2025 Tesla Model S VIN Check, Recalls & Reliability
The 2025 Tesla Model S has mixed reliability. There are 7 recalls and 94 owner complaints on file for the 2025 Tesla Model-S. Severity signals include 23 crash-related complaints and 2 fire-related complaints. The most commonly reported problem areas are: Electrical System (16), Unknown Or Other (14), Forward Collision Avoidance (11).
Model S reliability snapshot
Data sourced from Auto Reliability Index, aggregating NHTSA recalls, owner complaints, and RepairPal repair-cost records.
Used-car research
Research the Tesla Model S before checking the VIN
Compare model years, recurring problems, safety campaigns and market value first. Then use the VIN to verify the history of the individual car.
Most-reported 2025 Tesla Model S issues
Owner-reported problem categories from NHTSA complaint filings. Counts reflect complaints per category for the most-recent model year on file.
- Electrical System16
- Unknown Or Other14
- Forward Collision Avoidance11
- Service Brakes10
- Vehicle Speed Control6
- Steering6
Pre-purchase inspection checklist for the 2025 Tesla Model S
Hands-on checks distilled from real NHTSA complaint patterns and recall histories. Bring this list to a test drive or mechanic inspection.
- Inspect windshield for cracks, especially if defrost mode was used in cold weather
- Test all cameras and sensors for functionality, including backup and collision avoidance systems
- Check for any signs of electrical system failures, such as non-functioning screens or alerts
- Verify the operation of the Full Self-Driving system, ensuring it does not disengage unexpectedly
- Inspect tires for uneven wear due to potential suspension issues
- Test the horn to ensure it functions in wet conditions
- Ensure the vehicle does not unexpectedly shift to 'Park' during slow maneuvers
2025 Model S recalls (4)
Every NHTSA safety recall logged against the 2025 Model S. A VIN check confirms whether any recall remains unrepaired on a specific vehicle.
- BACK OVER PREVENTION, ELECTRICAL SYSTEMNHTSA 25V002000Jan 7, 2025
Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2024-2025 Model 3, Model S, 2023-2025 Model X, and Model Y vehicles. The computer circuit board may short, resulting in the loss of the rearview camera image. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 111, "Rear Visibility."
Consequence: A rearview camera that does not display an image reduces the driver's rear view, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Tesla released an over-the-air (OTA) software update, free of charge. Tesla will also identify any vehicles that experienced a circuit board failure, or stress that may lead to a circuit board failure, and replace the affected computers, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 7, 2025. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-25-00-001.
- TIRESNHTSA 24V935000Dec 17, 2024
Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2024 Cybertruck, 2017-2025 Model 3, and 2020-2025 Model Y vehicles. The tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) warning light may not remain illuminated between drive cycles, failing to warn the driver of low tire pressure. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 138, "Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems."
Consequence: Driving with improperly inflated tires increases the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Tesla released an over-the-air (OTA) software update, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed February 15, 2025. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-24-00-018.
- AIR BAGSNHTSA 24V967000Dec 24, 2024
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."
Consequence: A torn air bag may not adequately protect an occupant in a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
Remedy
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.
- AIR BAGS, ELECTRICAL SYSTEMNHTSA 25V172000Mar 19, 2025
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.
Consequence: An inoperative horn may prevent the driver from alerting other drivers, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
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.
2025 Tesla Model S on the road
9,199 2025 Tesla Model S units were sold new in the US — a key signal for the size of today's used-market inventory.
How the 2025 Tesla Model S stacks up against rivals
The most-shopped alternatives in the same segment. Each link opens a side-by-side reliability and cost comparison.
Reliability verdict for the 2025 Tesla Model S
The 2025 Tesla Model-S presents an elevated reliability risk compared to its segment peers. With a score significantly below the segment average, the Model-S faces notable challenges. The recall count is elevated, suggesting systemic issues that might affect long-term ownership satisfaction and vehicle dependability.
Complaints are broadly distributed across several critical systems, including the electrical system and forward collision avoidance, indicating potential widespread concerns rather than isolated incidents. The electrical system, in particular, stands out with the highest number of complaints, which could impact essential vehicle functions.
Given the accumulated issues in its thirteenth year of this generation, prospective buyers should be aware of the heightened reliability risks associated with the 2025 Model-S.
What you get in a 2025 Tesla Model S report
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2025 Tesla Model S — Frequently asked questions
Is the 2025 Tesla Model S reliable?
The 2025 Tesla Model-S presents an elevated reliability risk compared to its segment peers. With a score significantly below the segment average, the Model-S faces notable challenges. The recall count is elevated, suggesting systemic issues that might affect long-term ownership satisfaction and vehicle dependability.
How many recalls does the 2025 Tesla Model S have?
4 NHTSA safety recalls have been issued for the 2025 Tesla Model S. A VIN check confirms whether any remain unrepaired on a specific vehicle.
What are the most common 2025 Tesla Model S problems?
The most-reported 2025 Tesla Model S problem areas are: Electrical System (16), Unknown Or Other (14), Forward Collision Avoidance (11).
Should I run a VIN check on a 2025 Tesla Model S?
Yes. A VIN report verifies title brands, odometer history, accident records, and recall completion on a specific 2025 Tesla Model S, complementing the model-year reliability data on this page.
