At a Glance
The Tesla Model S has 5 identified common problems across 1 generation, with the Model S (2014-2025) being the most affected generation and tyres & wheels the most common problem category. Based on 53K MOT tests from DVSA data.
Problems are patterns in the DVSA data that occur significantly more often on a specific model than the UK average — confirmed at 99% statistical confidence. Read our DVSA MOT data methodology →
Below: generation-by-generation comparison of Tesla Model S common problems, MOT failure types, and pass-rate data drawn from DVSA records. Click any generation to see fuel- and engine-specific fault patterns, mileage-banded repair guidance, and the most common MOT failures testers record.
MOT Tests & Failures by Generation
Tesla Model S generations by MOT tests, failures, and identified problems from DVSA data
Hover over each bar for a full breakdown. Tap any bar to view that generation's problems.
Showing total MOT tests, failures, and known problems per make. Hover over each bar for a full breakdown.
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Tell Us About Your Problem
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Most Common Tesla Model S MOT Failures
Every reason Tesla Model S vehicles fail their MOT, ranked by frequency. Select an individual year to see only that year’s failures, or stay on ‘All time’ for the combined picture across our 20 years of DVSA data. Scroll inside the table for the full list.
| # | Failure | % of failures |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Tyre tread depth below limit | 32.50% |
| 2 | Suspension joint or bush worn | 17.28% |
| 3 | Windscreen washer not working | 7.35% |
| 4 | Brake performance below minimum | 6.00% |
| 5 | Tyre condition | 3.44% |
| 6 | Track rod end worn | 3.39% |
| 7 | Windscreen damage affecting view | 3.19% |
| 8 | Wiper blades deteriorated | 2.93% |
| 9 | Brake pads or linings worn | 2.79% |
| 10 | Ball joint dust cover split | 2.64% |
| 11 | Headlamp fault | 1.88% |
| 12 | Brake disc or drum worn | 1.69% |
| 13 | Daytime running lamp not working | 1.34% |
| 14 | Driveshaft fault | 1.31% |
| 15 | Airbag warning light on | 1.09% |
| 16 | Number plate lamp not working | 0.90% |
| 17 | Indicator fault | 0.81% |
| 18 | Parking brake performance below minimum | 0.65% |
| 19 | Shock absorber worn or leaking | 0.61% |
| 20 | Tyre size or type not matched | 0.61% |
| 21 | Horn not working | 0.59% |
| 22 | Position lamp not working | 0.53% |
| 23 | Flexible brake hose damaged | 0.50% |
| 24 | Driver door fault | 0.46% |
| 25 | Rear fog lamp not working | 0.41% |
| 26 | Rigid brake pipe corroded or damaged | 0.38% |
| 27 | Stop lamp not working | 0.33% |
| 28 | Coil spring broken or corroded | 0.31% |
| 29 | Seat belt condition | 0.29% |
| 30 | Front passenger door fault | 0.28% |
| 31 | Mirror damaged or missing | 0.28% |
| 32 | Wheel bearing worn | 0.28% |
| 33 | Suspension arm worn or corroded | 0.25% |
| 34 | Electrical switch fault | 0.21% |
| 35 | Reversing lamp not working | 0.21% |
| 36 | Tyre pressure monitoring system fault | 0.21% |
| 37 | Bumper damaged or insecure | 0.20% |
| 38 | Suspension mounting corroded | 0.18% |
| 39 | Front fog lamp not working | 0.15% |
| 40 | Rear reflector damaged or missing | 0.15% |
| 41 | Bonnet catch or hinge fault | 0.13% |
| 42 | Electronic parking brake fault | 0.13% |
| 43 | Steering rack fault | 0.13% |
| 44 | Suspension linkage fault | 0.11% |
| 45 | Brake caliper fault | 0.10% |
| 46 | Headlamp levelling device fault | 0.10% |
| 47 | Driver airbag fault | 0.08% |
| 48 | ABS fault | 0.05% |
| 49 | Driver seat fault | 0.05% |
| 50 | Axle corroded or damaged | 0.04% |
| 51 | Subframe corrosion or damage | 0.04% |
| 52 | Boot lid damaged or insecure | 0.03% |
| 53 | Brake pedal fault | 0.03% |
| 54 | Dip switch fault | 0.03% |
| 55 | Electrical wiring fault | 0.03% |
| 56 | Electronic stability control fault | 0.03% |
| 57 | Front suspension joint worn | 0.03% |
| 58 | Indicator warning light fault | 0.03% |
| 59 | Rear fog lamp warning light fault | 0.03% |
| 60 | Tyre valve stem damaged | 0.03% |
| 61 | Universal joint worn | 0.03% |
| 62 | Air suspension levelling valve fault | 0.01% |
| 63 | Battery loose or leaking | 0.01% |
| 64 | Body corrosion or damage | 0.01% |
| 65 | Brake fluid level low or contaminated | 0.01% |
| 66 | Chassis condition | 0.01% |
| 67 | Electronic braking system fault | 0.01% |
| 68 | Exhaust leak | 0.01% |
| 69 | Hazard warning light fault | 0.01% |
| 70 | Hydraulic brake cylinder fault | 0.01% |
| 71 | Mirror or camera fault | 0.01% |
| 72 | Passenger seat fault | 0.01% |
| 73 | Rear lamp not working | 0.01% |
| 74 | Steering arm worn | 0.01% |
| 75 | Suspension linkage attachment bracket or mounting corroded | 0.01% |
| 76 | Suspension unit fault | 0.01% |
| 77 | Undertray damaged or missing | 0.01% |
| 78 | Wheel hub fault | 0.01% |
| 79 | Window damaged or won't operate | 0.01% |
| 80 | Headlamp aim defect | 0.01% |
| 81 | King pin or swivel pin worn | 0.01% |
Showing all 81 reasons — scroll inside the table for the full list.
Tesla Model S MOT Failures by Category
Total MOT failure occurrences for the Tesla Model S, grouped by category. Same data as the failures table above — just sliced by category instead of fault title. Hover a slice for the top failures in each category.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common Tesla Model S problems?
Based on analysis of 53K Tesla Model S MOT tests from DVSA data, we have 5 identified common problems across 1 generation. The most frequently flagged issue is "Tyre condition". Tyres & Wheels is the most common problem category.
Which Tesla Model S generation has the most problems?
The Tesla Model S Model S (2014-2025) (2014–2025) has the highest number of identified common problems (6). Click the generation card above for the full breakdown.
How is this data calculated?
We analyse anonymised DVSA MOT test records under the Open Government Licence. An issue is classified as a "Common Problem" when it occurs significantly more often on a specific model than the UK average, confirmed at 99% statistical confidence. Read the full methodology page for details.
Can I report a problem with my Tesla Model S?
Yes — use the "Tell Us About Your Problem" form on this page. Your report helps other Tesla Model S owners spot problems early. All submissions are reviewed before being added to the public database.
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