The Tesla Model S rewrites the rulebook for cars, as it's a different kind of car from a different kind of company, a Silicon Valley startup. The fully electric Model S is a remarkable car that combines performance, agility, styling, high-tech, no emissions and low operating costs. It's one of the best cars we've ever tested.
Tesla makes it relatively painless to switch to an electric car from a more conventional one with its usable range and the ability to charge quickly and often. The standard range has been extended since we last tested a Model S and is now rated at 287. The Long Range version is rated at 373 miles. Charge times are about seven hours on a Tesla dedicated wall connector, or 12 hours on a generic 240-volt connector. Public Superchargers are also available for the occasional topping off which, depending on battery charge level, can add 60 miles of range in 30 minutes or so. That's a significant (and exclusive) benefit for Tesla owners.
In most cases, automotive warranties are based on the vehicle identification number (VIN), and the warranty will be valid regardless of ownership. The dealership can tell you exactly how much warranty is left.
Read more about extended warranties
sedan
1-speed Direct
The Reliability score is based on our latest subscriber survey of 2020 Tesla Model S owners. The owner comments describe problems respondents experienced with this vehicle.
Shocks or struts, ball joints, tie rods, wheel bearings, alignment, steering linkage (includes rack and pinion), power steering (pumps and hoses, leaks), wheel balance, springs or torsion bars, bushings, electronic or air suspension.
"oil was leaking from the air suspension"
Anonymous, CA (2020 Tesla Model S Performance Electric)Cruise control, clock, warning lights, body control module, keyless entry, wiper motor or washer, tire pressure monitor, interior or exterior lights, horn, gauges, 12V power plug, remote engine start, alarm or security system
"Intermittently stopped working."
Anonymous, MN (2020 Tesla Model S Long Range Electric)CD or DVD players, radio, speakers, GPS, communication system (e.g., OnStar), display screen freezes or goes blank, phone pairing (e.g. Bluetooth), voice control commands, steering wheel controls, portable music device interface (e.g., iPod/MP3 player), backup or other camera/sensors.
"Voice command didn't work. Tesla told me it was a software problem but the updates didn't fix the problem. Finally after 3 months Tesla allowed a mobil tech to service the vehicle, it was a faulty switch in the steering wheel. If Tesla would have allowed the mobil tech to inspect the car instead of canceling the appointments I made it would have been fixed 3 months sooner."
Anonymous, NM (2020 Tesla Model S Long Range Electric)Radiator, cooling fan, antifreeze leaks, water pump, thermostat, overheating.
Squeaks, rattles, wind noises, loose or cracked seals and/or weather-stripping, air and water leaks.
Driveshaft or axle, CV joint, differential, transfer case, 4WD/AWD components, driveline vibration, traction control, electronic stability control (ESC), electrical failure.
Antilock system (ABS), parking brake, master cylinder, calipers, rotors, pulsation or vibration, squeaking, brake failure or wear.
Paint (fading, chalking, cracking, or peeling), loose interior and exterior trim or moldings, rust.
Power or manual windows, locks and latches, tailgate, hatch or trunk, doors or sliding doors, mirrors, seat controls, safety belts, sunroof, convertible top.
Transmission rebuild or replacement, torque converter, clutch replacement.
Gear selector or linkage, leaks, transmission computer, transmission sensor or solenoid, clutch adjustment, rough shifting, slipping transmission.
Engine rebuild or replacement, cylinder head, head gasket, turbo or supercharger, timing chain or timing belt.
Accessory belts and pulleys, engine computer, engine mounts, engine knock or ping, oil leaks.
Check engine light, sensors (includes O2 or oxygen sensor), emission control devices (includes EGR), engine computer, engine computer, fuel cap, fuel gauge/sender, fuel injection system, fuel pump, fuel leaks, stalling or hesitation.
Blower (fan) motor, A/C compressor, condenser, evaporator, heater system, automatic climate control, refrigerant leakage, electrical failure.
Alternator, starter, hybrid battery and related systems, regular battery, battery cables, engine harness, coil, ignition switch, electronic ignition, distributor or rotor failure, spark plugs and wires failure.
Muffler, pipes, catalytic converter, exhaust manifold, leaks.
"The air suspension did not work when we took delivery. The problem was a kinked hose. Once repaired the car vibrates noticeably when we are in a "raised" suspension mode. It is supposedly the CV joints. They are under warranty, but this has been a real hassle."
Anonymous, (2020 Tesla Model S Long Range Electric)