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The Hidden Costs of Buying a Cheap Used Tesla Model S
Buying a used Tesla Model S might seem like a smart move, but many owners have found out the hard way that these vehicles can become financial headaches. While Tesla’s cutting-edge technology is appealing, older models—especially pre-2016 Model S cars—can come with frequent and expensive problems.
Common Model S Problems and Errors:
1. Battery Degradation:
Issue: Reduced range and performance over time.
Cost: Replacing a Tesla battery can cost between $12,000 and $20,000.
Tip: Check the battery health before purchasing. Early models (2012-2015) are particularly prone to faster degradation.
2. MCU (Media Control Unit) Failure:
Issue: The touchscreen freezes, becomes unresponsive, or shuts down completely. This is due to the eMMC chip wearing out.
Cost: $1,500 - $2,000 to replace or upgrade the MCU.
Sign: Slow touchscreen response or frequent rebooting.
3. Suspension Problems:
Issue: Worn-out control arms, ball joints, and air suspension failures.
Cost: Repairs can range from $3,000 to $5,000.
Sign: Clunking noises when driving over bumps.
4. Door Handle Failures:
Issue: The retractable door handles can stop working, preventing entry.
Cost: $500 per handle to replace.
Sign: Handles not presenting when you approach the car.
5. Drive Unit and Motor Issues:
Issue: The drivetrain can fail, resulting in loss of power or loud noises.
Cost: $5,000 to $7,000 if out of warranty.
Sign: Whining noise from the rear or power loss during acceleration.
6. Charging Problems:
Issue: Charging ports and onboard chargers can fail, preventing the car from charging.
Cost: $1,000 to $3,000 for charger replacement.
Sign: Slow charging or inability to charge.
7. HVAC (Heating and Cooling) Failures:
Issue: Heating and cooling issues, especially in extreme weather.
Cost: $1,500+ to repair the AC compressor.
Sign: Weak airflow or no climate control.
8. Autopilot and Sensor Failures:
Issue: Autopilot sensors and cameras may fail or require recalibration.
Cost: $1,000+ for sensor replacement.
Sign: Autopilot errors or lane-keeping failure.
Why These Repairs Add Up Fast:
Frequent Issues: Many of these problems can happen simultaneously, creating a compounding financial burden.
Tesla Service Costs: Tesla repairs are often pricier than traditional automakers, and parts are specialized.
Limited DIY Repairs: Tesla’s proprietary systems make it difficult for independent shops to perform repairs, forcing owners to rely on Tesla’s service network.
If you’re set on a used Tesla Model S:
Buy a Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) Tesla with a warranty.
Check Service Records to ensure major components (battery, MCU, suspension) have been replaced or upgraded.
Avoid Early Models (2012-2015) unless they’ve had extensive refurbishment.
Sometimes, spending more upfront for a newer or CPO Tesla can save you thousands in the long run. If you’re looking at older used models, just be prepared—that “deal” could turn into a money pit fast.
Buying a used Tesla Model S might seem like a smart move, but many owners have found out the hard way that these vehicles can become financial headaches. While Tesla’s cutting-edge technology is appealing, older models—especially pre-2016 Model S cars—can come with frequent and expensive problems.
Common Model S Problems and Errors:
1. Battery Degradation:
Issue: Reduced range and performance over time.
Cost: Replacing a Tesla battery can cost between $12,000 and $20,000.
Tip: Check the battery health before purchasing. Early models (2012-2015) are particularly prone to faster degradation.
2. MCU (Media Control Unit) Failure:
Issue: The touchscreen freezes, becomes unresponsive, or shuts down completely. This is due to the eMMC chip wearing out.
Cost: $1,500 - $2,000 to replace or upgrade the MCU.
Sign: Slow touchscreen response or frequent rebooting.
3. Suspension Problems:
Issue: Worn-out control arms, ball joints, and air suspension failures.
Cost: Repairs can range from $3,000 to $5,000.
Sign: Clunking noises when driving over bumps.
4. Door Handle Failures:
Issue: The retractable door handles can stop working, preventing entry.
Cost: $500 per handle to replace.
Sign: Handles not presenting when you approach the car.
5. Drive Unit and Motor Issues:
Issue: The drivetrain can fail, resulting in loss of power or loud noises.
Cost: $5,000 to $7,000 if out of warranty.
Sign: Whining noise from the rear or power loss during acceleration.
6. Charging Problems:
Issue: Charging ports and onboard chargers can fail, preventing the car from charging.
Cost: $1,000 to $3,000 for charger replacement.
Sign: Slow charging or inability to charge.
7. HVAC (Heating and Cooling) Failures:
Issue: Heating and cooling issues, especially in extreme weather.
Cost: $1,500+ to repair the AC compressor.
Sign: Weak airflow or no climate control.
8. Autopilot and Sensor Failures:
Issue: Autopilot sensors and cameras may fail or require recalibration.
Cost: $1,000+ for sensor replacement.
Sign: Autopilot errors or lane-keeping failure.
Why These Repairs Add Up Fast:
Frequent Issues: Many of these problems can happen simultaneously, creating a compounding financial burden.
Tesla Service Costs: Tesla repairs are often pricier than traditional automakers, and parts are specialized.
Limited DIY Repairs: Tesla’s proprietary systems make it difficult for independent shops to perform repairs, forcing owners to rely on Tesla’s service network.
If you’re set on a used Tesla Model S:
Buy a Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) Tesla with a warranty.
Check Service Records to ensure major components (battery, MCU, suspension) have been replaced or upgraded.
Avoid Early Models (2012-2015) unless they’ve had extensive refurbishment.
Sometimes, spending more upfront for a newer or CPO Tesla can save you thousands in the long run. If you’re looking at older used models, just be prepared—that “deal” could turn into a money pit fast.