2020 Tesla S

The 2020 Tesla Model S is a high-performance electric sedan known for its rapid acceleration, advanced technology, and long range. The 2020 Model S Long Range variant features dual motors providing all-wheel drive and generates around 518 horsepower and 487 lb-ft of torque. The Performance variant has even more power. Owners often praise the Model S for its Autopilot system (though some find it imperfect), its spacious cabin, and its access to Tesla’s Supercharger network. Criticisms often center on build quality inconsistencies and higher repair costs compared to traditional luxury sedans.

Electric Motor

Dual Motor (Long Range & Performance)

• Battery Degradation
  • Description/Symptoms: Over time, the battery’s maximum capacity decreases, leading to reduced range. The percentage of capacity lost can vary based on usage, charging habits, and environmental factors. Owners may notice a decline in the estimated range displayed after a full charge.
  • Solution: Tesla warranties the battery for a certain period or mileage (typically 8 years/150,000 miles), guaranteeing a minimum capacity. If the battery degrades beyond the warranted level within the warranty period, Tesla will repair or replace it. Out-of-warranty battery replacements are very costly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Battery replacement can range from $12,000-$20,000+.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Drive Unit Failure (Premature)
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners report premature failure of the rear drive unit. Symptoms include unusual noises (whining, grinding), reduced power, and potentially complete failure of the rear motor.
  • Solution: Replacement of the rear drive unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $5,000 - $7,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• MCU (Media Control Unit) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The MCU controls the central touchscreen, navigation, climate control, and other vehicle functions. Failures can manifest as a blank screen, slow performance, freezing, or complete loss of functionality. The eMMC memory chip within the MCU is a known point of failure on older models, but later versions of the MCU are more reliable.
  • Solution: Replacement of the MCU. Tesla has a service program for older vehicles (pre-2018) with MCU1. For 2020 models, it would likely be an MCU2.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• 12V Battery Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The 12V battery powers auxiliary systems. A failing 12V battery can cause various issues, including error messages, failure to start, and issues with the infotainment system.
  • Solution: Replacement of the 12V battery.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $350+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Door Handle Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The Model S uses retractable door handles. These can sometimes fail to present or retract properly, especially in cold weather.
  • Solution: Replacement or repair of the door handle mechanism.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+ per handle
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Screen Delamination
  • Description/Symptoms: The adhesive bonding the touchscreen layers can sometimes fail, leading to delamination. This can cause visual distortion or clouding.
  • Solution: Replacement of the screen.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rattles and Squeaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners report various rattles and squeaks within the cabin. The sources can be difficult to pinpoint and can include the dashboard, seats, or trim pieces.
  • Solution: Diagnosis and repair or tightening of the affected components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Highly variable, depending on the source and extent of the issue.
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Compressor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The air suspension compressor can fail, resulting in the vehicle sagging, failing to raise, or displaying error messages. This is more common on vehicles with higher mileage.
  • Solution: Replacement of the air suspension compressor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,200 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2020 Tesla Model S, while lauded for its performance and technology, can experience a range of issues. The most concerning are related to battery degradation and potential rear drive unit failures, which are costly to repair. Electrical issues such as MCU failure and 12V battery problems are also relatively common. Interior rattles can be annoying, and exterior door handle malfunctions are inconvenient. Suspension issues are less common but can still occur. The severity of these issues varies, but potential buyers should be aware of these common problems and factor in potential repair costs when considering a used 2020 Tesla Model S.