Last updated: 2026-03-27

2 Tesla Model X Years to Avoid
Years that score significantly below the Tesla Model X average of 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.
Tesla Model X Years to Avoid
These model years score significantly below the Tesla Model X average of 57/100.
Why These Years Should Be Avoided
2023 Tesla Model X
The 2023 Tesla Model X has mixed reliability. There are 16 recalls and 183 owner complaints on file for the 2023 Tesla Model-X. Severity signals include 16 crash-related complaints and 2 fire-related complaints. The most commonly reported problem areas are: Unknown Or Other (69), Steering (45), Electrical System (16).
Top issues: Unknown Or Other (69), Steering (45), Electrical System (16), Structure (11), Service Brakes (6), Seat Belts (5)
View full 2023 reliability report →2021 Tesla Model X
The 2021 Tesla Model X has mixed reliability. There are 23 recalls and 38 owner complaints on file for the 2021 Tesla Model-X. Severity signals include 3 crash-related complaints. The most commonly reported problem areas are: Steering (12), Unknown Or Other (7), Electrical System (6).
Top issues: Steering (12), Unknown Or Other (7), Electrical System (6), Suspension (6), Visibility Wiper (2), Power Train (2)
View full 2021 reliability report →What Are Common Tesla Model X Problems?
Top reported issues across all Tesla Model X model years, based on NHTSA owner complaints.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
119 complaintsMost reported in 2018, 2019, 2020
SUSPENSION
89 complaintsMost reported in 2018, 2019, 2020
STEERING
89 complaintsMost reported in 2018, 2019, 2020
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
82 complaintsMost reported in 2018, 2019, 2020
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
35 complaintsMost reported in 2018, 2019, 2020
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
34 complaintsMost reported in 2018, 2019, 2020
Best Tesla Model X Year to Buy Instead
2022 Tesla Model X
The 2022 Tesla Model X has good reliability. There are 0 recalls and 0 owner complaints on file for the 2022 Tesla Model-X.
Found a Safe Year? Check the Specific Car
Even the best Tesla Model X year can have hidden problems. A VIN check reveals past accidents, title issues, and service gaps for the exact car you're considering.
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All Tesla Model X Years by Generation
All model years ranked by reliability score, grouped by generation.
Tesla Model X Reliability Scores by Year
First generation (X90D, X100D, XPL) (2015–2023)
2022 Tesla Model X
0 recalls · 0 complaints
2019 Tesla Model X
6 recalls · 83 complaints
2018 Tesla Model X
7 recalls · 148 complaints
2020 Tesla Model X
10 recalls · 120 complaints
2021 Tesla Model X
23 recalls · 38 complaints
2023 Tesla Model X
16 recalls · 183 complaints
Latest generation (X Long Range, X Plaid) (2023–2026)
Our data covers 2018–2025 model years.
Frequently Asked Questions
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How We Calculate Reliability Scores
Auto Reliability Index scores are calculated on a 0–100 scale using a weighted formula that combines multiple public data sources. Each factor is weighted based on its predictive value for real-world ownership experience.
Key Ranking Factors
Complaint Severity
NHTSA owner complaints weighted by component category (e.g., powertrain, safety systems, electronics, cosmetic) — safety-critical issues carry more weight than cosmetic ones. Adjusted for sales volume so high-volume models aren't unfairly penalized.
Repair Costs
Independent reliability ratings based on repair frequency, average repair costs, and severity of typical repairs for each model.
Recall Impact
Number of NHTSA recalls weighted by severity. “Stop driving” and fire-risk recalls are penalized more heavily than minor software or labeling recalls.
Issue Diversity
Measures how many major vehicle systems (engine, transmission, electrical, braking, etc.) have recorded complaints. A vehicle with issues spread across many systems may indicate systemic quality issues.
Scores are grouped into four tiers:
- 80–100: Excellent — Top-tier reliability, minimal issues
- 60–79: Good — Reliable with some minor concerns
- 40–59: Mixed — Notable issues, research before buying
- 0–39: Risky — Significant problems, proceed with caution
Data is sourced from NHTSA recall records, owner complaint filings, and independent repair databases. Scores are recalculated as new data becomes available. While the weighting model is proprietary, all underlying data sources are public and traceable.
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