What 123 owners told NHTSA about the 2020 Tesla Model X (all Variants 7psgr)

On at least 3 separate occasions, we parked the vehicle in a lot with no cars or obstructions nearby. We attemped to open the falcon doors to get our baby out and they would not open signalling an 'obstruction'. Then we attempted to override the obstruction and it refused to override. We had to remove our baby out of the front of the vehicle. I've reached out to Tesla for over one month with zero support.

NHTSA ODI 11581687

Slowed down to make a right turn at approximately 10 mph then heard a loud pop in the rear drivers side wheel. Noticed that wheel no longer had traction. Drove another 1/4 mile to my home where the vehicle was then inspected and noticed the rear tire was not aligned with the vehicle. After further inspection, I noticed the control arm was broken in half. Brought vehicle into a Tesla Service Center and they are claiming the damage was caused by excessive force or impact.

NHTSA ODI 11580576

ON [XXX], while driving my second Tesla Model X on [XXX] from Carson City back to Reno at the speed of 79 mph on Autopilot, the same sudden loud alarming situation occurred, with 1. park Assist unavailable 2. Steering assist reduced 3. Adaptive ride control degraded 4. Traction control disabled 5. Stability control disabled 6. Lane departure avoidance features unavailable 7. Automatic emergency Braking is unavailable 8. Automatic vehicle hold disabled. I drove to s stop, the car can't park but remained in neutral gear. Can't hard reset. With my prior experience 1 month ago, I changed it into Tow mode several times, finally was able to switch into Park mode then was able to do a hard reset. When I brought in to Tesla, they said it's the SAME problem, steering rack issue. Another $5300 is gone. How can I be so unlucky to be hit with same model, different year, same problem, same driving condition and almost same place on earth, and both out of warranty and I have to pay in full? There must be manufacture defect on this!!!!!! INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ODI 11579415

I have a 2020 Model X (23k miles) and the warranty just expired 2 months ago. It suddenly developed a loud creaking in the front end. The creaking seems to be related to the movement of the suspension, but I also notice it when I turn either direction. It’s not related to braking except to the extent that the suspension is compressed slightly with braking. From research it may be the control arms and front sway bar. Apparently this is a very common issue with the Model X per Online forums. Absolutely no reason why any of those parts should be failing for everyone unless it was faulty parts/engineering. This should definitely be investigated.

NHTSA ODI 11577239

The contact owns a 2020 Tesla Model X. The contact stated that while the vehicle was plugged into the home charging station, an app message was received that indicated that the vehicle had no charging power. Upon inspection, it was discovered that the home charging station electrical cables connecting to the home had malfunctioned causing the electrical wiring to become burnt and charred. The home's electrical wiring was also damaged during the failure. The cause of the failure was not yet determined. The manufacturer and local dealer were notified of the failure, but no assistance was offered. The failure mileage was 53,000.

NHTSA ODI 11576672

On [XXX] traveling south from [XXX] to merge onto [XXX] via the on-ramp, we hit a rough patch of road with potholes/ruts at the shoulder. There was a loud bang, we felt the front of the car drop, and felt an immediate change in steering/stability. We could hear loud scraping/grinding noises, and we pulled to the shoulder as quickly as we could. At first we suspected a flat tire, however the tires were all fine. We could hear air hissing coming from under the car when the ignition was on. The vehicle was towed to a Tesla Service center. We learned that the front driver-side suspension had failed and broke through the surrounding strut tower. The vehicle was deemed a total loss and was sold at a salvage auction, however we do still have the broken part of the strut tower if needed for inspection. Our safety and that of other drivers on the road was put at risk in this event. If we had been traveling on a tighter curve or at a higher speed, we could have lost control of the vehicle and resulted in a crash. We were stranded on the side of a busy highway onramp at night when this incident occurred, which was also unsafe. UNKNOWN if the problem has been reproduced by a dealer or service center. Our understanding is that Tesla is already aware of the suspension issues. The vehicle was inspected by Tesla's Raleigh Service Center, by Erie Insurance, and by a local, Telsa-authorized Body Shop (Relentless Collision). They confirmed the suspension and strut tower failure. There were no warning lamps, messages, or other symptoms of the problem prior to or at the time of failure. After the car was towed to Tesla, a service center representative mentioned that the computer system showed a suspension failure/error message, but we explained that no such warnings came up at the time of the incident. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ODI 11576013

Just paid to replace the upper control arms and half shafts on my 2020 Tesla Model X. These repairs were required due to a very loud shudder and squeaking noise while driving. These issues came up 6 weeks after my manufacturer warranty expired. This was not the first time my vehicle required suspension related service/repairs. Just by a quick online search Tesla is well aware of these suspension issues as is NHTSA. OWNERS SHOULD NOT NEED TO PAY FOR TESLAS POOR ENGINEERING. NHTSA needs to step up and recall these vehicles and force Tesla to reimburse owners who have paid out of pocket for repairs.

NHTSA ODI 11574640

There were two issues that occurred within months of each other: 1) Power steering failed on several occasions– immediately following a service appointment in which the CV joint/half shafts were replaced and an alignment performed. Tesla implied that the intermediate shaft failed in pure coincidence; this is not the case: intermediate steering shaft failure after 40,000 miles with no warning and no impact is very highly unlikely. 2) suspension and steering components began to fail (Front Aft Suspension Link, as diagnosed by Tesla), causing excessive noise and wear on other vehicle components. Tesla was aware of the manufacturing defect prior to failure, but refused to cover the repairs under the warranty. Both issues caused difficulty steering and distractions while driving at both high and low speeds; losing power steering on the highway can be deadly. No warning signs appeared prior to the component failure in either instance, and "driver abuse" did not occur– though Tesla implies that with every concern. The car is set to the slowest acceleration and gentlest handling settings possible to maintain the longevity of the car's components. Independent mechanics not affiliated with Tesla Motors inspected the car and agreed that the failures were abnormal and not to be expected at such a low milage. The issues that began early into the warranty period were sudddenly no longer addressed once the warranty expired: a clear violation of the MMWA of 1975.

NHTSA ODI 11571675

We have taken the vehicle to Tesla service center multiple times (3 or 4) for the passenger side suspension creaking. Fore and aft links replaced as well as upper control arms. Car continues to make noise and service center stating they cannot duplicate the problem - this is happening to multiple model x.

NHTSA ODI 11570558

On [XXX] at [XXX] my 2020 Tesla Model X Long Range Plus suddenly started braking while on the highway. I was driving 75MPH to San Diego from Arizona. There was no vehicles around or in front while using the cruise control. This also has been an issue with our 2023 Tesla Model Y and previous Model 3 while driving to Las Vegas at 70MPH. I really think this is safety concern. Luckily there was vehicles behind us with all incidents that took place. I recently took the 2020 Tesla Model X on [XXX] for the issue and the technician found no issues while driving it. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ODI 11567396

On December 9th, 2023 my 2020 TESLA Model X accelerator pedal broke off while accelerating up a hill. This caused the vehicle to stop and become undrivable on a blind curve uphill. This caused a significant safety risk to me and other drivers. The vehicle had to be towed with police assistance to block traffic due to where the vehicle became inoperable. I had to pay out of pocket about $500 for the repair plus $450 in towing expenses.

NHTSA ODI 11561075

"On August 18, 2023, I was driving at 70 mph on I-95 near the 100-mile mark using Full Self-Drive. The front driver-side suspension housing cracked, causing the bottom part of the suspension to detach. This led to the front tire striking the upper part of the wheel, resulting in a tire blowout. A piece of metal from the suspension fell onto the road and hit the rear driver-side tire, causing it to also blow out. The vehicle lost control and came to a stop on the left side of the road."

NHTSA ODI 11556906

Brakes will lock up a pre collision will activate in forward and reverse when no objects are present. It is a hazard to operate the vehicle since it will randomly slam in the brakes will driving down the road or reversing out of a parking space. Also electrical issues vehicle will no longer lock or unlock

NHTSA ODI 11544306

Premature internal damage to the front half shafts causes the front end to shudder during acceleration between 0-50 mph. This shuddering is distracting and can be felt through the steering column creating a safety risk to the driver and others in the vehicle. I have had Telsa service "repair" this issue under warranty 3 times. AUG 31, 2021 went into Service Center for the Service Bulletin to be Applied to Reseal Area Around Both Front Upper Control Arm Ball Joints With Urethane (Model X) - Modify FEB 2, 2022 went into Service center for the Service Bulletin to be Applied to Inspect Vehicle, Replace Front Halfshafts, Reposition Clevis (Raven Front Drive Unit) - Remove and Replace JUL 28, 2022 went into Service Center for the Service Bulletin to be Applied to Inspect Vehicle, Replace Front Halfshafts, Reposition Clevis (Raven Front Drive Unit) - Remove and Replace I took the vehicle to Tesla for a 4th time in Aug 2023 and because the car is out of warranty they would not repair it under the Bulletin. I decided to take the vehicle to a suspension mechanic and the front axle shafts were removed and rebuilt. The left front rearward lower control arm was also removed and replaced because it was cracked.

NHTSA ODI 11542175

Loud knocking noise in acceleration, louder on left. Tesla service center says LH/RH Aft Lower Front Suspension Links and Left/Right Front Lower Fore Links need replacing. This is a known issue. Charging $3000 for repair. Although they have stated it is safe to drive. Doesn’t sound safe from what others have experienced.

NHTSA ODI 11540202

Many hard braking incidents Ignores posted speed limits Been close to being rear ended by following cars

NHTSA ODI 11538559

The vehicle's A/C system was not working as intended, noticing air is blowing very weak. The vehicle was took to tesla service center and was told that rodents had gotten into the vehicle (not sure how) and chewed wire systems and air filters. Tesla reports the damages affected a/c systems and electrical control for the vehicle including auto pilot assistant. Cost of repair was $2020.17, not covered by tesla insurance.

NHTSA ODI 11538192

I was traveling from Texas to South Carolina and unfortunately decided to take my Model X, which was a bad idea to buy after the worst experience my family had gone thru. During my trip I stopped at supercharger in Cottondale, Alabama while my car was in starting My Model X broke and couldn’t start due to some technical problem with the car (car is still in factory warranty). The called road side assistance and was shipped to service center. 2/7 I am still lingering in middle way off my home or destination. I tried calling service center but no answer and mailbox is also full couldn’t leave voicemail. After trying multiple times (15-18times) finally I was able to speak with someone. 3/7 I was told by Service Super at Fayetteville, GA that car cannot be fixed and they have not started diagnosis and I have to wait for minimum 10days. I told him my situation that I am traveling with my 2 kids ( 6yr & 8yr) and as I am in middle of my trip and not at my home town. 4/7 It’s hard for me to keep waiting for the car and ask him he can help me get the car fixed on priority giving the situation I am in. The Supervisor was not able to arrive on any agreement. I also told him to get the car fixed and ship to Texas since the car was having mechanical 5/7 problem and under factory warranty. I didn’t expect the answer what I got from Tesla service center and was told no. It’s hard to believe that Tesla didn’t care about customer service and after paying such a huge price they don’t care about its product. 6/7 I wanted to bring to Tesla attention and wanted to get some resolution. I am still here with my family and 2 young kids in Atlanta waiting for my car far away from home with zero support from Tesla. #tesla 7/7

NHTSA ODI 11536740

I drive a 2020 Tesla Model X long range plus. I bought it new and now have about 50,000 miles on it. Over the years, I have experienced quite a few phantom breaking incidents when the car was in auto pilot (self steering mode). Most of these were fairly minor in nature and not much of a concern. This July I drove the car to Colorado and back and had innumerable severe phantom breaking events. In the past the breaking would be fairly gentle and a tap on the accelerator would return the car to the preset speed. In July, the car was essentially “slamming on” the brakes and required an aggressive press of the accelerator to disengage the breaking. It felt like the car was going to come to a stop in the middle of the highway. I was cruising about 70 mph and would say that by the time I could get to the accelerator the speed would be down to about 60 mph. None of these events created any problem with other vehicles, but they were disturbing, nonetheless.

NHTSA ODI 11534627

Hello, my Tesla Model X has been bothering my family for 2 years because of the potential hidden danger of the brakes. My other vehicles have never encountered these problems. I don’t know what words to use to express my helplessness and helplessness.

NHTSA ODI 11531734

I have driven this vehicle approximately 28,000 miles. I am the original (and only) owner. When using the cruise control the car will break suddenly and aggressively for no apparent reason on the open road. This has happened more than a dozen times. I cannot say what percentage of my driving is done with adaptive cruise control functioning but I would suspect well less than 30% of the 28K miles. On several occasions I surmise it my be related to oncoming vehicles in their normal lane. Fortunately, these episodes have not resulted in any collisions to date.

NHTSA ODI 11526357

repeatedly, i have had my car brake harshly when travelling anywhere from 30-55 mph while using adaptive cruise control. there is nevere anything in the road or a car anywhere nearby to warrant a dramatic braking. the decelertion is harsh and alomst caused someone behind me to hit me on 2 occasions. i have repeatedly told Tesla about this and mostly gotten a nebulous response about "hardware" or 'software" issues and that they are working on it. This is dangerous and hurts when it unexpectedly happens!!

NHTSA ODI 11524187

Continental Cross Contact LX Sport tire on my Tesla Model X delaminated at only 15,000 miles causing extensive damage.

NHTSA ODI 11514475

There is a known issue where the ball joints in the steering column wear out prematurely (on all Tesla models) and, if not fixed, can damage the steering column. Example: https://www.reddit.com/r/TeslaModel3/comments/vwrct4/does_anyone_know_why_im_getting_a_very_loud/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=ios_app&utm_name=ioscss&utm_content=1&utm_term=4 If you just Google “Tesla steering wheel squeak,” you’ll come up with plenty of articles about it. Tesla has a tendency to hide or misrepresent ongoing problems, and use its customers as test pilots. Enough is enough!

NHTSA ODI 11514062

My Tesla Model X has 55,000 miles on it. My entire suspension has failed and was replaced. The control arms for the front left and right side have failed as well. My car has been in the shop multiple times in the last 6-8 months. Fortunately I have an extended warranty on the vehicle. But still have to pay a $200 deductible. These parts are being replaced several times.

NHTSA ODI 11513547