CarRecallWatchThe 2016 Tesla Model S has 10 safety recalls on file with NHTSA.
Owners have filed 650 complaints with NHTSA, including 92 crashes, 12 fires, 64 injuries.
The most-reported problem area is Suspension (211 reports).
2016 Tesla Model S recalls
Seat belt warning may not sound for unbelted driver
Some Tesla Model S, Model X, Model 3 and Model Y vehicles may have a seat belt warning light and chime that do not activate as intended when the driver is unbelted.
Dashboard brake and ABS warning text too small to read easily
The instrument panel on these Tesla vehicles displays the Brake, Park, and Antilock Brake System (ABS) warning lights in an incorrect font size.
Driver Misuse Risk With Autosteer Driver-Assist Feature
This recall covers vehicles with Autosteer, an SAE Level 2 driver-assistance feature.
Software may let vehicle run intersections or exceed speed limits
Certain Tesla Model S, Model X, Model 3 and Model Y vehicles equipped with Full Self-Driving Beta software, or with that software pending installation, may act unsafely around intersections.
Vehicles May Roll Through All-Way Stops, Raising Crash Risk
Certain Tesla vehicles equipped with the Full Self-Driving (Beta) software may allow the "rolling stop" function to take the vehicle through an all-way stop intersection without first coming to a complete stop.
Hood May Open Unexpectedly While Driving
The front trunk (frunk) latch assembly on certain Model S vehicles may be misaligned.
Center Display Can Fail, Losing Rearview Camera and Turn Signals
The center display's storage memory can wear out over time.
Passenger Airbag Inflator May Explode, Injuring Occupants
The passenger-side frontal airbag inflator in these vehicles can rupture when the airbag deploys in a crash.
Steering Assist May Fail, Making Steering Harder
The aluminum bolts that attach the power steering assist motor to the steering gear housing can corrode and fracture.
Parking brake gear may break, risking vehicle rollaway
The electric parking brake calipers may contain an internal gear that was not manufactured properly, so the gear can fracture when the parking brake is applied or released.
Most common 2016 Tesla Model S problems
Problem areas named in the 650 complaints owners filed with NHTSA.
| Problem area | Reports |
|---|---|
| Suspension | 211 |
| Unknown Or Other | 150 |
| Electrical System | 150 |
| Steering | 87 |
| Vehicle Speed Control | 81 |
| Service Brakes | 53 |
| Forward Collision Avoidance | 50 |
| Exterior Lighting | 49 |
| Structure | 30 |
| Visibility/Wiper | 26 |
What owners report
The contact owns a 2016 Tesla Model S. The contact stated that while driving 30 MPH, the parking brake independently activated, causing the driverâs side rear tire to become flat. The parking brake warning light was illuminated. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 110,000.
In October 2026, my 2016 Tesla Model S experienced a sudden structural failure of the left front suspension fore link while driving on Highway 101. The fore link fractured at its connection to the steering knuckle, allowing the front wheel to shift rearward and become lodged against the wheel-well liner. This made it difficult to turn the steering wheel, substantially impairing my ability to control the vehicle. I was able to maneuver the vehicle onto the highway shoulder, but the failure created a serious risk of a collision. There were no dashboard warnings or error messages before the failure. I had previously noticed abnormal noises and vibration from the front suspension. The vehicle h
Rear left control arm failed while driving causing loss of steering and suspension
I am requesting help with a very common issue on Tesla Model S and X vehicles that they refuse to extend warranty to repair. The rear drive motor on all performance models made from 2012-2020 have a very common issue of a faulty internal factory seal that should prevent liquid coolant from entering the electric rear drive motor and destroying it. I received 1 warning before my car shut off and stranded me at a storage facility where I had to spend the night in my hot car because the facilities gates shut and lock at 11pm and reopen at 6am. I had no way to get out of the facility and I didnât want to abandon my car with windows down and unlocked. I stayed with my vehicle until the wrecker
The doors are not opening/closing properly. I have had intermittent issues that are now more constant. When the doors unlock they do not unlatch when I pull the exterior handle. Yesterday on 9/13/26 my front drivers side door was not closing. Each time I closed it the latch released and it would pop back open slightly on its own. I had to hold it closed and eventually it stayed shut while making strange electrical sounds. Now it only opens with the interior handle, not the exterior.
2016 Tesla Model S questions
Does the 2016 Tesla Model S have any recalls?
Yes. NHTSA lists 10 safety recalls for the 2016 Tesla Model S: Seat belt warning may not sound for unbelted driver; Dashboard brake and ABS warning text too small to read easily; Driver Misuse Risk With Autosteer Driver-Assist Feature; Software may let vehicle run intersections or exceed speed limits; Vehicles May Roll Through All-Way Stops, Raising Crash Risk. Recall repairs are normally free at an authorized dealer.
What are the most common problems with the 2016 Tesla Model S?
Based on 650 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the most-reported problem areas are Suspension (211), Unknown Or Other (150), Electrical System (150).
How do I check if a recall on my 2016 Tesla Model S has been fixed?
Enter your 17-character VIN in our VIN recall check. It shows open recalls that have not been repaired on your specific vehicle. Recall repairs are normally free at an authorized dealer.