Makes›Tesla›Model S›2021

2021 Tesla Model S

Trims, performance, features, fuel economy, safety and known problems — with the pros and cons against similar 2021 models.

Tesla Model S
Pictured: Tesla Model S (Facelift ab 04-2016) (cropped). Photo: Peteratkins, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Class
Large Cars
Body styles
4dr Sedan AWD
Engines
Electric motor
Transmission
1-speed automatic
Drivetrain
All-Wheel Drive
Seats
5
Fuel
EV
EV range
405 mi · 14.7 h on 240 V
Length
195.7 in
Curb weight
4,969 lb
NHTSA rating
Not rated
Recalls
23 campaigns

Pros & cons

What's good

  • Long EV rangeUp to 405 miles on a charge (EPA).
  • Lots of standard safety tech5 of 5 key driver aids standard on the versions we checked.

Watch out for

  • Many owner complaints179 complaints filed with NHTSA versus about 3 for similar models — most often about the steering.
  • 23 recallsMore than similar models (about 4). Confirm repairs with the VIN.

Calculated from EPA, NHTSA and vPIC data against 27 similar 2021 models — not a review. How we calculate this →

Overview

The 2021 Tesla Model S is a large car powered by electricity and all-wheel drive.

It measures about 196 inches long and 77 inches wide on a 117-inch wheelbase, with a curb weight of roughly 4,969 lb.

The electric version has an EPA-rated range of up to 405 miles and takes about 14.7 hours to charge on a 240-volt Level 2 charger.

NHTSA has not published a 5-Star overall rating for this model year.

It has 23 recall campaigns on file and owners have filed 179 complaints with NHTSA since 2015, most often about the unknown or other.

What changed for 2021

No changes to engines, powertrains, drivetrains, size, EPA ratings or NHTSA crash rating compared with the 2020 Model S — a carry-over year in the data.

Compared with 2020; trim, feature and price changes aren't covered. See the 2020 Model S →

Trims, performance & features

Powertrain–Electric motor
Transmission1-speed automatic
DriveAWD/4WD
Seating5 seats · 2 rows

Safety & driver-assist features

Automatic emergency brakingStandard
Pedestrian emergency brakingStandard
Forward collision warningStandard
Blind-spot monitoringStandard
Rear cross-traffic alertStandard
Lane departure warningStandard
Lane keeping assistStandard
Lane centeringStandard
Adaptive cruise controlStandard
Parking assistOptional
Backup cameraStandard
Automatic high beamsStandard
Keyless startStandard
LED headlightsYes

Built in: Fremont, California

NHTSA vPIC, as reported by the manufacturer for 4 2021 Model S configurations; may not list every trim. How we calculate this →

Dimensions & weight

BodyLengthWidthHeightWheelbaseTrack F / RCurb weightWeight F/R
4dr Sedan AWD195.7 in77.2 in56.7 in116.5 in65.4 / 66.9 in4,969 lb51/49

Transport Canada CVS (Open Government Licence – Canada), Canadian-market figures.

Will it fit your garage? Check with your measurements →

Engines, MPG & running costs

VersionEngineTransmissionDriveCity / Hwy / Combvs. classFuel / yrCO₂ g/mi
Model S Long Range EV179 and 186 kW AC 3-PhaseAutomatic (A1)All-Wheel Drive405 mi · 28.1799 kWh/100mi–$650–
Model S Performance (19in Wheels) EV149 and 276 kW AC 3-PhaseAutomatic (A1)All-Wheel Drive387 mi · 30.569 kWh/100mi–$700–
Model S Plaid (21inch wheels) EV250 and 250 kW AC 3-PhaseAutomatic (A1)All-Wheel Drive348 mi · 33.4451 kWh/100mi–$750–
Model S Performance (21in Wheels) EV149 and 276 kW AC 3-PhaseAutomatic (A1)All-Wheel Drive334 mi · 35.2475 kWh/100mi–$800–
10/10EPA fuel economy score (best version)
10/10EPA greenhouse gas score
Save $8,750Fuel over 5 years vs. average new car
24.1 MPG2021 Large Cars average

EPA estimates; "vs. class" is combined MPG against the 2021 EPA class average. How we calculate this →

Safety ratings & technology

VersionOverallFrontalDriver / passengerSideSide poleRolloverRollover risk
2021 Tesla Model S 5 HB AWDNot ratedNot rated–★ / –★Not ratedNot rated★★★★★5.7%
StandardElectronic stability control
StandardForward collision warning
StandardLane departure warning

Similar 2021 large cars

ModelBest MPG / rangeNHTSA overallRecalls
2021 Tesla Model S (this car)405 miNot rated23
2021 BMW 5 Series28 MPGNot rated0
2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class26 MPG★★★★★0
2021 Audi A428 MPGNot rated4
2021 Mercedes-Benz C-Class27 MPGNot rated0
2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class24 MPGNot rated0
2021 Audi A626 MPG★★★★★12

Recalls (23)

Back Over Prevention › Software · May 4, 2026

NHTSA campaign 26V283000 · 218,868 vehicles

Problem
Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2017, 2021-2023 Model 3, 2020-2023 Model Y, 2021-2023 Model S, and Model X vehicles operating software version 2026.8.6. The rearview camera image may be delayed when the vehicle is placed in reverse. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
Risk
A delayed rearview image reduces the driver's view behind the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix
Tesla has released an over-the-air (OTA) software update, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 3, 2026. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-26-00-001.
Air Bags · Mar 19, 2025

NHTSA campaign 25V172000 · 91 vehicles

Problem
Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2021-2024 Model S and 2021-2025 Model X vehicles. An air bag with the incorrect horn pad may have been installed, preventing the horn from sounding.
Risk
An inoperative horn may prevent the driver from alerting other drivers, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix
Tesla service will inspect and install an air bag with the correct horn pad as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed May 20, 2025. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-25-20-001.
Air Bags › Frontal › Driver Side › Cushion · Dec 23, 2024

NHTSA campaign 24V967000 · 487 vehicles

Problem
Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2021-2025 Model S and Model X vehicles. The driver's air bag could tear during deployment. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) numbers 208, "Occupant Crash Protection" and 212, "Windshield Mounting."
Risk
A torn air bag may not adequately protect an occupant in a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
Fix
Tesla service will replace the air bag assembly, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed February 21, 2025. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-24-20-001.
Electrical System › Software · Jul 24, 2024

NHTSA campaign 24V554000 · 1,849,638 vehicles

Problem
Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2021-2024 Model 3, Model S, Model X, and 2020-2024 Model Y vehicles. The hood latch assembly may fail to detect an unlatched hood condition after the hood has been opened.
Risk
An unlatched hood can fully open, obstructing the driver's view and increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix
Tesla has released an over-the-air (OTA) software update, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 24, 2024. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-24-00-012.
Seat Belts › Front › Warning Light/Devices · May 28, 2024

NHTSA campaign 24V376000 · 125,233 vehicles

Problem
Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2012-2024 Model S, 2015-2024 Model X, 2017-2023 Model 3, and 2020-2023 Model Y vehicles. In the event of an unbelted driver, the seat belt warning light and audible chime may not activate as intended. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."
Risk
A seat belt warning system that fails to alert occupants of an unbelted seat belt can increase the risk of injury during a crash.
Fix
Tesla will release an over-the-air (OTA) software update. Owner notification letters were mailed July 26, 2024. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-24-00-008.
Electrical System › Software · Feb 27, 2024

NHTSA campaign 24V153000 · 6,557 vehicles

Problem
Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2013, 2018-2021 Model S, 2020-2021 Model X, 2018-2022 Model 3, and 2020-2022 Model Y vehicles. A factory reset muted the Pedestrian Warning System (PWS) sounds. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 141, "Minimum Sound Requirements for Hybrid and Electric Vehicles."
Risk
Pedestrians may be unaware of an approaching vehicle if the PWS sounds are muted, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix
Tesla released an over-the-air (OTA) software update, release 2023.44.30.14, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 27, 2024. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-24-00-006.
Electrical System › Instrument Cluster/Panel · Jan 30, 2024

NHTSA campaign 24V051000 · 2,193,869 vehicles

Problem
Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2012-2023 Model S, 2016-2024 Model X, 2017-2023 Model 3, 2019-2024 Model Y, and 2024 Cybertruck vehicles. An incorrect font size is displayed on the instrument panel for the Brake, Park, and Antilock Brake System (ABS) warning lights. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 105, "Hydraulic and Electric Brake Systems" and 135, "Light Vehicle Brake Systems."
Risk
Warning lights with a smaller font size can make critical safety information on the instrument panel difficult to read, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix
Tesla began releasing an over-the-air (OTA) software update, free of charge. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-24-00-003.
Electrical System › Adas › Driver Monitoring › Software · Dec 12, 2023

NHTSA campaign 23V838000 · 2,031,220 vehicles

Problem
Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling 2012-2023 Model S, 2016-2023 Model X, 2017-2023 Model 3, and 2020-2023 Model Y vehicles equipped with all versions of Autosteer leading up to the version(s) that contains the recall remedy. In certain circumstances when Autosteer is engaged, the prominence and scope of the feature's controls may not be sufficient to prevent driver misuse of the SAE Level 2 advanced driver-assistance feature.
Risk
In certain circumstances when Autosteer is engaged, and the driver does not maintain responsibility for vehicle operation and is unprepared to intervene as necessary or fails to recognize when Autosteer is canceled or not engaged, there may be an increased risk of a crash.
Fix
Tesla will release an over-the-air (OTA) software update, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed February 10, 2024. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-23-00-008.
Steering › Steering Wheel/Handle Bar · Nov 3, 2023

NHTSA campaign 23V743000 · 194 vehicles

Problem
Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2021-2024 Model S and Model X vehicles. An incorrect air bag may have been installed when the steering yoke or round steering wheel was replaced with a different style of yoke or steering wheel.
Risk
An air bag that is not designed to function with the replacement steering yoke or wheel may deploy incorrectly, increasing the risk of injury during a crash.
Fix
Tesla Service will inspect and replace the driver air bag as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 2, 2024. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-23-20-005.
Seat Belts › Front · Jul 14, 2023

NHTSA campaign 23V488000 · 15,869 vehicles

Problem
Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2021-2023 Model S and Model X vehicles. The front-row seat belts may not be connected properly to the pretensioner anchors, which can cause the seat belts to detach.
Risk
A detached seat belt may not properly restrain an occupant during a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
Fix
Tesla Service will inspect the front-row seat belts and connect the seat belts to pretensioner anchors, or replace the seat belt assemblies, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 12, 2023. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-23-20-004.
Steering › Automated/Adaptive Steering · Feb 15, 2023

NHTSA campaign 23V085000 · 362,758 vehicles

Problem
Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2016-2023 Model S, Model X, 2017-2023 Model 3, and 2020-2023 Model Y vehicles equipped with Full Self-Driving Beta (FSD Beta) software or pending installation.  The FSD Beta system may allow the vehicle to act unsafe around intersections, such as traveling straight through an intersection while in a turn-only lane, entering a stop sign-controlled intersection without coming to a complete stop, or proceeding into an intersection during a steady yellow traffic signal without due caution. In addition, the system may respond insufficiently to changes in posted speed limits or not adequately account for the driver's adjustment of the vehicle's speed to exceed posted speed limits.
Risk
FSD Beta software that allows a vehicle to exceed speed limits or travel through intersections in an unlawful or unpredictable manner increases the risk of a crash.
Fix
Tesla will release an over-the-air (OTA) software update, free of charge.  Owner notification letters were mailed April 15, 2023.  Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752.  Tesla's number for this recall is SB-23-00-001.
Steering › Electric Power Assist System · Nov 1, 2022

NHTSA campaign 22V818000 · 40,168 vehicles

Problem
Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2017-2021 Model S and Model X vehicles. The electronic power assist steering (EPAS) system may experience a loss of power steering assist when driving on rough roads or after hitting a pothole.
Risk
A loss of power steering assist can require greater steering effort, especially at low speeds, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix
Tesla has released an over-the-air (OTA) software update to recalibrate the EPAS system, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 31, 2022. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-22-00-014.
Visibility › Power Window Devices And Controls · Sep 19, 2022

NHTSA campaign 22V702000 · 1,096,762 vehicles

Problem
Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2017-2022 Model 3, 2020-2022 Model Y, and 2021-2022 Model S and Model X vehicles. The window automatic reversal system may not react correctly after detecting an obstruction. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 118, "Power-Operated Window Systems."
Risk
A closing window may exert excessive force by pinching a driver or passenger before retracting, increasing the risk of injury.
Fix
Tesla will perform an over-the-air (OTA) software update of the automatic window reversal system, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 31, 2032. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-22-00-013.
Equipment › Electrical › Infotainment › Video (Touch)Screen/Monitor/Unit · May 3, 2022

NHTSA campaign 22V296000 · 129,960 vehicles

Problem
Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Model S, Model X, and 2022 Model 3 and Model Y vehicles operating certain firmware releases. The infotainment central processing unit (CPU) may overheat during the preparation or process of fast-charging, causing the CPU to lag or restart.
Risk
A lagging or restarting CPU may prevent the center screen from displaying the rearview camera image, gear selection, windshield visibility control settings, and warning lights, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix
Tesla will perform an over-the-air (OTA) software update that will improve CPU temperature management, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 1, 2022. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-22-00-009.
Electrical System › Software · Apr 12, 2022

NHTSA campaign 22V235000 · 594,894 vehicles

Problem
Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Model Y, Model X, Model S, and 2017-2022 Model 3 vehicles. The Boombox function allows sounds to be played through an external speaker while the vehicle is in motion, which may obscure the Pedestrian Warning System (PWS) sounds. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 141, "Minimum Sound Requirements for Hybrid and Electric Vehicles."
Risk
Pedestrians may be unaware of an approaching vehicle if the PWS sounds are obscured, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix
Tesla will perform an over-the-air (OTA) software update that will disable the Boombox functionality when the vehicle is in Drive, Neutral and Reverse modes, including Summon and Smart Summon, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 6, 2022. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-22-00-003. Note: This recall supersedes recall 22V-063. Vehicles configured with Summon or Smart Summon and already remedied under 22V-063 will need to have the new remedy software installed.
Air Bags › Side/Window › Curtain › Inflator · Feb 23, 2022

NHTSA campaign 22V104000 · 9 vehicles

Problem
Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Model S vehicles. The right or left side curtain air bag inflators may have been assembled incorrectly.
Risk
An incorrectly assembled inflator can cause a delayed or improper deployment of the side curtain air bag, increasing the risk of injury during a crash.
Fix
Tesla Service Centers will replace the side curtain air bags, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 28, 2022. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-22-20-001.
Forward Collision Avoidance › Warnings › External/Pedestrian Alert · Feb 4, 2022

NHTSA campaign 22V063000 · 578,607 vehicles

Problem
Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Model S, Model X, Model Y, and 2017-2022 Model 3 vehicles. The Boombox function allows sounds to be played through an external speaker while the vehicle is in motion, which may obscure the Pedestrian Warning System (PWS) sounds. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 141, "Minimum Sound Requirements for Hybrid and Electric Vehicles."
Risk
Pedestrians may be unaware of an approaching vehicle if the PWS sounds are obscured, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix
Tesla will perform an over-the-air (OTA) software update that will disable the Boombox functionality when the vehicle is in Drive, Neutral and Reverse modes, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed April 5, 2022. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-22-00-003. Note: This recall has been superseded by Recall 22V-235. Tesla's number for the new recall is SB-22-00-003.
Electrical System › Software · Feb 2, 2022

NHTSA campaign 22V050000 · 26,681 vehicles

Problem
Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Model 3, Model S, Model X, and 2020-2022 Model Y vehicles. A software error may cause a valve in the heat pump to open unintentionally and trap the refrigerant inside the evaporator, resulting in decreased defrosting performance. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 103, "Windshield Defrosting and Defogging Systems."
Risk
Decreased defrosting performance may reduce the driver's visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix
Tesla will perform an over-the-air (OTA) software update, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 1, 2022. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-22-18-002.
Seat Belts › Front · Feb 1, 2022

NHTSA campaign 22V045000 · 817,143 vehicles

Problem
Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Model S and Model X, 2017-2022 Model 3, and 2020-2022 Model Y vehicles. The audible chime may not activate when the vehicle starts and the driver has not buckled their seat belt. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."
Risk
The driver may be unaware that their seat belt is not fastened, increasing the risk of injury during a crash.
Fix
Tesla will perform an over-the-air (OTA) software update, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 1, 2022. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-22-00-002.
Steering › Automated/Adaptive Steering · Jan 27, 2022

NHTSA campaign 22V037000 · 53,822 vehicles

Problem
Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2016-2022 Model S and Model X, 2017-2022 Model 3, and 2020-2022 Model Y vehicles. The "rolling stop" functionality available as part of the Full Self-Driving (Beta) software may allow the vehicle to travel through an all-way stop intersection without first coming to a stop.
Risk
Failing to stop at a stop sign can increase the risk of a crash.
Fix
Tesla will perform an over-the-air (OTA) software update that disables the "rolling stop" functionality, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 28, 2022. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-22-00-001.
Latches/Locks/Linkages › Hood › Latch · Dec 21, 2021

NHTSA campaign 21V00B000 · 130,441 vehicles

Problem
Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2014-2021 Model S vehicles. The front trunk latch assembly may be misaligned, preventing the secondary hood latch from engaging. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 113, "Hood Latch System."
Risk
If the primary latch is inadvertently released and the secondary latch is not engaged, the hood could open unexpectedly, obstructing the driver's view and increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix
Tesla Service will inspect and reposition the latch assembly as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed February 18, 2022. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-21-11-003.
Air Bags › Frontal › Driver Side › Cushion · Nov 9, 2021

NHTSA campaign 21V868000 · 7,600 vehicles

Problem
Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2021 Model X and Model S vehicles. The driver's air bag cushion may tear during deployment.
Risk
A torn air bag may not adequately protect an occupant in a crash, increasing their risk of injury.
Fix
Tesla Service will replace the driver's air bag, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 7, 2022. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-21-20-007.
Forward Collision Avoidance › Software · Oct 29, 2021

NHTSA campaign 21V846000 · 11,728 vehicles

Problem
Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2017-2021 Model S, Model 3, Model X, and 2020-2021 Model Y vehicles operating software version 2021.36.5.2. A communication error may cause false forward-collision warning (FCW) or unexpected activation of the automatic emergency brake (AEB) system.
Risk
Unexpected activation of the AEB system may cause the car to stop suddenly, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix
Tesla Service has released an over-the-air (OTA) software update, free of charge. The recall began October 25, 2021. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-21-00-004.
Check your VIN for open recalls at NHTSA ↗

Not every 2021 Tesla Model S is affected — only a VIN check confirms your car.

Owner-reported problems

179Complaints to NHTSA since 2015
13Involved a crash
2Involved a fire
5Injuries reported
6,000 miTypical mileage at failure
Unknown Or Other45
Steering29
Forward Collision Avoidance › Automatic Emergency Braking27
Forward Collision Avoidance › Adaptive Cruise Control26
Electrical System22
Service Brakes16
Suspension16
Vehicle Speed Control14
Complaints received per month (last 24 months with reports)
24/03: 324/04: 124/06: 124/07: 124/08: 124/09: 224/10: 424/11: 224/12: 525/01: 125/02: 125/04: 225/05: 125/06: 125/08: 325/10: 325/11: 225/12: 126/01: 126/03: 126/05: 226/07: 126/08: 126/09: 324/0324/0724/1025/0125/0525/1026/0126/07max 5

Unverified owner reports; best-sellers collect more.

Used 2021 Tesla Model S buyer's checklist

  1. Run the VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. 23 recalls this year — ask for proof of repairs.
  2. Steering — 29 owner reports. Turn lock-to-lock while parked and on the road; listen for noises and feel for heavy or loose steering.
  3. Forward Collision Avoidance › Automatic Emergency Braking — 27 owner reports. Make sure driver-assist systems and the backup camera work without error messages.
  4. Forward Collision Avoidance › Adaptive Cruise Control — 26 owner reports. Make sure driver-assist systems and the backup camera work without error messages.
  5. Mileage to watch. Owners typically reported problems around 6,000 miles; ask what was repaired near that point.
  6. Battery health. Ask for a battery state-of-health report, check the remaining battery warranty, and compare the displayed range at 100% charge with the EPA's 405 miles.
  7. Before you pay: service records, a history report and an independent inspection.

Generated by DecodedCars from NHTSA recalls and owner complaints for the 2021 Tesla Model S. Not a substitute for a professional inspection.

Other Model S years

Compare all years →
YearMPG (best)LengthOverallRecallsComplaints
2026 Model S410 mi195.7 inNot rated07
2025 Model S410 mi195.7 inNot rated26
2024 Model S402 mi195.7 inNot rated638
2023 Model S405 mi195.7 inNot rated13115
2022 Model S405 mi195.7 inNot rated20139
2020 Model S402 mi195.7 inNot rated1180
2019 Model S370 mi195.7 inNot rated1044
2018 Model S335 mi195.7 inNot rated11170
2017 Model S335 mi195.7 inNot rated9429
2016 Model S315 mi195.7 inNot rated10649
2015 Model S270 mi195.7 inNot rated9668
2014 Model S265 mi195.7 inNot rated9365

Sources: EPA, NHTSA, Transport Canada, Wikimedia Commons. Not affiliated with NHTSA, the EPA or Tesla. How we calculate this →