Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2017 Tesla Model S
The 2017 Tesla Model S shows a substantial number of owner complaints and recall campaigns, notably in suspension, electrical systems, and forward collision avoidance. While these issues are documented, the frequency is not detailed, making personal inspection crucial. Prospective buyers should take note of these potential issues and inquire about any past repairs or updates. Given the range of complaints, a thorough test drive is essential to assess vehicle condition.
NHTSA data on file today
The 2017 Tesla Model S has 9 NHTSA recall campaigns and 395 owner complaints on file as of . Recall data is refreshed daily from NHTSA.
Recall campaigns on file
- NHTSA #24V376000 Seat Belt Warning System Malfunction/FMVSS 208 NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #24V051000 Incorrect Font Size on Warning Lights/FMVSS 105 NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #23V838000 Autopilot Controls Insufficient to Prevent Misuse NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #23V085000 Full Self-Driving Software May Cause Crash NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #22V818000 Loss of Power Steering Assist NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #22V037000 Vehicle May Fail to Stop at Stop Sign NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #21V00B000 Front Trunk Hood May Open Unexpectedly/FMVSS 113 NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #21V846000 Unexpected Activation of Automatic Emergency Brake NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #21V035000 Center Display Can Lose Rearview Camera Image NHTSA notice
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Electrical System 104 complaints
- Suspension 104 complaints
- Unknown or Other 91 complaints
- Forward Collision Avoidance 57 complaints
- Steering 42 complaints
- Vehicle Speed Control 35 complaints
Of the 395 complaints on file, 47 report a crash and 4 a fire; across all 395 complaints, owners report 22 injuries (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Known issues to inspect
Premature wear
How to check: Inspect for uneven tire wear and listen for noises when driving.
Infotainment failures
How to check: Test all infotainment and instrument panel functions.
Loss of power assist
How to check: Turn the steering wheel at low speeds for stiffness.
Forward collision errors
How to check: Test the collision avoidance system by simulating near obstacles.
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Listen for abnormal noises from suspension or steering.
Red flag: Unusual knock or grind noises
- 02
Initial acceleration
What to check: Ensure smooth power delivery without lag.
Red flag: Power hesitation or lurching
- 03
Cruising at speed
What to check: Check electronic displays for clarity and function.
Red flag: Any screen glitches or failures
- 04
Braking
What to check: Apply brakes gently and firmly for response.
Red flag: Brake pedal vibration or noise
- 05
Turning at low speed
What to check: Feel for steering stiffness or clunks.
Red flag: Heavy or unresponsive steering
- 06
Parking maneuvers
What to check: Ensure ADAS systems work without false alarms.
Red flag: Frequent, incorrect warnings
- 07
Electronic feature test
What to check: Operate all electronic systems including lights and wipers.
Red flag: Inoperative or malfunctioning features
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Has the suspension been serviced?
- Any major electrical repairs done?
- Have any recall campaigns been performed?
- Are there any unresolved NHTSA complaints?
- How often has the Autopilot been used?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Service and repair records
- Full recall work history
- Original purchase invoice
- Battery health report
- Autopilot update records
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2017 Tesla Model S at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
Looking at a specific 2017 Tesla Model S? Check the actual car
This checklist covers the model. From your free try.vin dashboard you can go further — paste the seller's listing for a deal score, or drop their photos for an AI condition report.