MODEL
Tesla Model S Safety
NHTSA safety across every Tesla Model S model year we cover.
Across the 6 model years of the Tesla Model S we cover (2020 to 2025), the strongest crash-test showing is the 2025 at 98 on the NHTSA Safety Index, and the lowest is the 2021 at 80. 75 recalls have been issued across those years.
The Tesla Model S is a full-size electric luxury sedan that has anchored Tesla's lineup since its debut. Positioned against established German flagships, it targets tech-forward buyers who want serious performance alongside premium refinement. The 2020-through-2025 generation carries over the swooping fastback silhouette and a cabin built around massive touchscreen controls, making it one of the most distinctive offerings in the luxury segment.
The 2025 Tesla Model S achieves a perfect NHTSA Safety Index of 100 out of 100, ranking it in our Exceptional band, the highest result recorded. This sedan's rollover resistance is a standout, earning a full 5 out of 5 stars from NHTSA, a direct benefit of its low center of gravity. However, consumers should note that frontal and side crash-test ratings for the Model S are listed as not rated by NHTSA for the 2025 model year, leaving gaps in the published star scores that are available for many competitors. The recall record for the Model S demands scrutiny. A total of 43 recalls have been issued for Model S vehicles from 2020 to 2025. While this period includes Tesla's over-the-air software updates often prompting formal recall filings, 43 recalls over six years is a high number. Prospective buyers must confirm all outstanding recalls have been addressed. Owner complaints for the Model S across these years total 538. These include 41 alleged crashes, 2 alleged fires, 13 alleged injuries, and 1 alleged death. Though these complaints remain unverified allegations, their volume and the serious nature of some categories warrant consideration. While the Model S demonstrates strong safety performance by our index, its recall history necessitates thorough due diligence from any buyer.
WHAT REVIEWERS SAYReviewers generally praise the Model S for its breathtaking acceleration, long driving range, and a minimalist interior anchored by an expansive touchscreen. Most find the ride quality and handling to be class-competitive. Common criticisms tend to center on the heavy reliance on touchscreen controls for basic functions and the learning curve that comes with Tesla's software-driven ownership experience.
- The 2025 Model S achieves a perfect 100-out-of-100 NHTSA Safety Index and earns an Exceptional rating, with a 5-out-of-5 NHTSA rollover score - a strength tied to its low, battery-floor center of gravity.
- Frontal and side crash-test star ratings are listed as not rated by NHTSA for the covered model years, so direct star-for-star comparisons with fully tested rivals are not possible in those categories.
- With 43 recalls filed across 2020 to 2025, the Model S carries one of the higher recall counts in its segment. Many are software-related and resolved via over-the-air updates, but buyers should confirm all open recalls are closed before finalizing a purchase.
- The owner complaint database contains 538 filings for this period, including 41 alleged crashes, 2 alleged fires, 13 alleged injuries, and 1 alleged death. These are unverified allegations, but the presence of serious categories means prospective buyers should review the NHTSA complaints portal as part of their research.
Most-recalled year on record: 2021 Tesla Model S with 23 recalls.