Is the 2023 Tesla Model S reliable?

Powertrain reliability (battery and motors) is generally considered strong, but owner feedback often notes inconsistent fit-and-finish and occasional software/infotainment glitches.

What are the most common 2023 Tesla Model S problems?

Common issues include touchscreen/software bugs, rattles or wind noise from trim alignment, faster-than-expected tire wear, and complaints about yoke steering ergonomics on equipped vehicles.

What are 2023 Tesla Model S maintenance costs like?

Routine costs are often lower than gas luxury sedans because there are no oil changes, but tires, alignments, cabin filters, and occasional repairs to electronics/trim can add up—especially with performance tires.

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

Many shoppers prefer 2021 and newer for the refreshed interior and updated tech, while also comparing individual vehicle condition, warranty coverage, and service history when choosing between years.

What should I check before buying a used 2023 Tesla Model S?

Check tire condition and wear patterns, test all cameras/sensors and the touchscreen, listen for rattles on a rough-road test drive, verify charging performance, and confirm warranty status and any open recalls or service campaigns. For a deeper dive, get a complete owner’s guide with full specs, feature breakdowns, and the recommended maintenance schedule for the 2023 Tesla Model S.

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

2023 Tesla Model S Reliability ReportCommon Problems, Repair Costs & Expert Verdict

78/ 100

KeepScore

MODERATE RISK

Grade: C+

A technologically advanced vehicle where the thrill of innovation comes with the potential for complex and expensive issues outside the core drivetrain.

Full system breakdown + what I would do

Quick Facts · 2023 Tesla Model S

Has 13 NHTSA recalls on record — the most notable involves the steering:automated/adaptive steering.
Scores 10 points below the strongest nearby year — the 2024 Tesla Model S earns a 88.
The system most likely to surface first: electrical/infotainment system (moderate severity).

Should You Buy the 2023 Tesla Model S?

The 2023 Tesla Model S offers groundbreaking performance and technology, but its reliability remains a nuanced picture, blending robust core powertrain with significant potential for costly electrical and suspension issues. While the risk of catastrophic drive unit failure is low, owners should anticipate software quirks and expensive repairs for advanced components, making a pre-purchase inspection and warranty coverage crucial for peace of mind.

Biggest Strengths

Electric Powertrain Longevity
Advanced Safety Features
Over-the-Air Software Updates

Top Risk Areas

The systems that break first on the 2023 Tesla Model S. Mileage windows, repair costs, and fix-before-you-buy notes are in the full report.

Electrical/Infotainment Systemmoderate

Air Suspension Componentsmoderate

Body, Trim & Exterior Hardwareminor

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

NHTSA Recalls

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

STEERING:AUTOMATED/ADAPTIVE STEERING

Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2016-2023 Model S, Model X, 2017-2023 Model 3, and 2020-2023 Model Y vehicles equipped with Full Self-Driving Beta (FSD Beta) software or pending installation. The FSD Beta system may allow the vehicle to act unsafe around intersections, such as traveling straight through an intersection while in a turn-only lane, entering a stop sign-controlled intersection without coming to a complete stop, or proceeding into an intersection during a steady yellow traffic signal without due caution. In addition, the system may respond insufficiently to changes in posted speed limits or not adequately account for the driver's adjustment of the vehicle's speed to exceed posted speed limits.

FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: SENSING SYSTEM: CAMERA

Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2023 Model S, Model X, and Model Y vehicles. The forward-facing camera may be misaligned, causing some of the active safety features such as emergency braking, forward collision warning, and lane assist to become unavailable without alerting the driver.

What breaks on the 2023 Tesla Model S?

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

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Tesla Model S by Year

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 →

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Frequently Asked Questions

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