2013 Tesla S

Introduction

The 2013 Tesla Model S is an all-electric luxury sedan that revolutionized the automotive industry. It boasts impressive performance with an electric motor producing 362 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque, enabling it to accelerate from 0-60 mph in just 5.9 seconds. The Model S offers a comfortable and spacious cabin with advanced features, but it has not been without its share of issues.

Electric Motor

No Issues Found

Suspension

Front Suspension

• Upper control arm ball joint failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Premature wear or complete failure of the upper control arm ball joint, resulting in excessive play and clunking noises.
  • Solution: Replacement of the upper control arm and ball joint.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Rear Suspension

• Rear lower control arm bolt failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Loose or broken rear lower control arm bolt, causing the wheel to shift out of alignment and potentially leading to tire wear or loss of control.
  • Solution: Tightening or replacing the bolt.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

Battery

• Battery degradation
  • Description/Symptoms: Gradual loss of battery capacity over time, resulting in reduced range and shorter battery life.
  • Solution: Replacement of the battery pack (under warranty).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $10,000 - $15,000+ (out of warranty)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Charging port failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Malfunctioning charging port that prevents the vehicle from charging or charging slowly/intermittently.
  • Solution: Replacement of the charging port assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found

Other Electrical Issues

• Touchscreen unresponsiveness
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent or complete failure of the touchscreen display, making it difficult or impossible to operate vehicle functions.
  • Solution: Firmware update or replacement of the touchscreen assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

Door Handles

• Recessed door handles malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: Flush-mounted door handles failing to extend or retract, making it difficult or impossible to open the doors.
  • Solution: Replacement of the door handle assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500 per handle
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

Center Console

• Sticky center console
  • Description/Symptoms: The center console developing a sticky surface, making it uncomfortable to use and affecting the overall interior appearance.
  • Solution: Replacement of the center console assembly (cosmetic issue).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: None Found
  • Recalls: None Found

Other Interior Issues

• Rattling noise
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive rattling or vibration from various interior components.
  • Solution: Identification and tightening or replacement of loose components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

While the Tesla Model S has received high praise for its advancements in electric vehicle technology and its overall performance, it has not been immune to some issues. The battery degradation concern is particularly noteworthy, as it can be a significant financial burden if the vehicle is outside of warranty. However, many of the other issues reported are relatively minor and can be resolved without incurring excessive costs. Overall, the Tesla Model S remains a popular choice for those seeking an environmentally friendly and technologically advanced vehicle, but potential buyers should be aware of these common issues before making a purchasing decision.