Is the 2014 Tesla Model S reliable?

It can be reliable in day-to-day use, especially the core electric drivetrain, but it’s known for a handful of recurring issues like door handles and infotainment hardware that can affect long-term ownership costs.

What are the most common 2014 Tesla Model S problems?

Frequently reported issues include presenting door handle failures, touchscreen/MCU glitches or screen problems, suspension wear (including air suspension components if equipped), and normal EV battery capacity loss over time.

Are maintenance costs high on a 2014 Model S?

Routine maintenance can be lower than a gas luxury sedan (no oil changes), but repairs can be expensive when electronic, suspension, or infotainment components fail, so budgeting for occasional higher-cost fixes is wise.

What are the best years of Tesla Model S to buy?

Many shoppers prefer later years with updated hardware and refinements, but a well-maintained 2014 can still be a strong value if it has documented service history and the common problem areas have been addressed.

What should I check before buying a used 2014 Tesla Model S?

Verify battery health and real-world range, confirm smooth charging behavior, test all door handles and windows, check the touchscreen for lag/reboots, inspect tire wear and suspension noises, and review service records for prior handle/MCU/suspension repairs. Get a complete owner’s guide for the 2014 Tesla Model S with full specs, options by trim, and maintenance schedules to shop smarter and keep your Model S running its best.

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Reliability AnalysisBased on known issue patterns, repair cost data, and ownership trends · How we score

2014 Tesla Model S Reliability ReportC+ grade · moderate risk · system-by-system breakdown

72/ 100

KeepScore

MODERATE RISK

Grade: C+

A revolutionary vehicle with a potent powertrain, but budget generously for its inevitable electrical and suspension maladies.

Full system breakdown + what I would do

Quick Facts · 2014 Tesla Model S

The system most likely to surface first: air suspension system (major severity).
Has 9 NHTSA recalls on record — the most notable involves the air bags:frontal:passenger side:inflator module.
Scores 6 points below the strongest nearby year — the 2016 Tesla Model S earns a 78.

Is the 2014 Tesla Model S Worth Buying?

The 2014 Tesla Model S represents a pioneering leap in automotive technology, offering exhilarating performance and a revolutionary user experience. However, as an early adopter of advanced EV tech, it carries a moderate risk profile due to well-documented electrical, suspension, and build quality issues that can lead to costly and frequent repairs. It demands a budget for potential fixes, but for the right owner, the driving experience can still be immensely rewarding.

Biggest Strengths

Robust electric powertrain with proven motor and battery longevity
Exceptional safety ratings and structural integrity
Pioneering technology and high performance for its era

What Tends to Fail First on the 2014 Tesla Model S

The systems that break first on the 2014 Tesla Model S. Mileage windows, repair costs, and fix-before-you-buy notes are in the full report.

Air Suspension Systemmajor

Media Control Unit (MCU)critical

Door Handles & Latchesmoderate

Typical mileage, cost ranges, and the exact what-to-check list are in the full report.

2014 Tesla Model S Recall History

9 recalls on record from NHTSA. Check your VIN atnhtsa.gov to see if the repair was performed.

AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE

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, these inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.

PARKING BRAKE

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.

What breaks on the 2014 Tesla Model S?

Full reliability breakdown — engine, transmission, rust, electrical. With repair costs and mileage danger zones.

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Other Tesla Model S Years to Consider

Compare KeepScores across nearby years of the Tesla Model S. Click any year for its full report.

All Tesla Model S years ranked →Tesla Model S years to avoid →Tesla Model S common problems →

2014 Tesla Model S Alternatives

Similar class, similar year range — ranked by KeepScore.

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Frequently Asked Questions

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