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Tesla Model S (all Variants): which year should you buy?

Across the 2012 to 2025 model years, the public record is strongest on the 2024 (86/100). Every year below is scored on its own NHTSA complaint and recall history. Pick the year, not just the nameplate.

Best years to target

2024 86 · 2020 83 · 2023 80

Every model year, scored

Same math for every year (how we score). A neutral Unproven or Too New stamp means too few owner reports are on file to affirm the year, not that it’s clean.

202564/100
Unproven

6 complaints · 0 recalls

202486/100
Buybest year

38 complaints · 0 recalls

202380/100
Buy

108 complaints · 0 recalls

202264/100
Caution

135 complaints · 20 recalls

202157/100
Caution

175 complaints · 24 recalls

202083/100
Buy

80 complaints · 0 recalls

201456/100
Caution

364 complaints · 9 recalls

201353/100
Caution

459 complaints · 11 recalls

201264/100
Caution

59 complaints · 8 recalls

Zeroing in on the 2024?

The full year-by-year verdict is free. When you’re ready to inspect and negotiate one specific car, the Full Report turns the 2024 Tesla Model S (all Variants)’s complaint breakdown and recall list into an inspection-ready, shareable PDF.

Recalls, complaint breakdown & inspection checklist, all in a shareable PDF

Cross-shopping a different nameplate? Compare the 2025 Tesla Model S (all Variants) head-to-head →

The fine print: each year’s verdict is computed from public NHTSA complaint and recall records for the Tesla Model S (all Variants) as a model, not for any individual car. A well-kept example of a weaker year can outlast a neglected strong one. Informational only, so always get a professional pre-purchase inspection.