What goes wrong, what it costs, and what to check before you buy a used Tesla Model S.
The Tesla Model S occupies a niche position on the UK market.
We track 12 known issues across the Tesla Model S range, with 3 classified as significant. Knowing which variants and configurations to approach with caution can save you from expensive surprises after purchase.
Found a Tesla Model S? Enter the reg to see which of our 12 known issues apply to that exact car, plus full MOT history and mileage checks.
Gen1 (2012–2016) — Engine options included the Single Motor RWD, Dual Motor AWD. We track 11 known issues on this generation, with 3 classified as significant. The most significant concern is Drive Unit Failure.
Gen2 (2016–2021) — Engine options included the Single Motor RWD, Dual Motor AWD. We track 9 known issues on this generation, with 2 classified as significant. The most significant concern is Drive Unit Failure.
Gen3 (2021–2024) — Engine options included the Dual Motor AWD, Tri Motor Plaid. We track 9 known issues on this generation, with 2 classified as significant. The most significant concern is Drive Unit Failure.
Tesla drive units combine electric motor, reduction gearbox, and power electronics in a sealed assembly. Early production units suffer from bearing failures, gear whine development, and power electronics failures that require complete unit replacement. The whining noise typically develops gradually and becomes more pronounced under acceleration or regenerative braking. Tesla has revised drive unit designs multiple times, with later units showing improved reliability. Complete drive unit replacement is the standard repair approach rather than internal component service.
Drive unit failure can strand the vehicle and require flatbed recovery. Complete drive unit replacement is typically required, with costs ranging £5,000-£12,000 depending on the specific drive unit type. Some failures develop gradually allowing continued driving, while others result in sudden power loss.
Test the automatic gearbox extensively in slow traffic, car parks and on hill starts. Feel for any juddering, hesitation or clunking during gear changes. Try repeated low-speed manoeuvres as this is where problems are most apparent.
The original MCU1 (Media Control Unit) contains a 17-inch touchscreen that serves as the primary interface for vehicle controls, navigation, climate, and charging functions. The MCU1 suffers from memory chip degradation that causes screen yellowing, dead pixels, black screens, and complete system freezes. This is a design flaw rather than wear-related failure, affecting the vast majority of MCU1-equipped vehicles. Tesla no longer provides MCU1 replacement units, instead offering MCU2 upgrades for affected vehicles.
MCU1 failure affects critical vehicle functions including climate control, charging settings, navigation, and Supercharger network access. Complete screen failure can make the vehicle difficult to operate safely. Tesla's MCU2 upgrade is the recommended solution but costs £1,500-£2,500.
Check all interior functions: infotainment, heater controls, electric seats, dashboard displays and warning lights. Look for worn or damaged trim pieces. On cars with known interior electrical issues, a diagnostic scan is recommended.
Tesla Model S uses an electric power steering system that can develop faults in the motor, control module, or sensors. NHTSA data shows 105 steering-related complaints with 18 specifically mentioning power steering failures. Symptoms include heavy steering, intermittent power assistance loss, grinding noises from the steering column area, and dashboard warnings. Unlike hydraulic systems, electric power steering failures can be sudden and complete, making the vehicle difficult to control especially at low speeds.
Power steering system failure makes the vehicle extremely difficult to steer, particularly at low speeds and during parking manoeuvres. Complete failure can create a dangerous situation requiring significant physical effort to maintain control. The vehicle should not be driven with complete power steering failure.
During the test drive, check the steering for excessive play, vibration or pulling to one side. Listen for groaning or whining when turning the wheel at low speed. Power steering fluid level and condition should be checked on hydraulic systems.
Tesla's flush-mounted retractable door handles are a signature design feature but suffer from mechanical failures in the presentation and retraction mechanism. The handles use electric motors and multiple micro-switches to detect approach and extend outward when needed. Failures typically manifest as handles that won't present when approached, stick in the extended position, or present intermittently. Cold weather and moisture ingress accelerate failures. Generation 3 Model S uses conventional door handles that do not suffer from this issue.
Failed door handles can prevent entry to or exit from the vehicle, creating a safety hazard in emergency situations. Tesla provides emergency interior and exterior release methods, but these require knowledge of their location and operation. Individual handle replacement is typically required when failures occur.
Check panel gaps are even and consistent all the way around the car. Look for signs of repainting — overspray on rubber seals, mismatched paint texture or colour differences between panels. Open and close all doors, the boot and bonnet to check alignment.
Tesla uses a conventional 12V lead-acid battery to power vehicle systems, door handles, touchscreen, and charging contactors, despite having a large main traction battery. The 12V battery is charged from the main battery pack but suffers from accelerated degradation due to constant cycling and thermal stress. Unlike conventional cars, a failed 12V battery prevents the Tesla from starting or charging even when the main battery has charge. Tesla recommends 4-year replacement intervals but many batteries fail earlier.
12V battery failure prevents the vehicle from starting, charging, or unlocking doors despite main battery charge. The vehicle may display various error messages and enter a reduced functionality mode. Roadside assistance is typically required for battery replacement as the vehicle cannot be driven to a service location.
Check all electrical functions systematically: windows, mirrors, lights, infotainment, heated seats, air conditioning. Look for any warning lights on the dashboard. A diagnostic scan before purchase can reveal stored fault codes.
For the full breakdown of all 12 tracked issues with repair costs, see the Tesla Model S common problems page.
The bigger-ticket items to budget for include 12v battery replacement (£200–£300).
See the full Tesla Model S service schedule for every interval and cost breakdown.
The Tesla Model S is a solid choice on the used market, though not without its quirks. The issues we track are well-understood and largely avoidable if you know what to look for. A thorough inspection and complete service history go a long way.
Before committing, check the car's full MOT history, verify the service record is complete, and if possible arrange a specialist inspection. Enter any registration into our free report to see the complete picture.
Get Car Wise maintains a database of known mechanical issues for every popular car on UK roads, tracking the faults that owners, specialists and DVSA data reveal.
When you run a report on a specific Tesla Model S, we cross-reference the exact variant, engine and age against our database of 12 known issues. Combined with full MOT history analysis, mileage verification and DVLA data, you get a complete picture before viewing.
Enter the registration for MOT history, mileage verification, known faults for that exact variant, and a Get Car Wise Score.
This guide was compiled from independent expert reviews, DVSA MOT data, specialist workshops and our own database of 12 known Tesla Model S issues. We are not affiliated with any source listed.