2016 Tesla Model S: recalls and problems
No recalls and 604 owner complaints on file with NHTSA. The most-reported problem area is suspension.
Recalls
NHTSA lists no recalls for the 2016 Tesla Model S. Individual cars can still have open manufacturer campaigns, so check your VIN.
Check recalls for your exact VINMost common problems
What owners report
The center touchscreen is leaking a sticky glue-like substance and has visible bubbles forming inside the screen. this affects visibility and operation of essential vehicle functions like hvac, navigation, and defrost controls. this issue is worsen with heat exposure. the screen also freezes randomly.
I was backing out of a parking space and the front driver side fore link broke. internet search reveals this is a known issue associated with tesla model s during the period mine was manufactured (february 2016), caused an investigation & service bulletin from the nhtsa, and a recall in china, hence i wanted to report this occurence.
While the car is parked and locked the rear driver side door opens in its own. the door handle does not present itself and is scheduled for repair. this is new and started happening today. despite how many times i close it. it opens on it own. the door is locked when this happens. door sitting still. plugged in to charge and locked. the door opens on its own. it unlatches, does not fully open.
My driver's side of the vehicle looks like it's melting. i was informed by the service advisor at tesla that this is a common issue, and the computer needs to be replaced at my expense.
Source: NHTSA recalls, complaints and NCAP APIs, covering MODEL S 60, MODEL S 60D, MODEL S 70, MODEL S 70D, MODEL S 75, MODEL S 75D, MODEL S 85, MODEL S 85D, MODEL S 90, MODEL S 90D, MODEL S P85D, MODEL S P90D, MODEL S P100D. Last refreshed 2026-09-29.