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2022 Tesla Model S Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated May 30, 2026·Daniel Wilson·9 Critical Recalls

Overall Score

6.9/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • Significant number of recalls (47) and complaints (180) warrant careful inspection.
  • Frequent complaints about 'phantom braking' from adaptive cruise control and automatic emergency braking systems pose a safety risk.
  • Steering yoke usability, including horn activation and turn signal function, is a common point of concern.
  • Electrical system glitches are also frequently reported.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2022 Tesla Model S

The 2022 Tesla Model S offers cutting-edge technology and performance, but used car buyers should approach with caution. This electric sedan has a significant number of recalls and complaints, particularly related to its advanced driver-assistance systems and the unconventional yoke steering. While its electric powertrain provides instant torque and a quiet ride, potential buyers must be aware of the documented issues that impact its overall reliability and ownership experience. The high volume of recalls suggests a complex development cycle and potential for ongoing issues.

Critical Failure Risk

Complaints frequently cite issues with the yoke steering wheel, including horn activation, turn signal functionality, and overall usability, especially under stress or in varying conditions. This impacts driver control and reaction.

Early detection can help you avoid a $500-$3,000 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls47
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

180
Forward Collision Avoidance: Adaptive Cruise Control25
Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

6.1/ 10

Practicality

9.0/ 10

The score is supported by solid day-to-day usability signals.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Tech-savvy buyers prioritizing cutting-edge features and electric performance.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Buyers seeking a trouble-free, low-maintenance ownership experience.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2022 Tesla Model S Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2022 Tesla Model S.

  • Recall TimelineOfficial safety notices
  • Owner ComplaintsReal driver reports
  • Failure AnalysisKnown part defects
Specs

Vehicle Specs

Seating Capacity
5
Transmission
Automatic
Body Style
Hatchback

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Unlock the complete checklist, maintenance outlook, and buyer verdict in one place.

Most Common Issues

1. FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: ADAPTIVE CRUISE CONTROL

Most reported

Usage: 25 reports

2. Steering

Usage: 20 reports

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Tire Rotation and Inspection - Cabin Air Filter Replacement - Brake Fluid Check

Est. shop cost: $100 - $200

10,000 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist
Complete maintenance schedule (4 service intervals)
Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
47 recall campaign details & remedy notes
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2022 Tesla Model S reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2022 Tesla Model S is 6.1/10. Reliability score is 6.1/10. NHTSA recalls: 47. Owner complaints: 180.

How practical is the 2022 Tesla Model S for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 9.0/10. The score is supported by solid day-to-day usability signals. Seating capacity is 5. 4 passenger doors are listed. Boot capacity is 709 litres.

What is the overall score for the 2022 Tesla Model S?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2022 Tesla Model S is 6.9/10. Overall score is 6.9/10 (Good). Confidence 41%. Maintenance 7.8/10. Practicality 9.0/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2022 Tesla Model S?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Cabin Air Filter Replacement - Brake Fluid Check at 10,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $300 - $600. Repair prediction highlight: Steering Yoke Assembly (typical at 40,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $500 • Max: $2,000).

What transmission does the 2022 Tesla Model S use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2022 Tesla Model S, transmission is Automatic.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2022 Tesla Model S?▾

18 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.

How many people fit in a 2022 Tesla Model S?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2022 Tesla Model S, seating capacity is 5.

What body style is the 2022 Tesla Model S?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2022 Tesla Model S, body style is hatchback.

What are the most common forward collision avoidance: adaptive cruise control problems on the 2022 Tesla Model S?▾

Top complaint category: forward collision avoidance: adaptive cruise control (25 reports, 13.9% of complaints).

Are there open safety recalls on the 2022 Tesla Model S?▾

This model year has 47 official safety campaigns listed.

Start Here

Maintenance guide

Costs + intervals

Recall report

Campaigns + remedy notes

Owner complaints

Issue volume + categories

In this guide

  1. 01Overview
  2. 02Who This Car Is For
  3. 03Reliability & Problems
  4. 04Vehicle Specs
  5. 05Unlock Full Report
  6. 06FAQ

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