2017 Tesla Model X

Fatalities reported

Owners filed 268 complaints about this vehicle with federal regulators, most often about the electrical system. It has been recalled 10 times.

Avoid One of the Tesla Model X years to avoid: 2.1× the complaints of a typical Model X year. Which Tesla Model X years to avoid →

When it fails
020k40k60k90k120k200k
30,000 milesMedian miles at failure

111 complaints record an odometer reading. Failures cluster around 0–10,000 miles.

Most common 2017 Tesla Model X problems

63 of the 268 complaints (24%) are about the electrical system.

ComponentReportsCrashesFiresInjuries
Electrical System62
100
Suspension54
603
Steering34
000
Unknown or Other25
411
Service Brakes · brakes14
200
Structure › Body · body and frame10
103
Forward Collision Avoidance › Adaptive Cruise Control · automatic emergency braking10
100
Vehicle Speed Control · throttle and acceleration9
300
Power Train · transmission6
100
Air Bags · airbags6
301

10 safety recalls

Part 573 reports
Seat Belts › Front › Warning Light/Devices24V376000
Filed May 28, 2024125,233 vehiclesTesla, Inc.

Defect. Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2012-2024 Model S, 2015-2024 Model X, 2017-2023 Model 3, and 2020-2023 Model Y vehicles. In the event of an unbelted driver, the seat belt warning light and audible chime may not activate as intended. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."

Risk. A seat belt warning system that fails to alert occupants of an unbelted seat belt can increase the risk of injury during a crash.

Remedy. Tesla will release an over-the-air (OTA) software update. Owner notification letters were mailed July 26, 2024. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-24-00-008.

Electrical System › Instrument Cluster/Panel24V051000
Filed Jan 30, 20242,193,869 vehiclesTesla, Inc.

Defect. Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2012-2023 Model S, 2016-2024 Model X, 2017-2023 Model 3, 2019-2024 Model Y, and 2024 Cybertruck vehicles. An incorrect font size is displayed on the instrument panel for the Brake, Park, and Antilock Brake System (ABS) warning lights. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 105, "Hydraulic and Electric Brake Systems" and 135, "Light Vehicle Brake Systems."

Risk. Warning lights with a smaller font size can make critical safety information on the instrument panel difficult to read, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy. Tesla began releasing an over-the-air (OTA) software update, free of charge. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-24-00-003.

Electrical System › Adas › Driver Monitoring › Software23V838000
Filed Dec 12, 20232,031,220 vehiclesTesla, Inc.

Defect. Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling 2012-2023 Model S, 2016-2023 Model X, 2017-2023 Model 3, and 2020-2023 Model Y vehicles equipped with all versions of Autosteer leading up to the version(s) that contains the recall remedy. In certain circumstances when Autosteer is engaged, the prominence and scope of the feature's controls may not be sufficient to prevent driver misuse of the SAE Level 2 advanced driver-assistance feature.

Risk. In certain circumstances when Autosteer is engaged, and the driver does not maintain responsibility for vehicle operation and is unprepared to intervene as necessary or fails to recognize when Autosteer is canceled or not engaged, there may be an increased risk of a crash.

Remedy. Tesla will release an over-the-air (OTA) software update, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed February 10, 2024. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-23-00-008.

Steering › Automated/Adaptive Steering23V085000
Filed Feb 15, 2023362,758 vehiclesTesla, Inc.

Defect. 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.

Risk. FSD Beta software that allows a vehicle to exceed speed limits or travel through intersections in an unlawful or unpredictable manner increases the risk of a crash.

Remedy. Tesla will release an over-the-air (OTA) software update, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 15, 2023. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-23-00-001.

Steering › Electric Power Assist System22V818000
Filed Nov 1, 202240,168 vehiclesTesla, Inc.

Defect. Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2017-2021 Model S and Model X vehicles. The electronic power assist steering (EPAS) system may experience a loss of power steering assist when driving on rough roads or after hitting a pothole.

Risk. A loss of power steering assist can require greater steering effort, especially at low speeds, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy. Tesla has released an over-the-air (OTA) software update to recalibrate the EPAS system, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 31, 2022. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-22-00-014.

Steering › Automated/Adaptive Steering22V037000
Filed Jan 27, 202253,822 vehiclesTesla, Inc.

Defect. Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2016-2022 Model S and Model X, 2017-2022 Model 3, and 2020-2022 Model Y vehicles. The "rolling stop" functionality available as part of the Full Self-Driving (Beta) software may allow the vehicle to travel through an all-way stop intersection without first coming to a stop.

Risk. Failing to stop at a stop sign can increase the risk of a crash.

Remedy. Tesla will perform an over-the-air (OTA) software update that disables the "rolling stop" functionality, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 28, 2022. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-22-00-001.

Forward Collision Avoidance › Sensing System › Camera21V846000
Filed Oct 29, 202111,728 vehiclesTesla, Inc.

Defect. Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2017-2021 Model S, Model 3, Model X, and 2020-2021 Model Y vehicles operating software version 2021.36.5.2. A communication error may cause false forward-collision warning (FCW) or unexpected activation of the automatic emergency brake (AEB) system.

Risk. Unexpected activation of the AEB system may cause the car to stop suddenly, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy. Tesla Service has released an over-the-air (OTA) software update, free of charge. The recall began October 25, 2021. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-21-00-004.

Visibility › Defroster/Defogger/Hvac System21V035000
Filed Jan 29, 2021134,951 vehiclesTesla, Inc.

Defect. Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2012-2018 Tesla Model S and 2016-2018 Model X vehicles with a center display equipped with a NVIDIA Tegra 3 processor and an 8GB eMMC NAND flash memory device. When the 8GB eMMC NAND flash memory device for the center display reaches lifetime wear, the eMMC controller will no longer be able to maintain the integrity of the filesystem, causing a failure in some of the center display functions.

Risk. The eMMC controller wear-out condition can cause the loss of the rearview camera display, defrost/defog control settings, and exterior turn signal lighting, reducing visibility and increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy. Owners should ensure their vehicles are operating firmware release 2020.48.48.12 or newer, which will alert owners if the eMMC is approaching lifetime wear. Tesla will notify owners, and will replace the VCM daughterboard with one containing an enhanced eMMC controller, free of charge. The recall began March 29, 2021. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-21-21-001.

Seats › Mid/Rear Assembly17V639000
Filed Oct 12, 20174,582 vehiclesTesla Motors, Inc.

Defect. Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2016-2017 Model X vehicles. The left-side, second row, reclining seat backs may not fully latch due to having incorrectly adjusted recliner mechanism cables. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 207, "Seating Systems," and 210, "Seat Belt Assembly Anchorages."

Risk. If the seat back moves forward in the event of a crash, it can increase the risk of injury.

Remedy. Tesla will notify owners, and Tesla service technicians will correct the cable adjustment for the left-side, fold-flat, second row, seat recliner mechanism, free of charge. The recall began on November 10, 2017. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-17-13-004.

Parking Brake17V260000
Filed Apr 19, 201731,709 vehiclesTesla Motors, Inc.

Defect. 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.

Risk. If the gear breaks during parking brake release, the vehicle will not be able to be moved. If the gear breaks during parking brake application, the parking brake may not adequately hold the vehicle, potentially resulting in the vehicle rolling, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy. Tesla will notify owners, and service centers will replace both the left and right electric parking brake calipers, free of charge. The recall began March 6, 2018. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-17-33-002.

All 10 campaigns on file, newest first.

What owners reported

Newest filings
Unknown or Other
Filed Aug 3, 2026MN

The main vertical display which shows rear view camera when car is in reverse is extremely slow. My rear view camera at times doesn’t show up until 15-20 seconds of putting the car in reverse and sometimes, the camera doesn’t even come up. This happens frequently on a weekly basis. I think the unit needs to be replaced for the camera and the entire car to be responsive. Now to answer your questions: 1. Yes it is available for inspection upon request 2. By the rear view camera not turning on the second the car is in reverse. This puts everyone’s safety at risk. 3. I have not gone anywhere to show it. It’s just a very slow computer, everything on it works very slow, needs replacement. 4. No it has not been. 5. No.

Structure › Body
Filed May 31, 2026FL

Both Garnish - Fender - Front - LH Right side and Left side come loose when driving in rain. The force of wheels pushing rain water on the fender garnish causes both the left and right fender garnish 4 push clips to come loose. When this fender garnish breaks and flies off it could hit a pedestrian, another car on the road or the car it is installed on causing an accident

Steering
Filed May 15, 2026CT

My 2017 Tesla Model X (VIN: [XXX] ) is experiencing stiff and binding steering caused by corrosion at the lower steering column I-shaft universal joint. The steering intermittently binds and resists normal turning force, which has caused Tesla’s Full Self-Driving (FSD) system to disengage due to abnormal steering resistance — a direct safety concern. Tesla’s own Service Bulletin SB-20-32-004 documents this exact condition — I-shaft U-joint corrosion causing stiff steering — on Model S and Model X vehicles. The bulletin covers 2015–2020 model years. However, Tesla service center stated that my VIN is not classified under this bulletin and that the $500 repair is an out-of-pocket expense not covered under warranty or goodwill. The issue has not yet been repaired. I am currently operating a vehicle with a known steering defect that Tesla has documented in its own service bulletin but has declined to cover for my specific VIN, despite my vehicle exhibiting the identical failure. I am requesting NHTSA investigate whether the VIN classification for SB-20-32-004 is appropriately capturing all affected vehicles, and whether this issue warrants escalation to a formal safety recall — particularly given the impact on automated driving system performance. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Steering
Filed Apr 16, 202655,340 milesNY

The contact owns a 2017 Tesla Model X. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the steering wheel seized. There was no warning light illuminated. The contact stated that the steering wheel became difficult to control and was pulling to one side, almost causing a crash with another vehicle. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, but it was not diagnosed or repaired. The dealer test drove the vehicle and the failure reoccurred, and the dealer deemed the vehicle unsafe to drive. The contact stated that the failure reoccurred shortly after the stabilizer arm and toe link were repaired. The contact also stated that a mobile message indicated that the I-shaft had failed. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 55,340.

Steering
Filed Apr 13, 2026NC

Repeat catastrophic steering failure on 2017 Model X (VIN [XXX] ). Steering wheel spins freely with zero connection to the wheels (complete mechanical disconnect). This is the third steering-system repair in under 12 months. • April 8, 2025: Lower intermediate shaft replaced (still inside 12-month parts warranty). Invoice does NOT list ‘shielded’ or part 1027851-00-A. • Current failure now requires full steering rack (1070801-00-F) + module + severed cable. Current estimate DOES list shielded I-shaft (1027851-00-A). Tesla claims the April repair used the ‘most updated’ part and that TSB SB-20-32-004 did not apply to my VIN. This contradicts the invoices and the TSB itself (which covers 2015–2020 Model X). Tesla previously admitted they cannot rule out a connection to the prior repair and that this severity is something they have "never seen." Safety risk: Could have occurred on highway with loss of vehicle control. Tesla has denied goodwill. Attached: All invoices, estimates. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Electrical System
Filed Apr 2, 2026TX

High voltage battery management system generated fault codes BMS_u008 and BMS_f071 during a Supercharger charging session, prohibiting drive mode. Vehicle had been driven normally to the Supercharger with no drive-prohibiting alerts during transit. After connecting to the Supercharger, fault codes manifested. Despite fault condition, vehicle continued charging to 93% state of charge before requiring towing. This is the second such event — original HV battery also generated BMS fault alerts prohibiting drive mode during a charging session in January 2024 and was replaced with a remanufactured assembly. Third-party firmware alert data shows recurring hardware charging fault alerts (CHG_f018, CHG_f076, customer message: Unable to charge) occurring in January and February 2026, weeks prior to the March 2026 failure. Alert DI_u014 also fired repeatedly on March 18, 2026 indicating insufficient 12V supply contributing to undriveable condition — a separate system from the HV battery. Tesla Service Center has not investigated whether Supercharger charging events contributed to either failure, has not produced Supercharger session logs, and has not attempted software-level fault resolution before recommending full hardware replacement. Tesla's own firmware documentation describes BMS_u008 as potentially self-clearing and BMS_f071 as having a documented clear condition. Remanufactured battery subsequently drained from 88% to 0% over 11 days while unplugged at service center — 6-9% per

Steering
Filed Mar 24, 2026NY

I experienced a total steering lockup and loss of vehicle control immediately following a steering column and suspension repair at a certified Tesla service center at [XXX] . INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Structure
Filed Mar 20, 202650,000 milesOH

The contact owns a 2017 Tesla Model X. The contact stated that while driving and rolling up the front driver's side window, the exterior window lower chrome detached. The contact was able to grab the chrome piece before the chrome piece flew off the vehicle. The chrome piece was reinstalled on several occasions; however, the failure recurred while rolling up the window several times. A Service Center was contacted through the Mobile App and provided an estimate for the part replacement. The vehicle was not repaired due to the cost. The contact related the failure to an unknown recall. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 50,000.

Structure › Body
Filed Mar 3, 2026FL

Approximately one to two months ago, the driver-side front door latch on my 2017 Tesla Model X malfunctioned and prevented me from exiting the vehicle through the driver door. I first attempted to open the door using the manual interior door handle (manual mechanical release), but the door did not unlatch. I then attempted to open the door using the electronic door release, but it also failed to open the door. When attempting the electronic release, the door actuator clicked multiple times but the door did not open. Even while pushing outward on the door while activating the release, the latch would not disengage. Because the driver door would not open using either the manual or electronic release mechanisms, I exited the vehicle through the passenger side door. Later, after applying significant pressure to the driver door and repeatedly attempting to open it, the door eventually opened. Tesla service has indicated that earlier front door latch assemblies require a retrofit and that both front doors must be retrofitted. I was given an estimated cost of approximately $1,500 or more for the latch retrofit plus an estimated diagnostic fee of approximately $200 or more. I am concerned this represents a safety defect involving failure of both the electronic and manual door release mechanisms, which prevented normal occupant egress through the driver door.

Steering
Filed Jan 5, 2026CT

The electronic power steering (EPS) is struggling, requiring increased driver effort to steer. This seems to be dangerous when driving. The Full Self Driving (FSD) capability also stops abruptly when the steering locks up. Again, this is very risky and can cause serious accidents. I see that several owners have posted on social media about this same issue. Note, that there were recalls issued related to corroded steering bolts for Tesla Model X built up till November 2016. My car is built in 2017.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Dec 24, 2025TX

Reproducible and sudden loss of indicated driving range at low state of charge (SOC) for 6 months. First documented occurrence on 9 September 2025 during my final service visit while the vehicle was still covered under Tesla’s 8-year unlimited-mile high-voltage battery warranty, at which time no corrective action was taken. After repeated documented low-SOC range collapses, back to service on 13 November 2025. Tesla acknowledged the fault, verified the condition with diagnostics and customer provided screenshots, and stated that CAN log data indicated the Battery Management System (BMS) was not calculating SOC correctly. Tesla replaced the BMS assembly under warranty as a continuation of the original issue and advised that the vehicle would need to be driven and charged for recalibration. Following this repair, I completed multiple full charge cycles to 100% and allowed time for recalibration. Despite this, the issue persisted with 100% reproducibility, with rapid loss of available range after driving and then parking when the vehicle indicated approximately 14–17 miles remaining. This condition resulted in a near-stranding event involving my family, including three young children, due to the unexpected loss of usable range without warning. I returned the vehicle again on 10 December 2025 to the Tesla Service Center in El Paso for the same unresolved issue. Tesla declined to perform low-SOC diagnostic or drive-down testing, instead stating the behavior was normal and required

Electrical System
Filed Nov 30, 2025CA

During home charging using 40A, the 220 volt UMC connector started smoking and was melting. The charging appeared unaffected, and I caught it before it caught fire.

Steering
Filed Nov 6, 2025MA

Power Steering Assist stopped working while on the road. A couple days later, power steering stopped working completely.

Lane Departure › Warning
Filed Oct 28, 2025NJ

The autopilot ECU failed on my car per Tesla. There was no warning on the car that my safety features were disabled. This is also reported online as a common issue and Tesla is charging $2k to repair a safety computer. The computer was advertised as two chips as a failsafe but that was not the case as both failed on my car. I suspect this software updates broke the computer as well and not at fault from the customer

Suspension
Filed Sep 4, 202553,000 milesIL

The contact owns a 2017 Tesla Model X. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the messages “Air Suspension Unable to Raise” and “Functionality May Be Restored on Next Drive” were displayed. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or a dealer. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 53,000.

Suspension
Filed Aug 5, 2025CA

I am reporting a safety concern related to the suspension system in my 2017 Tesla Model X. The front tires are rubbing against the wheel arch liner, especially when turning or driving over uneven terrain. I have not made any aftermarket modifications, and the vehicle has been maintained in accordance with Tesla’s recommendations. This issue appears to match the known problem involving front suspension fore link failures documented in NHTSA investigations and prior complaints for 2016–2017 Model X vehicles. While I have not experienced a complete suspension failure, the current symptoms are consistent with reported cases where the fore links weaken or fail, causing the wheel to shift and contact the fender liner, leading to tire damage, unusual noises, and potential safety risks. I have reported this to Tesla, but they have not acknowledged this as a known issue for my VIN. However, NHTSA previously identified over 400 instances of similar failure and recommended that Tesla expand their service bulletin to include more vehicles. This is a critical safety concern as it can lead to premature tire wear, loss of control, and further suspension failure. I am requesting that NHTSA review whether Tesla should issue a recall or cover this repair under a broader service campaign.

Suspension
Filed Jul 27, 2025GA

This is the THIRD YEAR in a row that the Suspension System on this vehicle has failed. This seems like it should be a basic feature of any vehicle - that it should have proper shocks and suspension. The problem is the repair this time is estimated to be at $4000, when we have already had this repaired twice for several thousands of dollars. We drive this car very gently, so there is not an issue of us abusing the vehicle. Also, in China, Tesla was forced to recall vehicles over this same issue: Tesla recalls nearly 50,000 Model S and X cars in China over faulty suspension We would like to know if any recalls will be issued.

Suspension
Filed Jul 20, 2025CA

Tesla Model X are already known to wear out the rear tires on the inside edge due to excessive negative camber, or wheels tilting inwards from the top. Lowering the suspension setting makes the wheels tilt in even further! This causes more the weight of the car to rest on the inner shoulder of the wheel. Driving this way quickly wears down the inside edge of the rear tires which can cause a sudden and unexpected dangerous blowout

Seat Belts
Filed Jun 18, 2025CA

The second-row seatbelt in my 2017 Tesla Model X does not retract, preventing proper restraint of a passenger. Tesla acknowledged the issue but refused to repair it, stating the vehicle is out of warranty. This is a failure of a federally mandated safety system and a clear safety hazard under FMVSS 209. I’m transporting children in this vehicle and cannot rely on this seatbelt to function.

Unknown or Other
Filed Jun 17, 2025CA

The Monitor Screen in the middle of the car is not malfunction. It's not working. All the panels on the steering are also not work. the honk is not working. Nothing is working. It could be due to the internet connection.

Air Bags › Air Bag/Restraint Control Module
Filed May 14, 202593,000 milesCA

The contact owns a 2017 Tesla Model X. The contact stated that while operating the vehicle, the message "Restraint System Fault" remained displayed. The vehicle was taken to the local Tesla Service Center who diagnosed that the restraint system sensor was faulty and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not yet repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 93,000.

Air Bags
Filed May 14, 2025CO

Component: Driver airbag assembly required replacement Risk: Airbag assembly seems serious & life-threatening if not functinal Inspected & replaced by: By Tesla service center Symptom: Horn stopped working

Seats
Filed May 12, 2025TX

The second row bench seats won't recline back to rest position. A safety hazard. It's been a common accuracy. Please help. They will not put out a recall. Look it up online. It's a big problem and Tesla is not doing nothing, but trying charge you $3000 to replace the whole 2nd row bench! Wow

Service Brakes
Filed May 10, 2025CA

I own a Tesla Model X, and for the past two summers I’ve experienced a repeating safety-critical issue during hot weather. After driving for a period in the heat, multiple systems begin to fail. The car displays numerous warnings including: •“Parking brake requires service” •“Traction control disabled” •“Stability control disabled” •“Steering assist reduced” •“Automatic Emergency Braking unavailable” •“Regenerative braking unavailable” •“Lane Departure Avoidance unavailable” When this happens, the steering wheel becomes very stiff and hard to turn, which severely affects my ability to drive and control the vehicle. I’ve brought the vehicle to Tesla service twice. The first time (when it was still under warranty), they said they couldn’t replicate the issue. The second time, I brought it in while the warnings were still active. Tesla only cleaned some sensors and returned the car, but the issue returned again recently with all the same symptoms. This only happens in hot weather. Once the car cools down, the errors disappear. This intermittent issue is difficult for the service center to replicate, but it presents a serious safety risk, especially because steering and braking functions are compromised. I believe this is a deeper electrical or software issue affecting multiple safety systems under thermal stress. The issue has not been resolved, and the vehicle remains dangerous to drive in high temperatures.

Steering
Filed Mar 24, 2025MT

The power steering failed sporadically and it could return to normal state after power off/reset or the errors could be latch on for days. When the power steering reduced errors message occur, the steering wheel is too heavy for any turn, we lost steering and went over to the opposite lanes (fortunately there was no on coming traffic). The car needed a tow to the service centre.

Service Brakes
Filed Feb 14, 2025FL

Now I know it's called Phantom or Ghost Breaking. When in cruise control or in autopilot, in certain highway areas from 65 or 70, it breaks down to 25 mph. Cars behind gets dangerously close, as well as the royal scare face I get! There has been two major updates since I bought it, and it still does the same. Since, more or less, I know the highway spots where it happens, I'm ready for it. However, when traveling elsewhere I'm not that lucky. At those high speeds it cam potential cause harm or even death!

Suspension
Filed Feb 7, 2025TX

Tesla rear camber arms (see the photo silver colored) fail due to the heavy battery load and will incur substantial negative camber angle causing severe inner tire wear and potential blow out of rear tires and causing accident and injury. Those camber arms are not adjustable as designed by Tesla on all vehicles of Model S, 3, X and Y on all vehicle years. This is a design flaw that Tesla was made aware of but they are reluctant to fix it. Also, if we as consumers fix this issue with an aftermarket adjustable camber arms (blue in color in the photo), Tesla would not do the wheel alignment.

Back Over Prevention › Sensing System › Camera
Filed Feb 1, 2025TX

The rear camera freezes when backing up the car. The issue is noted in the latest model years but this issues applies to this model year as well. Please issue a safety recall. Thank you.

Back Over Prevention › Sensing System › Camera
Filed Dec 20, 2024CA

The rear camera failed as I tried to reverse into a parking spot. the whole system froze up and took over 20+ second to finally load happened twice in one day

Air Bags
Filed Oct 14, 2024CA

I had a reoccurrence of Incident 11609414. After the original incident I had my car towed to the service center and "fixed". I paid out of pocket since my warranty did not cover the problem they claimed that caused my issues. 5 weeks later I had the same issue recur, while out shopping. My car would not shift into park, the emergency brake failed, my seat restraint failed, my airbag failed, my ABS failed, my steering assist failed. I had to stay in my car with my foot on the brake until I could get my car towed to the service center. Had I taken my foot off of the brake my car would have moved forward into a coffee shop filled with people.

Service Brakes
Filed Sep 25, 2024NY

We parked the car in our drive way. On the next day, car says display a `Park Break Fault` message saying 'Parking break did not release - Driving may result in break damage'. When I push the Park button, car console says 'Parking brake not applied - Vehicle my free roll'. I believe this is the same faulty issue that was recalled in NHTSA Recall No: 17V-260, Manufacturing Recall No: SB-17-33-002. For reference, here is the link to that recall: [XXX] . Our car's model year matches the model year specified in that recall. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Seat Belts
Filed Sep 25, 2024CO

Problem #1: The Components that failed are the front wheel fenders, they blew off while driving down the highway, they have since been repaired. the repairman said that these blow off all the time due to how they are installed with plastic clips and glue. My families safety was put at risk because the moment that this happened the sensor was showing something that was about to hit us. had the auto drive been enabled at this time the car could have taken measures to avoid what it thought was an object. We were also put at risk as well as others driving behind us by the parts blowing off onto a highway while driving at high speeds. The component was inspected by the service tech that worked for Tesla. I took the car into Tesla to have the car serviced before driving to California, they cleared the car and said that everything looked great, no warnings or symptoms. Problem #2: On the same drive to California, we had a error that showed as "Safety Restraint System Fault". This error seems to come and go so it may be available upon request depending on the day it is. The safety of my children are put at risk because we will not know when they are taking off their seatbelt due to this error. The Error has been inspected by Tesla on multiple occasions and they cannot seem to find how to fix this. I have another appointment with them on [XXX] to try again to fix it. There is a Warning, but it is very vague and does not let you know where the problem is. Problem #3: Tesla's Front Susp

Structure › Body
Filed Aug 24, 2024TN

The falcon doors window seals are detaching from vehicle. Part detached and made contact on to another vehicle behind me while in traffic. I asked my Tesla service center and was told I must have the windows replaced to have seal rubber replaced. I was informed by window replacement vendor the issue is common for the Tesla Model X.

Suspension
Filed Aug 23, 2024GA

I have brought my vehicle back to Tesla 3 different occasions for the same issue ( Suspension failure) The first time, I was told that it was a malware issue. The second time in November 2023, I was told the compressor was bad. They charged me $623 to repair. The same problem with the suspension happened again the end of June 2024. Tesla told me that I had a leak on my suspension and that they could see the leak without me bringing the vehicle into the shop. They gave me an estimate for repair of $2,044. They told me that I had to wait until August 16 to bring it in to get repaired. When I get there the service manager states that they are backed up on repairs and it will take another 3 to 5 weeks before my vehicle can be fixed. I have been paying for a rental car out of pocket for over a month and now I won't be able to get my vehicle until September 6th. Tesla is using this knowledge about the suspension to make money! There should be a recall on the suspension at Tesla's expense. They have cost me thousands!

Forward Collision Avoidance › Automatic Emergency Braking
Filed Aug 19, 2024CA

When driving my car last Friday evening at ~5:45pm PST, I was about 1 mile away from home when alerts popped up on my car including- "Regenerative breaking unavailable", "ABS disabled", "Stability Control disabled", "Traction Control disabled", "Steering Assist reduced", "Automatic Emergency Braking is Unavailable" Front Passenger Safety Restraint System Fault" "Park Assist Unavailable". I drove the last mile to my house and when I pulled into my garage my gear shift would not work to put my car into park. I tried to then do a "soft reset" by holding both buttons on the steering wheel down, and this would not work. I frantically called the nearest Tesla service center and after 20 min the person there told me there wasn't anything they could help me with and gave me the number for Tessa Roadside Assistance. This whole time I had to have my foot on the break pedal to keep my car from moving forward and going through my garage wall into my house. I was on hold with Tesla Roadside assistance awaiting an answer for another 30min, and after talking with an agent he told me to "find a large rock to put under my tires to prevent the car from moving forward", this wasn't a feasible option as I was alone with a 12 year old girl, there are also not any large rocks near my garage. Tesla service then connected me with a towing agency, but let me know that since my car warranty only covers my battery and drive train, I would have to pay for the tow out of pocket. The tow truck driver came

Steering
Filed Aug 15, 2024NJ

When I started my car this morning it was very hard to return the wheel to center after full turns. The wheel is sticking in turn position and requires a lot of muscle to turn. It is unsafe to drive and power steering didn’t return after reboot.

Electrical System
Filed Aug 10, 2024CA

April 2024: Tesla Model X repeatedly failed to download firmware updates, although offered via the car’s UI. The car uses the connected WiFi to download several gigabytes of data every month, but ultimately does not apply any updates. This is a serious safety issue, since it prevents all future software update recalls from being available to this vehicle. May 15, 2024: Tesla failed to fix this issue through remote diagnosis, and requested a service center visit. Tesla engineers diagnosed the vehicle at the Burlingame CA Service Center, and spoke to me on the phone that the root cause was a recent firmware upgrade that has permanently bricked the ECU unit, which now needs to be replaced. Since this ECU unit is not user-accessible or user-serviceable, there is no way for this to have been caused by the customer. Tesla quoted $2048 to fix it, out of pocket, even though this damage was not caused by the customer, or related to regular wear-and-tear, but (as acknowledged by Tesla) caused due to a faulty firmware update issued by Tesla themselves. May 17, 2024: After pointing this out to them, Tesla managers called me, offering to discount the repair by 25%. Many similar complaints about the exact same part (ECU unit) and the same mode of failure (bricked after buggy firmware update) can be found shared online by others. This is a systemic issue, and not a one-off failure for my car alone. [XXX] [XXX] [XXX] All I am requesting is that Tesla fix this issue at their own cost and make

Electrical System
Filed Aug 10, 2024CA

April 2024: Tesla Model X repeatedly failed to download firmware updates, although offered via the car’s UI. The car uses the connected WiFi to download several gigabytes of data every month, but ultimately does not apply any updates. This is a serious safety issue, since it prevents all future software update recalls from being available to this vehicle. May 15, 2024: Tesla failed to fix this issue through remote diagnosis, and requested a service center visit. Tesla engineers diagnosed the vehicle at the Burlingame CA Service Center, and spoke to me on the phone that the root cause was a recent firmware upgrade that has permanently bricked the ECU unit, which now needs to be replaced. Since this ECU unit is not user-accessible or user-serviceable, there is no way for this to have been caused by the customer. Tesla quoted $2048 to fix it, out of pocket, even though this damage was not caused by the customer, or related to regular wear-and-tear, but (as acknowledged by Tesla) caused due to a faulty firmware update issued by Tesla themselves. May 17, 2024: After pointing this out to them, Tesla managers called me, offering to discount the repair by 25%. Many similar complaints about the exact same part (ECU unit) and the same mode of failure (bricked after buggy firmware update) can be found shared online by others. This is a systemic issue, and not a one-off failure for my car alone. [XXX] [XXX] [XXX] All I am requesting is that Tesla fix this issue at their own cost and make

Structure › Body
Filed Jul 28, 2024CA

The rear doors on the Model X are powered "Falcon Wing" doors. The motorize up in order to enter/exit the vehicle. The doors have ultrasonic sensors that allow the doors to sense if there is an obstacle in the way of the door's path of travel. When the vehicle is in a sunny hot location, the sensors on the doors either overheat, or the heat of the sun warps the door panel just enough that the sensors are fooled into thinking that there is an obstacle in the way of the door, so the door will not open when the rear seat passenger attempts to exit. Under these conditions, pushing the button to open the rear doors causes them to open a few inches, and then the door beeps, and the door won't open any further. In order to get the door to open further, the occupant must hold the "door open" button for a few seconds, the door will beep, and assuming you've held the button continuously, the door will then slowly open. The process from first attempting to open the door, and actually getting it open so you can escape the rear seat, IF DONE PROPERLY, will take 20-30 seconds. That is an awful long time in an emergency situation. While I am glad that Tesla was able to fix my car, it seems insane that this issue isn't a life-safety recall. It is even more insane that I had to pay to be able to safely exit my vehicle. If a "regular door-ed" car had a latch mechanism, that when hot, would warp in such a way that pulling the inside latch would not reliably open the door, would that be recalled

Air Bags
Filed Jul 21, 2024CA

I have received hundreds of intermittent safety faults which state: “Ssfety Restraint System Fault - Service is Required.” These messages pop up randomly and I have taken the vehicle in several times and no faults are seen during the service appointment. Tesla tells me there are at least 9 possible reasons for such a fault but they never provide me a checklist showing all 9 items were investigated. The last appointment they never gave me any feedback from the initial service center but transferred my car to another service center not stating why and then saying nothing found no precise timestamp was determined although I gave them a photo of the message and the date/time of the photo. Tesla says nothing is found but they want me to pick up the vehicle and wait for the next fault to occur. I stated that these faults occur intermittently and disappear by the time I get an appointment. They don’t offer to keep the vehicle for longer term monitoring or what is the impact of possible safety restraint malfunctions should I decide to retrieve and drive the vehicle. There is general lack of clarity on what other things could be checked given more time or resources, does this fault occur regularly on other Model X vehicles and what if any safety problems have been identified in any of those vehicles that may have been fixed. Tesla provides diagnosis for 1 hour only at $278 to vehicles not under warranty and they said repairs would be In addition to this. Since no other non-Tesla autom

Unknown or Other1 injured
Filed Jul 3, 2024CA

Hello, There is a major safety issue with the Tesla Model X. Specifically, it allows unrestricted access to YouTube and video games, which appeal to children, when the car is not on and when there is no key in the vehicle. As a result, my children go to the Model X where they are unsupervised in order to access YouTube and video games. Today, the temperature of the car exceeded 110 degrees with my child in the car. Fortunately we realized that he was out there and got him out, cooled him down, and got him water. We need the ability to disable YouTube, video games, and other content that appeal to children in the Model X. Thank you, [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Steering
Filed May 24, 2024CA

Tesla has failed to update the software on the car as per the recall notice. Tesla is requesting me to pay 2500$ to upgrade the hardware so they can update the recall hardware. I had reached out to Tesla more than three different times and been waiting for more than 4 months for Tesla to provide the resolution for recall which Tesla has failed to provide as yet t no cost. This is a major safely concerns and due to this I am afraid to drive this car.

Power Train
Filed May 20, 2024FL

This year Tesla has a known "acceleration shutter" due to the front CV joints' angle being too sharp causing premature wear. I have been dealing with this issue since the vehicle was new. Tesla has replaced my CV joints 5-7 times and during the repairs they have left bolts out of the vehicle, left bolts loose and damaged the front drive unit so much by bad repair jobs they have had to replace the front drive unit twice. In the most recent episode, the motor mount has cracked and was making a loud banging noise under acceleration and declaration. Most concerning is the fact I found some brake lines not in their keepers and they were rubbing on this mount. (I have photos). I have had my vehicle at 3 different Tesla service centers and at least two are inadequate. My concern, especially with the loose and missing bolts, is the sense of bad workmanship which could lead to a real problem in the future. I have, myself, fixed the brake line issue and tightened the motor mount bolt and the car is fine but don't know what else is not done properly, so I will be asking a service center (over , 100 miles away) to please check to make sure there isn't anything else loose due to the front drive unit being replaced. I also have another bad half shaft which was replaced about 10,000 miles ago back in October of 23'. I have pictures of all this nonsense if you are interested. But again, my concern is what if they leave something important loose that can kill someone. I've had many episodes o

Vehicle Speed Control
Filed May 5, 2024CA

While driving CA-17, as is frequently the case, I had to disengage automatic steering several times to correct its poor lane keeping. Much to my surprise, the vehicle stopped maintaining speed, creating a dangerous situation with vehicles behind me as the uphill road caused the vehicle to rapidly decelerate the second I turned the wheel. After experimentation, I discovered that Tesla has completely removed cruise control capabilities from these vehicles unless you completely disable the FSD beta functionality, which makes this vehicle highly unsafe to drive in any environment where autosteer is inadequate, including CA-17. Further, this isn't just unsafe on weird highways. This poor decision on Tesla's part could very easily cause rear-end collisions on freeways. Nobody in their right minds would expect a vehicle to suddenly massively decelerate just because you correct its poor steering. This is just plain DANGEROUS. This so-called "Full Self Driving (Supervised)" version needs to be recalled immediately, and Tesla MUST be forced to make cruise control fallback available regardless of the FSD state. Until they do, it is fundamentally unsafe to allow Tesla vehicles to remain on public highways and freeways with FSD (Supervised) enabled.

Electrical System › Adas › Autonomous/Self Driving
Filed May 3, 2024110,000 milesWA

The contact owns a 2017 Tesla Model X. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V838000 (Electrical System) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed with the Autonomous Self-Driving mode activated, the Auto-steer feature was engaged, and the vehicle inadvertently steered into the left lane of oncoming traffic. The contact manually steered the vehicle away from the oncoming traffic. An unknown dealer was made aware of the failure but confirmed that parts were not yet available. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure but confirmed that parts were not yet available. The failure mileage was approximately 110,000. Parts distribution disconnect.

Suspension
Filed Apr 25, 2024MI

Car has 38k miles. Front of car started making creaking noises whenever moving. Diagnosed both upper control arms seized. Was told by the technician that Tesla found their error and the new Model Xs do not have this issue. From reading online, this is a VERY common issue for Tesla owners and Tesla is aware.

Steering
Filed Apr 22, 2024VA

The steering as getting harder and harder to turn. I checked the steering rack and it was clean but the U joint had completely rusted. I lubricated it and the steering improved. After around a year, it happened again and I repeated it. They have an upgraded replacement part but are not recalling the defective original. Can you help?

Steering
Filed Apr 22, 2024CA

The universal joint is stiff and turning vehicle is more difficult than normal

Electrical System
Filed Apr 15, 2024CA

The contact owns a 2017 Tesla Model X. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V838000 (Electrical System) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was not contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.

Steering
Filed Apr 10, 2024CA

The steering has squeaking noise and cause the car every hard to turn. when trying to turning the car, the steering wheel will cause the car go another direction. This issue seems on tesla forums. I replaced control arms in august 2022 and I replaced again in April 2024.

Complaints 1-50 of 268, newest first, reproduced as filed.

Across model years

Worst on record: 2016
YearComplaintsRecallsFiresDeathsAssessment
20268000Routine
202516300Routine
202427800Routine
20231951720Routine
20221292220Routine
2021412400Routine
20201281000Routine
2019102830Routine
2018193920Routine
2017 — this page2681012Fatalities reported
20164521241Fatalities reported
20150200Routine

Compare every Model X year →

Reading this record

2 deaths reported in complaints filed with NHTSA.

Complaint counts track how many cars were sold and how long they have been on the road as much as they track quality. A common model from 2013 has had a decade to accumulate reports; a rare one from last year has not. The signal worth weighing is in the severity columns, in whether the same component keeps appearing, and in whether the manufacturer eventually opened a recall for it.

Recall repairs are free for as long as the recall stands. Check whether a specific car still has open work at NHTSA's VIN lookup.

Most recent recall on file: May 28, 2024. Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation.