Tesla Model S problems
363 owner complaints with NHTSA, no active recalls. Here's where owners say it breaks.
Solid reliability overall. Common issues are concentrated in a few systems.
The data says walk unless this exact vehicle has documented proof the electrical system was repaired or replaced.
- 2 fatality reports and 5 fire-related complaints on the electrical system
- Suspension: 82 complaints, classified critical, failures cluster 11,000–52,000 mi
- Reliability score 7.2/10 — around the segment average
Our read of the federal NHTSA complaint and recall record for this exact year and model — not a substitute for a pre-purchase inspection. How we score.
Top trouble spots 8 categories with 3+ complaints
What owners are saying recent NHTSA-filed complaints · verbatim
While driving with my son on local roads, with no unusual bumps or potholes, I experienced an alarming loss of stability. I slowed my speed down and made it home. Once the car was in the driveway, I saw that the rear wheel was cantilevered about 15 degrees from vertical. Once I…
When driving at low speed and turning the car over slightly uneven surfaces like a driveway or car parks the front suspension makes a clunking and clicking sound. Vibration and thuds can be felt through the steering wheel and footwells of the car. I brought to Tesla and…
This vehicle has a faulty parking break that will enable it to roll when placed in park. Tesla previously recalled this issue on Model S and X but wants us to pay $1486.66 to have this repaired.
The TPMS system has failed and has been a known issue with Telsa since 2014. The system will not reset and Telsa has said it has to be upgraded for 1000. The warning light comes on randomly and goes away after the car drives for a while or gets parked.
Estimate your repair exposure
Drag to your current mileage. Numbers are derived from this vehicle's complaint history.
Under investigation 3 open at NHTSA
NHTSA has an open defect investigation covering this vehicle — the step that can precede a recall, not a finding of fault. RQ24009 on NHTSA →
NHTSA has an open defect investigation covering this vehicle — the step that can precede a recall, not a finding of fault. DP23002 on NHTSA →
NHTSA has an open defect investigation covering this vehicle — the step that can precede a recall, not a finding of fault. EA21002 on NHTSA →
How NHTSA investigations work, and what's open now →
Common questions
Is the 2014 Tesla Model S reliable?
Mostly yes. With a reliability score of 7.2 out of 10 based on 363 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the 2014 Tesla Model S is generally a sound vehicle. The areas to watch are listed in the top problem section above — most are budget items, not deal-breakers.
Should you avoid the 2014 Tesla Model S?
On the NHTSA data, the 2014 Tesla Model S is one to avoid unless a specific vehicle proves otherwise. The data says walk unless this exact vehicle has documented proof the electrical system was repaired or replaced. The record behind that call: 2 fatality reports and 5 fire-related complaints on the electrical system; Suspension: 82 complaints, classified critical, failures cluster 11,000–52,000 mi; Reliability score 7.2/10 — around the segment average. This is our read of the federal complaint and recall data — not a substitute for a pre-purchase inspection.
What's the most common problem on the 2014 Tesla Model S?
Based on NHTSA records, the most-reported issue is electrical, with 118 complaints filed. Typical failure occurs around 76,939 miles. Average repair cost runs about $850 at an independent shop.
What's the most expensive thing that goes wrong?
The electrical is one of the costlier repair items. Average repair cost runs about $850 at an independent shop. Typical failure occurs around 76,939 miles. Catching early warning signs can sometimes extend life by 20–30,000 miles.
How do I check if my Tesla Model S has open recalls?
Paste your VIN into the decoder at the top of this page. We pull live from NHTSA, so you'll see exactly which campaigns apply to your vehicle and whether the dealer has logged the fix. Recall repairs are always free regardless of mileage or warranty status.
Is an extended warranty worth it on a 2014 Tesla Model S?
Math is straightforward: a quality service contract runs $1,800–3,500 over 3 years. With 363 complaints on file and the costliest repair averaging $850, one major failure more than pays for it. The catch is reading the contract — many providers exclude wear items and require pre-authorization, so cheaper plans are not always better value.