE REPLACEMENT TIRES WERE FAULTY. THE TIRES WERE REPLACED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE TIRE FAILURE MILEAGE VARIED. THE VEHICLE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 107,000. THE DOT NUMBER AND VIN WERE NOT AVAILABLE.”
NHTSA complaint #11161668, 2018

“I HAVE HAD A 3 MONTH OLD MODEL S. THERE ARE HUNDREDS OF OWNERS WHO HAVE SIGNIFICANT AND EXCESSIVE TIRE WEAR IN THEIR CARS. I HAVE 4,000 MILES IN MY 4 DOOR SEDAN, AND WAS TOLD BY TESLA SERVICE DEPARTMENT TO PLAN ON REPLACING THE TIRES IN THE NEXT 1K MILES, DURING A RECENT SERVICE APPT TO FIX MY MOONROOF LEAK. THE CAR HAS NEVER BEEN RACED OR DRIVEN HARD TO CAUSE EARLY TIRE WEAR. WHEN I ASKED THEM TO SEE IF THEIR WAS SOMETHING WRONG WITH THE CAR, THEY SAID TO EXPECT THIS AND THAT IT WAS NORMAL FOR THESE CARS. IF YOU LOOK AT THE EDMUNDS LONG TERM EVALUATION OF THE MODEL S, IT ALSO HAD TH…”
NHTSA complaint #10548245, 2013

Latches/Locks/Linkages 2

“The contact owns a 2013 Tesla Model S. The contact stated that while driving at 70 MPH, the vehicle inadvertently lost motive and electrical power. A warning message stating that the vehicle was about to shut off was illuminated. The contact swerved to the right, attempting to veer to the side of the road on the right lane; however, the vehicle stopped midway and a semi-truck almost crashed into the rear passenger’s side of the vehicle. The contact pushed the vehicle into a nearby parking lot with assistance. The vehicle was towed to the dealer who diagnosed that the battery had failed and nee…”
NHTSA complaint #11445667, 2021

“CPSC: I OWN A TESLA MODEL S MADE IN NOVEMBER 2013. ALL 4 DOOR HANDLES ARE BROKEN OR MALFUNCTIONING. AFTER THE FIRST ONE WENT OUT, I TOOK IT TO TESLA AND THEY SAID IT WAS OUT OF WARRANTY AND WOULD COST $1,200.00 AND REQUIRE REPLACEMENT. AFTER TALKING TO SEVERAL OTHER TESLA OWNERS OWNERS AND DOING SOME RESEARCH, I HAVE DISCOVERED THAT IT'S MORE UNCOMMON THAT THEY DON'T BREAK THAN THAT THEY DO. THE ACTUAL COST TO REPAIR THEM WOULD BE MUCH LOWER, BUT THEY DON'T OFFER THAT. THE REAR PASSENGER DOOR ON MY CAR IN FACT SPONTANEOUSLY OPENS ITSELF. THIS USUALLY OCCURS WHEN PRESSING THE BUTTON THAT…”
NHTSA complaint #11009848, 2017