Years to avoid
Tesla Model X Years to Avoid
The 2023, 2018, 2020, 2021 model years stand out as the weakest in this Tesla Model X dataset. We only publish this page when at least four years are available and the score spread is large enough to make the comparison meaningful.
Data updated April 2026
- Weakest year
- 2023
- Model average
- 57/100
- Complaints, weakest year
- 183
- Recalls, weakest year
- 16
47/100 reliability
25-point range
16 crash · 2 fire reports
NHTSA campaigns on file
Bottom line
Why the 2023 Tesla Model X ranks last
The 2023 scores 47/100, rated mixed, versus a model average of 57/100. NHTSA data contains 183 owner complaints and 16 recall campaigns for this model year.
Its most-reported problem areas are Unknown Or Other (69), Steering (45), Electrical System (16), Structure (11). Those counts are investigation leads, not proof that every vehicle has the problem.
Inspect the full 2023 Tesla Model X record →Evidence by year
The weakest Tesla Model X model years compared
2023 Tesla Model X
- Complaints
- 183
- Recalls
- 16
- Crash reports
- 16
- Fire reports
- 2
Top issues: Unknown Or Other (69), Steering (45), Electrical System (16)
View 2023 details →2018 Tesla Model X
- Complaints
- 148
- Recalls
- 7
- Crash reports
- 24
- Fire reports
- 2
Top issues: Suspension (31), Electrical System (22), Unknown Or Other (15)
View 2018 details →2020 Tesla Model X
- Complaints
- 120
- Recalls
- 10
- Crash reports
- 17
- Fire reports
- 0
Top issues: Suspension (28), Electrical System (22), Steering (18)
View 2020 details →2021 Tesla Model X
- Complaints
- 38
- Recalls
- 23
- Crash reports
- 3
- Fire reports
- 0
Top issues: Steering (12), Unknown Or Other (7), Electrical System (6)
View 2021 details →Better alternatives
Stronger Tesla Model X years to put on your shortlist
Read this carefully
“Avoid” is a comparison signal, not a verdict on one VIN
A year qualifies here only when it trails the model average by at least five points, trails the best year by at least ten points, or falls below 60/100. The model also needs at least four scored years and a six-point spread. Age, sales volume and time on the road can affect raw complaint totals, so use the score and severity mix together.
Source trail
Where this Tesla Model X data comes from
VinExposed combines model-level research with the vehicle-specific history you get from a VIN. Reliability scores and complaint patterns come from Auto Reliability Index's Tesla Model X research, which analyzes NHTSA records and independent repair data.
Recall counts describe a model year, not the repair status of one car. Confirm the exact VIN with the official NHTSA recall lookup and a vehicle-history report before buying.
Buyer questions
Tesla Model X research FAQ
Which Tesla Model X years should I avoid?
2023, 2018, 2020, 2021 score materially below the strongest Tesla Model X years in this dataset. The 2023 is the weakest at 47/100, with 183 owner complaints and 16 recalls on file.
Does a low-scoring Tesla Model X year mean every car is bad?
No. Model-year data describes population-level patterns. A well-maintained vehicle with a clean title and completed recall work can be a better purchase than a neglected example from a higher-scoring year.
What should I buy instead of the worst Tesla Model X year?
The strongest alternatives in this dataset are 2022 (72/100), 2025 (66/100), 2024 (61/100). Compare price, mileage, equipment and the individual VIN before deciding.
Check the actual car
Model research narrows the list. The VIN confirms the car.
Check title brands, accidents, odometer history, auction records and recall status for the specific Tesla Model X you are considering.