MOT Risk Index.co.uk

Tesla Model S MOT pass rate and common problems

82.0% of Tesla Model S models passed the 2024 MOT (10,782 first tests): 79.9% at the first attempt and 2.0% after a fix at the test centre (PRS), each rounded separately. About 1 in 5 failed the first attempt. For its age, it is statistically indistinguishable from normal: MOT Risk Index 97.7 (95% CI 94.1–101.4; 100 = normal).

Tesla Model S at a glance, 2024 MOT
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
MOT pass rate82.0%incl. 2.0% fixed at the test centre202410782
Passed at the first attempt79.9%all first tests202410782
MOT Risk Index (95% CI 94.1–101.4)97.7index100 = normal for its age · rank 427 of 761 (1 = fails least for its age)202410782
Biggest excess: Tyres12.9per 10010.3 same-age2019–202449990
Dangerous defects11.0per 10011.2 UK, not age-adjusted2019–202449990
Advisory items81.5per 100127.1 UK, not age-adjusted2019–202449990
strip · Tesla Model S · MOT Risk Index · 97.7 vs 100 = normal · 2024
MOT Risk Index · Tesla Model S. 0–240; 100 = normal for its age; median model 92.8 · rank 427 of 761 (1 = fails least for its age). It would rank between 391 and 473 anywhere within its 95% interval, other models held where they are. DVSA, 2024.
Tesla Model S index position among 761 models
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Rank427of 761published models, 1 = fails least for its age202410782
Best rank within its 95% interval391rankother models held where they are202410782
Worst rank within its 95% interval473rankother models held where they are202410782

Check this car by registration

Before you submit. Enter a UK registration to compare this vehicle with similar cars. We send the registration to the DVSA MOT History API, do not put it in the URL or send it to analytics, and keep any server-side cache for no more than 15 minutes. MOT history is free on GOV.UK; we do not sell it. Statistical information, not vehicle condition advice. Read how we use your data.

Download this page's numbers (CSV) · How to cite

Data release dvsa-2024-v2 (24 Sep 2026) · full dataset (v5). This model's index changed from 90.4 to 97.7 in the 24 September 2026 release, after duplicate test records were removed.

What actually fails on a Tesla Model S MOT, and how often?

Tesla Model S MOTs fail most often on tyres: 12.9 per 100 tests, against 10.3 for UK cars of the same age (2019–2024, n = 49,990).

bar · Tesla Model S · Tyres · 12.9 vs 10.3 · 2019–2024
DVSA MOT bulk data, 24 Sep 2026.
Tesla Model S: the numbers behind this answer (2019–2024)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Tyres12.9per 10010.32019–20246462
Visibility5.7per 1005.52019–20242860
Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment4per 1004.62019–20241994
Suspension3.6per 1005.42019–20241804
Brakes2.1per 1004.22019–20241044
Body, chassis, structure1.3per 1000.62019–2024627

Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2019–2024 · n = 49,990 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

Tyres, brakes and suspension: how does the Tesla Model S compare with cars of the same age?

The biggest excess for the Tesla Model S is tyres at age 7: 9.6 failures per 100 tests, against 6.0 for same-age cars of comparable models (2019–2024, n = 6,754).

bullet · Tesla Model S · Tyres, age 3 · 6.9 vs 4.2 · 2019–2024
Tyres, age 3: 6.9 vs 4.2. Brakes, age 3: 0.3 vs 1.8. Suspension, age 3: 0.6 vs 0.6. Tyres, age 4: 7.3 vs 4.5. Brakes, age 4: 0.8 vs 2.4. Suspension, age 4: 0.8 vs 1.2. Tyres, age 5: 7.9 vs 5.1. Brakes, age 5: 1.3 vs 3.1. DVSA MOT bulk data, 24 Sep 2026.
Tesla Model S: the numbers behind this answer (2019–2024)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Tyres, age 36.9per 1004.22019–20248315
Brakes, age 30.3per 1001.82019–20248315
Suspension, age 30.6per 1000.62019–20248315
Tyres, age 47.3per 1004.52019–20249791
Brakes, age 40.8per 1002.42019–20249791
Suspension, age 40.8per 1001.22019–20249791
Tyres, age 57.9per 1005.12019–20249681
Brakes, age 51.3per 1003.12019–20249681
Full table
Further values · 2019–2024
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Suspension, age 51.6per 1002.22019–20249681
Tyres, age 68.6per 1005.52019–20248461
Brakes, age 61.8per 1003.82019–20248461
Suspension, age 62.3per 1003.72019–20248461
Tyres, age 79.6per 1006.02019–20246754
Brakes, age 72.3per 1004.52019–20246754
Suspension, age 73.8per 1005.72019–20246754
Tyres, age 89.8per 1006.32019–20244254
Brakes, age 82.8per 1005.42019–20244254
Suspension, age 85.4per 1007.82019–20244254

Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2019–2024 · n = 10,782 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

Will my Tesla Model S's advisory become a fail at the next MOT?

Tesla Model S advisories turn into fails less often than on the median model; the one to watch is tyres: advisories on it became a fail at the next MOT 10.5% of the time.

funnel · Tesla Model S · Tyres · 10.5 vs median model · 2019–2024
Advisories on tyres: 10.5 of 100 became a fail on the same item at the next MOT. DVSA MOT bulk data, 24 Sep 2026.
Tesla Model S: the numbers behind this answer (2019–2024)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Tyres10.5% next failmedian model2019–20248660
Suspension8.3% next failmedian model2019–20243007
Brakes6.0% next failmedian model2019–20243262
Non-component advisories0% next failmedian model2019–20241340

Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2019–2024 · n = 10,782 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

My Tesla Model S got an MOT advisory: what gets flagged most?

Tesla Model S MOTs flag tyres most: 41.6 advisories per 100 tests, against 39.7 across UK tests (2019–2024, n = 49,990).

bar · Tesla Model S · Tyres · 41.6 vs 39.7 · 2019–2024
DVSA MOT bulk data, 24 Sep 2026.
Tesla Model S: the numbers behind this answer (2019–2024)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Tyres41.6per 10039.72019–202420807
Brakes16.8per 10034.72019–20248414
Suspension16per 10026.22019–20248013
Non-component advisories4per 1007.82019–20242016
Identification of the vehicle0.9per 1002.52019–2024464
Road Wheels0.7per 10012019–2024336

Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2019–2024 · n = 49,990 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

What is likely to fail next on a Tesla Model S?

For Tesla Model S models aged 3 to 5 whose last MOT was a pass, the item most likely to fail at the next MOT is tyres: 7.4% failed on it (2019–2024, n = 15,522).

bar · Tesla Model S · Tyres, under 3 years old, after a pass · 6.3 vs baseline · 2019–2024
DVSA MOT bulk data, 24 Sep 2026.
Tesla Model S: the numbers behind this answer (2019–2024)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Tyres, under 3 years old, after a pass6.3% next fail2019–20243550
Visibility, under 3 years old, after a pass4.0% next fail2019–20243550
Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment, under 3 years old, after a pass2.0% next fail2019–20243550
Body, chassis, structure, under 3 years old, after a pass1.0% next fail2019–20243550
Brakes, under 3 years old, after a pass0.8% next fail2019–20243550
Suspension, under 3 years old, after a pass0.7% next fail2019–20243550
Identification of the vehicle, under 3 years old, after a pass0.2% next fail2019–20243550
Road wheels, under 3 years old, after a pass0.1% next fail2019–20243550
Full table
Further values · 2019–2024
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Steering, under 3 years old, after a pass0.1% next fail2019–20243550
Tyres, under 3 years old, after an advisory7.1% next fail2019–2024883
Visibility, under 3 years old, after an advisory5.3% next fail2019–2024883
Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment, under 3 years old, after an advisory3.3% next fail2019–2024883
Brakes, under 3 years old, after an advisory1.6% next fail2019–2024883
Suspension, under 3 years old, after an advisory1.4% next fail2019–2024883
Body, chassis, structure, under 3 years old, after an advisory1.1% next fail2019–2024883
Tyres, under 3 years old, after a fail7.0% next fail2019–2024561
Visibility, under 3 years old, after a fail5.9% next fail2019–2024561
Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment, under 3 years old, after a fail2.1% next fail2019–2024561
Body, chassis, structure, under 3 years old, after a fail1.4% next fail2019–2024561
Brakes, under 3 years old, after a fail0.9% next fail2019–2024561
Suspension, under 3 years old, after a fail0.9% next fail2019–2024561
Tyres, 3 to 5 years old, after a pass7.4% next fail2019–202415522
Visibility, 3 to 5 years old, after a pass4.1% next fail2019–202415522
Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment, 3 to 5 years old, after a pass2.4% next fail2019–202415522
Suspension, 3 to 5 years old, after a pass1.6% next fail2019–202415522
Brakes, 3 to 5 years old, after a pass1.0% next fail2019–202415522
Body, chassis, structure, 3 to 5 years old, after a pass0.9% next fail2019–202415522
Steering, 3 to 5 years old, after a pass0.4% next fail2019–202415522
Identification of the vehicle, 3 to 5 years old, after a pass0.3% next fail2019–202415522
Road wheels, 3 to 5 years old, after a pass0.2% next fail2019–202415522
Seat belts and supplementary restraint systems, 3 to 5 years old, after a pass0.1% next fail2019–202415522
Tyres, 3 to 5 years old, after an advisory9.4% next fail2019–20245836
Visibility, 3 to 5 years old, after an advisory5.9% next fail2019–20245836
Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment, 3 to 5 years old, after an advisory3.3% next fail2019–20245836
Suspension, 3 to 5 years old, after an advisory2.7% next fail2019–20245836
Brakes, 3 to 5 years old, after an advisory2.4% next fail2019–20245836
Body, chassis, structure, 3 to 5 years old, after an advisory1.3% next fail2019–20245836
Steering, 3 to 5 years old, after an advisory0.7% next fail2019–20245836
Road wheels, 3 to 5 years old, after an advisory0.4% next fail2019–20245836
Identification of the vehicle, 3 to 5 years old, after an advisory0.3% next fail2019–20245836
Seat belts and supplementary restraint systems, 3 to 5 years old, after an advisory0.1% next fail2019–20245836
Tyres, 3 to 5 years old, after a fail10.3% next fail2019–20243437
Visibility, 3 to 5 years old, after a fail6.9% next fail2019–20243437
Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment, 3 to 5 years old, after a fail4.1% next fail2019–20243437
Suspension, 3 to 5 years old, after a fail2.9% next fail2019–20243437
Brakes, 3 to 5 years old, after a fail2.4% next fail2019–20243437
Body, chassis, structure, 3 to 5 years old, after a fail1.5% next fail2019–20243437
Steering, 3 to 5 years old, after a fail0.9% next fail2019–20243437
Road wheels, 3 to 5 years old, after a fail0.5% next fail2019–20243437
Identification of the vehicle, 3 to 5 years old, after a fail0.4% next fail2019–20243437
Seat belts and supplementary restraint systems, 3 to 5 years old, after a fail0.4% next fail2019–20243437
Tyres, 6 to 8 years old, after a pass8.4% next fail2019–20244868
Visibility, 6 to 8 years old, after a pass4.3% next fail2019–20244868
Suspension, 6 to 8 years old, after a pass3.7% next fail2019–20244868
Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment, 6 to 8 years old, after a pass3.1% next fail2019–20244868
Body, chassis, structure, 6 to 8 years old, after a pass1.7% next fail2019–20244868
Brakes, 6 to 8 years old, after a pass1.6% next fail2019–20244868
Steering, 6 to 8 years old, after a pass0.8% next fail2019–20244868
Seat belts and supplementary restraint systems, 6 to 8 years old, after a pass0.4% next fail2019–20244868
Identification of the vehicle, 6 to 8 years old, after a pass0.4% next fail2019–20244868
Road wheels, 6 to 8 years old, after a pass0.3% next fail2019–20244868
Tyres, 6 to 8 years old, after an advisory11.5% next fail2019–20242954
Suspension, 6 to 8 years old, after an advisory7.2% next fail2019–20242954
Visibility, 6 to 8 years old, after an advisory6.1% next fail2019–20242954
Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment, 6 to 8 years old, after an advisory5.1% next fail2019–20242954
Brakes, 6 to 8 years old, after an advisory3.8% next fail2019–20242954
Body, chassis, structure, 6 to 8 years old, after an advisory2.4% next fail2019–20242954
Steering, 6 to 8 years old, after an advisory1.6% next fail2019–20242954
Road wheels, 6 to 8 years old, after an advisory0.5% next fail2019–20242954
Identification of the vehicle, 6 to 8 years old, after an advisory0.4% next fail2019–20242954
Seat belts and supplementary restraint systems, 6 to 8 years old, after an advisory0.3% next fail2019–20242954
Tyres, 6 to 8 years old, after a fail12.2% next fail2019–20241873
Visibility, 6 to 8 years old, after a fail8.2% next fail2019–20241873
Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment, 6 to 8 years old, after a fail7.1% next fail2019–20241873
Suspension, 6 to 8 years old, after a fail7.1% next fail2019–20241873
Brakes, 6 to 8 years old, after a fail3.7% next fail2019–20241873
Body, chassis, structure, 6 to 8 years old, after a fail2.6% next fail2019–20241873
Steering, 6 to 8 years old, after a fail1.6% next fail2019–20241873
Seat belts and supplementary restraint systems, 6 to 8 years old, after a fail0.8% next fail2019–20241873
Identification of the vehicle, 6 to 8 years old, after a fail0.7% next fail2019–20241873
Road wheels, 6 to 8 years old, after a fail0.7% next fail2019–20241873
Tyres, 9 to 11 years old, after a pass (rough estimate: 87 cars)9.2% next fail2019–202487
Suspension, 9 to 11 years old, after an advisory (rough estimate: 70 cars)17.1% next fail2019–202470
Tyres, 9 to 11 years old, after an advisory (rough estimate: 70 cars)10% next fail2019–202470
Visibility, 9 to 11 years old, after an advisory (rough estimate: 70 cars)8.6% next fail2019–202470
Suspension, 9 to 11 years old, after a fail (rough estimate: 93 cars)18.3% next fail2019–202493
Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment, 9 to 11 years old, after a fail (rough estimate: 93 cars)16.1% next fail2019–202493
Brakes, 9 to 11 years old, after a fail (rough estimate: 93 cars)12.9% next fail2019–202493
Visibility, 9 to 11 years old, after a fail (rough estimate: 93 cars)8.6% next fail2019–202493
Tyres, 9 to 11 years old, after a fail (rough estimate: 93 cars)6.5% next fail2019–202493

Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2019–2024 · n = 10,782 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

How often does a Tesla Model S get a dangerous MOT defect?

The Tesla Model S gets a dangerous defect about as often as the UK average: 11.0 per 100 first tests against 11.2 across the UK. In the same tests, 14.5 major and 5.7 minor defects were recorded per 100 tests (one test can record several).

bullet · Tesla Model S · Dangerous defects · 11.0 vs 11.2 · 2019–2024
Dangerous defects: 11 vs 11.2. DVSA MOT bulk data, 24 Sep 2026.
Tesla Model S: the numbers behind this answer (2019–2024)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Dangerous defects11.0per 10011.22019–202449990

Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2019–2024 · n = 49,990 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id; severity not recorded for some 2018–2021 tests · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

Will my Tesla Model S still pass its MOT in a few years?

First-time MOT failures for the Tesla Model S go from 18.2% at age 4 to 28.4% at age 10, against 30.1% for all cars aged 10 (2024, n = 10,782).

line · Tesla Model S · Age 4 · 18.2 vs 13.1 · 2024
Age 4: 18.2. Age 10: 28.4. DVSA MOT bulk data, 24 Sep 2026.
Tesla Model S: the numbers behind this answer (2024)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Age 418.2% failed first time13.12024905
Age 516.5% failed first time15.120241234
Age 616.1% failed first time17.520241869
Age 719.2% failed first time20.220242520
Age 822.3% failed first time23.320242338
Age 924.2% failed first time26.520241283
Age 1028.4% failed first time30.12024605

Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2024 · n = 10,782 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

How does the Tesla Model S compare with cars of its own age and size?

At every age shown, Tesla Model S models fail first time no more often than comparable models of the same size class; the biggest difference is at age 9, where they fail less often: 24.8% against 34.9% (2024, n = 1,896).

line · Tesla Model S · Age 3 · 12.4 vs 12.6 · 2024
Age 3: 12.4. Age 10: 28.3. DVSA MOT bulk data, 24 Sep 2026.
Tesla Model S: the numbers behind this answer (2024)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Age 312.4% fail12.620248315
Age 413.3% fail14.020249791
Age 514.6% fail17.720249681
Age 616.2% fail22.020248461
Age 718.6% fail25.820246754
Age 821.6% fail31.120244254
Age 924.8% fail34.920241896
Age 1028.3% fail382024607

Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2024 · n = 10,782 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

Which Tesla Model S years should I avoid?

The Tesla Model S build year that fails most for its age is 2020: index 152.6 (95% CI 136.1–169.2) against the model's own age norm of 100 (2019–2024, n = 1,720).

bar · Tesla Model S · Build year 2014 (rough estimate: 3,684 tests, 95% interval 92.9–107.1) · 100 vs 100 = normal · 2019–2024
DVSA MOT bulk data, 24 Sep 2026.
Tesla Model S: the numbers behind this answer (2019–2024)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Build year 2014 (rough estimate: 3,684 tests, 95% interval 92.9–107.1)100index vs own age100 = normal2019–20243684
Build year 201595.6index vs own age100 = normal2019–20247643
Build year 201699.9index vs own age100 = normal2019–202413455
Build year 201797.5index vs own age100 = normal2019–202412499
Build year 2018103.8index vs own age100 = normal2019–20247162
Build year 2019 (worse for its age) (rough estimate: 3,569 tests, 95% interval 106.1–125.6)115.9index vs own age100 = normal2019–20243569
Build year 2020 (worse for its age) (rough estimate: 1,720 tests, 95% interval 136.1–169.2)152.6index vs own age100 = normal2019–20241720

Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2019–2024 · n = 10,782 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

How much does it cost to fix a Tesla Model S MOT fail?

Expected repair cost per Tesla Model S MOT: about £27 (up to about £51 if more expensive parts are needed), from the chance of failing each item and its most common UK repair price (catalogue estimate, n = 10,782).

Computed, not measured.

bar · Tesla Model S · Expected repair bill · 26.8 vs modal price catalogue · price catalogue
DVSA MOT bulk data, 24 Sep 2026.
Tesla Model S: the numbers behind this answer (price catalogue)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Expected repair bill26.8GBP estimatemodal price catalogueprice catalogue10782
Estimated range lower26.8GBP estimatemodal price catalogueprice catalogue10782
Estimated range upper51GBP estimatemodal price catalogueprice catalogue10782
Tyres: Tyre (single mid-range 16" fitted)11.6GBP expected contribution90price catalogue10782
Suspension: Suspension coil spring (single corner)6.5GBP expected contribution180price catalogue10782
Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment: Battery replacement (standard 12V lead-acid)5.6GBP expected contribution140price catalogue10782
Brakes: Front brake pads (parts + labour, typical hatchback)3.1GBP expected contribution150price catalogue10782

Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: price catalogue · n = 10,782 (initial tests) · Method: computed estimate, not measured · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

Is the Tesla Model S more reliable than similar cars?

Of 8 similar models, 5 fail less often for their age than the Tesla Model S and 3 as often or more. The Tesla Model S has an MOT Risk Index of 97.7, where 100 = normal for its age (2024, n = 10,782).

bar · Tesla Model S · Tesla Model S (this model) · 97.7 vs 100 = normal · 2024
DVSA MOT bulk data, 24 Sep 2026.
Tesla Model S: the numbers behind this answer (2024)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Tesla Model S (this model)97.7index100 = normal202410782
Nissan Leaf103.4index97.7202445716
Audi e-tron79.2index97.7202413450
Volkswagen ID.380.9index97.7202416521
Porsche Taycan73index97.720246213
Tesla Model 3124.7index97.7202467619
Honda e81index97.720241473
Mercedes-Benz EQC131.1index97.720247205
Full table
Further values · 2024
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Jaguar I-Pace59.1index97.7202418005

Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2024 · n = 10,782 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

How many miles does a Tesla Model S normally do?

At age 8, the median Tesla Model S had covered 84,575 miles by its MOT; the middle half ranged from 63,392 to 112,838 miles (2024, n = 2,338).

line · Tesla Model S · Age 4 median · 43643 vs baseline · 2024
Age 4 median: 43643. Age 10 P75: 134388. DVSA MOT bulk data, 24 Sep 2026.
Tesla Model S: the numbers behind this answer (2024)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Age 4 median43643miles2024905
Age 4 P2529721miles2024905
Age 4 P7560921miles2024905
Age 5 median51734miles20241234
Age 5 P2537544miles20241234
Age 5 P7568711miles20241234
Age 6 median61929miles20241869
Age 6 P2544898miles20241869
Full table
Further values · 2024
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Age 6 P7582430miles20241869
Age 7 median70981miles20242520
Age 7 P2551940miles20242520
Age 7 P7593832miles20242520
Age 8 median84575miles20242338
Age 8 P2563392miles20242338
Age 8 P75112838miles20242338
Age 9 median92830miles20241283
Age 9 P2567845miles20241283
Age 9 P75122278miles20241283
Age 10 median102482miles2024605
Age 10 P2574834miles2024605
Age 10 P75134388miles2024605

Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2024 · n = 10,782 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

Does high mileage mean more Tesla Model S MOT failures at the same age?

At ages 6–9, 14.8% of Tesla Model S models with under 40,000 miles failed first time, against 23.7% of those with over 140,000 miles (2024, n = 1,582). Inside this age group, higher mileage goes with more failures.

bar · Tesla Model S · Age 3–5, <40k miles · 15.7 vs baseline · 2024
DVSA MOT bulk data, 24 Sep 2026.
Tesla Model S: the numbers behind this answer (2024)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Age 3–5, <40k miles15.7% failed first time2024764
Age 3–5, 40-70k miles17.6% failed first time2024959
Age 3–5, 70-100k miles (rough estimate: 316 tests, 95% interval 16.2–25%)20.3% failed first time2024316
Age 3–5, 100-140k miles (rough estimate: 96 tests, 95% interval 13.1–28.9%)19.8% failed first time202496
Age 6–9, <40k miles14.8% failed first time2024903
Age 6–9, 40-70k miles16.9% failed first time20242559
Age 6–9, 70-100k miles20.8% failed first time20242433
Age 6–9, 100-140k miles26.4% failed first time20241414
Full table
Further values · 2024
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Age 6–9, 140k+ miles23.7% failed first time2024679
Age 10–14, 40-70k miles (rough estimate: 89 tests, 95% interval 16.9–34.6%)24.7% failed first time202489
Age 10–14, 70-100k miles (rough estimate: 167 tests, 95% interval 20.3–33.5%)26.3% failed first time2024167
Age 10–14, 100-140k miles (rough estimate: 181 tests, 95% interval 22.6–35.7%)28.7% failed first time2024181
Age 10–14, 140k+ miles (rough estimate: 134 tests, 95% interval 25.5–41.2%)32.8% failed first time2024134

Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2024 · n = 10,782 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

How many miles does a Tesla Model S last?

12.6% of Tesla Model S models tested had reached 100,000 miles, and 2.9% had reached 150,000 (2024, n = 6,234).

line · Tesla Model S · 100,000 miles · 12.6 vs baseline · 2024
100,000 miles: 12.6. 200,000 miles (rou: 0.8. DVSA MOT bulk data, 24 Sep 2026.
Tesla Model S: the numbers behind this answer (2024)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
100,000 miles12.6% of tested cars20246234
150,000 miles2.9% of tested cars20241412
200,000 miles (rough estimate: 419 tests, 95% interval 0.8–0.9%)0.8% of tested cars2024419

Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2024 · n = 10,782 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

Is the Tesla Model S driven more or less than average, and does that change the picture?

Matched on annual mileage as well as age, the Tesla Model S index is 75.1, against 85.6 on age alone (2019–2024, n = 10,782).

slope · Tesla Model S · Age and mileage adjusted index · 75.1 vs 85.6 · 2019–2024
Age and mileage adjusted index: 85.6 vs 75.1. DVSA MOT bulk data, 24 Sep 2026.
Tesla Model S: the numbers behind this answer (2019–2024)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Age and mileage adjusted index75.1index85.62019–202410782

Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2019–2024 · n = 10,782 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

Which Tesla Model S fuel fails its MOT less?

All Tesla Model S models tested were electric: 20.1% failed first time (2024, n = 10,782).

bar · Tesla Model S · Electric · 20.1 vs other fuels · 2024
DVSA MOT bulk data, 24 Sep 2026.
Tesla Model S: the numbers behind this answer (2024)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Electric20.1% fail first timeother fuels202410782

Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2024 · n = 10,782 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

Where in Britain does the Tesla Model S fail its MOT most?

First-time failure rates for the Tesla Model S range from 7.4% in the Croydon (CR) postcode area to 29.5% in the Gloucester (GL) postcode area, before allowing for age: a wider spread by area than for the typical model.

map · Tesla Model S · Gloucester (GL) · 29.5 vs 20.1 · 2024
Scotland. N. England. Wales. London. S. West. % failing. 8%. 22%. DVSA MOT bulk data, 24 Sep 2026.
Tesla Model S: the numbers behind this answer (2024)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Gloucester (GL)29.5% fail first time20.120241675
Torquay (TQ) (rough estimate: 131 tests, 95% interval 17.9–32.4%)24.4% fail first time20.12024131
Exeter (EX) (rough estimate: 260 tests, 95% interval 19.4–29.8%)24.2% fail first time20.12024260
Croydon (CR)7.4% fail first time20.12024597
Uxbridge (UB)7.5% fail first time20.12024729
Bradford (BD) (rough estimate: 187 tests, 95% interval 5.3–13.5%)8.6% fail first time20.12024187
Bath (BA) (rough estimate: 334 tests, 95% interval 19.4–28.5%)23.6% fail first time20.12024334
Lincoln (LN) (rough estimate: 145 tests, 95% interval 16.1–29.5%)22.1% fail first time20.12024145
Full table
Further values · 2024
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Northampton (NN)21.5% fail first time20.12024632
Swindon (SN) (rough estimate: 420 tests, 95% interval 17.8–25.6%)21.4% fail first time20.12024420
Harrogate (HG) (rough estimate: 192 tests, 95% interval 16.1–27.7%)21.4% fail first time20.12024192
Milton Keynes (MK)21.0% fail first time20.120241099
Dundee (DD) (rough estimate: 105 tests, 95% interval 14.3–29.7%)20.9% fail first time20.12024105
Truro (TR) (rough estimate: 134 tests, 95% interval 14.9–28.5%)20.9% fail first time20.12024134
Darlington (DL) (rough estimate: 115 tests, 95% interval 14.4–29.2%)20.9% fail first time20.12024115
Telford (TF) (rough estimate: 150 tests, 95% interval 15.0–27.8%)20.7% fail first time20.12024150
Kirkcaldy (KY) (rough estimate: 160 tests, 95% interval 15.1–27.5%)20.6% fail first time20.12024160
York (YO) (rough estimate: 248 tests, 95% interval 15.6–25.6%)20.2% fail first time20.12024248
Watford (WD) (rough estimate: 467 tests, 95% interval 16.7–24.0%)20.1% fail first time20.12024467
St Albans (AL) (rough estimate: 447 tests, 95% interval 16.7–24.1%)20.1% fail first time20.12024447
Taunton (TA) (rough estimate: 154 tests, 95% interval 14.6–27.2%)20.1% fail first time20.12024154
Guildford (GU)20.0% fail first time20.120241191
Tonbridge (TN)19.6% fail first time20.12024765
Swansea (SA) (rough estimate: 169 tests, 95% interval 14.3–26.2%)19.5% fail first time20.12024169
Warrington (WA)19.4% fail first time20.12024589
Stockport (SK) (rough estimate: 481 tests, 95% interval 16.0–23.1%)19.3% fail first time20.12024481
Plymouth (PL) (rough estimate: 161 tests, 95% interval 13.9–26.0%)19.3% fail first time20.12024161
Southampton (SO)18.9% fail first time20.12024709
Durham (DH) (rough estimate: 112 tests, 95% interval 12.6–27.0%)18.8% fail first time20.12024112
Lancaster (LA) (rough estimate: 113 tests, 95% interval 12.5–26.7%)18.6% fail first time20.12024113
Portsmouth (PO) (rough estimate: 456 tests, 95% interval 15.1–22.2%)18.4% fail first time20.12024456
Brighton (BN) (rough estimate: 468 tests, 95% interval 14.9–21.9%)18.2% fail first time20.12024468
Edinburgh (EH)18% fail first time20.12024700
Crewe (CW) (rough estimate: 276 tests, 95% interval 13.7–22.7%)17.8% fail first time20.12024276
Doncaster (DN) (rough estimate: 296 tests, 95% interval 13.7–22.3%)17.6% fail first time20.12024296
Cardiff (CF) (rough estimate: 366 tests, 95% interval 13.9–21.7%)17.5% fail first time20.12024366
Leeds (LS)17.3% fail first time20.12024641
Motherwell (ML) (rough estimate: 110 tests, 95% interval 11.3–25.4%)17.3% fail first time20.12024110
Canterbury (CT) (rough estimate: 255 tests, 95% interval 13.1–22.4%)17.3% fail first time20.12024255
Newport (NP) (rough estimate: 205 tests, 95% interval 12.5–22.8%)17.1% fail first time20.12024205
Cambridge (CB)17.1% fail first time20.12024645
Luton (LU) (rough estimate: 270 tests, 95% interval 13.0–22.0%)17.0% fail first time20.12024270
Dudley (DY) (rough estimate: 179 tests, 95% interval 12.0–22.9%)16.8% fail first time20.12024179
Reading (RG)16.7% fail first time20.120241328
Bristol (BS)16.7% fail first time20.12024772
Wakefield (WF) (rough estimate: 199 tests, 95% interval 12.1–22.4%)16.6% fail first time20.12024199
Chester (CH) (rough estimate: 407 tests, 95% interval 13.2–20.4%)16.5% fail first time20.12024407
Oxford (OX)16.4% fail first time20.120241131
Hereford (HR) (rough estimate: 116 tests, 95% interval 10.7–24.2%)16.4% fail first time20.12024116
Liverpool (L) (rough estimate: 196 tests, 95% interval 11.8–22.1%)16.3% fail first time20.12024196
Paisley (PA) (rough estimate: 123 tests, 95% interval 10.8–23.8%)16.3% fail first time20.12024123
London W (W)16.1% fail first time20.12024972
Wolverhampton (WV) (rough estimate: 162 tests, 95% interval 11.2–22.5%)16.1% fail first time20.12024162
London SW (SW)15.8% fail first time20.12024973
Shrewsbury (SY) (rough estimate: 196 tests, 95% interval 11.4–21.6%)15.8% fail first time20.12024196
Redhill (RH)15.7% fail first time20.12024871
Falkirk (FK) (rough estimate: 109 tests, 95% interval 10.0–23.6%)15.6% fail first time20.12024109
Bromley (BR) (rough estimate: 315 tests, 95% interval 12.0–20.0%)15.6% fail first time20.12024315
Huddersfield (HD) (rough estimate: 155 tests, 95% interval 10.6–22.0%)15.5% fail first time20.12024155
Chelmsford (CM)15.4% fail first time20.120241042
Hull (HU) (rough estimate: 143 tests, 95% interval 10.4–22.2%)15.4% fail first time20.12024143
Norwich (NR) (rough estimate: 384 tests, 95% interval 12.1–19.3%)15.4% fail first time20.12024384
Aberdeen (AB) (rough estimate: 215 tests, 95% interval 11.1–20.8%)15.3% fail first time20.12024215
Birmingham (B)15.2% fail first time20.120241249
Coventry (CV)15.1% fail first time20.12024887
Worcester (WR) (rough estimate: 325 tests, 95% interval 11.6–19.4%)15.1% fail first time20.12024325
Stevenage (SG) (rough estimate: 459 tests, 95% interval 12.1–18.6%)15.0% fail first time20.12024459
Hemel Hempstead (HP)14.9% fail first time20.12024818
Blackpool (FY) (rough estimate: 141 tests, 95% interval 9.9–21.7%)14.9% fail first time20.12024141
Southend-on-Sea (SS) (rough estimate: 225 tests, 95% interval 10.6–19.9%)14.7% fail first time20.12024225
Medway (ME)14.4% fail first time20.12024526
Enfield (EN)14.4% fail first time20.12024548
London N (N)14.4% fail first time20.12024682
Walsall (WS) (rough estimate: 230 tests, 95% interval 10.4–19.5%)14.3% fail first time20.12024230
London NW (NW)14.3% fail first time20.120241534
Peterborough (PE) (rough estimate: 476 tests, 95% interval 11.4–17.7%)14.3% fail first time20.12024476
Ipswich (IP) (rough estimate: 387 tests, 95% interval 11.1–18.0%)14.2% fail first time20.12024387
Bournemouth (BH)14.0% fail first time20.12024729
Colchester (CO) (rough estimate: 238 tests, 95% interval 10.1–18.8%)13.9% fail first time20.12024238
Salisbury (SP) (rough estimate: 241 tests, 95% interval 9.9–18.6%)13.7% fail first time20.12024241
Slough (SL)13.6% fail first time20.12024877
Kingston upon Thames (KT)13.6% fail first time20.120241128
Glasgow (G) (rough estimate: 445 tests, 95% interval 10.6–17.0%)13.5% fail first time20.12024445
Dorchester (DT) (rough estimate: 113 tests, 95% interval 8.2–20.7%)13.3% fail first time20.12024113
Manchester (M)13.2% fail first time20.12024668
Stoke-on-Trent (ST) (rough estimate: 300 tests, 95% interval 9.7–17.3%)13% fail first time20.12024300
Twickenham (TW)12.6% fail first time20.12024610
Preston (PR) (rough estimate: 246 tests, 95% interval 9.0–17.3%)12.6% fail first time20.12024246
Blackburn (BB) (rough estimate: 225 tests, 95% interval 8.7–17.4%)12.4% fail first time20.12024225
Wigan (WN) (rough estimate: 121 tests, 95% interval 7.7–19.5%)12.4% fail first time20.12024121
Derby (DE)12.2% fail first time20.12024606
Bolton (BL) (rough estimate: 205 tests, 95% interval 8.4–17.4%)12.2% fail first time20.12024205
Romford (RM) (rough estimate: 308 tests, 95% interval 8.8–16.1%)12.0% fail first time20.12024308
Harrow (HA)11.8% fail first time20.12024723
Sheffield (S)11.6% fail first time20.12024585
London SE (SE)11.5% fail first time20.12024713
Dartford (DA)11.4% fail first time20.12024590
Leicester (LE)11.2% fail first time20.12024828
Sutton (SM) (rough estimate: 161 tests, 95% interval 7.2–17.0%)11.2% fail first time20.12024161
Newcastle (NE) (rough estimate: 465 tests, 95% interval 8.2–13.9%)10.8% fail first time20.12024465
Ilford (IG) (rough estimate: 275 tests, 95% interval 7.4–14.7%)10.6% fail first time20.12024275
Llandudno (LL) (rough estimate: 142 tests, 95% interval 6.0–15.9%)9.9% fail first time20.12024142
Nottingham (NG)9.8% fail first time20.120241209
London E (E)9.3% fail first time20.12024525
Cleveland (TS) (rough estimate: 193 tests, 95% interval 5.6–13.7%)8.8% fail first time20.12024193

Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2024 · n = 10,782 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

Does a Tesla Model S rust more than average?

Allowing for age, Tesla Model S MOTs record corrosion failures at 0.1 times the national rate: 0.11% of tests against 0.77% (2024 + geographic layers, n = 10,777).

Computed, not measured.

slope · Tesla Model S · Salt belt susceptibility · 0.1 vs 1 · 2024 + geographic layers
Salt belt susceptibility: 1 vs 0.1. DVSA MOT bulk data, 24 Sep 2026.
Tesla Model S: the numbers behind this answer (2024 + geographic layers)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Salt belt susceptibility0.1ratio estimate12024 + geographic layers10777

Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2024 + geographic layers · n = 10,782 (initial tests) · Method: computed estimate, not measured · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

Is a Tesla Model S ULEZ compliant?

All Tesla Model S models tested are likely ULEZ-compliant, judged from fuel type and first-use date; check a specific car with TfL's vehicle checker (2024).

Computed, not measured.

stacked · Tesla Model S · Likely compliant · 100 vs baseline · 2024
DVSA MOT bulk data, 24 Sep 2026.
Tesla Model S: the numbers behind this answer (2024)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Likely compliant100% estimate202410782

Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2024 · n = 10,782 (initial tests) · Method: computed estimate, not measured · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

What do six years of MOTs show about owning a Tesla Model S?

Of failed Tesla Model S MOTs, 31.7% were retested the same day and a further 62.5% within 10 days; the median failed car passed its retest after 1 day (2019–2024, n = 6,090).

bar · Tesla Model S · Same-day retest · 31.7 vs failed initial tests · 2019–2024
DVSA MOT bulk data, 24 Sep 2026.
Tesla Model S: the numbers behind this answer (2019–2024)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Same-day retest31.7%failed initial tests2019–20246090
Retest within 10 days62.5%failed initial tests2019–20246090
Clean MOT streak49.4%observed chains2019–20249572
Repeat advisory16.7%observed chains2019–20249572
Decreasing odometer1.1% mileage anomalyobserved chains2019–202410516

Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2019–2024 · n = 10,782 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

Is low mileage better for a Tesla Model S?

Tesla Model S models aged 5 to 7 doing under 5,000 miles a year failed first time in 11.2% of tests, against 15.3% for those doing 8,000 to 12,000 miles (2019–2024, n = 2,178).

bullet · Tesla Model S · Low-use first-time failure · 11.2 vs 15.3 · 2019–2024
Low-use first-time failure: 11.2 vs 15.3. DVSA MOT bulk data, 24 Sep 2026.
Tesla Model S: the numbers behind this answer (2019–2024)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Low-use first-time failure11.2%15.32019–20242178
Low-use gap-4.2percentage points8–12k miles2019–20242178

Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2019–2024 · n = 10,782 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

How many years is a Tesla Model S likely to last?

Tesla Model S models aged 10 are forecast to keep taking MOTs for at least 0.5 more years; the survival curve is observed only until age 10, so the true figure is likely higher.

Computed, not measured.

Forecast, not a prediction for a particular car.

bar · Tesla Model S · Age 5 · 2.9 vs baseline · survival forecast
DVSA MOT bulk data, 24 Sep 2026.
Tesla Model S: the numbers behind this answer (survival forecast)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Age 52.9years forecastsurvival forecast0
Age 8 (at least; observed only until age 10)1.1years forecastsurvival forecast0
Age 10 (at least; observed only until age 10)0.5years forecastsurvival forecast0

Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: survival forecast · n = 10,782 (initial tests) · Method: computed estimate, not measured · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

Which Tesla Model S models are still on the road?

In 2024, for every 100 Tesla Model S models tested at ages 4 to 6, about 7 were tested at age 10 (2024, n = 607).

line · Tesla Model S · Age 3 · 89.3 vs baseline · 2024
Age 3: 89.3. Age 10: 6.5. DVSA MOT bulk data, 24 Sep 2026.
Tesla Model S: the numbers behind this answer (2024)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Age 389.3% of age 4–6 baseline20248315
Age 4 (at least as many as at ages 4–6)100% of age 4–6 baseline20249791
Age 5 (at least as many as at ages 4–6)100% of age 4–6 baseline20249681
Age 690.9% of age 4–6 baseline20248461
Age 772.5% of age 4–6 baseline20246754
Age 845.7% of age 4–6 baseline20244254
Age 920.4% of age 4–6 baseline20241896
Age 106.5% of age 4–6 baseline2024607

Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2024 · n = 10,782 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

If a Tesla Model S fails, does it fail again?

16.5% of Tesla Model S models that failed an MOT failed the next one too, against 15.7% after a pass (2019–2024, n = 1,471). The failure most likely to come back is visibility: 17.8% of those fails recurred at the next MOT.

bullet · Tesla Model S · Repeat after fail · 16.5 vs 15.7 · 2019–2024
Repeat after fail: 16.5 vs 15.7. DVSA MOT bulk data, 24 Sep 2026.
Tesla Model S: the numbers behind this answer (2019–2024)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Repeat after fail16.5%15.72019–20241471

Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2019–2024 · n = 10,782 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

Which Tesla Model S faults come together?

On Tesla Model S models, steering and suspension failures turn up together 8.3 times as often as chance would predict (2024, n = 53).

Tesla Model S: the numbers behind this answer (2024)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Steering + Suspension (rough estimate: 53 tests, 95% interval 6.2–10.9)8.3liftexpected joint rate202453
Brakes + Suspension (rough estimate: 147 tests, 95% interval 7.0–9.8)8.3liftexpected joint rate2024147
Brakes + Steering (rough estimate: 31 tests, 95% interval 5.2–10.9)7.7liftexpected joint rate202431
Brakes + Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment (rough estimate: 121 tests, 95% interval 4.6–6.6)5.5liftexpected joint rate2024121
Identification of the vehicle + Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment (rough estimate: 26 tests, 95% interval 3.5–7.8)5.3liftexpected joint rate202426
Body, chassis, structure + Brakes (rough estimate: 46 tests, 95% interval 3.7–6.8)5.1liftexpected joint rate202446
Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment + Suspension (rough estimate: 168 tests, 95% interval 4.1–5.6)4.8liftexpected joint rate2024168
Body, chassis, structure + Suspension (rough estimate: 65 tests, 95% interval 3.5–5.8)4.5liftexpected joint rate202465
Full table
Further values · 2024
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment + Steering (rough estimate: 33 tests, 95% interval 2.9–5.9)4.2liftexpected joint rate202433
Body, chassis, structure + Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment (rough estimate: 69 tests, 95% interval 3.0–4.9)3.9liftexpected joint rate202469
Brakes + Tyres (rough estimate: 222 tests, 95% interval 3.1–4.1)3.6liftexpected joint rate2024222
Road Wheels + Tyres (rough estimate: 41 tests, 95% interval 2.5–4.8)3.5liftexpected joint rate202441
Identification of the vehicle + Visibility (rough estimate: 25 tests, 95% interval 1.9–4.4)3.0liftexpected joint rate202425
Identification of the vehicle + Tyres (rough estimate: 41 tests, 95% interval 2.1–4.0)2.9liftexpected joint rate202441
Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment + Visibility (rough estimate: 214 tests, 95% interval 2.5–3.3)2.9liftexpected joint rate2024214
Road Wheels + Visibility (rough estimate: 20 tests, 95% interval 1.7–4.4)2.9liftexpected joint rate202420
Steering + Tyres (rough estimate: 61 tests, 95% interval 2.1–3.5)2.7liftexpected joint rate202461
Brakes + Visibility (rough estimate: 94 tests, 95% interval 2.0–3.1)2.5liftexpected joint rate202494
Body, chassis, structure + Visibility (rough estimate: 76 tests, 95% interval 2.0–3.1)2.5liftexpected joint rate202476
Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment + Tyres (rough estimate: 306 tests, 95% interval 2.2–2.8)2.5liftexpected joint rate2024306
Tyres + Visibility2.5liftexpected joint rate2024512
Steering + Visibility (rough estimate: 33 tests, 95% interval 1.7–3.4)2.5liftexpected joint rate202433
Suspension + Tyres (rough estimate: 240 tests, 95% interval 2.1–2.8)2.4liftexpected joint rate2024240
Suspension + Visibility (rough estimate: 138 tests, 95% interval 2.0–2.8)2.3liftexpected joint rate2024138
Body, chassis, structure + Tyres (rough estimate: 108 tests, 95% interval 1.8–2.6)2.1liftexpected joint rate2024108
Seat belts and supplementary restraint systems + Visibility (seen together; too few for a multiplier)19tests with both202419
Seat belts and supplementary restraint systems + Tyres (seen together; too few for a multiplier)19tests with both202419
Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment + Seat belts and supplementary restraint systems (seen together; too few for a multiplier)18tests with both202418
Road Wheels + Suspension (seen together; too few for a multiplier)18tests with both202418
Identification of the vehicle + Suspension (seen together; too few for a multiplier)18tests with both202418
Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment + Road Wheels (seen together; too few for a multiplier)16tests with both202416
Seat belts and supplementary restraint systems + Suspension (seen together; too few for a multiplier)13tests with both202413
Brakes + Road Wheels (seen together; too few for a multiplier)10tests with both202410
Body, chassis, structure + Steering (seen together; too few for a multiplier)10tests with both202410
Body, chassis, structure + Identification of the vehicle (seen together; too few for a multiplier)9tests with both20249
Brakes + Identification of the vehicle (seen together; too few for a multiplier)8tests with both20248
Body, chassis, structure + Seat belts and supplementary restraint systems (seen together; too few for a multiplier)6tests with both20246
Identification of the vehicle + Steering (seen together; too few for a multiplier)5tests with both20245
Brakes + Seat belts and supplementary restraint systems (seen together; too few for a multiplier)5tests with both20245
Body, chassis, structure + Road Wheels (seen together; too few for a multiplier)5tests with both20245

Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2024 · n = 10,782 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

Has the Tesla Model S had safety recalls?

DVSA lists 8 safety recall campaigns matched to the Tesla Model S; check whether yours has been fixed, using its registration number.

Tesla Model S: the numbers behind this answer (DVSA register)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
DVSA recall campaigns matched8campaignsDVSA registerDVSA register10782

Source: DVSA register; recall effect covers 11 of 761 models · Window: DVSA register · n = 10,782 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

What does a Tesla Model S cost to run in a fleet?

Of every 100 Tesla Model S models tested at age 5, about 17 failed the MOT first time (rough estimate); at age 10, about 28 (rough estimate). These are one-year rates for different cars tested in the same year, not a fleet followed over time; the steepest one-year step in this cross-section is between cars aged 7 and 8, 3.11 percentage points (2024).

Tesla Model S: the numbers behind this answer (2024)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Age 4 (rough estimate: 905 tests, 95% interval 15.8–20.9%)18.2% fail first time2024905
Age 5 (rough estimate: 1,234 tests, 95% interval 14.6–18.7%)16.5% fail first time20241234
Age 6 (rough estimate: 1,869 tests, 95% interval 14.5–17.8%)16.1% fail first time20241869
Age 719.2% fail first time20242520
Age 822.3% fail first time20242338
Age 9 (rough estimate: 1,283 tests, 95% interval 22.0–26.7%)24.2% fail first time20241283
Age 10 (rough estimate: 605 tests, 95% interval 25.0–32.1%)28.4% fail first time2024605

Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2024 · n = 10,782 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

What have dealers been told about the Tesla Model S? (US market)

NHTSA lists 191 US technical service bulletins for the Tesla Model S (US market, Tesla MODEL S and its variants, model years 2015–2022 only); a count, not a UK failure rate.

bar · Tesla Model S · US service bulletins · 191 vs NHTSA · NHTSA
NHTSA, US market, Tesla MODEL S and its variants, model years 2015–2022 only; covers 211 of 761 models, 24 Sep 2026.
Tesla Model S: the numbers behind this answer (NHTSA)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
US service bulletins191bulletinsNHTSANHTSA10782
Year 20151bulletinsNHTSANHTSA10782
Year 201611bulletinsNHTSANHTSA10782
Year 201710bulletinsNHTSANHTSA10782
Year 201816bulletinsNHTSANHTSA10782
Year 201921bulletinsNHTSANHTSA10782
Year 202012bulletinsNHTSANHTSA10782
Year 202110bulletinsNHTSANHTSA10782
Full table
Further values · NHTSA
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Year 20225bulletinsNHTSANHTSA10782
Year 202327bulletinsNHTSANHTSA10782
Year 202465bulletinsNHTSANHTSA10782
Year 202512bulletinsNHTSANHTSA10782
Year 20261bulletinsNHTSANHTSA10782

Source: NHTSA, US market, Tesla MODEL S and its variants, model years 2015–2022 only; covers 211 of 761 models · Window: NHTSA · n = 10,782 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

What do owners complain about? (US market)

The most common US owner complaint about the Tesla Model S to NHTSA concerns lamps & electrical: 719 complaints (US market, Tesla MODEL S and its variants, model years 2015–2022 only).

bar · Tesla Model S · Lamps &amp; electrical · 719 vs baseline · NHTSA + 2024
NHTSA, US market, Tesla MODEL S and its variants, model years 2015–2022 only; covers 211 of 761 models, 24 Sep 2026.
Tesla Model S: the numbers behind this answer (NHTSA + 2024)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Lamps & electrical719complaintsNHTSA + 2024719
Suspension522complaintsNHTSA + 2024522
Steering248complaintsNHTSA + 2024248
Brakes137complaintsNHTSA + 2024137
Visibility112complaintsNHTSA + 2024112
Body & structure101complaintsNHTSA + 2024101

Source: NHTSA, US market, Tesla MODEL S and its variants, model years 2015–2022 only; covers 211 of 761 models · Window: NHTSA + 2024 · n = 10,782 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

Does the Tesla Model S fail inspections in other countries too?

In Norway, 33.5% of Tesla Model S models failed their periodic roadworthiness inspection, against 33.7% for all cars there (2024 by country, n = 5,454 inspections).

Both readings are shown: this comparison changes when usage or inspection rules differ.

Inspections abroad disagree: Norway and the Netherlands point the same way as Britain, Finland do not. Test rules, climate and how the vehicles are used differ, so both readings are shown.

bullet · Tesla Model S · Norway · 33.5 vs 33.7 · 2024 by country
Norway: 33.5 vs 33.7. Finland: 33.2 vs 26.3. Netherlands: 48.4 vs 50.8. Statens vegvesen PKK (CC BY 4.0), Traficom Katsastus (CC BY 4.0), RDW APK (CC0), adapted; covers 430 of 761 models, 24 Sep 2026.
Tesla Model S: the numbers behind this answer (2024 by country)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Norway33.5% failed33.72024 by country5454
Finland33.2% failed26.32024 by country1583
Netherlands48.4% failed50.82024 by country3614

Source: Statens vegvesen PKK (CC BY 4.0), Traficom Katsastus (CC BY 4.0), RDW APK (CC0), adapted; covers 430 of 761 models · Window: 2024 by country · n = 10,782 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV · licences and full notice

Does the month of a Tesla Model S MOT matter?

Tesla Model S models fail first time most in October (17.5%, against 30.3% for all cars that month) and least in May (14.5%) (2024, n = 10,782).

line · Tesla Model S · January · 17.2 vs 31.1 · 2024
January: 17.2. December: 15.8. DVSA MOT bulk data, 24 Sep 2026.
Tesla Model S: the numbers behind this answer (2024)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
January17.2% fail first time31.120244054
February14.8% fail first time30.020243597
March14.9% fail first time28.320244772
April16.0% fail first time29.820242594
May14.5% fail first time28.820243457
June16.0% fail first time28.120243802
July15.4% fail first time29.320243237
August15.9% fail first time29.220243973
Full table
Further values · 2024
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
September15.8% fail first time28.220245265
October17.5% fail first time30.320244772
November16.6% fail first time30.620245289
December15.8% fail first time29.320245178

Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2024 · n = 10,782 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

Not enough tests for… (and why)

Real-world MPG against the official figure (manufacturer level)

layer not yet computed for this model (covers 19 of 761 models). 10,782 initial Tesla Model S tests are in the published model cohort.

Source: European Commission OBFCM; covers 19 of 761 models · Window: 2021+ cohorts · n = 10,782 (initial tests) · Method: computed estimate, not measured · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

See the Nissan Leaf, a car of the same inspection class with 4.2× the tests · Check your car by registration

How to cite this page

MOT Risk Index (2026). Tesla Model S MOT statistics 2024 (data release dvsa-2024-v2; full dataset motriskindex-families-2024-v5, DOI 10.5281/zenodo.22975051), updated 24 September 2026. motriskindex.co.uk/cars/tesla-model-s/

How the MOT Risk Index and every figure on this page are calculated: methodology.

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Tesla Model S MOT: quick answers

What is the Tesla Model S first-time MOT pass rate?

79.9% of first attempts passed in 2024 (10,782 tests). Retests after repair are excluded; cars fixed at the test centre (PRS) are shown separately.

Why does this number differ from other sites?

Other sites may count retests or all attempts. This page uses 10,782 primary tests: 20.06% failed first time and 82.0% passed when cars fixed at the test centre (PRS) count as passes. The age-adjusted MOT Risk Index 97.7 is shown separately.