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2017 Tesla S

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By Research the Car 4 min read

The 2017 Tesla Model S is a fully electric luxury sedan known for its impressive acceleration, long range, and advanced technology. In 2017, several powertrain options were available, including the 75D, 90D, and 100D, with horsepower ranging from around 328 hp to over 500 hp depending on the configuration. The Model S is praised for its minimalist interior, quick charging capabilities, and Autopilot driver-assistance system. However, some common criticisms include build quality issues, expensive repairs, and reliance on Tesla’s proprietary charging network.

Electric Motor

75D, 90D, 100D

  • Drive Unit Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Grinding noises, reduced power, or complete failure of the drive unit. Can occur in either the front or rear drive unit.
    • Solution: Replacement of the entire drive unit.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $5,000 - $8,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Battery

75D, 90D, 100D

  • Premature Battery Degradation
    • Description/Symptoms: Noticeable reduction in range compared to the original specification, potentially indicating cell imbalance or other battery management issues.
    • Solution: Software recalibration of the battery management system or, in severe cases, battery pack replacement.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $5,000 - $20,000+ (depending on the extent of degradation and whether a repair or replacement is needed)
    • Recalls: None Found
  • 12V Battery Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The 12V battery is used to power low-voltage systems such as lights and computers. Failure can cause the car to be unable to start or function properly.
    • Solution: Replacement of the 12V battery.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

  • Air Suspension Compressor Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sagging on one or more corners, error messages related to the air suspension system, and a noisy or non-functional air compressor.
    • Solution: Replacement of the air suspension compressor.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,200 - $2,000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Upper Control Arm Ball Joint Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Clicking or popping noises from the front suspension, uneven tire wear, and loose steering.
    • Solution: Replacement of the affected upper control arm(s).
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800 per control arm
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

  • MCU (Media Control Unit) Failure (Tegra)
    • Description/Symptoms: Complete failure of the center touchscreen, loss of access to climate controls, navigation, and other vehicle functions. This issue primarily affects vehicles with the older Tegra-based MCU.
    • Solution: Replacement or upgrade of the MCU to a newer Intel Atom-based unit (MCU2).
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
    • Recalls: Recall Number: SB-21-11-004
  • eMMC Memory Failure (MCU)
    • Description/Symptoms: Slow performance, freezing, and eventual failure of the center touchscreen due to the limited lifespan of the eMMC memory chip in the MCU.
    • Solution: Replacement of the eMMC memory chip or the entire MCU.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $2,500+ (depending on whether only the chip is replaced or the entire MCU)
    • Recalls: Recall Number: SB-21-11-004
  • Door Handle Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Door handles failing to present or retract properly, requiring multiple attempts to open the doors.
    • Solution: Replacement of the faulty door handle mechanism.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800 per door handle
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Sunroof Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof fails to open or close properly, gets stuck, or makes excessive noise.
    • Solution: Repair or replacement of the sunroof motor, regulator, or entire assembly.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

  • Tail Light Condensation/Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Moisture accumulation inside the tail light housings, leading to reduced visibility and potential failure of the LED lights.
    • Solution: Replacement of the affected tail light assembly.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600 per tail light
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Alignment Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle pulling to one side, uneven tire wear.
    • Solution: Wheel Alignment
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300
    • Recalls: None Found

Interior

  • Touchscreen Delamination
    • Description/Symptoms: Bubbling or peeling of the touchscreen display, making it difficult to see or operate.
    • Solution: Replacement of the touchscreen display.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,200+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Inconsistent temperature control, weak airflow, or complete failure of the HVAC system.
    • Solution: Repair or replacement of the HVAC compressor, blend door actuator, or other components.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2017 Tesla Model S, while innovative and performance-oriented, is prone to several issues. The most concerning are electric motor failures and significant battery degradation, which can lead to high repair costs. Electrical issues such as MCU failure and door handle malfunctions are also relatively common. Suspension problems and interior issues such as touchscreen delamination further contribute to the ownership experience. Overall, while many issues are not safety-critical, the potential for costly repairs makes it essential to thoroughly inspect a used 2017 Model S and consider a comprehensive warranty.

Tesla, S
Tesla S 2017
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