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2012 Tesla Model S Owner Complaints

Updated May 30, 20263 Critical Recalls
Daniel Wilson

Complaint Summary

The 2012 Tesla Model S has 85 reported complaints.

  • Top issues involve electrical system and unknown or other.

Reliability Score

Reliability Score

8.6/ 10

Based on 85 complaints

Most Frequent Issues

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

36 42.4%

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

11 12.9%

SUSPENSION

9 10.6%

VISIBILITY/WIPER

5 5.9%

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

5 5.9%

Quick Insights

  • The top category is ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, accounting for 42.4% of all complaints.

  • Owners have reported issues across 17 distinct vehicle systems.

  • Note: Complaint data reflects owner reports and may not always indicate a verified defect. Compare with Recalls and TSBs for a complete picture.

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Complaint Summary

What owners keep reporting on the 2012 Tesla Model S

The 2012 Tesla Model S has 85 owner complaints in this dataset. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM is the most common complaint category, representing about 42% of the reports shown here.

Most common complaint categories

The top complaint groups for the 2012 Tesla Model S are ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (36), UNKNOWN OR OTHER (11), SUSPENSION (9).

Are these complaints a serious red flag?

Potentially. 53 complaint reports involve higher-attention systems like brakes, steering, engine, powertrain, fuel, suspension, airbags, or electrical components, which is enough to justify a focused inspection.

What should buyers inspect on a used 2012 Tesla Model S?

Start with the top complaint systems, compare them against the recall report, then inspect service records for evidence that those same areas were already repaired or monitored.

Read the full buyer guideRecall report and remedy notesMaintenance costs and intervals2013 Model S complaints2014 Model S complaints2015 Model S complaints

Detailed Complaint Log

Showing 17 of 17 systems

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

36 Reports42% of total

Previewing the first 2 complaint summaries.

THE RIGHT REAR DOOR HANDLE BECAME NON-FUNCTIONAL WHEN ATTEMPTING TO OPEN THE CAR FROM OUTSIDE THE CAR. AFTER SERVICE BY THE MANUFACTURER (TESLA), THE DOOR HANDLE BECAME EXTERIORLY FUNCTIONAL, ALTHOUGH TO A DECREASED AMOUNT COMPARED TO OPTIMAL PERFORMANCE, BUT WAS LEFT IN A STATE OF INOPERABILITY FROM THE INTERIOR OF THE CAR. PULLING ON THE DOOR HANDLE FROM THE INSIDE WOULD NOT OPEN THE DOOR. IN THE EVENT OF A CRASH FROM THE LEFT SIDE, THE PASSENGER IN THE RIGHT REAR SEAT WOULD BE TRAPPED WITHOUT RECOURSE.

3/8/2017

THIS COMPLAINT MAY REFER TO THE REFERENCE NUMBER PROVIDED BELOW: NHTSA ACTION NUMBER: DP19005 - INVESTIGATION SUBJECT: BATTERY MANAGEMENT SOFTWARE UPDATES TO WHOM IT MIGHT CONCERN, BACK TO MAY 2019, TESLA PUSHED A SOFTWARE UPDATE, FIRMWARE NUMBER 2019.16.2, TO MY CAR VIA OVER-THE-AIR(OTA) METHOD. RIGHT AFTER INSTALLING IT IN MY CAR, I NOTICED THERE IS A SIGNIFICANT DROP IN THE CAR'S RANGE. SOFTWARE VERSION 2019.16.2 WAS RELEASED AFTER SEVERAL NON-CRUSH FIRES HAPPENED WORLDWIDE ON THE BATTERY PACK WITH THE SAME SIZE AND SPEC AS MINE (85 KWH). NEW SOFTWARE CAPPED THE MAX VOLTAGE FOR BOTH CHARGING AND DISCHARGING THE BATTERY, TO MINIMIZE THE CHANCE FOR THE BATTERY GETTING OVERHEATED BUT IN THE MEANTIME REDUCED THE CAR'S PERFORMANCE AND RANGE THAT I ORIGINALLY PAID FOR. IN THE MEANTIME, THE HAZARDOUS FOR THE BATTERY CATCHING FIRE HAS NOT BEEN FULLY RESOLVED. TESLA SERVICE TEAM DECLINED MY SERVICE REQUEST AND KEEPS TELLING ME THAT MY BATTERY IS "OPERATING NORMALLY" AND REFUSE TO PROVIDE ANY MORE INFORMATION REGARDING THIS ISSUE WHILE I HAVE TO SUFFER THE INCONVENIENCE CAUSED BY THE REDUCED RANGE AND CHARGING SPEED. PLUS I HAVE TO KEEP THE CAR WITH THE BATTERY MAY CATCHING FIRE ANYTIME IDLING ON MY DRIVEWAY OUTSIDE MY HOUSE WHERE I AND MY FAMILY LIVES IN. THE BATTERY LOSING ALMOST 20% OF CAPACITY IS NOT ACCEPTABLE AS "OPERATING NORMALLY" AND SHOULD BE CATEGORIZED AS "FAILURE PARTS" WHICH NEED IMMEDIATE REPLACE UNDER WARRANTY (8 YEARS, UNLIMITED MILEAGE, MINE IS EXPIRING 12/2020). IF THE RANGE LOSS IS A PRECAUTION METHOD FOR THE FIRE SITUATION, TESLA SHOULD NOTIFY THE AFFECTED OWNERS AND COME UP WITH A PERMANENT SOLUTION FOR THIS ISSUE. WITH TESLA'S ATTITUDE OF REFUSING TO COMMUNICATE WITH THE AFFECTED OWNERS OR PROVIDING ANY INFORMATION ON THIS MATTER, I URGE NHTSA TO START AN INVESTIGATION AND PROVIDE US A DEFINITE ANSWER. SINCERELY *TR

12/27/2019

34 more complaints are available in this category.

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

11 Reports13% of total

Previewing the first 2 complaint summaries.

THE RIGHT REAR DOOR HANDLE BECAME NON-FUNCTIONAL WHEN ATTEMPTING TO OPEN THE CAR FROM OUTSIDE THE CAR. AFTER SERVICE BY THE MANUFACTURER (TESLA), THE DOOR HANDLE BECAME EXTERIORLY FUNCTIONAL, ALTHOUGH TO A DECREASED AMOUNT COMPARED TO OPTIMAL PERFORMANCE, BUT WAS LEFT IN A STATE OF INOPERABILITY FROM THE INTERIOR OF THE CAR. PULLING ON THE DOOR HANDLE FROM THE INSIDE WOULD NOT OPEN THE DOOR. IN THE EVENT OF A CRASH FROM THE LEFT SIDE, THE PASSENGER IN THE RIGHT REAR SEAT WOULD BE TRAPPED WITHOUT RECOURSE.

3/8/2017

THE TOUCHSCREEN ON MY 2012 TESLA MODEL S BECOMES UNRESPONSIVE EACH TIME I START THE CAR. THIS DRAMATICALLY LIMITS THE CAR'S FUNCTIONALITY AND REQUIRES A SEVERAL MINUTE LONG RESET PROCESS. THE CAR IS STATIONARY AS IT HAPPENS WHEN I FIRST TRY TO START IT. *TR

6/24/2020

9 more complaints are available in this category.

SUSPENSION

9 Reports11% of total

Previewing the first 2 complaint summaries.

I AM FILING THESE COMPLAINTS IN THE PUBLIC INTEREST. I AM NOT A TESLA OWNER AND I HAVE NO INVESTMENT IN TESLA NOR DO I HOLD ANY SHARES IN THE STOCK-MARKET. THIS CAR IS IN THE WRECKING YARD. THE FRONT SUSPENSION HAS FAILED AND THE WHEEL IS PUSHED BACK AGAINST THE HIGH VOLTAGE CONTROLLER. HTTP://WWW.SALVAGERESELLER.COM/VEHICLES/DETAILS/32315405-2012-TESLA-MODEL-S-CA-SAN-DIEGO THERE IS NO OTHER DAMAGE THAT COULD ACCOUNT FOR THE SUSPENSION FAILURE. THERE WAS A CRASH BACK IN 2013 WHICH WAS BLAMED ON THE DRIVER OF THE OTHER CAR. HTTP://WWW.INAUTONEWS.COM/TESLA-MODEL-S-GETS-CRASHED-DRIVER-WALKS-AWAY-UNHARMED IF YOU LOOK AT THE PHOTO OF THE TESLA ON THE TOW-TRUCK AFTER THE ACCIDENT YOU WILL SEE THAT THE TOP SUSPENSION LINK HAS COME UNBOLTED. IT DOES NOT LOOK AS THOUGH THIS HAPPENED IN THE ACCIDENT. IT IS NOT SNAPPED, IT HAS FALLEN OFF. IMAGE HERE: HTTP://WWW.INAUTONEWS.COM/TESLA-MODEL-S-GETS-CRASHED-DRIVER-WALKS-AWAY-UNHARMED/TESLA-MODEL-S-CRASH-5 ALL OF THE BLUE BATTERY COOLANT IN THE RESERVOIR HAS BEEN LOST LEADING TO A HIGH RISK OF FIRE. THIS THREAD ON THE TESLA FORUM COULD EXPLAIN WHY THE SUSPENSION HAS COME LOOSE. HTTP://MY.TESLAMOTORS.COM/FORUM/FORUMS/MODEL-S-PULLS-LEFT-PLEASE-READ QUOTE: WHEN I GOT HOME FROM WORK I PUT THE CAR UP ON THE LIFT AND COULDN'T BELIEVE WHAT I FOUND. THE PASSENGER LOWER BALL JOINT NUT WAS NOT JUST LOOSE, IT WAS A FEW THREADS AWAY FROM FALLING OFF! I DECIDED TO CHECK ALL THE BOLTS IN ALL FOR CORNERS OF THE CAR AND FOUND THE SAME NUT ON THE DRIVE SIDE TO BE HAND TIGHT (IT WAS LOOSE, BUT HADN'T SPUN ALL THE WAY DOWN YET). THERE ARE MANY OTHER IMAGES ON THE NET OF DAMAGED CARS WHERE THE SUSPENSION HAS FAILED IN A SIMILAR MANNER. IF THE RH WHEEL MOVES BACK IT CAN DAMAGE THE HV CONTROLLER. IF THE LH WHEEL MOVES BACK IT CAN DAMAGE THE BATTERY COOLANT TANK AND LEAD TO FIRE.

10/23/2015

THIS IS THE STOLEN CAR WHICH CRASHED IN HOLLYWOOD. PHOTOGRAPHS AT THE SCENE SHOW 3/4 OF A WHEEL AND THE TIRE LYING ON THE GROUND. HERE IS THE LISTING AT THE SALVAGE AUCTION SITE. HTTP://IMGUR.COM/A/H7ROA THE CRASH SITE IMAGES HOW THE FRONT WHEEL BROKEN LOOSE. THE SALVAGE YARD PHOTOGRAPHS SHOW THE OTHER 1/4 OF THE WHEEL STILL BOLTED TO THE BROKEN KINGPIN. THE WHEEL HAS BEEN SLICED IN TWO WHILE STILL ROLLING ON THE ROAD. IT WOULD BE IMPOSSIBLE FOR THAT SLICING TO HAVE OCCURRED POST IMPACT. THERE ARE 100,00 OF THESE CARS ON ROADS AROUND THE WORDLD. IF THIS WAS AN AIRCRAFT IT WOULD BE GROUNDED IMMEDIATELY. I BELIEVE THIS DEFECT IS SO DANGEROUS THAT ALL CARS SHOULD BE TAKEN OFF THE ROAD BEFORE PEOPLE DIE. THE ADDITION OF THE BETA RELEASE AUTOPILOT MAKES THE SITUATION EVEN MORE DANGEROUS. PLEASE NOTE.....FICTITIOUS US ADDRESS TO ENABLE LODGEMENT

11/8/2015

7 more complaints are available in this category.

VISIBILITY/WIPER

5 Reports6% of total

Previewing the first 2 complaint summaries.

THE HEATER AND DEFROSTER STOPPED WORKING IN THIS COLD WEATHER AS WE WERE DRIVING HOME WITH MY SONS. THEY WERE FREEZING AND COLD. I WAS NOT ABLE TO SEE CLEARLY RATHER VERY FOGGY WINDSHIELD DUE TO NON-WORKING CABIN HEATER AND DEFROSTER. THIS ISSUE HAD HAPPENED TO MANY MANY TESLA OWNERS, INFACT MODEL S LIKE MINE AND EVEN THE BRAND NEW TESLA MODEL 3 AND MODEL Y WITH JUST LESS THAN 10O MILES. THIS CLEARLY IS A HUGE NEGLIGENCE ON THE PART OF TESLA NOT WANTING TO FIX THE ISSUE. HOWEVER, NOW RIGHT AFTER GETTING THE CONTROL TOUCH SCREEN ISSUE ADDRESSED, THE SAME DAY TESLA TOLD ME THE CAR IS READY AND THAT I CAN PICK IT UP. THIS WAS VERY NEGLIGENT ON TESLA AUGORAHILLS SERVICE CENTER PART. THE HEATER WAS NOT WORKING ONCE I STARTED DRIVING THE CAR BACK HOME. TESLA SHOULD HAVE UNDER SAFETY PROTOCOL FIXED THE VERY IMPORTANT SAFETY TOOL SUCH AS THE CLIMATE CONTROL AND NEVER SHOULD HAVE RELEASED THE CAR TO ME TO DRIVE LAST NIGHT 12/28/2020. ONCE I PICKED UP THE CAR AND DRIVING BACK HOME WITH MY SONS WE WERE VERY COLD, TO NOTICE THE HEATER IS NOT WORKING/OPERABLE. THIS BECAME MORE CHALLENGING ONCE THE VISIBILITY WAS HINDERED WITH FOGGING EFFECT AND THE SAME NIGHT IT WAS RAINING HERE IN AUGORAHILLS AREA CA AND IN SANTA CLARITA AREA CA. IN MANY CASES WHERE THE FOLKS ONLINE HAVE DISCOVERED THE CIRCUIT BOARD FOR THE HEATER CORE ITSELF WHICH IS CALLED THE PTC IS NOT PROPERLY SEALED WHICH ALLOWS IN MOISTURE AND SHORTS CIRCUITS THE DC-DC CONTROL JUNCTION BOX WHICH HOLDS 3 - FUSES. ONE FUSE FOR A/C , ANOTHER FUSE FOR HEATER, THIRD FUSE FOR BATTERY HEATER. PLEASE PLEASE INVESTIGATE THIS ISSUE. TESLA TELLS ME THE FUSES BLOW IN THE DC-DC CONVERTER CAUSING THIS. THEY ARE AWARE.

12/31/2020

ON NOVEMBER 23RD 2020 I TOOK MY MODEL S ([XXX]) TO TESLA SERVICE CENTER LANCASTER, PA FOR THE TESLA WARRANTY ADJUSTMENT PROGRAM WHICH WAS ANNOUNCED ON NOVEMBER 9TH AND RELATED TO MALFUNCTIONING TOUCHSCREEN DUE TO A MALFUNCTIONING EMMC. THIS IS THE RESULT OF THE SERVICE VISIT; 1) TESLA LANCASTER, PA SERVICE CENTER TOLD ME MY VEHICLE IS NOT IN THE WARRANTY PARAMETERS (THE TESLA WARRANTY ADJUSTMENT PROGRAM STATED 8YEARS/100K MILES. MY CAR HAS LESS THAN 100K MILES AND INITIAL DELIVERY WAS NOVEMBER 24TH 2012 - SO TESLA LANCASTER, PA WAS WRONG ABOUT THIS AS SERVICE DATE WAS NOVEMBER 23RD, 2020) 2) TESLA LANCASTER, PA SERVICE CENTER STATED "THE VEHICLE IS NOT EQUIPPED WITH THE EMMC" (A 2012 MODEL S HAS TO HAVE SOME TYPE OF MEMORY DEVICE IN IT - I WOULD EXPECT IT TO BE AN EMMC OF SOME SORT. THE NOVEMBER "WARRANTY ADJUSTMENT PROGRAM" STATED NO-COST REPAIRS FOR MALFUNCTIONING EMMC BUT LANCASTER, PA SERVICE CENTER DID NOT REPAIR MY CAR.) SO IN SHORT WHEN I TOOK MY CAR IN FOR NOVEMBER WARRANTY ADJUSTMENT PROGRAM RELATED TO SCREEN GOING BLANK INTERMITTENTLY TESLA WOULD NOT FIX IT. MY SCREEN IS STILL BLANK INTERMITTENTLY BECAUSE TESLA WOULD NOT REPAIR IT AND NOW WITH THE FEBRUARY 2021 NHTSA RECALL 21V035 RELEASED I WOULD LIKE THIS SCREEN ISSUE FIXED PROPERLY AND PERMANENTLY. REGARDLESS OF WHAT EMMC OR MEMORY DEVICE IS IN THE CAR THE NHTSA SAFETY CONCERNS STILL APPLY (UNAVAILABILITY OF THE REARVIEW CAMERA DISPLAY, DEFROST/DEFOG CONTROL SETTINGS FOR PURPOSES OF ENSURING VISIBILITY, AND EXTERIOR TURN SIGNAL LIGHTING MAY INCREASE THE RISK OF A CRASH). I AM REQUESTING THE MCU BE REPLACED WITH MCU V2 FREE OF CHARGE BECAUSE TESLA STATED MY 2012 MODEL S DOES NOT HAVE THE 8GB EMMC AND BECAUSE OF SAFETY CONCERNS WITH THE CURRENT STATE OF THE MCU. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR

2/22/2021

3 more complaints are available in this category.

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

5 Reports6% of total

Previewing the first 2 complaint summaries.

I recently had my Tesla Model S serviced due to the touchscreen going blank (losing functionality of defrosting, temperature, sunroof, and a list of other issues). Driving with a fogged up window is dangerous. Thank you to the NHTSA for forcing Tesla to replace it free of charge. Unfortunately, it appears that Tesla is not replacing it with a new unit. Instead it is a refurbished unit. Just days after servicing I got in the car to drive and the following error comes up on the touchscreen: "Center display memory storage device is degraded. Without repair, center display may enter limited functionality mode and only display rear view camera. When in limited functionality mode, it may be required to press brake for 30 seconds or press key fob unlock to authorize drive. Please use the Tesla Mobile App to schedule service." I find this quite troublesome and felt it worthy to apprise the NHTSA that Tesla is clearly not abiding by its requests.

7/23/2021

This is related to NHTSA recall 21V-035. Tesla replaced the 8Gb memory card with a 64Gb memory card (so I'm told) but the main car display screen still does not function most of the time. This results in; -unavailability of the rearview camera display -defrost/defog control settings unavailable for purposes of ensuring visibility -and exterior turn signal lighting may increase the risk of a crash I've had this to Tesla twice now but it has not been fixed.

9/8/2021

3 more complaints are available in this category.

POWER TRAIN

4 Reports5% of total

Previewing the first 2 complaint summaries.

CAR WON'T START, COMPUTER PROBLEMS ON MULTIPLE OCCASIONS, AFTER MULTIPLE CALLS TESLA HAD NO RECORD OF PRIOR COMPLAINTS AND NO REMEDY. LEFT STRANDED MULTIPLE TIMES. *TR

6/25/2020

The contact owns a 2012 Tesla Model S. The contact stated while driving at various speeds, there was an abnormal humming sound detected coming from the drive unit. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer and diagnosed that the drive unit needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was contacted and informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 59,000.

6/28/2021

2 more complaints are available in this category.

STRUCTURE:BODY

2 Reports2% of total

Previewing the first 2 complaint summaries.

I HAVE A 2012 TESLA MODEL S P85 WITH 90,000 MILES. I NOTICED THE CAR FISHTAIL AGGRESSIVELY WHEN I ACCELERATED A FEW WEEKS AGO AT FREEWAY SPEEDS OF 55MPH AND ABOVE, TOOK IT IN TO TESLA SERVICE AND THEY EXPLAINED THAT I HAD A CRACK IN MY SUBFRAME. THE CAR HAS NEVER BEEN IN AN ACCIDENT, NEVER BOTTOMED OUT OR BEEN DRIVEN OFF-ROAD, JUST NORMAL STREETS AND HIGHWAYS. I WAS QUOTED $3,300 TO HAVE THIS FIXED, THEY WILL REPLACE WITH A NEW OR RE-MANUFACTURED SUBFRAME . I HAVE ATTACHED A PICTURE OF ANOTHER PERSONS SUBFRAME WHERE THE METAL SHEARED AWAY. THE AREA IN THE MIDDLE IS WHERE THE DRIVE UNIT IS PLACED, APPARENTLY THERE ARE NO MOTOR MOUNTS (RUBBER) THE DRIVE UNIT SITS DIRECTLY ON METAL (ALUMINUM). COULD THIS BE CONSIDERED METAL FATIGUE OR A BAD BATCH OF METAL RECEIVED BY TESLA.

5/16/2019

SLOWLY BACKING UP AND REAR SUB FRAME MOTOR MOUNT BROKE. ON A CITY STREET UNDER 5MPH

1/2/2020

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

2 Reports2% of total

Previewing the first 2 complaint summaries.

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 TESLA MODEL S. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MEDIA CONTROL UNIT WAS INOPERABLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE LOCAL DEALER TESLA SERVICE CENTER (11163 SANTA MONICA BLVD, LOS ANGELES, CA 90025, (310) 473-8337) WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED WITH NEEDING THE MEDIA CONTROL UNIT AND MOTHERBOARD TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. UPON INVESTIGATION, THE CONTACT ASSOCIATED THE FAILURE WITH NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 21V035000 (EXTERIOR LIGHTING, VISIBILITY, BACK OVER PREVENTION) HOWEVER, THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS INFORMED OF THE FAILURE AND REFERRED THE TO AN AUTHORIZED SERVICE CENTER FOR ASSISTANCE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 40,000.*DT*JB

2/9/2021

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 TESLA MODEL S. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THERE WAS A STICKY SUBSTANCE COMING OUT OF THE CENTER DISPLAY WHETHER THE VEHICLE WAS TURNED ON OR OFF. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE LOCAL DEALER TESLA (135 US-22, SPRINGFIELD, NJ 07081, (973)921-0925) WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED WITH NEEDING THE CENTER DISPLAY TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. UPON INVESTIGATION, THE CONTACT ASSOCIATED THE FAILURE WITH NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 21V035000 (BACK OVER PREVENTION, VISIBILITY, EXTERIOR LIGHTING) HOWEVER THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT INFORMED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 32,000.

2/24/2021

BACK OVER PREVENTION

2 Reports2% of total

Previewing the first 2 complaint summaries.

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 TESLA MODEL S. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THERE WAS A STICKY SUBSTANCE COMING OUT OF THE CENTER DISPLAY WHETHER THE VEHICLE WAS TURNED ON OR OFF. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE LOCAL DEALER TESLA (135 US-22, SPRINGFIELD, NJ 07081, (973)921-0925) WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED WITH NEEDING THE CENTER DISPLAY TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. UPON INVESTIGATION, THE CONTACT ASSOCIATED THE FAILURE WITH NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 21V035000 (BACK OVER PREVENTION, VISIBILITY, EXTERIOR LIGHTING) HOWEVER THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT INFORMED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 32,000.

2/24/2021

The contact owns a 2012 Tesla Model S. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V035000 (Back Over Prevention, Visibility, Exterior Lighting). The contact stated that the center display screen failed to operate as needed. The dealer had been notified about the recall; however, the contact was informed that he did not qualify for the recall despite having received a letter for the recall. The manufacturer had not been notified of the issue. The contact stated that recently the center display screen started to operate as needed. The failure mileage was approximately 51,000. Parts distribution disconnect.

9/23/2021

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

2 Reports2% of total

Previewing the first 2 complaint summaries.

eMMU seem to have caused "Console display not available error"

5/17/2021

Both the 12 volt system and High voltage battery system or a component communicating between the two failed. I received a warning message that my vehicle may not restart and within 30 seconds it completely shutdown while driving in the middle of the road. The vehicle was essentially dead weight at this point. None of its features worked, the ability to unlock it, the ability to use electronic doors and windows functions could not be performed. it could not even be jumped to start the computer enabling it to be towed or put in neutral to even remove the vehicle from the roadway. The manufacturer has confirmed an inner fault within the High Voltage battery pack. I have since purchased and replaced this entire battery pack as it was said to be unserviceable.

6/12/2022

STEERING

1 Report1% of total

Previewing the first 1 complaint summaries.

NOTICED THIS PROBLEM AFTER I WAS BACKING UP AND TURNING MY WHEELS AND WOULD HEAR A LOUD METAL ON METAL "CLUNK" OR "GRINDING" SOUND. IT WAS COMING FROM THE FRONT-LEFT SUSPENSION AND WOULD OCCUR CAUSING MY WHEEL AND STEERING TO FEEL LIKE IT WAS SKIPPING. I NOTICED AND MY STEERING FELT "LOOSE" OVER BUMPS AND WOULD PULL TO THE LEFT. AGAIN THE VEHICLE IS IN MOTION AND THIS WAS FELT THE MOST WHEN TURNING FULL MOTION AND/OR BACKING UP AND TURNING. WHEN LOOKING AT ONE OF THE CONTROL-ARM JOINTS AFTER I NOTICED A VERY LOUD CLUNK AND COMPARING IT TO THE OTHER SIDE OF OF THE SUSPENSION, IT LOOKS LIKE EITHER A BOLT FELL OUT OR THE BALL-JOINT TO THE CONTROL ARM WAS JUST GRINDING FREELY. I'VE SINCE BROUGHT MY CAR TO TESLA AND THEY HAVE CONFIRMED THAT I HAVE A DEFECTIVE BALL-JOINT TO MY CONTROL ARM THATS ALSO DAMAGED MY STEERING KNUCKLE. IF I DIDNT CATCH THIS OR IT WAS BROKE AT GREATER SPEEDS WHATS THE LIKELY HOOD OF ME LOOSING CONTROL? I'VE ASKED IF THEY WILL REPLACE ALL THE OTHER PARTS IF THEY HAVE UPDATED PARTS BUT THEY SAID ONLY THE ITEMS THAT ARE DEFECTIVE IN THIS CASE WILL BE WARRANTIED. I SIMPLY DO NOT FEEL SAFE ANYMORE DRIVING THIS VEHICLE.

7/18/2016

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

1 Report1% of total

Previewing the first 1 complaint summaries.

CAUSE UNKNOWN. THE VEHICLE WAS STOPPED JUST BEFORE ENTERING INTO A HEAD IN PARKING SPACE WHEN WITH THE BRAKE DEPRESSED, THE VEHICLE ACCELERATED SUDDENLY AND UNCONTROLLABLY CAUSING IT TO JUMP THE CURB AND TAKE DOWN A RETAINING WALL. IT CONTINUED THROUGH THE WALL UNTIL IT WAS STOPPED BY A TREE. VEHICLE WAS A TOTAL LOSS. VEHICLE SETTINGS AT THE TIME OF INCIDENT WERE AS FOLLOWS: THERE IS NO AUTOPILOT ON THIS MODEL S AND CRUISE CONTROL WAS OFF. ADDITIONALLY, THE CAR WAS SET WITH CREEP MODE OFF. HVAC WAS ON.

1/19/2020

EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL

1 Report1% of total

Previewing the first 1 complaint summaries.

THE VEHICLE'S MAIN DISPLAY, WHICH SHOWS THE BACKUP CAMERA, FREEZES/LOCKS WHEN TURNING ON THE VEHICLE. THE ERROR MESSAGE ON THE DRIVERS DISPLAY IS THAT THE LARGE DISPLAY IS "UNRESPONSIVE". THEN, WHEN RESTARTING THE DISPLAY'S OPERATING SYSTEM (BY HOLDING THE TWO BUTTONS DOWN ON THE CAR'S STEERING WHEEL), THE SYSTEM REBOOTS AND THE DISPLAY GOES PERMANENTLY BLANK UNTIL THE VEHICLE IS PARKED, THE VEHICLE POWERS OFF. WHEN STARTING THE VEHICLE FOR A SECOND TIME, THE SAME ISSUE OCCURS. SO I NO LONGER HAVE A BACKUP CAMERA. GIVEN MY MODEL S YEAR DOES NOT HAVE ANY SENSORS OTHER THAN THE VISUAL BACKUP CAMERA, I AM MISSING MY SAFEST METHOD TO BACKUP. I AM ALSO MISSING CONTROLS TO CHARGE MY VEHICLE, MAP MY ROUTING, AND ALL OTHER APPLICATIONS THAT THE VEHICLE HAS. THERE ARE NO ISSUE DRIVING THE VEHICLE. *TR

6/25/2020

LANE DEPARTURE: BLIND SPOT DETECTION

1 Report1% of total

Previewing the first 1 complaint summaries.

ON NOVEMBER 23RD 2020 I TOOK MY MODEL S ([XXX]) TO TESLA SERVICE CENTER LANCASTER, PA FOR THE TESLA WARRANTY ADJUSTMENT PROGRAM WHICH WAS ANNOUNCED ON NOVEMBER 9TH AND RELATED TO MALFUNCTIONING TOUCHSCREEN DUE TO A MALFUNCTIONING EMMC. THIS IS THE RESULT OF THE SERVICE VISIT; 1) TESLA LANCASTER, PA SERVICE CENTER TOLD ME MY VEHICLE IS NOT IN THE WARRANTY PARAMETERS (THE TESLA WARRANTY ADJUSTMENT PROGRAM STATED 8YEARS/100K MILES. MY CAR HAS LESS THAN 100K MILES AND INITIAL DELIVERY WAS NOVEMBER 24TH 2012 - SO TESLA LANCASTER, PA WAS WRONG ABOUT THIS AS SERVICE DATE WAS NOVEMBER 23RD, 2020) 2) TESLA LANCASTER, PA SERVICE CENTER STATED "THE VEHICLE IS NOT EQUIPPED WITH THE EMMC" (A 2012 MODEL S HAS TO HAVE SOME TYPE OF MEMORY DEVICE IN IT - I WOULD EXPECT IT TO BE AN EMMC OF SOME SORT. THE NOVEMBER "WARRANTY ADJUSTMENT PROGRAM" STATED NO-COST REPAIRS FOR MALFUNCTIONING EMMC BUT LANCASTER, PA SERVICE CENTER DID NOT REPAIR MY CAR.) SO IN SHORT WHEN I TOOK MY CAR IN FOR NOVEMBER WARRANTY ADJUSTMENT PROGRAM RELATED TO SCREEN GOING BLANK INTERMITTENTLY TESLA WOULD NOT FIX IT. MY SCREEN IS STILL BLANK INTERMITTENTLY BECAUSE TESLA WOULD NOT REPAIR IT AND NOW WITH THE FEBRUARY 2021 NHTSA RECALL 21V035 RELEASED I WOULD LIKE THIS SCREEN ISSUE FIXED PROPERLY AND PERMANENTLY. REGARDLESS OF WHAT EMMC OR MEMORY DEVICE IS IN THE CAR THE NHTSA SAFETY CONCERNS STILL APPLY (UNAVAILABILITY OF THE REARVIEW CAMERA DISPLAY, DEFROST/DEFOG CONTROL SETTINGS FOR PURPOSES OF ENSURING VISIBILITY, AND EXTERIOR TURN SIGNAL LIGHTING MAY INCREASE THE RISK OF A CRASH). I AM REQUESTING THE MCU BE REPLACED WITH MCU V2 FREE OF CHARGE BECAUSE TESLA STATED MY 2012 MODEL S DOES NOT HAVE THE 8GB EMMC AND BECAUSE OF SAFETY CONCERNS WITH THE CURRENT STATE OF THE MCU. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR

2/22/2021

SERVICE BRAKES

1 Report1% of total

Previewing the first 1 complaint summaries.

The contact owns a 2012 Tesla Model S. The contact stated while driving 20 MPH, the vehicle independently shifted to neutral. An unknown warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer who informed the contact that they could not duplicate the failure. The contact stated that the failure recurred daily while driving whenever he depressed the brake pedal. The vehicle was taken back to the same dealer. The dealer informed the contact that the failure could not be duplicated. The manufacturer was notified of the failure but provided no assistance. The vehicle was not repaired. The approximate failure mileage was 125,000.

9/23/2021

VISIBILITY

1 Report1% of total

Previewing the first 1 complaint summaries.

The contact owns a 2012 Tesla Model S. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V035000 (Back Over Prevention, Visibility, Exterior Lighting). The contact stated that the center display screen failed to operate as needed. The dealer had been notified about the recall; however, the contact was informed that he did not qualify for the recall despite having received a letter for the recall. The manufacturer had not been notified of the issue. The contact stated that recently the center display screen started to operate as needed. The failure mileage was approximately 51,000. Parts distribution disconnect.

9/23/2021

ENGINE

1 Report1% of total

Previewing the first 1 complaint summaries.

Motor is starting to make sounds and according to teslamotorsclub.com the motor will fail eventually. Many have to had to have the motor switched out multiple times. It is quite evident that there was a design flaw which Tesla corrected in later years.

3/17/2023

About This Data

Data and Methodology

MethodologyHow we score →

Scores are derived from NHTSA recalls and owner complaints, normalized by vehicle segment averages.

FAQ

What are the most common owner complaints for the 2012 Tesla Model S?

The most reported complaint category for the 2012 Tesla Model S is ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, with 36 owner reports. That is about 42% of all complaints logged here. Other recurring themes include ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, UNKNOWN OR OTHER, SUSPENSION.

Are complaints about the 2012 Tesla Model S a serious warning sign?

Potentially. 53 complaint reports fall into higher-attention systems such as brakes, steering, engine, powertrain, fuel, suspension, airbags, or electrical components. That does not prove every vehicle has a defect, but repeated complaints in those systems justify a more careful pre-purchase inspection.

How should buyers use complaint data for the 2012 Tesla Model S?

Use complaints as an early pattern to investigate, not a standalone verdict. Start with the top complaint categories, compare those themes against the recall report and maintenance guide, then inspect service records for evidence that the same problem areas were already addressed. If the same issue appears repeatedly across complaints and recalls, treat it as a real ownership-risk flag.

Are complaints about the 2012 Tesla Model S severe?

53 complaint reports involve higher-attention systems such as brakes, steering, engine, powertrain, fuel, suspension, airbags, or electrical components, which is enough to justify a focused inspection before purchase.

Complaint list entries are sourced from owner-submitted NHTSA ODI records.

Read complaint summaries

Tesla Model S: How should complaint data influence buying decisions?

Use complaint patterns together with recalls and maintenance guidance to estimate ownership risk and inspection priorities.

Carfocal links complaint data directly to recall and maintenance routes for the same model year.

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Complaint entries
85
Top-topic view
5 grouped topics shown
Primary source
NHTSA ODI owner complaint records

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In this guide

  1. 01Overview
  2. 02Common Problems
  3. 03Owner Complaints
  4. 04Data and Methodology

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