2014 TESLA MODEL S

9 recalls, 545 complaints - 96 TSBs - 5/5 safety rating

SEAT BELTS:FRONT:WARNING LIGHT/DEVICES

Defect Description

Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2012-2024 Model S, 2015-2024 Model X, 2017-2023 Model 3, and 2020-2023 Model Y vehicles. In the event of an unbelted driver, the seat belt warning light and audible chime may not activate as intended. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirem... Read more

Consequence

A seat belt warning system that fails to alert occupants of an unbelted seat belt can increase the risk of injury during a crash.

Remedy

Tesla will release an over-the-air (OTA) software update. Owner notification letters were mailed July 26, 2024. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-24-00-008.

125,233 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: Tesla, Inc.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: INSTRUMENT CLUSTER/PANEL

Defect Description

Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2012-2023 Model S, 2016-2024 Model X, 2017-2023 Model 3, 2019-2024 Model Y, and 2024 Cybertruck vehicles. An incorrect font size is displayed on the instrument panel for the Brake, Park, and Antilock Brake System (ABS) warning lights. As such, these vehicle... Read more

Consequence

Warning lights with a smaller font size can make critical safety information on the instrument panel difficult to read, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy

Tesla began releasing an over-the-air (OTA) software update, free of charge. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-24-00-003.

2,193,869 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: Tesla, Inc.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:ADAS:DRIVER MONITORING:SOFTWARE

Defect Description

Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling 2012-2023 Model S, 2016-2023 Model X, 2017-2023 Model 3, and 2020-2023 Model Y vehicles equipped with all versions of Autosteer leading up to the version(s) that contains the recall remedy. In certain circumstances when Autosteer is engaged, the prominence and scope... Read more

Consequence

In certain circumstances when Autosteer is engaged, and the driver does not maintain responsibility for vehicle operation and is unprepared to intervene as necessary or fails to recognize when Autosteer is canceled or not engaged, there may be an increased risk of a crash.

Remedy

Tesla will release an over-the-air (OTA) software update, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed February 10, 2024. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-23-00-008.

2,031,220 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: Tesla, Inc.

LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:HOOD:LATCH

Defect Description

Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2014-2021 Model S vehicles. The front trunk latch assembly may be misaligned, preventing the secondary hood latch from engaging. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 113, "Hood Latch Sy... Read more

Consequence

If the primary latch is inadvertently released and the secondary latch is not engaged, the hood could open unexpectedly, obstructing the driver's view and increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy

Tesla Service will inspect and reposition the latch assembly as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed February 18, 2022. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-21-11-003.

130,441 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: Tesla, Inc.

BACK OVER PREVENTION:SOFTWARE

Defect Description

Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2012-2018 Tesla Model S and 2016-2018 Model X vehicles with a center display equipped with a NVIDIA Tegra 3 processor and an 8GB eMMC NAND flash memory device. When the 8GB eMMC NAND flash memory device for the center display reaches lifetime wear, the eMMC ... Read more

Consequence

The eMMC controller wear-out condition can cause the loss of the rearview camera display, defrost/defog control settings, and exterior turn signal lighting, reducing visibility and increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy

Owners should ensure their vehicles are operating firmware release 2020.48.48.12 or newer, which will alert owners if the eMMC is approaching lifetime wear. Tesla will notify owners, and will replace the VCM daughterboard with one containing an enhanced eMMC controller, free of charge. The recall ... Read more

134,951 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: Tesla, Inc.

AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE

Defect Description

Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling all 2014-2016 Model S vehicles equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger frontal air bag, ... Read more

Consequence

An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.

Remedy

Tesla will notify owners, and Tesla Service Centers will replace the passenger frontal air bag modules, free of charge. The recall began May 29, 2019. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-19-20-001.

68,673 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: Tesla, Inc.

STEERING:ELECTRIC POWER ASSIST SYSTEM

Defect Description

Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2012-2016 Tesla Model S vehicles equipped with Bosch steering racks. The aluminum bolts that attach the power steering gear assist motor to the gear housing may corrode and fracture causing a reduction or complete loss of power steering assist.

Consequence

Loss of power steering assist would require a higher steering effort, especially at lower speeds, which may increase the risk of a crash.

Remedy

Tesla will notify owners, and Tesla Service Centers will replace the steering gear mounting bolts and add a corrosion-preventative sealer, free of charge. The recall began May 7, 2019. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-18-32-002.

70,421 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: Tesla, Inc.

PARKING BRAKE

Defect Description

Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2016 Model S and Model X vehicles. The electric parking brake calipers have an internal gear that may be improperly manufactured, possibly resulting in the gear fracturing during parking brake application or release.

Consequence

If the gear breaks during parking brake release, the vehicle will not be able to be moved. If the gear breaks during parking brake application, the parking brake may not adequately hold the vehicle, potentially resulting in the vehicle rolling, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy

Tesla will notify owners, and service centers will replace both the left and right electric parking brake calipers, free of charge. The recall began March 6, 2018. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-17-33-002.

31,709 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: Tesla Motors, Inc.

SEAT BELTS:FRONT

Defect Description

Tesla Motors, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain model year 2012-2015 Model S vehicles manufactured May 31, 2012, to November 12, 2015. The affected vehicles are equipped with driver or front passenger seat belts that may be improperly connected to the outboard lap pretensioner.

Consequence

If the seat belt is not correctly attached to the pretensioner, it may not properly restrain the seat occupant in the event of a crash, increasing their risk of injury.

Remedy

Tesla will notify owners, and service centers will inspect the driver and front passenger seat belts, correcting their connection, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began on December 14, 2015. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB... Read more

59,415 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: Tesla Motors, Inc.

Complaint Statistics

545 total complaints 74 crashes 9 fires 27 injuries 27 deaths

Top Reported Components

Component	Complaints
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM	118
SUSPENSION	81
UNKNOWN OR OTHER	77
POWER TRAIN	30
STEERING	28
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM	25
EXTERIOR LIGHTING	23
STRUCTURE:BODY	22
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL	18
VISIBILITY/WIPER	17

Incident date: Jun 2, 2026

This issue appears to be related to a known MCU failure affecting early Tesla Model S vehicles. The touchscreen exhibits screen melting/discoloration and eventually goes blank or becomes inoperative. When this occurs, critical functions including occupant detection indicators, seatbelt warnings, and... Read more

Incident date: Jun 2, 2026

Incident date: Apr 30, 2026

10r80 Cdf drum issue Car doen shifts on own Cant drive on road will just slip out of gear

Incident date: Apr 30, 2026

While driving on the highway, I heard an extremely loud noise followed by rush of wind. I was not under or near an overpass and there was nothing to indicate an impact by a foreign object. I arrived at my house 10 minutes after the incident and inspected my car. I determined the noise I experience... Read more

Incident date: Apr 30, 2026

While driving my truck under normal conditions and using the turn signals as expected, I noticed an issue after parking in my driveway. The turn signals began activating automatically without any driver input, alternating from left to right approximately every 5 seconds. The behavior stopped once I... Read more

Incident date: Apr 30, 2026

Incident date: Apr 23, 2026

The contact owns a 2017 Honda Pilot. The contact stated that while driving at 65 MPH, the vehicle stalled and failed to restart. The vehicle was pushed over to the side of the road. The contact exited the vehicle and inspected the oil, transmission fluid, and antifreeze, but found no failure. The ve... Read more

Incident date: Jan 28, 2026

The contact owns a 2023 Hyundai Palisade. The contact received notifications of NHTSA Campaign Numbers: 25V607000 (SEAT BELTS) and 26V034000 (AIR BAGS). The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the driver’s side seat belt buckle unlatched from the channel independently. No wa... Read more

Incident date: Dec 31, 1969

2025 Honda CRV Hybrid windshield wiper fluid does not spray. Instead the fluid is dribbled on to the sides of the front windshield but does not clean the majority of the windshield that you need to navigate with. This new design is highly INEFFECTIVE in cleaning window of dirt, bugs, grime, etc., ... Read more

Incident date: Feb 24, 2026

The engine failed and had to be replaced with less than 70,000 miles on it. There has already been a recall associated with these vehicles where a part is either replaced or special oil has to be used. It does not seem that the fix prevents the engine from failing.

Incident date: Feb 24, 2026

My 2020 Toyota Highlander, with 83k miles, started making a whining noise when accelerating. I took the vehicle to a local auto shop and they advised there was a transmission issue. There were never any warning signs of issue. I then took the vehicle to Antwerpen Toyota in Clarksville, MD (where the... Read more

Incident date: Feb 24, 2026

The contact owns a 2021 Chevrolet Traverse. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the vehicle failed to respond intermittently upon depression of the accelerator pedal. Additionally, the contact stated that the gear shifter failed to respond or responded slowly when releasing the ... Read more

Incident date: Feb 16, 2026

1) The windshield wiper on the driver’s side completely detaches from the window and becomes stuck. Despite being repaired three times, with the motor and arm replaced, the wiper still exhibits the same problem. 2) The only door to the vehicle fails to close properly. It pops open while traveling... Read more

Incident date: Dec 10, 2025

The contact owns a 2016 Ford Escape. The contact was informed at a State Inspection that the VIN was included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V544000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that after driving out of the driveway, t... Read more

Incident date: Dec 6, 2025

Forward collision warning either does not work at all or is too sensitive. When demonstrated for the dealership, the warning went off while in park for a potted plant more than 10 ft away, then did not go off again no matter how close the Prologue was moved towards an object nor what speed we were m... Read more

Incident date: Dec 6, 2025

2015 Chrysler Town and Country lost propulsion power while driving, endangering 2 occupants and surrounding drivers. While driving on a residential road, vehicle came to a stop at intersection. Upon attempting to accelerate from stop and applying gas, vehicle jolted and would not accelerate past 5 m... Read more

Incident date: Dec 6, 2025

Incident date: Nov 23, 2025

The contact owns a 2015 Ford Edge. The contact stated that while driving 40 MPH, the rear passenger's side tire became flat, and the front passenger's side tire lost a significant amount of air pressure. The contact was able to drive to the residence. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where all f... Read more

Incident date: Nov 10, 2025

Engine has a timing belt issue since 70,000 miles where it will rattle when it starts Transmission is going out BEFORE 100,000 miles

Incident date: Nov 10, 2025

Hello. I need to open a formal escalation regarding a serious safety recall on my 2025 Ford F-150 Lariat Hybrid. The recall is - rear axle half-shaft and hub assembly replacement. I contacted two dealerships: Metro Ford and Pines Ford. Both told me to just wait without giving any estimated date ... Read more

Incident date: Nov 10, 2025

My gas tank does not fill up to 17 gallons like it claimed it would when I purchased the vehicle, It also keeps automatically shutting off after filling up a little bit 8-10 gallons and it is not full, I have to hold the handle and fuel manually and constantly worried its going to over fill.

Incident date: Oct 21, 2025

The head gaskets are known to fail on the 10 generation accord. It failed on my 2021 Honda accord ex-l. I left work and while I was driving the dashboard lit up with every possible light. This was quickly followed by the vehicle losing power on the highway. I ultimately got it repaired by a Honda ce... Read more

Incident date: Oct 21, 2025

Incident date: Aug 13, 2025

The contact owns a 2018 Ram 3500. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the ABS and traction control warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who diagnosed a failure with the ABS control module. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not n... Read more

Incident date: Aug 15, 2023

The contact owns a 2016 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid. The contact stated that while driving at 20 MPH, the message "Shut Down" was displayed, and the vehicle lost motive power. The contact was able to pull over to the side of the road; however, the vehicle failed to restart. The vehicle was towed to the de... Read more

Incident date: Aug 15, 2023

The contact owns a 2018 Honda Civic. The contact stated that while driving at high speeds, the vehicle became difficult to maneuver, and the steering wheel was stuck in the direction turned. There was no warning light illuminated. The contact used excessive force to correct the steering wheel. The v... Read more

Incident date: Aug 15, 2023

While Driving without a Trailer attached to the truck or anything plugged into the Trailer plugs on the truck, the "Service Trailer Brake System" continuosly flashes up on the Dash and chimes even after mutiple "Dismiss" attempts it still comes back.

Incident date: Feb 28, 2025

We haven’t had the car for a full year yet and already have now had our 3rd front windshield cracked! It’s either the glass is too fragile or the shape of it. I’ve never had this happen with any car ever! I’ve also read online several other car owners complaining of the same issue.

Incident date: May 29, 2025

The contact owns a 2020 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that while driving at various highway speeds, the transmission experienced harsh downshifting from seventh to sixth gear. During the failure, the vehicle was shaking and vibrating abnormally, and decelerated unintendedly. The vehicle was take... Read more

Incident date: Mar 5, 2025

My engine light and traction light and red lightning bolt light is on and it’s making the vehicle run really hard and shake and almost stall out and won’t go over 20 miles per hour

Incident date: Mar 4, 2025

Our Jeep has the Death Wobble and its been to the dealership twice. First trip, they had us replace the front shocks and the steering stabilizer/damper. Did not help at all. Now they are saying we should try a Tru-Center Stabilizer, by looking on the web, they think that will fix it. Really don'... Read more

Incident date: Feb 6, 2025

NHTSA Recall ID: 24T009 Continental Claim Number: [XXX] While driving on the highway from Lake Tahoe to Los Angeles with my family in the car, the front passenger-side tire unexpectedly exploded. The entire tread detached from the tire, causing damage to the right side of the vehicle as it separate... Read more

Incident date: Jan 18, 2025

I have a new Honda Prologue with less than 300 miles. The Vehicle Drive Shaft makes clicking noise at the CV Joint when I make a left hand turn. I took it to my local Honda Dealership, Roush Honda in Westerville, Ohio. They acknowledged the problem and in fact saw the same problem on a new Prologue ... Read more

Incident date: Oct 29, 2024

The contact owns a 2018 Kia Soul. The contact stated that the engine was consuming an excessive amount of engine oil. The contact had to add one quart of oil per week. The battery was replaced on three occasions. The contact stated that the vehicle failed to exceed 57 MPH while driving. There was an... Read more

Incident date: Oct 1, 2024

The engine has had counts of misfire in all 4 cylinders, since 1 week after I bought this brand-new pickup truck. The misfire counts are getting more and more, although there is NOT any warning codes, nor loss of power.

Incident date: Sep 10, 2024

I am filing a complaint for manufacturer fail to provide repair for a recall in a timely manner. Recall: May 15,2024 Manufacturer Recall Number: 919A NHTSA Recall Number: 24V344 Recall Status: Recall Incomplete, remedy not yet available

Incident date: Sep 10, 2024

Power steering locked up while driving. Upon investigation discovered EPS had went out and found there was a current recall on the vehicle but not my specific Vin.

Incident date: Nov 26, 2023

I lease a 2024 Jeep Wrangler Sahara 4xE. On November 13, 2023, I was at making a turn and came to a stop and then when I went to accelerate it wouldn't move and gear shifter was flashing for park. So, I moved it to park at the same time had a service electrical system warning with a picture of the c... Read more

Incident date: Jun 25, 2024

The contact owns a 2018 Chrysler Pacifica. The contact stated while driving 40 MPH, several unknown warning lights illuminated. Additionally, the gear shift indicator light turned off, and the vehicle lost motive power. The contact was able to pull into a parking lot. The contact turned off and rest... Read more

Incident date: May 1, 2024

Rear camera stopped working.

Incident date: May 1, 2024

The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Elantra. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V651000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonab... Read more

Incident date: Nov 1, 2023

My car keeps shutting off completely in the middle of driving on highway or any road it’s becoming a safety risk this car once had an open recall for the same issue but I didn’t receive memo but according to bmw handbook emissions recall don’t expire for NJ registered vehicles but BMW won’t ... Read more

Incident date: Nov 1, 2023

The contact owns a 2011 BMW 528I. The contact stated that while her son was driving at an undisclosed speed, the check engine warning light illuminated. The contact later received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V707000 (Engine and Engine Cooling) however, the part to do the recall repair w... Read more

Incident date: Dec 22, 2023

The 2013 pruis has developed the notorious brake booster fault triggering the brake light abs light and traction control light to stay illuminated. Toyota has many complaints about this brake booster issue and needs to recall and fix this issue as they have done on other Toyotas. This is leaving ow... Read more

Incident date: Mar 11, 2024

Component failed: Driver side door latch Safety put at risk: Door could open while car was in motion making driver vulnerable to an accident or exposure of driver to road conditions Has the problem been confirmed: Manufacture Ford has a Safety recalls 15S16 and 16S30 for the problem Component h... Read more

Incident date: Mar 14, 2024

Truck is equipped with a power up/down tailgate. I was driving on a rainy day and stopped for gas. Upon putting the vehicle in Park and shutting off the engine, the driver information center alerted with a dinging sound several times. Upon returning and starting the engine the information center a... Read more

Incident date: Mar 7, 2024

It is commonly known that the drive shafts on the Model X fail. This is not a wear component and should be a recall. The suspension is also part of this issue and there are after market solutions to fix the suspension that is causing the failure of the half shafts.

Incident date: Mar 7, 2024

See attached document for complaint

Showing 50 of 545 complaints.

NHTSA Safety Ratings, 2014 TESLA MODEL S

2014 Tesla Model S 5 HB RWD

Category	Rating
Overall Rating	5 / 5 ★★★★★
Frontal Crash	5 / 5 ★★★★★
Frontal Crash, Driver	5 / 5 ★★★★★
Frontal Crash, Passenger	5 / 5 ★★★★★
Side Crash	5 / 5 ★★★★★
Side Crash, Driver	5 / 5 ★★★★★
Side Crash, Passenger	5 / 5 ★★★★★
Rollover	5 / 5 ★★★★★
Rollover Risk	5.7%

Safety Technology

Feature	Status
Electronic Stability Control	Standard
Forward Collision Warning	No
Lane Departure Warning	Standard

Source: NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings Program. Ratings are based on crash tests conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Technical Service Bulletins, 2014 TESLA MODEL S

96 manufacturer communications from 66 unique bulletins. TSBs describe known problems and recommended fixes from the manufacturer.

Most Affected Components

Component	Bulletins
350000 EQUIPMENT	23
356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY	8
110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM	6
355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL	6
010000 STEERING	4
199000 TIRES:PRESSURE MONITORING AND REGULATING SYSTEMS	4
162000 STRUCTURE:BODY	3
220000 SEATS	3

353620 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:INFOTAINMENT:VIDEO (TOUCH)SCREEN/MONITOR/UNIT

Tesla does not provide physical owner's manual copies. Instead, all available owner?s manual content is integrated into the vehicle software, and only the content relevant for a given vehicle, based on vehicle configuration and software ver

353610 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:INFOTAINMENT:SOFTWARE

353600 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:INFOTAINMENT

350000 EQUIPMENT

355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL

Owner's Manual.

355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL

Owner's Manual

355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL

350000 EQUIPMENT

100000 POWER TRAIN

Some versions of Model S and X front drive unit halfshafts might cause excessive vibrations during hard acceleration at higher ride height settings. This is exclusively an NVH issue and does not otherwise affect steering functionality, brak

350000 EQUIPMENT

355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL

350000 EQUIPMENT

353610 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:INFOTAINMENT:SOFTWARE

353600 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:INFOTAINMENT

355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL

350000 EQUIPMENT

355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL

111000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:12V/24V/48V BATTERY

Some customers in Europe have vehicles with one charger, which limits the vehicle?s charging rate to 16 A when the vehicle is connected to a charging station capable of supplying more than 16 A single phase. The vehicle?s 3-phase charging c

103000 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION

010000 STEERING

350000 EQUIPMENT

For some Model S and Model X vehicles built before March 2018, an 8GB embedded MultiMediaCard (?8GB eMMC?) in the Media Control Unit (MCU) might malfunction due to accumulated wear. This could result in a blank or intermittently blank touch

350000 EQUIPMENT

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Tesla is committed to continuous improvement of the security of its products and advises customers to always install the latest mobile app and vehicle software releases to remain as secure as possible. On approximately May 1, 2020, the Tesl

356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY

The Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) ECU has a built-in antenna that receives signals from the TPMS sensors. Earlier versions of the TPMS ECU were equipped with an antenna that might not receive reliable readings from the front sensor

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

199000 TIRES:PRESSURE MONITORING AND REGULATING SYSTEMS

Some Model S vehicles were intended to have a Continental Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), but were manufactured with a Baolong TPMS.

356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY

Some Model S vehicles were intended to have a Continental Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), but were manufactured with a Baolong TPMS.

356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY

Older versions of the Model S and Model X LH front drive unit clevis mount contain a bushing that allows the front drive unit to move side-to-side more than expected during hard accelerations, resulting in excessive vibrations coming from t

350000 EQUIPMENT

200000 WHEELS

100000 POWER TRAIN

356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY

During hard acceleration, the driver might notice vibrations coming from the front of some Model S or Model X vehicles.

350000 EQUIPMENT

During hard acceleration, the driver might notice vibrations coming from the front of some Model S or Model X vehicles.

356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY

On some Model S base trim front seats, the forward inboard Huck BOM fastener and pivot bushing (nearest to the center console) used on the front lift links may develop an interactive clearance condition, which might result in a rocking moti

220000 SEATS

010000 STEERING

Long-term exposure to high-corrosion environments might weaken the bolts that attach the power steering motor to the steering rack housing.

014200 STEERING:RACK AND PINION:RACK

Long-term exposure to high-corrosion environments might weaken the bolts that attach the power steering motor to the steering rack housing.

140000 AIR BAGS

The propellant in the front passenger airbag inflator might degrade over time, which could cause the inflator body to rupture in the event the airbag is deployed.

140000 AIR BAGS

The propellant in the front passenger airbag inflator might degrade over time, which could cause the inflator body to rupture in the event the airbag is deployed.

020000 SUSPENSION

On certain Model S vehicles, either lower rear control arm might crack, causing excessive negative camber of the rear suspension.

162600 STRUCTURE:BODY:HATCHBACK/LIFTGATE

On certain Model S vehicles, the liftgate has plugs that do not allow water to drain, causing condensation to build up inside the tail light assembly. Tail light functionality is not affected. The retrofit of updated drain-type liftgate plu

123000 EXTERIOR LIGHTING:TAIL LIGHTS

190000 TIRES

It is now possible to retrofit the Continental Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) onto vehicles that were originally equipped with a Baolong TPMS.

356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY

On some Model S base trim 1st row seats, the Huck BOM fastener and pivot bushing used on the front lift links may develop an interactive clearance condition, which might result in a rocking motion in the seat. This does not affect performan

350000 EQUIPMENT

220000 SEATS

010000 STEERING

Long-term exposure to high-corrosion environments might weaken the bolts that attach the power steering motor to the steering rack housing.

136000 VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD WIPER/WASHER

On Model S, the windshield wiper motor bracket might become loose, resulting in a popping or clicking noise during windshield wiper operation.

161100 STRUCTURE:FRAME AND MEMBERS:UNDERBODY SHIELDS

Three metal plates are installed on the front subframe to deflect road debris and protect the underbody from possible damage.

199000 TIRES:PRESSURE MONITORING AND REGULATING SYSTEMS

It is now possible to retrofit the Continental Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) onto vehicles that were originally equipped with a Baolong TPMS.

162000 STRUCTURE:BODY

It is possible to accidentally break off the aeroshield support tab from the HV Battery. If the tab breaks, the mid aeroshield is not fully supported, reducing the aerodynamic efficiency of the vehicle. The operation of the HV Battery is no

119100 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:PROPULSION SYSTEM:TRACTION BATTERY

162000 STRUCTURE:BODY

Instructions for installing the carbon fiber spoiler.

199000 TIRES:PRESSURE MONITORING AND REGULATING SYSTEMS

IT IS NOW POSSIBLE TO RETROFIT THE CONTINENTAL TIRE PRESSURE MONITORING SYSTEM (TPMS) ONTO VEHICLES THAT WERE ORIGINALLY EQUIPPED WITH A BAOLONG TPMS.

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

IT IS NOW POSSIBLE TO RETROFIT THE CONTINENTAL TIRE PRESSURE MONITORING SYSTEM (TPMS) ONTO VEHICLES THAT WERE ORIGINALLY EQUIPPED WITH A BAOLONG TPMS.

222000 SEATS:MID/REAR ASSEMBLY

THIS SERVICE BULLETIN CONTAINS INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS FOR THE OPTIONAL THIRD ROW SEAT. INCLUDED IN THIS PROCEDURE ARE STEPS TO ADD THE REAR CROSSMEMBER (IF NEEDED), REMOVE AND MODIFY EXISTING TRIM PANELS, INSTALL HARDWARE, ADD THE 2ND RO

350000 EQUIPMENT

DESCRIBES HOW TO INSTALL THE PERFORMANCE PEDAL SET ACCESSORY.

114000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING

DESCRIBES HOW TO INSTALL THE PERFORMANCE PEDAL SET ACCESSORY.

350000 EQUIPMENT

UPGRADE A VEHICLE FROM A SINGLE 2ND GENERATION CHARGER TO DUAL 2ND GENERATION CHARGERS.

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

UPGRADE A VEHICLE FROM A SINGLE 2ND GENERATION CHARGER TO DUAL 2ND GENERATION CHARGERS.

350000 EQUIPMENT

DESCRIBES HOW TO INSTALL THE CENTER CONSOLE FLOOR FINISHER TO MATCH THE DASH TRIM APPEARANCE.

350000 EQUIPMENT

DESCRIBES HOW TO INSTALL THE 1ST GENERATION PREMIUM CENTER CONSOLE ASSEMBLY.

350000 EQUIPMENT

DESCRIBES HOW TO RETROFIT THE 2ND GENERATION PREMIUM CENTER CONSOLE ASSEMBLY.

030000 BRAKES (PWS)

Cold Weather Brake Package

356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY

TESLA: INFORMATION PROVIDED IN REGARDS TO INSTALLING A SECOND (SLAVE) CHARGER THAT IS CURRENTLY CONFIGURED, IN A VEHICLE, WITH ONLY ONE MASTER CHARGER. MODEL 2013-15 S. *PE

350000 EQUIPMENT

TESLA: INFORMATION PROVIDED IN REGARDS TO INSTALLING A SECOND (SLAVE) CHARGER THAT IS CURRENTLY CONFIGURED, IN A VEHICLE, WITH ONLY ONE MASTER CHARGER. MODEL 2013-15 S. *PE

119100 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:PROPULSION SYSTEM:TRACTION BATTERY

TESLA MOTORS, INC 2012-2014: BULLETIN INFORMATION REGARDING UPGRADED 12V POSITIVE JUMP POST NEEDS REPLACEMENT OF THE OLD POST WHICH CAN CAUSE CORROSION & PREVENT EXTERNAL CHARGING OF THE 12V BATTERY. *LJ

170000 LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES

TESLA MOTORS INC 2014-2015 MODEL S: BULLETIN INFORMATION ON CERTAIN DUAL MOTOR VEHICLES , THE LATCH ON CHARGE PORT FAILS TO DISENGAGE, PREVENTING CHARGE CABLE FROM BEING INSERTED INTO THE CHARGE PORT. *LJ

116100 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:SWITCH

TESLA MOTORS INC 2014 MODEL S : INFORMATION REGARDING REPLACING THE FRONT DRIVE UNIT TO HVJB HARNESS ASSEMBLY THAT DOES NOT HAVE A HVIL INTERLOCK SWITCH . *LJ

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

TESLA MOTORS, INC.: INFORMATION REGARDING A CHARGE PORT DOOR THAT IS SUSCEPTIBLE TO PREMATURE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WILL BE UNABLE TO CHARGE IF THE CHARGE PORT DOOR IS CLOSED IF THE MOTOR FAILS. *LJ

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

TESLA MOTORS INC 2014 MODEL S: CERTAIN VEHICLES ARE MANUFACTURED WITH A PROTOTYPE 12V FUSE BOX BRACKET, TO CORRECT THE PROBLEM REPLACE THE 12V FUSE BOX BRACKET WITH THE PRODUCTION LEVEL PART. *LJ

105500 POWER TRAIN:DRIVELINE:DIFFERENTIAL UNIT

TESLA MOTORS INC 2013-2014 MODEL S : BULETIN INFORMATION REGARDING REPLACING REAR DRIVE UNIT. SOME UNITS HAVE INADEQUATE GREASE, WHICH MAY CAUSE A LOUD CLUNKING SOUND DURING ACCELERATOR. *LJ

016000 STEERING:ELECTRIC POWER ASSIST SYSTEM

TESLA MOTORS INC 2014-2015 MODEL S: CERTAIN VEHICLES, WITH THE LH HALFSHAFT, MIGHT CONTACT POWER STEERING HARNESS, RESULTING IN AN ALERT MESSAGE ON THE INSTRUMENT CLUSTER. *LJ UPDATED 7/14/15. *PE

020000 SUSPENSION

TESLA MOTORS INC 2014 MODEL S: INFORMATION REGARDING UPGRADED FRONT SWAY BAR AVAILABLE FOR DUAL MOTOR VEHICLES. *LJ

116100 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:SWITCH

TESLA MOTORS: 2014 MODEL S: FRONT DRIVE UNIT HVIL SWITCH HAS A LOOSE SCREW, CAUSING THE FRONT DRIVE UNIT FUSE BRACKET TO COME LOOSE. *LJ

162000 STRUCTURE:BODY

TESLA MOTORS: 2012-2014 S MODELS; BULLETIN INSTRUCTIONS AND REPAIR GUIDELINES FOR DRAFT ENTERING CABIN FROM A-PILLAR. *LJ

340000 COMMUNICATION

TESLA MOTORS: 2012-2014 S MODELS; BULLETIN INSTRUCTIONS AND REPAIR GUIDELINES FOR DRAFT ENTERING CABIN FROM A-PILLAR. *LJ

181000 VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL:ACCELERATOR PEDAL

TESLA: 2013-2014 MODEL S: INFORMATION REGARDING REPLACING REAR DRIVE UNIT PRODUCED WITH INADEQUATE GREASE, WHICH COULD LEAD TO A "CLUNK" SOUND WHEN USING THE ACCELERATOR WHILE DRIVING. *LJ

050000 PARKING BRAKE

TESLA MOTORS, INC.: DURING INITIAL VEHICLE ASSEMBLY ELECTROMECHANICAL BRAKE BOOSTER HAVE BEEN IMPROPERLY OPERATED. *LJ

031100 SERVICE BRAKES, ELECTRIC

TESLA: AT TIME OF ASSEMBLY, THE ELECTROMECHANICAL BRAKE BOOSTER WAS IMPROPERLY OPERATED AND CAN INCREASE BRAKE BOOSTER ENTERING FAIL SAFE MODE AND WILL BE REPLACED. MODEL 2014 S. *PE

117000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: INSTRUMENT CLUSTER/PANEL

TESLA: INSIDE INSTRUMENT CLUSTER (IC), CIRCUIT BOARD WAS SOLDERED, WHILE USING AN IMPROPER FLUX, IN SOME VEHICLES, AND CAN LEAD TO SHORTER THAN EXPECTED LIFESPAN AND QUALITY CONCERNS. MODEL 2012-2014 S. *PE

356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY

TESLA: WHEN CHARGING, CORROSION, PHYSICAL DAMAGE TO RECEPTACLES, OR INAPPROPRIATE WIRING OR INSTALLATION OF ELECTRICAL OUTLETS CAN CAUSE HIGHER THAN NORMAL ELECTRICAL RESISTANCE. MODEL 2012-2014 S. *PE

162300 STRUCTURE:BODY:DOOR

TESLA: INFORMATION AND INSTRUCTIONS REGARDING REPLACEMENT OF REAR DOORS, ON SOME VEHICLES, THAT MAY BE COMPATIBLE BUT FAIL TO HAVE SAME MOUNTING POINTS FOR ELECTRICAL HARNESS. MODEL 2012-2014 S. *PE

114400 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING:FUSES AND CIRCUIT BREAKERS

TESLA MOTORS INC. MODEL S : SERVICE BULLETIN INFORMATION REGARDING HIGH POWER WALL CONNECTOR FUSE REPLACEMENT. IF FUSES ARE BLOWN, NO DIAGNOSTIC LIGHTS DISPLAY ON THE FRONT OF THE HPWC. *LJ

131000 VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD

TESLA MOTORS INC. : SERVICE BULLETIN SUPERSEDES SB-12-95-002 REVISION DATED NOVEMBER 12, 2012 . MRB PARTS RETURNS LIST FOR ALL NON-MAINTENANCE RELATED MODEL S PARTS EXCEPT 6005894 & 1021634. *LJ

114400 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING:FUSES AND CIRCUIT BREAKERS

TESLA MOTORS INC. : INSTRUCTIONS ON REASSEMBLY OF HPWC FUSES. *LJ

NHTSA Safety Investigations, TESLA MODEL S

Investigations opened by NHTSA into potential safety defects. These are separate from recalls and may or may not result in a recall.

PE, Closed , Model Year: 2021

Front seat belt anchor detachment

On March 24, 2023, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened this Preliminary Evaluation (PE) after receiving 2 consumer complaints alleging the front seat belts had suddenly detached from the outboard lap pretensioner anchor while in motion in model year (MY) 2022-2023 Tesla Model X vehicles... Read more

PE, Closed , Model Year: 2013

Fore Link Failure

The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened this Preliminary Evaluation based on forty-three complaints alleging failure of the left or right front suspension fore links in Tesla model year (MY) 2015 through 2017 Model S and MY 2016 through 2017 Model X vehicles. The investigation has identifie... Read more

EA, Closed , Model Year: 2012

Loss of rearview camera

On November 20, 2020, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened Engineering Analysis (EA) 20-003 to investigate incidents of media control unit (MCU) failures resulting in loss of rearview camera in model year (MY) 2012-18 Tesla Model S and model year (MY) 2016-2018 Tesla Model X vehicles equ... ipped with the NVIDIA Tegra 3 processor with an integrated 8GB eMMC NAND flash memory device. During its investigation, ODI learned that the expected usage life rating for the 8GB eMMC NAND flash memory device is approximately 3,000 “P/E” or Program-Erase cycles, after which the eMMC NAND flash memory device would become fully consumed and no longer be operational, leading to a failure of the media control unit (MCU). At a daily cycle usage rate of 1.4 per block, accumulation of 3,000 P/E cycles would take only 5-6 years. Historically, the expected life of a vehicle generally far exceeds 5-6 years of service. ODI believes that a 5- or 6-year life expectancy for a component integral to providing the driver with safety functions is insufficient. During our review of the data, Tesla provided confirmation that all units will inevitably fail given the memory device’s finite storage capacity. Tesla provided its own statistical model showing the number of projected weekly MCU repairs from 2020 to 2028, estimating that replacement rates for MCU failures will peak in early 2022 and gradually decline until (near) full part turnover has been accomplished in 2028. According to Tesla, for subject vehicles equipped with the NVIDIA Tegra 3 processor with an integrated 8GB eMMC NAND flash memory device, the eMMC NAND cell hardware will fail when reaching lifetime wear, for which the eMMC controller has no available memory blocks necessary to recover. With this failure mode, the only recovery available is a replacement of the eMMC device, achieved by physical part replacement of either the MCU assembly or visual control module subcomponent. Tesla provided information concerning the effects of MCU failure on vehicle function, which include in loss of rearview/backup camera and loss of HVAC (defogging and defrosting) setting controls (if the HVAC status was OFF status prior to failure). The failure also affects the Autopilot advanced driver assistance system (ADAS) and turn signal functionality due to the possible loss of audible chimes, driver sensing, and alerts associated with these vehicle functions. Based on this analysis, ODI issued a Recall Request Letter (RRL) on January 13, 2021. The RRL was based on ODI’s tentative conclusion that a defect related to motor vehicle safety exists in the subject vehicles because the eMMC NAND flash devices have a finite lifespan based upon the number of program/erase (P/E) cycles, after which the MCU fails due to memory wear-out, which constitutes a premature failure of safety-critical part. Tesla responded to the Recall Request Letter (RRL) on January 27, 2021, and disputed the tentative findings of the RRL. Nevertheless, on January 29, 2021, Tesla filed a safety recall (21V-035), recalling (MY) 2012-2018 Tesla Model S and (MY) 2016-2018 Model X vehicles with a center display equipped with a NVIDIA Tegra 3 processor and an 8GB eMMC NAND flash memory device. In this recall, Tesla is providing a free hardware remedy in addition to the over-the-air (“OTA”) firmware updates that the company had previously implemented. NHTSA will continue to monitor the issue as part of its ordinary processes for overseeing the effectiveness of recalls. However, based on available information, at this time, Tesla’s recall appears to address the unreasonable risk to motor safety presented by the premature failure of the component. Accordingly, the investigation is closed. To review the ODI reports cited in the Closing Resume ODI Report Identification Number document, go to NHTSA.gov.Read more

PE, Closed , Model Year: 2012

Loss of rearview camera

On June 22, 2020, the Office of Defects Investigations (ODI) opened Preliminary Evaluation PE20-010 to investigate incidents of media control unit (MCU) failures resulting in loss of rearview camera in model year (MY) 2012-2015 Tesla Model S vehicles equipped with the NVIDIA Tegra 3 processor with a... n integrated 8GB eMMC NAND flash memory device. EMMC NAND flash devices have a finite lifespan based upon the number of program/erase (P/E) cycles. The subject MCU allegedly fails prematurely due to memory wear-out of the eMMC NAND flash. Tesla used the same MCU with the Tegra 3 processor in approximately 159 thousand 2012-2018 Model S and 2016-2018 Model X vehicles built by Tesla through early-2018. In response to ODI's Information Request (IR) for PE20-010, Tesla provided ODI with 2,399 complaints and field reports, 7,777 warranty claims, and 4,746 non-warranty claims related to MCU replacements. The data show failure rates over 30 percent in certain build months and accelerating failure trends after 3 to 4 years-in-service.According to Tesla, for subject vehicles equipped with the NVIDIA Tegra 3 processor with an integrated 8GB eMMC NAND flash memory device, the eMMC NAND cell hardware can fail when reaching lifetime wear, for which the eMMC controller has no available blocks to recover. With this failure mode, the only recovery available is a replacement of the eMMC device, achieved by physical part replacement of either the MCU assembly or visual control module subcomponent. Tesla provided the effects of MCU failure on vehicle function which result in loss of rearview/backup camera, loss of HVAC (defogging) setting controls (if the HVAC status was OFF status prior to failure.) There is also an impact on the advanced driver assistance support (ADAS) Autopilot system, and turn signal functionality due to the possible loss of audible chimes, driver sensing, and alerts associated with these vehicle functions. There are precedents for addressing defects that result in loss of either backup camera, defogging, or turn signal functions under safety recalls.Tesla has implemented certain Over-The-Air or OTA updates to subject vehicles to mitigate the effects of MCU failure. These updates include firmware changes to reduce memory usage of the subject memory card, improve eMMC error correction and storage management strategies, changing the control logic for turn signal activation, and defaulting the HVAC system to Auto (71.6F) for drives after MCU failure to address windshield defogging. Tesla indicated that the MCU failures are likely to continue to occur in subject vehicles as vehicles continue to operate and use available memory in the 8GB eMMC NAND flash memory until 100% of units have failed. This investigation has been upgraded to an Engineering Analysis (EA20-003). The VOQs associated with the upgrade of this investigation are identified in the attachment to this resume.Read more

DP, Closed , Model Year: 2012

Battery Management Software Updates

In a letter dated September 17, 2019, Mr. Edward Chen petitioned the NHTSA to initiate a defect investigation of certain Tesla Model S and Model X vehicles that received revised battery management software in one or more over-the-air (OTA) updates from Tesla, beginning in May 2019. The petitioner ba... ses his request on vehicle fires that took place worldwide and OTA software updates Tesla made to the Battery Management System (BMS) of certain Tesla vehicles that resulted in loss of available vehicle mileage range and increased charging durations.On October 1, 2019, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened DP19-005 to evaluate the petitioner?s request. Information provided by Tesla in response to ODI's information request letter for DP19-005 indicated that a firmware update that may limit maximum voltage was installed in certain MY 2012 through 2016 Model S vehicles (subject vehicles). The voltage limiting firmware is a dynamic algorithm that is enabled in vehicles with high Supercharging use histories, which contributes to high usage stress to the high-voltage (HV) battery. Tesla sold approximately 61,781 subject vehicles in the United States and, through August 2021, the voltage limiting firmware had been enabled in approximately 2,062 vehicles. Through December 2020, ODI identified 59 complaints from consumers alleging reductions in battery capacity (52) or charging speed (7) in the subject vehicles. Log data from these vehicles showed that the voltage limiting firmware had been enabled in about 58 percent (30 of 52) of the complaints alleging range loss. Subsequent updates have restored some or all of the battery capacity to vehicles affected by the voltage limiting firmware coupled with updates enhancing BMS battery brick monitoring algorithms. None of the complaint vehicles have reported any thermal incidents or other safety hazards related to the HV battery.The five non-crash fires referenced in the petition include two fires that occurred in China in early 2019 involving vehicles that: 1) had recently completed Supercharging sessions; 2) were at a high state-of-charge (SOC) of the HV battery; 3) were parked with the battery cooling system shutoff; and 4) had histories of high-stress usage for the HV batteries. The three fires that occurred outside China did not involve the same fact patterns regarding vehicle state and charging history. The two fires that occurred in the United States include one involving a vehicle with no Supercharging history that was driving when the fire occurred and another in which the origin of the fire was external to the HV battery. The fifth fire, which also originated external to the HV battery, involved a vehicle in Germany that had been parked at a low SOC for an extended period. To date, incidents of fires involving parked vehicles with recent Supercharging and histories of high-stress use have only been observed in China, where high-stress use factors appear to be more common. NHTSA is authorized to issue an order requiring notification and remedy of a defect if the Agency?s investigation shows a defect in the design, construction, or performance of a motor vehicle that presents an unreasonable risk to safety. 49 U.S.C. ?? 30102(a)(9), 30118. Given the absence of any incidents in the United States related to fast charging, and the absence of any such incidents globally since May 2019, it is unlikely that an order concerning the notification and remedy of a safety-related defect would be issued due to any investigation opened as a result of granting this petition. Therefore, upon full consideration of the information presented in the petition, and the potential risks to safety, thRead more

PE, Closed , Model Year: 2014

Automatic vehicle control systems

On May 7, 2016, a 2015 Tesla Model S collided with a tractor trailer crossing an uncontrolled intersection on a highway west of Williston, Florida, resulting in fatal injuries to the Tesla driver.Data obtained from the Model S indicated that:1) the Tesla was being operated in Autopilot mode at the t... ime of the collision; 2) the Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) system did not provide any warning or automated braking for the collision event; and 3) the driver took no braking, steering or other actions to avoid the collision.On June 28, 2016, NHTSA opened PE16-007 to ?examine the design and performance of any automated driving systems in use at the time of the crash.?The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) analyzed the following subjects as part of NHTSA?s examination of the design and performance of Tesla?s Autopilot system:1) Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) system design and performance in the subject Tesla and peer vehicles; 2) human-machine interface issues related to Autopilot operating mode; 3) data from crash incidents related to Tesla?s Autopilot and AEB systems; and 4) changes Tesla has implemented in the Autopilot and AEB systems.NHTSA?s examination did not identify any defects in the design or performance of the AEB or Autopilotsystems of the subject vehicles nor any incidents in which the systems did not perform as designed.AEB systems used in the automotive industry through MY 2016 are rear-end collision avoidance technologies that are not designed to reliably perform in all crash modes, including crossing path collisions.The Autopilot system is an Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) that requires the continual and full attention of the driver to monitor the traffic environment and be prepared to take action to avoid crashes.Tesla's design included a hands-on the steering wheel system for monitoring driver engagement.That system has been updated to further reinforce the need for driver engagement through a strike out strategy.Drivers that do not respond to visual cues in the driver monitoring system alerts may strike out and lose Autopilot function for the remainder of the drive cycle.A safety-related defect trend has not been identified at this time and further examination of this issue does not appear to be warranted.Accordingly, this investigation is closed.The closing of this investigation does not constitute a finding by NHTSA that no safety-related defect exists.The agency will monitor the issue and reserves the right to take future action if warranted by the circumstances.For more information about the analysis, see the attached report.Read more

PE, Closed , Model Year: 2013

Fire - Propulsion Battery - Road Debris

The subject vehicles (SV), model years 2012-2013 Tesla Model S, are emerging technology electric vehicles using a high voltage battery (HVB) to provide propulsion energy. The HVB uses lithium-ion cells combined in 60 or 85 kWh capacities, and a control system that monitors the HVB and its liquid coo... ling system. The HVB is positioned across the width of the vehicle between the front and rear wheels and lies above a flat aluminum pan that forms the bottom of the SV's chassis. About two thirds of the SVs were manufactured with an air-assisted suspension system that actively controls ride height, including automatically lowering the vehicle at higher speeds.Two separate incidents in 2013 resulted in significant fires involving the SVs, one in Washington (Oct. 13) and one in Tennessee (Nov. 13). Both incidents involved active suspension equipped vehicles operating at highway speeds and reduced ride height running over debris in the roadway. In both incidents, the struck objects penetrated the aluminum pan at the forward area of the battery, damaging the lithium ion cells of the HVB. The SV's information display notified the driver of decreased battery performance and ultimately instructed the driver to stop the vehicle. The SVs were able to travel ~.8 and 1.8 miles after impact respectively. In both cases, smoke appeared shortly after the vehicle stopped and a fire developed in the HVB. Thermal runaway occurred in the HVB cells. The fires destroyed the vehicles but did not result in injuries.In the Tennessee incident, the object struck by the SV was determined to be a three-ball hitch that apparently fell from another vehicle. Tesla performed a series of tests reconstructing this incident and determined that a similar shaped object contacting the forward edge of the HVB could be tripped and potentially penetrate the HVB case. As the object's opposite end digs into the pavement, vehicle momentum causes the object to impart upward force into the case, described by Tesla as a piking effect. Tesla's testing reproduced damage similar to that seen in the Tennessee incident, and also showed that a change in ride height strategy, which was implemented in Nov. 2013 via a telematic software update to prevent the SVs lowering at legal roadway speeds, mitigates the risk of battery compartment penetration when a three-ball hitch is struck.The object struck in the Washington incident was not identified. More severe damage to the incident vehicle and the unknown shape of the object raised concerns regarding the effectiveness of raising the ride height for objects other than a three-ball hitch. In a Mar. 10, 2014 meeting with ODI, Tesla stated it would conduct a free-of-charge service campaign to modify the SVs by adding three new components to the vehicle's undercarriage to protect the HVB. A low-hanging transverse member and an additional underbody plate would be mounted forward of the HVB case and a third plate would overlap the leading edge of the case. Testing conducted by Tesla demonstrated that these modifications improved protection from debris impacts.ODI was aware of two fires stemming from road debris impacts when the investigation began. According to Tesla, the SV fleet had accumulated ~90M miles of service at the time it revised the ride height strategy. No further incidents have been identified, and Tesla reports the Model S fleet has traveled an additional ~90M miles. ODI believes impacts with road debris are normal and foreseeable. In this case, Tesla's revision of vehicle ride height and addition of increased underbody protection should reduce both the frequency of underbody strikes and the resultant fire risk. A defRead more

TESLA MODEL S - All Years Overview

Complete safety history for the TESLA MODEL S across all model years (2012, 2025).

153 Total Recalls

5,254 Total Complaints

7 Investigations

581 Reported Crashes

104 Reported Fires

58 Reported Deaths

TESLA MODEL S - Year by Year

Compare recalls and complaints across model years. Click any year to see full details.

Year	Recalls	Complaints
2026	0	6	View
2025	2	7	View
2024	6	78	View
2023	13	158	View
2022	20	198	View
2021	24	277	View
2020	11	123	View
2019	10	70	View
2018	11	285	View
2017	9	669	View
2016	10	1,019	View
2015	9	1,053	View
2014 (current)	9	545
2013	11	677	View
2012	8	89	View

Other TESLA Models

Model	Recalls	Complaints
MODEL X	259	2,303	View
MODEL 3	232	7,192	View
MODEL Y	186	6,639	View
CYBERTRUCK	31	187	View
SEMI	2	6	View
ROADSTER2	1	2	View
ROADSTER	1	3	View
NEMA 10-30 ADAPTER	0	2	View

Vehicle Safety

Consumer Safety

Infrastructure

Public Health

2014 TESLA MODEL S

Complaint Statistics

Top Reported Components

NHTSA Safety Ratings, 2014 TESLA MODEL S

Safety Technology

Technical Service Bulletins, 2014 TESLA MODEL S

Most Affected Components

NHTSA Safety Investigations, TESLA MODEL S

TESLA MODEL S - All Years Overview

TESLA MODEL S - Year by Year

Other TESLA Models