Last updated: 2026-10-10

Tesla Model X

Tesla Model X Years to Avoid

8 scored model years (2018–2025) · model average 57/100

The Tesla Model X years to avoid are 2023, 2021 based on reliability scores, NHTSA recalls, and owner complaints. The worst year is 2023 with a reliability score of 47/100. The best Tesla Model X year to buy is 2022 72/100.

Verdict

The 2023, 2021 Tesla Model X score significantly below the model average of 57/100. The weakest year is 2023 with a score of 47/100 due to unknown or other (69) issues. The best year to buy instead is 2022 72/100.

See years to avoid ↓See best year ↓See all years ranked ↓

Tesla Model X Years to Avoid

These model years score significantly below the Tesla Model X average of 57/100.

#YearScoreRatingRecallsComplaintsTop Issue
1202347/100Mixed16183Unknown Or Other (69)
2202151/100Mixed2338Steering (12)

Why These Years Should Be Avoided

47
MixedReliability score: 47 out of 100, rated Mixed

2023 Tesla Model X

Weakest of the eight scored years, marked by horn-button, restraint-warning and falcon door complaints plus 16 recalls in the final first-generation year.

16 recalls183 complaintsEst. repair:

Top issues: Unknown Or Other (69), Steering (45), Electrical System (16), Structure (11), Service Brakes (6), Seat Belts (5)

View full 2023reliability report →
51
MixedReliability score: 51 out of 100, rated Mixed

2021 Tesla Model X

Facelift year with a weak standing for its class, marked by sudden steering assist loss and 23 recalls; 2020 rates similar, while 2022 has no filings.

23 recalls38 complaintsEst. repair:

Top issues: Steering (12), Unknown Or Other (7), Electrical System (6), Suspension (6), Visibility Wiper (2), Power Train (2)

View full 2021reliability report →

What Are Common Tesla Model X Problems?

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

119 complaints

Most reported in 2023, 2018, 2019

2023: Hard-to-find horn controls dominate these reports.

SUSPENSION

89 complaints

Most reported in 2018, 2020, 2019

2018: Rear tires wear fast on the inner edge, in one report down to the cords within about 5,000 miles.

STEERING

89 complaints

Most reported in 2023, 2020, 2021

2023: The horn is a small haptic button rather than a center pad, and that drives most complaints here.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

82 complaints

Most reported in 2020, 2018, 2023

2020: Falcon doors refuse to open because they detect an obstruction that isn't there.

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

35 complaints

Most reported in 2018, 2020, 2019

2018: Unintended acceleration at parking-lot speed is the main pattern.

FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE

30 complaints

Most reported in 2018, 2020, 2019

2018: Phantom braking is the most common complaint.

Best Tesla Model X Year to Buy Instead

72
GoodReliability score: 72 out of 100, rated Good

2022 Tesla Model X

The strongest Model X year in the data, with no owner complaints or recalls on file, while the 2021 and 2023 years around it rate worse.

Score: 72/100 (Good)0 recalls0 complaints
View full 2022reliability report →
VIN History Report

Found a Safe Year? Check the Specific Car

Even the 2022 Tesla Model X has 0 recalls on file. A VIN check confirms the recall work on the exact car and shows its accident, title, and service history.

No VIN? Just hit “Check VIN” to look one up.

  • Accidents
  • Open Recalls
  • Title History
  • Odometer Rollback

All Tesla Model X Years by Generation

Frequently Asked Questions

What Tesla Model X years should you avoid?
Based on our data, you should avoid the following Tesla Model X years: 2023 (score: 47/100), 2021 (score: 51/100). These model years score significantly below the Tesla Model X average of 57/100.
What is the best year for the Tesla Model X?
The best year for the Tesla Model X is 2022, with a reliability score of 72/100 ("Good"). It has 0 recalls and 0 owner complaints.
How many recalls does the Tesla Model X have?
Across all years in our database, the Tesla Model X has a total of 73 recalls. Recall counts vary by year — check individual model year reports for details.
Is a used Tesla Model X worth buying?
Yes, especially the 2022 model year, which scores 72/100. Stick to years at or above the model average of 57/100 for the best ownership experience.
What are common Tesla Model X problems?
The most common Tesla Model X problems are unknown or other (119 complaints), suspension (89 complaints), steering (89 complaints). These issues are reported across multiple model years based on NHTSA owner complaint data.
Is the Tesla Model X reliable long-term?
The Tesla Model X has an average reliability score of 57/100 across all model years in our database, rated "mixed". Reliability varies significantly by model year — choose carefully.
Which Tesla Model X generation is most reliable?
The most reliable Tesla Model X generation is the Latest generation (X Long Range, X Plaid) with an average score of 58/100. Compare generations in our all-years-by-generation section above.
Is the 2022 Tesla Model X a good used buy?
Yes, the 2022 Tesla Model X is our top-recommended model year with a reliability score of 72/100 ("Good"). It has 0 recalls and 0 owner complaints, making it a solid used buy.

How we score every Tesla Model X model year

Scores weight complaint severity at 35%, repair costs at 30%, recall impact at 20%, and the spread of complaints across systems at 15%, with complaint counts adjusted for US sales. Read the full methodology.

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