2021 Tesla S

The 2021 Tesla Model S is an all-electric luxury sedan known for its impressive performance, advanced technology, and long range. The Model S comes in several configurations, including Long Range and Plaid. The Long Range version offers dual-motor all-wheel drive, producing around 670 horsepower and achieving 0-60 mph in approximately 3.1 seconds. The Plaid version boasts a tri-motor all-wheel drive system with over 1,020 horsepower and a 0-60 mph time of around 1.99 seconds. Owners often praise the Model S for its rapid acceleration, spacious interior, and access to Tesla’s Supercharger network. Common complaints include build quality issues, high repair costs, and sometimes challenging customer service experiences.

Electric Motor

Long Range Dual Motor

• Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported instances of motor failure, particularly in the rear motor. Symptoms include reduced power, error messages, and in some cases, complete motor failure.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $5,000 - $10,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Plaid Tri-Motor

• Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Similar to the Long Range model, some Plaid owners have reported motor failures, especially related to the carbon-sleeved rotor design. Symptoms can range from power loss to complete motor shutdown.
  • Solution: Motor replacement or repair.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $8,000 - $15,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Battery

All Models

• Premature Battery Degradation
  • Description/Symptoms: Faster than expected battery degradation, leading to a reduction in range. Some owners have reported significant range loss within the first few years of ownership.
  • Solution: Tesla may offer a battery replacement under warranty if degradation exceeds a certain threshold. Otherwise, battery replacement is costly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $12,000 - $20,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Management System (BMS) Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: BMS errors can lead to inaccurate range estimations, charging problems, or even bricking of the battery.
  • Solution: Software update or, in severe cases, BMS module replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

All Models

• Air Suspension Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The air suspension system can experience failures, leading to ride height issues, uneven suspension, and error messages. The air struts or compressor may fail.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty air strut or compressor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

All Models

• MCU (Media Control Unit) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The MCU controls the central touchscreen and various vehicle functions. Failures can lead to screen freezing, loss of navigation, climate control issues, and other malfunctions.
  • Solution: Replacement of the MCU.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• 12V Battery Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Premature failure of the 12V auxiliary battery, causing various electrical issues, including inability to start the car or operate accessories.
  • Solution: Replacement of the 12V battery.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Wiring Harness Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Faulty or damaged wiring harnesses, leading to intermittent electrical problems, sensor malfunctions, and error messages.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the affected wiring harness.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

All Models

• Door Handle Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Automatic door handles failing to present or retract properly.
  • Solution: Replacement of door handle mechanism.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+ per handle
  • Recalls: None Found
• Automatic Liftgate Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: Liftgate failing to open or close automatically or becoming misaligned.
  • Solution: Replacement of liftgate motor or realignment.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

All Models

• Screen Delamination/Yellowing
  • Description/Symptoms: The adhesive holding the screen layers together can fail, leading to delamination or yellowing of the display.
  • Solution: Screen replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Seat Motor Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Electric seat motors failing, causing seats to become stuck or unable to adjust.
  • Solution: Replacement of the seat motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2021 Tesla Model S, while highly praised for its performance and technology, has several common issues. These range from potentially expensive motor and battery problems to more minor but still inconvenient electrical and interior faults. Suspension issues, particularly with the air suspension, are also reported. The severity of these issues varies, with some requiring costly repairs. Potential buyers should be aware of these potential problems and consider extended warranty options.