Let’s cut right to the chase: Tesla vehicles have a lot of problems. These are cutting-edge cars, and Tesla may well represent the future of the automotive industry, but when you’re a pioneer, you face a lot more challenges than the people who follow in your wake.
So, what problems do Tesla drivers have to deal with?
To list some of the major issues in brief:
- Touchscreen may go out
- Engine may shut down when seatbelts are disengaged
- Power train may behave unpredictably
Below, we’ll detail these problems in-depth and let you know how to manage them. Read on:
3 Major Tesla Problems
#1: Touchscreen May Go out
In some Tesla models, the touchscreen unit has a tendency to suddenly die. This is a minor annoyance in a typical car, but in a Tesla Model S, the touchscreen controls the HVAC, radio, Bluetooth, and a dozen other things. It’s like losing an HDTV remote control.
This is perhaps the biggest Tesla issue, with hundreds of complaints on file with the NHTSA. The good news is your warranty may cover a full replacement for the touchscreen unit, so be sure to call Tesla at 1-877-798-3752 before paying for any repairs yourself.
#2: Engine May Shut Off When Seatbelts are Disengaged
A driver in Anaheim, CA reported that when they unbuckled their seatbelt to reach their wallet, the engine immediately shut down, and the car began decelerating. Fortunately, the driver behind them was responsive, and there was no accident.
While this is a less common problem than the touchscreen issue, it’s a scary one, and unfortunately, there does not seem to be any fix in place except to get in touch with the NHTSA and file a report if it happens to you.
#3: Unpredictable Powertrain
The powertrain in a Tesla can be unpredictable. Most complaints come down to one of two problems: The car suddenly decelerates on the highway or suddenly accelerates from park, sometimes hitting a fence, a wall, or another car.
This problem is hard to nail down. In some cases, it could have to do with a faulty transmission. In others, it could have to do with the onboard computer system. All you can really do here is take it into the dealer and have them run diagnostic tests on the car.
Are Teslas Safe to Drive?
For the most part, Teslas are safe to drive. We’re dealing with relatively new technology, and there are going to be a lot of kinks to work out.
The big problem comes down to the touchscreen console. For every one complaint we found regarding the powertrain, there were a couple hundred regarding the touchscreen. So, the question is ultimately whether you’re willing to risk dealing with that.
Teslas are pretty much the only reasonable option for mass produced all-electric cars in the United States right now. Still, opinion is split concerning whether it’s the most exciting thing ever or it isn’t quite ready for market just yet.
Photos: Tesla
