2023 Tesla Model S Reliability Report

Owners report frequent issues with the 2023 Tesla Model Y's vehicle speed control, notably "phantom braking" where the vehicle unexpectedly applies emergency braking while using adaptive cruise control or autopilot. This behavior is described as occurring without warning or apparent cause, often on highways and at speeds between 65-75 mph, leading to near rear-end collisions and substantial safety risks. Some complaints also involve unintended acceleration, particularly in self-driving mode, and malfunctioning of the curvature assist feature, which may cause abrupt braking. The incidents often occur in vehicles with mileage ranging from 5,000 to 35,000 miles. Among the 141 complaints, 20 involve crashes, and 5 report injuries, highlighting significant safety implications for potential buyers.

Owners report several recurring issues with the electrical system in the 2023 Tesla Model S. A frequent problem involves the touchscreen failing to activate, leading to a lack of access to essential driving information such as speed and gear selection. Multiple complaints describe sudden and complete power loss while driving, with some reports indicating the vehicle stalled without warning, often at higher mileages around 25,000 miles or more. Safety implications are significant, with 21 reported crashes, including instances where the vehicle unexpectedly accelerated or braked, and two incidents of fire potentially linked to electrical faults. Buyers should be aware of these issues, particularly the potential for sudden loss of vehicle control and the associated risks.

Owners report frequent issues with the 2023 Tesla Model S service brakes, primarily involving unexpected and severe "phantom braking" events. These incidents occur both with and without Autopilot engaged, where the vehicle suddenly decelerates without apparent cause, posing a risk of rear-end collisions. Complaints often mention these braking events happening at highway speeds, with some reports indicating multiple occurrences during a single trip. Additionally, several reports involve crashes, with some resulting in injuries, highlighting significant safety implications. Buyers should be aware of these issues, particularly if considering vehicles with mileage under 10,000, as patterns suggest problems can appear early in ownership.

Owners report frequent issues with the suspension system of the 2023 Tesla Model S, particularly concerning loose or missing bolts in the front control arm or lateral link assemblies. Typical symptoms include grinding or screeching noises, loss of steering control, and in some cases, the vehicle coming to a sudden stop. Several complaints mention these issues occurring at relatively low mileage, with some vehicles having less than 35,000 miles. Safety implications are significant, as two complaints involve crashes, and others describe near-loss of control situations. Prospective buyers should be aware of these suspension-related concerns, as they could affect vehicle safety and drivability.

Owners report several structural issues with the 2023 Tesla Model S, primarily involving the liftgate and windshield. Complaints frequently mention the liftgate unexpectedly closing, sometimes causing injuries, with failure mileage noted around 17,273 miles. Windshield issues include loud whistling sounds at high speeds, which some owners describe as unresolved despite multiple service attempts. Safety implications include incidents of unintended acceleration and crashes, as well as concerns about the liftgate's faulty power strut. These patterns suggest potential risks for buyers, particularly regarding the liftgate and windshield integrity.

Owners report frequent issues with the 2023 Tesla Model-S airbag system, particularly involving the front safety restraint system faults and non-deployment during collisions. Common symptoms include recurring error messages indicating faults in the front safety restraint system and seat occupancy sensors, which some owners note are linked to airbag functionality. Complaints often emerge within the first year of ownership, with some vehicles under 50,000 miles. Safety implications are significant, as 17 complaints involve crashes, with 11 injuries reported, often due to airbags failing to deploy during accidents. Used car buyers should be aware of these potential airbag system issues and the associated safety risks.

Owners report several recurring power train issues with the 2023 Tesla Model S. Complaints frequently mention sudden drive unit failures leading to rapid deceleration and unresponsiveness of the throttle, often occurring at highway speeds. Symptoms such as warning messages indicating power reduction and vehicle shutdown are common, with multiple incidents occurring at low mileage, sometimes within the first few hundred miles. Safety implications are significant, with several reports of phantom acceleration resulting in crashes, and one incident involving a fire after exposure to rain. Potential buyers should be aware of these issues, as they can lead to loss of control and pose safety risks.