2021 Tesla X
The 2021 Tesla Model X is an all-electric SUV known for its distinctive falcon-wing doors, spacious interior, and impressive performance. The Model X offers a dual motor all-wheel drive option, a long-range version, and a performance version. The dual motor version offers around 670 horsepower and a 0-60 mph time of about 3.8 seconds. The performance version offers over 1000 horsepower and a 0-60 mph time of under 2.5 seconds. Owners generally appreciate the Model X’s advanced technology, rapid acceleration, and access to Tesla’s Supercharger network. Common dislikes include build quality issues and high maintenance costs.
Electric Motor
Dual Motor / Performance Motor
- Rear Motor Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported complete failure of the rear motor, resulting in a loss of propulsion. Error messages may appear on the central display indicating an issue with the rear drive unit.
- Solution: Replacement of the entire rear motor assembly is typically required.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $7,000 - $10,000+
- Recalls: None Found
- HV Battery Thermal Management Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Overheating of the high voltage battery during charging or demanding driving conditions. This can lead to reduced performance, slower charging speeds, and potentially premature battery degradation.
- Solution: Diagnosis and repair of the thermal management system, potentially including replacement of coolant pumps, valves, or even the entire battery pack.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $20,000+ (depending on the extent of the damage and if the entire battery pack needs replacing)
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- 12V Battery Failure
- Description/Symptoms: The 12V battery, which powers auxiliary systems, can fail prematurely. Symptoms include difficulty starting the car, error messages related to the 12V system, and loss of some electrical functions.
- Solution: Replacement of the 12V battery.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
- Recalls: None Found
- MCU (Media Control Unit) Failure
- Description/Symptoms: The MCU controls the central display and various vehicle functions. Failure can manifest as a blank screen, unresponsive touchscreen, loss of navigation, and other infotainment features.
- Solution: Replacement of the MCU.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $3,000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Wiring Harness Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Problems with wiring harnesses, particularly in areas subject to flexing or vibration, can lead to intermittent electrical faults and malfunctions.
- Solution: Diagnosis and repair or replacement of the affected wiring harness.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Falcon Wing Door Alignment Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Misalignment of the falcon wing doors, leading to difficulty closing, air leaks, and potential damage to the door seals.
- Solution: Adjustment of the door hinges and sensors, potentially requiring replacement of faulty components.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+ per door
- Recalls: None Found
- Falcon Wing Door Sensor Malfunction
- Description/Symptoms: The falcon wing doors failing to open or close properly due to sensor malfunctions. The doors might stop mid-motion or refuse to open in tight spaces.
- Solution: Replacement of the faulty sensors.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per sensor
- Recalls: None Found
- Tail Light Failures
- Description/Symptoms: Tail lights failing or flickering. This can be caused by faulty LED units or wiring issues.
- Solution: Replacement of the faulty tail light assembly or repair of the wiring.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Seat Motor Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Failure of the electric seat motors, preventing adjustment of the seat position.
- Solution: Replacement of the faulty seat motor.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per motor
- Recalls: None Found
- HVAC System Issues (specifically with the Heat Pump)
- Description/Symptoms: Reduced heating performance, particularly in cold weather. Some owners report complete loss of heating. This is often due to issues with the heat pump system.
- Solution: Diagnosis and repair of the HVAC system, potentially including replacement of the heat pump, sensors, or valves.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3,000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Display Screen Delamination
- Description/Symptoms: The display screen delaminates, where the layers start to separate, especially around the edges. This can create a bubbling or cloudy effect.
- Solution: Screen replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500-$2,500
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Air Suspension Compressor Failure
- Description/Symptoms: The air suspension compressor fails, leading to sagging suspension, ride height issues, and error messages.
- Solution: Replacement of the air suspension compressor.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Air Suspension Strut Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: Leaks in the air suspension struts, resulting in a loss of air pressure and a lowered ride height on the affected corner.
- Solution: Replacement of the leaking air suspension strut.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+ per strut
- Recalls: None Found
Summary:
The 2021 Tesla Model X can suffer from a range of issues, with the most concerning being potential electric motor failures, HV battery problems, and falcon wing door issues. The severity of these issues can range from minor inconveniences to major repairs costing thousands of dollars. Electrical problems, suspension issues, and interior component failures are also common. Overall, while the Model X offers cutting-edge technology and performance, potential buyers should be aware of these common problems and factor them into their purchasing decision.