After the stunning Model S, Tesla shocked the world when they launched the Model X back in 2016, entering the SUV segment with some of the most unique features yet. Like its sedan sibling, the Model X was also deceptively quick, making it one of the fastest SUVs ever launched. However, despite the simple powertrain, the Model X suffers from some significant reliability issues, especially with its unique falcon-wing doors. The situation remains similar almost 5 years on with 5 recalls and 68 registered complaints for the 2020 model. The Model X is also going through 3 separate investigations from the NHTSA. Let’s take a comprehensive look into the reliability of the 2020 Tesla Model X and see how it compares to rivals.
2020 Tesla Model X User Complaints and Problems
Mechanical Problems
- Powertrain - One of the most common issues with the Model X is regarding its acceleration. Several owners report excessive acceleration, leading to dangerous situations.
- Steering - Reports were made about the steering being hard to control while cornering. Unexpected steering locks were also reported while driving, leading to dangerous situations.
- Suspension - Several owners have reported suspension issues including ride height problems, control arm failure, excessive noise, and vibrations. At the highest setting, shuddering was also experienced by owners.
Electrical Problems
- Electrical malfunction - The central media control unit, which controls most vehicle functions failed for some owners, while others experienced an unresponsive interface, reboots, and several other issues. Discoloration of the touchscreen was also reported.
- Doors - The complicated falcon-wing doors were problematic for several owners, ranging from issues like poor alignment and water leaks to complete failures. In some cases, the doors failed to open fully and made excessive noises while moving.
Safety Problems
- Driver Assistance Systems - With all the advanced systems on offer, several owners have reported issues, particularly with the automatic emergency braking system. The autopilot also troubled several owners with false inputs. Tesla has since issued some software updates to remedy these issues.
Exterior Problems
- Paint - Poor paint quality is another common issue reported by owners, leading to flaking, chipping, and other issues. The issue is particularly worse for black paint jobs.
2020 Tesla Model X Recalls
|
S. No |
Date |
NHTSA ID |
Issues Noticed |
Additional Remarks |
Remedy |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
1 |
29th October 2021 |
21V846000 |
Unexpected Activation Of Automatic Emergency Brake |
If the car brakes unexpectedly without any obstruction, it may increase the risk of a collision |
Tesla Service has released an over-the-air (OTA) software update, free of charge. The recall began on October 25, 2021. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-21-00-004. |
|
2 |
27th January 2022 |
22V037000 |
Vehicle May Fail to Stop at Stop Sign |
If the vehicle fails to stop at a stop sign, it will increase the risk of a crash |
Tesla will perform an over-the-air (OTA) software update that disables the "rolling stop" functionality, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on March 28, 2022. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-22-00-001. |
|
3 |
4th February 2022 |
22V063000 |
Pedestrian Warning Sound May Be Obscured |
If the warning sound is inaudible, pedestrians will be unaware of the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash. |
Tesla will perform an over-the-air (OTA) software update that will disable the Boombox functionality when the vehicle is in Drive, Neutral, and Reverse modes, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed on April 5, 2022. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-22-00-003. |
|
4 |
12th April 2022 |
22V235000 |
Pedestrian Warning Sound May Be Obscured |
If the warning sound is obscured, it may increase the risk of a crash with an unaware pedestrian |
Tesla will perform an over-the-air (OTA) software update that will disable the Boombox functionality when the vehicle is in Drive, Neutral, and Reverse modes, including Summon and Smart Summon, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on June 6, 2022. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-22-00-003. Note: This recall supersedes recall 22V-063. Vehicles configured with Summon or Smart Summon and already remedied under 22V-063 will need to have the new remedy software installed. |
|
5 |
1st November 2022 |
22V818000 |
Loss of Power Steering Assist |
If the power steering assist fails and the steering requires greater effort, it will increase the risk of a crash |
Tesla has released an over-the-air (OTA) software update to recalibrate the EPAS system, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed on December 31, 2022. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-22-00-014. |
Should you buy the 2020 Tesla Model X?
As expected with all the technology and high-tech features on offer like autopilot, the Model X is far from being the most reliable SUV in its segment. However, most of the recalls for the 2020 Tesla Model X can be done through over-the-air software updates without taking it to a dealer. The falcon-wing doors also seem less problematic on newer models. For the price, the Model X continues to suffer from build quality issues, both inside and out. Overall, if you’re planning to make the jump to an electric SUV, the Model X is still an ideal choice, considering the performance and practicality on offer. When picking a used one up, make sure the software is up to date and check for issues with the doors and suspension.