Tesla Model X MOT Failures

An analysis of 29,491 real DVSA MOT tests on the Tesla Model X — what fails, how often, and how that compares to every other car on UK roads. Generations covered: GEN1 (2016–2024).

Where the Tesla Model X fails its MOT

The single biggest MOT failure point on the Tesla Model X is tyre cords visible or damaged — this model is 10 times more likely to fail on this item than the average car on UK roads. That makes it worth watching for anyone buying or owning this model. Across 29,491 MOT tests, 5.64% of all Tesla Model X tests recorded this as a failure.

Tyre failures indicate either poor maintenance or suspension geometry issues causing uneven wear. Check all four tyres for tread depth, sidewall damage, and uneven wear patterns.

Other notable weak points include reflector defective or damaged by up to 50% of ... (11x the fleet average), free play in the steering, measured at the rim ... (6.9x the fleet average), and tyre wear or damage (5.0x the fleet average). These ratios compare the Tesla Model X's failure rate on each item against the national average for all cars tested — a ratio of 10x means this model fails ten times more often than a typical car.

The failures span 3 categories: Tyres, Lights & Electrics, Steering. If you're inspecting a Tesla Model X before purchase, these are the areas to focus on — and if any have been flagged as advisories on a previous MOT, they're likely to become failures in the near future.

How failures change with mileage

The Tesla Model X's weak points shift as the car covers more miles. Understanding these patterns helps you know what to expect — and what to budget for — at each stage of ownership.

Under 60,000 miles

At this mileage, most failures are either design-related or caused by age rather than wear. Components like bushes and drop links may not have been replaced yet, and original-fit parts can deteriorate even on low-mileage cars that spend a lot of time sitting.

For the Tesla Model X specifically, the DVSA data shows the most common failures at this mileage are reflector defective or damaged by up to 50% of ... (11x the average) and tyre cords visible or damaged (10x). free play in the steering, measured at the rim ... (5.8x) and tyre wear or damage (5.0x) also appear frequently.

60,000 to 100,000 miles

This is where routine wear items start to show up. Brake components, tyres, and exhaust parts have done serious work by this point. Cars that have been well serviced will show fewer of these failures — this mileage band is where good maintenance really separates the well-kept from the neglected.

For the Tesla Model X specifically, the DVSA data shows the most common failures at this mileage are free play in the steering, measured at the rim ... (6.9x the average) and tyre cords visible or damaged (6.3x).

The shift from reflector defective or damaged by up to 50% of ... at lower mileages to free play in the steering, measured at the rim ... at higher mileages is typical — early failures tend to be design or factory-related, while high-mileage failures reflect accumulated mechanical wear. A car that's been well maintained will usually dodge the worst of both.

Known issues beyond the MOT

An MOT only tests roadworthiness at a single point in time — it won't catch developing faults, intermittent problems, or issues that haven't yet reached the failure threshold. These are the issues that Tesla Model X specialists and owners flag most frequently, drawn from manufacturer technical bulletins, workshop data, and verified owner reports.

Power steering system failure (GEN1) Dangerous

The electric power steering system can fail without warning, displaying messages such as 'Steering Assist Reduced' or 'Steering May Require Increased Effort'. Affects GEN1.

CV joint boot deterioration (GEN1) Major

The constant velocity joint protective boots on Model X deteriorate at 8.2 times the fleet average rate. Affects GEN1; typical independent garage repair cost is £200–£400.

Falcon Wing Door Issues (GEN1) Major

The Model X's signature falcon wing doors use a complex system of sensors, motors, and articulated hinges that frequently malfunction. Affects GEN1.

Suspension component wear (GEN1) Major

Model X shows accelerated wear of suspension bushes and joints, failing MOT tests at The vehicle's significant kerb weight (2.4-2.7 tonnes) and instant torque delivery place exceptional loads on suspension components. Affects GEN1; typical independent garage repair cost is £300–£600.

For the complete picture — including repair costs across independent, specialist, and dealer garages — see the full Tesla Model X common problems breakdown.

What to check before buying a Tesla Model X

Based on the MOT failure data and known issues above, here's what to prioritise when inspecting a Tesla Model X:

Tyres — check for tyre cords visible or damaged, tyre wear or damage. Lights & Electrics — check for reflector defective or damaged by up to 50% of .... Steering — check for free play in the steering, measured at the rim ....

Beyond the MOT items, ask specifically about power steering system failure and cv joint boot deterioration. These won't show up on a standard MOT but can be expensive to fix — A specialist pre-purchase inspection is worth the investment on this model.

Always check the car's full MOT history for patterns — recurring advisories often become failures within 12 months. And verify the service history to confirm maintenance has been kept up to schedule. Enter any reg into our free car check to see the complete picture.

MOT failure data sourced from DVSA bulk test records via data.gov.uk. Ratios compare this model's failure rate against the national fleet average. Known issues sourced from manufacturer bulletins, specialist workshops, and verified owner reports.