i7 vs Model S

From 2019 through 2022, the upper and lower front control arms are prone to premature wear and separation, covered by NHTSA recalls 20V315 and 22V314. Symptoms include clunking or popping noises from the front suspension, uneven tire wear, and steering wheel vibration. In severe cases, the control arm can fracture, causing a sudden loss of steering control. Independent shops charge between $500 and $1,500 per control arm including parts and labor, while dealerships typically charge $1,200 to $2,500.

Phantom braking is a software defect in the Autopilot and advanced driver-assistance stack, most heavily reported on 2021 and 2022 Model S vehicles but extending across the 2019 to 2026 range. The system can apply unwarranted hard braking at highway speeds, triggered by shadows, overpasses, or oncoming traffic, creating a high risk of rear-end collisions. NHTSA opened a formal investigation into these events in 2022. Tesla typically addresses the issue through over-the-air firmware updates, so there is no direct parts cost, but resulting crashes can leave owners with insurance deductibles and higher premiums.

The 2019 Raven platform introduced a new adaptive air suspension system that has proven to be a weak point, with failures continuing into early 2021 Palladium models. Common symptoms include a 'Car Lowered' warning on the dash, the vehicle sitting unevenly, continuous compressor running, a rough or crashing ride, and in some cases an undrivable vehicle until repaired. NHTSA complaint logs document multiple air suspension failures for the 2019 and 2020 model years. Air compressor replacement typically costs $1,200 to $2,500, individual air struts run $500 to $1,000 each, and a complete system rebuild at an independent shop can reach $3,000 to $5,000.

The 2021 and early 2022 Model S came standard with the yoke-style steering wheel, which proved so unpopular that Tesla restored a round wheel option in January 2022. Owners have reported failures of the capacitive turn-signal buttons, horn, and high-beam controls, which can leave the car without functioning indicators or an audible horn at critical moments. Some of these failures are documented in NHTSA complaint records for 2021 Model S vehicles. Warranty replacement is free, but out of warranty a new wheel unit costs $1,500 to $2,500 installed.

The auxiliary 12-volt battery can fail abruptly across the entire 2019-2026 Model S lineup, often within the first two to three years of ownership and without adequate warning. This is a leading cause of roadside breakdowns because it powers the doors, frunk, infotainment system, and safety electronics; when it dies, the car can appear bricked and require a tow or emergency jump. Symptoms include a black-screened infotainment system and the inability to open doors electronically. Replacement with a standard lead-acid battery costs $300 to $700, while a lithium-ion upgrade runs $500 to $800 and lasts longer.