The Tesla Model S, introduced in 2012, revolutionized the electric vehicle (EV) market with its sleek design, impressive range, and cutting-edge technology. As the first mass-market EV to truly compete with luxury sedans, it quickly became a favorite among niche American drivers for its high performance, quiet operation, and futuristic appeal. However, like any vehicle, not all Model S years were created equal. While some years shine with owner satisfaction, others left drivers frustrated due to recurring issues. If you’re in the market for a used Tesla Model S, it’s crucial to know which years to approach cautiously. Below, we detail five Tesla Model S years to avoid based on complaints about reliability, performance, and build quality.

2013 Tesla Model S

The 2013 Model S, Tesla’s first full production year, had ambitious goals but faced significant growing pains. This model year is notorious for frequent problems, particularly with door handles and suspension components. Door handles would often stop working due to motor failure, leaving owners locked out of their vehicles. Suspension issues, including premature wear on control arms and bushings, were costly to fix, with repairs averaging around $2,700.

In addition, complaints about battery coolant leaks and inconsistent range estimates emerged, leaving drivers questioning the reliability of their new EV. Owners also reported electronic failures, including the main control screen going dark, which is a critical issue given Tesla’s reliance on its touchscreen for most vehicle functions​.​

2014 Tesla Model S

The 2014 Model S improved slightly over its predecessor but still suffered from reliability issues. Many owners experienced failures with the drivetrain, including a humming noise from the motor, which often required replacement. These problems became costly and time-consuming to address, with replacements occasionally covered under warranty but still causing inconvenience.

Additionally, the build quality of the 2014 Model S came under scrutiny. Common complaints included paint issues, misaligned panels, and faulty seals leading to water leaks. Such defects not only compromised the aesthetic appeal but also the durability of the car​.​

2015 Tesla Model S

While 2015 saw Tesla refining its technology, this year is still plagued by similar reliability concerns. The Model S suffered from continued door handle malfunctions, but more notably, the touchscreen unit—essential to Tesla’s interface—faced problems. Known as the Media Control Unit (MCU), it often failed due to excessive memory usage, a problem requiring costly repairs or replacement.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) flagged the 2015 Model S for suspension failures, raising safety concerns. Owners also mentioned software glitches that affected autopilot functionality, battery management, and charging capabilities, tarnishing Tesla’s reputation for technological innovation​

2016 Tesla Model S

The 2016 Model S introduced Autopilot hardware, but it also brought a host of technical challenges. Touchscreen failures were a widespread issue, primarily due to worn-out memory chips in the MCU. These problems rendered core functions like navigation and climate control unusable, frustrating owners and costing an average of $1,500 to fix.

CarComplaints.com confirmed door handles continued to malfunction, along with new complaints about steering and alignment issues. These problems often appeared after just 50,000 miles, leading to concerns about the car’s longevity. While Tesla’s warranty covered some repairs, the recurring nature of these issues left many owners dissatisfied​​

2018 Tesla Model S

By 2018, Tesla had fine-tuned much of its production, but the year was not without setbacks. Owners reported range inconsistencies, where the car’s displayed range often failed to match real-world performance. This discrepancy frustrated drivers who relied on Tesla’s promises of long-distance capability.

Additionally, some 2018 Model S vehicles suffered from paint quality problems, with thin coatings leading to premature wear. Software updates meant to enhance vehicle performance occasionally caused new glitches, particularly with autopilot and touchscreen responsiveness. While these issues weren’t as severe as earlier years, they highlighted Tesla’s ongoing challenges with quality control​.​

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The Model S retains its status as a groundbreaking vehicle, but not all versions provide a worry-free ownership experience. Consider approaching the 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, and 2018 models with caution. Our list of Tesla Model S years to avoid feature recurring problems that can be both costly and inconvenient.

Of course, on any Model S, inspect service records, ensure critical repairs have been completed, and test key features like the touchscreen and all the door handles. As Tesla’s technology continues to evolve, newer models often provide better reliability and an improved ownership experience.