Engine And Engine Cooling Problems of Tesla Model S - part 1

Motor suddenly failed after a required update while driving, nearly causing a crash with multiple commercial vehicles and pedestrians, leaving brake lights dangerously always on and alarm sounding, killed 12v as well.

See all problems of the 2014 Tesla Model S 🔎.

This is regarding a 2014 Model S fully electric vehicle. Any reference to an 'engine' simply implies the motor. Accelerator pedal became unresponsive and abruptly lost drive power while going ~55mph on the highway. The prnd display on the display panel went red. Car was towed to the service center immediately after this malfunction, I somehow cruised along towards the shoulder with just with brakes and hazard lights. Total loss of motor power caused vehicle to slow down and vehicles behind me had to slow down (and honk). After coming to complete stop and shifting to park the prnd display turned white again indicating function was restored. Shifting to d seem to re-engage the motor and I could pull away to the nearest exit and then into a parking lot. At this location it no longer responded to r or d positions and had to finally towed. Frequent drive unit failure is apparently a prevalent issue on certain models. Not sure if anyone else was in a similar situation. Service centers admit this as well as there is evidence on online forums warning sign (prnd turning red) appeared at the exact moment of failure. On stopping and going back to park it would go away. No persistent errors remained on the screen. After the motor had completely failed, various other warnings started appearing (ref photos).

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 reoccurred. The vehicle failed to shift into drive or move. The jack mode was disengaged. While driving, the rear wheels were screeching. The contact stated that the failure was related to TSB: sb-21-33-002). The vehicle was towed to another local dealer, Tesla service arlington-glebe rd (2710 s glebe rd, arlington, va 22206). The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The battery was at 19 percent. The manufacturer was contacted, but no additional assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 108,000.

See all problems of the 2013 Tesla Model S 🔎.

While driving on the freeway in the fast lane at 75 mph i80w, the car began a loud humming sound that came from the rear. My passenger and I noted that it was significant sound that we took a video to record the sound. I was the driver and I noticed that the sound increased as I accelerated. Then without any warning the car began to decelerate and no longer accelerated. The car slowed considerably to 35 mph and it became a major safety issue because I had to cross all lanes of traffic at this slow speed. It was only after the car had completely shut down that the warning messages began to display. I reached the side of the road and we waited for the tow truck driver for about an hour. Subsequently, the car was towed to a Tesla dealer near my home. I was informed that the drive unit needed to be replaced with an explanation of internal failure, costing over $7000. However, the root cause of the internal failure was never explained or investigated even at my request stating that they do not take apart the drive unit. This incident occurred after driving 7hrs of heavy rainfall for 2 days. A quick google search of "2016 Tesla Model S drive unit failure" reveals plenty of Tesla owners that had similar issues.

See all problems of the 2016 Tesla Model S 🔎.

This is an update to NHTSA complaint #xxx with new safety information. My 2017 Tesla Model S (VIN [xxx] ) has a confirmed high-voltage isolation fault. Tesla replaced the rear drive unit under warranty, but Tesla’s own technician notes now state: “there is a risk of isolation alerts reoccurring during regular driving, use of hvac system, or DC charging. ” “vehicle may power off due to isolation faults when the air conditioning is used. ” this is Tesla acknowledging in writing that the vehicle may shut off during normal driving, even after repair. This presents a serious crash risk. The original failure occurred during supercharging, with warnings including: • “electrical system power reduced — vehicle may shut down unexpectedly” • “vehicle may not restart” • “air conditioning reduced — DC charging reduced” Tesla reproduced the isolation fault during diagnosis. Even after replacing the rear drive unit, Tesla documented that the isolation defect still exists and prevents a battery health check or DC fast-charge validation. Tesla has attempted to return the vehicle to me in this unsafe condition, while admitting the defect persists. They also stated they may charge storage fees or tow the vehicle, despite the unresolved safety issue. The defect affects the hv bus and can cause loss of propulsion, shutdown during driving, and charging failure. Tesla has not provided numeric test results (megohm isolation readings, insulation tests, or validation data) proving the vehicle is safe. This is an ongoing, manufacturer-confirmed hv isolation defect that can lead to sudden power loss. I request NHTSA review Tesla’s handling of this issue and link this filing to case #xxx. Information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u. S. C. 552(b)(6).

See all problems of the 2017 Tesla Model S 🔎.

Was driving Tesla when warning light appeared “ charging declined “ . Drove car home battery no longer charging . Tesla stopped working after only 68,000 miles . Tesla wanted $15000 to replace the battery more than the car is worth.

See all problems of the 2015 Tesla Model S 🔎.

Steering: while driving today (7/5/2025), all of a sudden and without warning, "driver assist" (power steering) became disabled. Steering wheel immediately became heavy in the sense that it was extremely difficult to turn. Motor: also, on 02/22/2024, while driving on the freeway at freeway speed, all of a sudden and without warning, the rear ldu (large drive unit) failed and the car became inoperable. At that time, the car had approximately 45k miles on it.

Complete engine failure. Car became disabled and unable to move. Upon investigation, this was drive unit failure due to coolant leaking past the seal. A common issue of Tesla Model S and x with the large drive unit. I believe that this is a design flaw and should be a class action type situation. Can you help?.

Without warning, vehicle suddenly stopped accelerating while driving on freeway. Driver had to manouver to avoid a potentially fatal situation. Manufacturer's service center noted this malfunction was due to a failed drive unit (electric motor. ) only during incident was there any warning to driver - dashboard indicated "prnd" in red. No prior symptoms at any point were noted by driver in advance. This specific drive unit was a replacement unit that lasted only around 40,000 miles (stated by vendor records - installed at approx. 131,000 miles three years ago. ) drive units on these vehicles can fail at similar mileage due to a known manufacturing defect. This vehicle and early Model S vehicles are impacted. This defect is due to a flawed design of a rubber seal that causes coolant fluid to leak into the drive unit and results in sudden catastrophic failure. Manufacturer has been aware of failing drive units for years. Manufacturer does not notify drivers about this potentially deadly design flaw. Drivers are unaware about this issue so vehicles can be checked for proactive maintenance. Also, vehicle does not show any advance indication of sudden lack of acceleration. This major safety issue has been noted by other drivers in online forums: https://teslamotorsclub. Com/tmc/threads/vehicle-stops-while-driving-prnd-turns-red. 236835/ https://teslamotorsclub. Com/tmc/threads/100-drive-unit-failure-rate. . Read more...

In 6 years the drive unit has failed and been replaced. Multiple other Tesla owners report similar issue. I have a Tesla s 2015. The car will not drive or will abruptly stop driving when the drive unit fails. First incident I was driving on 55mph road and abruptly stopped. Second incident I cannot recall. Third incident Tesla provided no support and the car was experiencing multiple driving failures which would turn back on to allow the car to only drive 2-7mph. Tesla reports they know it is a problem with the coolant leaking through the seals which kills the motor. If this is a known issue, why are these models still allowed on the road? this has me terrified knowing that a Tesla can go from 55mph to abruptly stop when the drive unit dies. It happened to me! now that I know it happens with others and Tesla is aware, it makes me question why there is no recall to fix it.

Driving the vehicle and all of a sudden all these warning lights came on. The dash flashed warning signs stating: "power reduced - exiting and entering the vehicle may restore operation" "high voltage battery requires service - acceleration and charging performance reduced" and a turtle sign appeared. The vehicle was almost inoperable moving at 1-2 mph. Pulled into a parking lot, parked the car, and exited the vehicle. After reentering the vehicle the error continued. Had the vehicle towed to the Tesla service center. It is currently being diagnosed. An online search showed many Tesla forums with similar issues and there were suggestions to report the incident because there no consistent resolution that has been provided by Tesla thus far - issues range from 2020 - 2023.

See all problems of the 2018 Tesla Model S 🔎.

I am writing to express my serious concerns regarding two critical component failures in my 2013 Tesla Model S within the past 12 months, both of which occurred shortly after the manufacturer's warranty had expired. These issues have not only been financially burdensome but also raise questions about the reliability and longevity of Tesla vehicles. Motor replacement: in sept 2022, I was compelled to replace the motor in my Tesla Model S at a cost of $6,304. 89. This occurred despite my vehicle maintaining a clean record and having only around 70k miles on it at the time. The timing of this failure, immediately after the expiration of the manufacturer's warranty, is concerning and suggests a potential design or manufacturing flaw. Battery replacement: most recently, I have been informed that the battery in my Tesla Model S requires replacement at an estimated cost of $15,545. 97. Like the motor failure, this comes as a substantial financial burden, and again, it has happened just after the warranty period has ended. I find these consecutive, high-cost component failures within a short timeframe to be unacceptable and have led me to question the overall reliability of Tesla vehicles. As a responsible and safety-conscious consumer, I believe it is vital to report these issues to the NHTSA to ensure the safety and protection of all Tesla owners and the general public. I respectfully request that the NHTSA investigates these repeated component failures in Tesla vehicles, particularly the motor and battery, and assesses whether there may be any systemic issues that warrant further action or recalls. It is crucial for the NHTSA to uphold and enforce safety standards in the automotive industry to prevent similar situations from occurring in the future. I have attached relevant documents and receipts as evidence of the mentioned repairs for your reference. -michael d. Roberts.

Vehicle became immovable due to sudden rear motor failure. Vehicle came to a complete stop in moving lanes of traffic with minimal warning to react.

See all problems of the 2022 Tesla Model S 🔎.

The rear motor (drive unit) has gone out on this car twice in the last four years. I purchased it after it was last repaired. It most recently went out on 08/04/2023. When it went out two days ago it had less than 30,000 miles on it. This car has a motor on both the front and rear axles, so while the vehichle was still moving forward, if it slowed down at all that would engage the regenerative braking. Once regenerative breaking was engaged, the rear drive unit would normal perform that function, but since it was out, it simply knocked the vehicle out of drive and made the transmission flash red. During this part, steering was affected in that the power steering was out, and the ability to move forward was diminished because the vehicle came out of gear. I was able to put my foot briefly on the brake and then tap the car back into drive, but anytime the car slowed down and engaged regenerative braking, this process would repeat. Looking at the forums, this is a known problem. As already stated, this is the second time in less than four years that this motor has needed replacement. Additionally, Tesla is saying that this motor is did not have a warranty on it, despite the fact that it was replaced only a few years ago. In my opinion, this is a clear safety issue. Reviewing the forums, it seems as though this issue is an endemic problem associated with the Tesla Model S from a range of years between 2012-2015. It is more probable than not that the company is aware of this deficit and has chosen to do nothing about it.

Left rear motor malfunctioned yes available for inspection the computer said that the motor had malfunctioned but is safe to drive but dont exceed 65 mph. I drove some 2 miles and the car stopped and the motor caught fire. The vehicle has not been inspected.

See all problems of the 2021 Tesla Model S 🔎.

2013 Tesla Model S. Consumer writes in regard to failer drive train system.

Vehicle stops unexpectedly when driving. Put other drivers and myself at risk when vehicle suddenly stopped. The vehicle stopped on June 15 at approximately 6:57 pm est. The vehicle stopped unexpectedly 4 times. After a period of time I was able to drive the vehicle a short distance. I was finally able to get the vehicle almost home. A few days later I was able to get the vehicle to the Tesla dealership for service. The vehicle has not been repaired yet.

On April 9th, 2022, the vehicle in traffic went from the drive gear to the park. Vehicles were coming behind me at 55mph and I could not maneuver to safety. It took up to 4mins before I got moving. The incident occurred again on April 25th, while my kids and I were on the way to basketball practice. Finally, I got an appointment with Tesla service, and after two weeks of troubleshooting I was informed that the issue is an anomaly.

I was just getting off the freeway, into a business area, and all of a sudden car stopped without any warning, with a quick "power reduced flash on the screen, unable to move at all. I was in the middle of busy area, blocking the street and cars parked on each side. The rear wheel drive locked, even in neutral position, and also tow mode. 4 people tried to push the car into a safe area without success. Had to wait for a tow truck to take the car to Tesla facility. Was told there was an internal failure of the inverter and the unit its self, which would coast over 6k. Very scary and a stressful situation I suffered and it needs to be addressed of the danger.

Recently my drive unit has begin to fail. This is the second drive unit in the vehicle, approaching the 3rd. Then there is the issues with the doorhandles. The doorhandles when the sensor breaks or motor breaks can cause safety concerns related to doorhandles freely opening or inability to open. When the doorhandles motor defects the door handle cannot extend preventing access to any door in the car. When the door handles sensor fails, the doors will freely extend out words assuming someone is grabbing onto the handle. Recently my dog escaped the vehicle due to just me unlocking the car upon entry. I have had 2 door handle replacements and I am sensing a fault in another one. This is a common issue on the generation 1 Tesla Model S door handles.

On September 7, 2021 I was driving in heavy rain conditions. The rain was so heavy I could only drive at speed of 25 mph. My car displayed a message "car may not restart - service required" I pulled under a canopy of a gas station and put the car in park. The car did not restart after that and was towed to Tesla service center. The next day I was told that a rapid mate vehicle side connector failed due to water ingress and that hv battery needs to be replaced due to same damage. I was presented with a $23622. 54 invoice even, though, the battery is covered under existing powertrain warranty. The car was never driven into standing water or a puddle. Water has not entered the interior of the car. The battery and other electrical components of the car are poorly insulated / isolated presenting the risk of water damage and or electric shock under ordinary driving conditions.

Motor is starting to make sounds and according to Teslamotorsclub. Com the motor will fail eventually. Many have to had to have the motor switched out multiple times. It is quite evident that there was a design flaw which Tesla corrected in later years.

See all problems of the 2012 Tesla Model S 🔎.

The Tesla large drive motor, has a known design flaw that Tesla will not repair… it has a coolant leak the affects and kills the motor… they have down a redesign for the performance motor called a coolant delete but not for the ldu… and they will charge over $6500 to replace the motor. I’m on my 6th ldu (motor) and now out warranty. There are thousands of cases of this failure . . It should be absorbed recall and free replacement … they know it’s a problem, please force a design change oand recall.

The original motor on Tesla Model S vehicles between 2012-2019 has a reputation of leaking coolant inside the drive train and therefore locking up the motor that stops all operations of the vehicle. This has already happened twice with an average life expectance of 40-60k miles. I was just informed that Tesla has finally created a version of this motor that prevents coolant leaks on the latest revision of their motor (part# 1002633-00-u) and would like to see a recall with this long needed fix. I currently have a remanufactured motor that will end up locking up eventually and would like to get ahead of this if at all possible.

The contact owns a 2014 Tesla Model S. The contact stated that the media control unit was defective and inoperable. The contact also stated that while the vehicle was in park, water started to leak from the vehicle. The battery warning light illuminated stating that the 12 volt battery should be replaced soon. The contact called Tesla (50 edwards CT, burlingame, CA 94010, (650) 342-1176) where the technician scheduled appointment to have the vehicle diagnosed. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 54,000. Consumer stated touchscreen does not work, the car door doesn't lock and ac runs while parked. Noise of the car is loud and battery runs out fast while parked. Consumer cannot see the telsa app and therefore cannot adjust charging and unable to open ac and more. Consumer stated media control unit/touchscreen was replaced.

Total main computer failure (mcu) - many safety features were unaccessible and not available including but not limited to turn signals and hazard lights stop working, the settings for autopilot and driving are gone, the suspension settings, the ability to turn on headlights manually, ability to manually lock and unlock the vehicle, navigation, a/c, sunroof controls, etc.

Mcu computer is blacking out and requires constant resets. Connection to the app is spoty. Computer showing signs if not working properly. Reported to Tesla. Was told they cleared my memory and they are 'diverting my concerns'.

The touchscreen in my 2015 Model S has completely failed. I've attempted all of the resets that Tesla recommends to restart the system to no avail. The car is nearly useless, none of the electrical features of the vehicle work, including heating/air conditioning, charging features, audio or turn signals. The car worked fine yesterday, today the screen was just gone.

The emmc is failing and causing the computer systems to act odd. I've reported it for the failing main screen and it turning off for over 36 hours but yesterday the speedometer screen went blank and wouldn't come on for a an extended period of time. The car wouldn't start at first, and when it did, there was no speedometer (!), no odometer, no battery level read out, no gear indicator, no headlights, nor any other function of the instrument panel. The vehicle was stationary when it failed. It flashed on for a second, which allowed lights to come on and go in drive, but it immediately turned back off leaving the car without any speedometer or other items listed above. This was in a neighborhood.

I was driving my 2019 Model S Tesla on autopilot down the freeway at freeway speed when suddenly it started braking and the alarms went off as if reacting to an impending collision. Only, there was nothing in front of me to react to. The guy behind me rear ended me and spun across traffic lanes. Thankfully, everyone walked away from this with what we think is just whiplash at this time - it could have been so much worse!.

See all problems of the 2019 Tesla Model S 🔎.

The mcu failed while we were traveling, which basically locked the climate control, access to suspension, speed control, autopilot, navigation, radio, turn signals, and back up camera.

Explained to Tesla service center immediately upon purchasing vehicle while it was still under warranty that the vehicle range was unacceptable using Tesla's warranty guideline for requirements for a battery replacement while under warranty. Telsa refused to changed the battery even though I took the vehicle to Tesla several times while the battery was still under warranty. A month after the warranty expired the motor died, it had been showing signs wear but Tesla failed to property inform me of the issue and charged me over $6000 for the repair due to my lack of knowledge on what the symptoms are for a failing motor. Shortly after the warning for "charging - maximum battery charge level reduced" has come on and Tesla is trying to charge me about $21,000 for a replacement battery.

The contact owns a 2015 Tesla Model S. The contact stated that the media control unit touch screen was inoperable. The contact stated that while attempting to recharge the battery, the system flickered and failed to charge. The contact stated that the back-up camera was also inoperable. The vehicle was undrivable. An independent mechanic went to the residence to inspect the vehicle and the contact was informed that the media control unit needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 89,586.

The mcu went out. Turn signals, brake lights, backup camera, hvac controls, all went with it. Car would drive, but would not.

The mcu v1 is known to fail. It's become sluggish and black screens. Not acting as it should.