2021 Model S — Known Failures, Repairs & Fixes
Refresh + Plaid BUY
Range~405 mi
MCUMCU3 Ryzen
WheelYoke (round later)
DoorsPush-button
- 1 Window regulator / door
- 2 A-pillar trim
- 3 Heat pump · 12V
What changed
- Complete interior redesign: 17-inch landscape screen, rear screen, new materials.
- Plaid tri-motor (~1,020 hp); heat pump; MCU3 (AMD Ryzen).
- Auto-presenting push-button doors eliminate the old retractable-handle failure mode.
Known issues
- Yoke steering wheel divisive (round option came later).
- Early-refresh trim/panel and software bugs.
- Very limited used inventory.
Recalls
- Window auto-reversal recall (Sept 2022, incl. 2021–2022 S) — free OTA.
Repairs & fixes
- Yoke dislike Retrofit a round steering wheel (Tesla kit; aftermarket exists). Partial
- Auto-presenting door glitches Software updates; service realigns/recalibrates the door if needed. Partial
- Early-refresh rattles/trim Felt tape and trim reseating. DIY
- Window auto-reversal recall Free OTA update. Free OTA
Verdict
The best Model S ever made. If you can find one used in budget, buy.
References & further reading
- Model S recalls (cars.com) ↗
- NHTSA recall lookup — enter your VIN ↗
- Recharged: Model S common problems & fixes ↗