Structure Problems of Tesla Model S

Tesla Model S owners have reported 142 structure related problems since 1996. Table 1 shows the 8 most common structure problems. The number one most common problem is related to the vehicle's body (134 problems). The second most common problem is related to the vehicle's door (2 problems). For details of each of the problem category, use the links in the table.

Table 1. Structure related problems of Tesla Model S


Recently reported Structure problems of Tesla Model S

The Body problem

The outside passenger front door handle stopped working and no longer allows the door to be opened from the outside. The handle does present and retract but does not respond when you pull it. This handle has been replaced once before by Tesla.   Read details...

The Door problem

The contact owns a 2014 Tesla Model S. The contact stated that while the vehicle was in park(p), a person approached the driver’s side rear door, and the door unintendedly opened slightly. The contact stated that prior to entering the vehicle, the driver’s side rear door opened   Read details...

The Structure problem

The driver's door handle (exterior) will not present, which makes it impossible to open the driver's door from the outside. The vehicle is 6 years old with less than 40k miles on it. The Tesla customer service rep said this was a known defect, but they are still charging over $400 to fix it.   Read details...

The Body Door Handle Exterior problem

I own a 2018 Tesla Model S. While it was still under warranty the passenger side door handle quit working and it was no longer possible to open that door. Tesla replaced the door handle at no change with a newly designed mechanism.   Read details...

The Hood problem

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.   Read details...




Model S Service Bulletins
Model S Defect Investigations