Tesla Model X I (2015 – 2021)

Reliability score : 6.8/10

IMPORTANT CLARIFICATION: There is no diesel engine (nor any internal combustion engine) for the Tesla Model X. It has been a 100% electric vehicle (BEV) since its launch. The first-generation Tesla Model X is a large luxury family SUV, famous for its articulated rear doors known as "Falcon Wing" doors, its giant panoramic windshield, and its blistering acceleration. While it revolutionized the electric SUV segment with its range, its Supercharger network, and its over-the-air (OTA) updates, it was also plagued by major early production flaws. Its extremely complex design (motorized doors, onboard electronics) led to numerous reliability issues on the early model years (2016-2018). The "Raven" technical update (mid-2019) greatly improved efficiency and suspension comfort.

✅ Strengths

Integrated and ultra-reliable Tesla Supercharger network
Onboard space (available in 5, 6, or 7 seats) and cargo volume
Over-the-air (OTA) software updates that evolve the car
Extraordinary performance and acceleration for an SUV of this size
Panoramic windshield offering unique visibility

⚠️ Weaknesses

Disastrous reliability of the Falcon doors on early model years (sensors, seals, motors)
Premature wear of front half-shafts (vibrations under acceleration)
Central screen (MCU1) failure on pre-2018 models (eMMC chip)
Inconsistent assembly quality (body panel alignment, rattles)
Cost of out-of-warranty repairs (very expensive specific parts)

🎯 Verdict

The Tesla Model X is a spectacular vehicle, but its mechanical and electronic reliability in the early years (2016-2018) falls far below luxury standards. The Falcon doors are a source of costly breakdowns, as are the front half-shafts and the MCU1 screen. It is imperative to avoid the 90D models (battery degradation) and favor the 100D versions. The best choice remains a "Raven" version (mid-2019 to 2021), which is much more refined, efficient, and reliable. Ensure that hardware recalls have been performed and that the battery/motor warranty (8 years, unlimited mileage or 240,000 km depending on the year) is still active.

Common issues

Problèmes des portes Falcon Wing (FWD) : capteurs, moteurs, alignement, infiltration d'eau. Medium

🔧 Variable, souvent dès les premières années d'utilisation

💶 1 000 – 3 000 € par porte (peut varier fortement)

Vérifier le bon fonctionnement et l'absence de bruits ou blocages.

Défaillance de la suspension pneumatique : compresseur, capteurs de niveau ou amortisseurs. Medium

🔧 80 000 – 150 000 km

💶 1 500 – 3 000 € par essieu

Tester les différents modes de suspension et écouter les bruits anormaux.

Défaillance de l'unité de contrôle multimédia (MCU) / eMMC : usure de la mémoire flash. High

🔧 50 000 – 150 000 km (souvent avant 8 ans)

💶 1 000 – 2 000 € (si hors rappel/garantie)

S'assurer que le rappel a été effectué ou que l'unité a été remplacée.

Problèmes de système de climatisation (HVAC) : fuites du condenseur ou du compresseur. Low

🔧 60 000 – 120 000 km

💶 600 – 1 200 €

Vérifier le bon fonctionnement de la climatisation et l'absence de bruits.

Estimated maintenance costs

Complete brakes	£220 – 480 (less frequent due to regenerative braking)
Estimated annual budget	£300 – 650 (includes tyres, cabin filters, brake fluid, inspections)

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