The documented failure patterns on used Tesla Model Ss — the mileage window where each shows up,
and what the repair typically costs at an independent shop. This is the same data NoLemon's Brief checks
against every VIN.
The main touchscreen’s memory chip wears out with age, taking the screen down — and with it the defroster controls, backup camera, and charging settings. Recall 21V-035 replaces the failing chip free; the longer-term fix is the paid MCU2 upgrade. Confirm the screen is responsive with no dark bands or random reboots, and verify recall completion by VIN.
BEFORE YOU BUY Ask for repair records covering this item. If it hasn't been addressed and the
car is in or near the mileage window, price the up to $2,500 repair into your offer — or make it the seller's problem.
2012–2015TYPICAL 0k–250k MI$9,000–$15,000
High-voltage battery pack failure out of warranty
Once past the 8-year battery warranty, older Model S packs can fail — a 'battery needs service' or BMS_a066 alert, a sudden range or charge-rate drop, or the car refusing to charge. A pack swap is the big-ticket EV risk. Ask for service records and any battery alerts, charge the car during the viewing, and check the rated range at 100%. A remanufactured or used pack runs about $9,000; a new pack from Tesla is around $15,000 with labor.
BEFORE YOU BUY Ask for repair records covering this item. If it hasn't been addressed and the
car is in or near the mileage window, price the $9,000–$15,000 repair into your offer — or make it the seller's problem.
Buying a used Model S?
Run the VIN through NoLemon free — decode, open recalls, safety ratings and complaint counts in seconds.
The full Brief adds title & salvage history, market position, and a negotiation battle card with exact prices.
