Tesla Model S I (2012 – 2021)

Reliability score : 6.8/10

The first-generation Tesla Model S (2012-2021) is a 100% electric luxury sedan that revolutionized the automotive industry. Before the major interior refresh in 2021 (introduction of the Yoke steering wheel and Plaid/Palladium versions), it underwent several significant evolutions: an exterior facelift in 2016 (removal of the fake black grille) and a major 'Raven' technical update in 2019 (new variable reluctance motors at the front, adaptive air suspension). Although it offers ballistic performance, benchmark range, and access to the Supercharger network, early model years (2012-2015) suffered from serious teething problems (motors, screens, door handles). Reliability greatly improved from 2017 onwards, making the 100D and 'Raven' versions much safer choices.

✅ Strengths

Real-world range and efficiency (especially post-2017 and Raven)
Integrated and reliable Tesla Supercharger network
Exceptional acceleration performance
Over-the-air (OTA) software updates that slow down car aging
Gigantic interior space (rear hatchback trunk + large front 'Frunk' trunk)
Free lifetime Supercharging (SC01) transferable on some models before March 2017

⚠️ Weaknesses

Disastrous reliability of early model years (2012-2015)
Assembly and finish quality unworthy of the luxury segment (body panel alignment, parasitic noises)
Very imposing size (2.20m wide with mirrors) poorly suited for European cities
Cost of out-of-warranty repairs (Tesla proprietary parts, high hourly rate)
Premature wear of running gear (suspension arms, control arms) due to weight (>2.1 tons)

🎯 Verdict

Purchasing a first-generation Tesla Model S requires great caution. Models from 2012 to 2015 (especially the 85 and P85) are to be avoided unless there is a clear history proving recent replacement of the battery, motor (LDU), and screen (MCU2). However, from 2017 onwards (100D versions) and especially the 'Raven' versions (2019-2021), the Model S becomes a formidable and reliable electric road car. The current depreciation makes the 75D and 100D versions very attractive, but keep a budget aside for the running gear and door handles.

Common issues

Défaillance de l'unité de contrôle multimédia (MCU) due à l'usure de la puce eMMC High

🔧 80 000 – 150 000 km (ou 5-8 ans)

💶 1 500 – 2 500 € (hors garantie/rappel)

Vérifier si le véhicule a bénéficié du remplacement ou de la mise à niveau de la MCU.

Défaillance du mécanisme des poignées de porte rétractables Medium

🔧 50 000 – 120 000 km

💶 300 – 600 € par poignée

Tester toutes les poignées avant l'achat, vérifier leur fluidité et réactivité.

Défaillance prématurée de la batterie auxiliaire 12V Medium

🔧 40 000 – 80 000 km (ou 3-5 ans)

💶 200 – 400 €

Remplacer préventivement tous les 3-4 ans pour éviter l'immobilisation inattendue.

Problèmes de suspension pneumatique (fuites, compresseur, capteurs) High

🔧 100 000 – 180 000 km

💶 1 000 – 3 000 € (selon le composant défaillant)

Écouter les bruits anormaux, vérifier l'assiette du véhicule à l'arrêt et en roulant.

Estimated maintenance costs

Complete brakes	£350 – 750 (pads and rotors front/rear)
Estimated annual budget	£280 – 550

Indicative estimates (independent garage, UK market). Prices vary by region and year.