Is the Tesla Model S Reliable?
2012–2026 defect & recall-risk analysis from citable NHTSA data.
The score ranks this model's recall intensity against other hybrids — plus systemic-defect concentration and any open federal investigations. It measures defect and recall risk, not long-term mechanical durability, and is deliberately not skewed by how many were sold.
Reliability Score
Own a Tesla Model S? Check your specific VIN for a full history report.
Open NHTSA Investigation
fsd collisions in reduced roadway visibility conditions
Component: electrical system:adas
⚠ Historically, 50% of EA investigations became recalls.
An open investigation is NHTSA reviewing a potential defect — the earliest warning a recall may be coming. It is not a defect finding. See all vehicles under investigation →
Tesla Model S Reliability by Year
| Model Year | Recalls | Complaints | Injuries | Deaths | Reliability Score | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | 0 | 8 | — | — | 48 | Fair |
| 2025 | 0 | 2 | — | — | 48 | Fair |
| 2024 | 4 | 54 | — | — | 48 | Fair |
| 2023 | 7 | 89 | — | — | 43 | Poor |
| 2022 | 15 | 99 | — | — | 38 | Poor |
| 2021 | 16 | 132 | 4 | — | 32 | Poor |
| 2020 | 8 | 62 | 4 | — | 45 | Fair |
| 2019 | 5 | 37 | 3 | — | 48 | Fair |
| 2018 | 6 | 149 | 20 | — | 29 | Poor |
| 2017 | 6 | 330 | 17 | — | 23 | Poor |
Reliability scores are proprietary to VinCheckEngine and incorporate multiple weighted safety signals.
How the Model S Compares to Similar Vehicles
The Model S scores 27 points below the average hybrid. Consider checking years with lower complaint volumes.
Known Tesla Model S Reliability Issues
The following components appear most frequently in owner complaints filed with NHTSA:
Based on 962 owner complaints across recent model years.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Tesla Model S reliable?+
The Tesla Model S scores 38/100 on our reliability index — rated "Poor." Across 10 recently analyzed model years, it accumulated 67 recall campaigns and 962 owner complaints in the NHTSA database.
What year Model S is most reliable?+
Among the years analyzed, the 2026 Model S achieved the highest reliability score of 48/100 with 0 recalls and 8 complaints.
How many miles does a Model S last?+
With consistent maintenance, most Tesla Model S owners report 150,000 to 200,000+ miles of service life. Checking the VIN of any specific used Model S will reveal its actual mileage history and any title events.
More Tesla Model S Research
Check a Specific Tesla Model S VIN
Model-level reliability scores show general trends. A VIN-specific report reveals the exact history of any individual vehicle — accidents, odometer records, auction events, and open recalls.
Run a Free VIN Report →