2016 Tesla Model S Electrical Problems

On 6/11/26, around 2:10 pm, when i was slowly pulling over to park on a road side, the car suddenly rushed forward unexpectedly. It was so powerful, at the time I could only hear the panic reactions from the two passengers and sense the imminent collision with the parked bmw in the front of several car length away. Right before the collision i steered the wheel to the right to avoid the bmw and my car came to violent halt less than a foot next to the bmw. I came out of my car to check the tire position before backing out to park a bit behind. This was on a country road, a Thursday afternoon with not much traffic. There was no distraction. If not were the enough spacing i would have no doubt crashed into the bmw in the front. When the dust settled, I did a "power off" reset to the model S and drove the rest of the day normally without any incidents. I went to Tesla service center near where i live the next morning, 6/12/26, to report it. They asked the precise time the incident occurred. But did not inspect the car. I was told an inner inquiry will be opened and it would take at least a few days. They said i could continue to drive the car normally which i have not because of not knowing what had caused it. I went to the service center today 6/29/26 after more than two weeks of no feedback. I was very disappointed in the answers given. The guy said basically based on the design of the car the incident could not have been caused by the car ,without providing any info as to what had been found from the promised inquiry. There was no written report on this. The person offered to check the brakes but also said he did not think its necessary. Just to made me feel better he said. At last, he provided the tesla web site to request "private data" during time window of the incident. I told him i will seek help from NHTSA now that tesla is not. I was told by AI, tesla has collected data on every car they sold to the details that can reveal how the paddles were pressed.

NHTSA ID

11747285

Incident

Jun 11, 2026

"What happened?

NHTSA ID

11746807

Incident

Dec 19, 2023

I own a 2016 Model S P100D equipped with the Large Drive Unit (LDU). The component that fails is the rotor coolant seal in the rear drive unit motor. Coolant leaks internally into the motor and inverter, causing bearing wear, corrosion, isolation faults, and eventual complete drive unit failure. The affected drive units are still installed and available for inspection upon request. This defect puts my safety and the safety of others at risk because it can cause sudden loss of propulsion (especially at highway speeds), power reduction, or total drivetrain shutdown, potentially leading to a crash. Coolant in high-voltage areas also raises electrical fault/fire risks. The problem is widely reproduced and confirmed: Tesla service centers are familiar with it and replace failed units with updated “-U” revisions that include a coolant bypass. Independent EV shops confirm the exact root cause (rotor seal failure) via encoder inspections showing coolant intrusion and through disassembly. This is a documented pattern failure in all 2012–2020 LDU vehicles. No police or insurance inspections have occurred yet, as no crash or total failure has happened. Tesla is aware of the recurring issue through service records on similar vehicles. Early symptoms before full failure typically include rear motor whining/grinding (especially under load), reduced power warnings, “Rear Drive Unit Fault” messages, and visible coolant on the speed sensor. These can appear gradually. My vehicles have not yet experienced total failure, but the defect is known to be inevitable. I am proactively monitoring encoder sensors. Because this is a systemic design defect affecting thousands of vehicles with clear safety implications, I request NHTSA open an investigation and require Tesla to issue a recall for free repairs/replacements on all affected 2012–2020 LDU vehicles.

NHTSA ID

11735433

Incident

Apr 29, 2026

I own three 2016 Tesla vehicles with the same known safety defect: two Model S P100D and one Model X P100D, all equipped with the Large Drive Unit (LDU). The component that fails is the rotor coolant seal in the rear drive unit motor. Coolant leaks internally into the motor and inverter, causing bearing wear, corrosion, isolation faults, and eventual complete drive unit failure. The affected drive units are still installed and available for inspection upon request. This defect puts my safety and the safety of others at risk because it can cause sudden loss of propulsion (especially at highway speeds), power reduction, or total drivetrain shutdown, potentially leading to a crash. Coolant in high-voltage areas also raises electrical fault/FIRE risks. The problem is widely reproduced and confirmed: Tesla service centers are familiar with it and replace failed units with updated “-U” revisions that include a coolant bypass. Independent EV shops confirm the exact root cause (rotor seal failure) via encoder inspections showing coolant intrusion and through disassembly. This is a documented pattern failure in all 2012–2020 LDU vehicles. No police or insurance inspections have occurred yet, as no crash or total failure has happened. Tesla is aware of the recurring issue through service records on similar vehicles. Early symptoms before full failure typically include rear motor whining/grinding (especially under load), reduced power warnings, “Rear Drive Unit Fault” messages, and visible coolant on the speed sensor. These can appear gradually. My vehicles have not yet experienced total failure, but the defect is known to be inevitable. I am proactively monitoring encoder sensors. Because this is a systemic design defect affecting thousands of vehicles with clear safety implications, I request NHTSA open an investigation and require Tesla to issue a recall for free repairs/replacements on all affected 2012–2020 LDU vehicles.

NHTSA ID

11735429

Incident

May 3, 2026

The rear Large Drive Unit (LDU) has coolant intrusion due to a known design defect in the internal rotor seal. Coolant from the stator cooling system is leaking past the seal into the motor, degrading the winding insulation. An independent inspection by The Electrified Garage (Orlando, FL) on 04/08/2026 confirmed moisture at the rotor sensor (yellow condition) and degraded insulation resistance measured at 3.0 megohms (should be hundreds of megohms on a healthy unit). The vehicle requires a complete drive unit replacement at an estimated cost of $7,000. This is a well-documented design defect affecting 2012-2016 Model S vehicles. Tesla has acknowledged the issue by redesigning the seals in later production units and performing "coolant deletes" on remanufactured replacement units, but has not issued a recall or extended warranty coverage. The vehicle currently has 53,542 miles and no prior drivetrain warnings, yet the drive unit is failing due to a manufacturing/design defect, not owner abuse or normal wear.

NHTSA ID

11731846

Incident

Apr 8, 2026

My 2016 Tesla Model S (45,500 miles) is experiencing a complete failure of the Media Control Unit (MCU1), resulting in a total loss of the rearview camera display and defrost/defogging controls. This is a critical safety hazard. The unit was previously replaced by Tesla in 2021 under NHTSA Recall 21V-035. However, this replacement part has failed again after only a few years of low-mileage use. Tesla Service is refusing to provide a free repair or a goodwill discount for an MCU2 upgrade, claiming the 'recall repair' only had a 1-year warranty. It is unacceptable that a safety-critical component replaced under a federal recall fails twice in 45,000 miles. Tesla has failed to provide a permanent fix for the eMMC defect identified by NHTSA. By refusing to restore the camera functionality without charging full price, Tesla is knowingly allowing a safety defect to persist. I request an investigation into these premature failures of recall-replaced components

NHTSA ID

11711765

Incident

Dec 25, 2025

-Airbag warning light on -Horn not working -Steering wheel scroll buttons not working -Clicking noise when turning wheel This failure occurred during normal driving. Airbags will not deploy and horn is inoperable, creating a safety risk myself and my family. I have never been into any accidents and have only driven normal. These safety systems should not fail. This is a manufacturing issue.

NHTSA ID

11709701

Incident

Dec 31, 2025

While driving on the freeway in the fast lane at 75 MPH I80W, the car began a loud humming sound that came from the rear. My passenger and I noted that it was significant sound that we took a video to record the sound. I was the driver and I noticed that the sound increased as I accelerated. Then without any warning the car began to decelerate and no longer accelerated. The car slowed considerably to 35 MPH and it became a major safety issue because I had to cross all lanes of traffic at this slow speed. It was only after the car had completely shut down that the warning messages began to display. I reached the side of the road and we waited for the tow truck driver for about an hour. Subsequently, the car was towed to a Tesla dealer near my home. I was informed that the drive unit needed to be replaced with an explanation of internal failure, costing over $7000. However, the root cause of the internal failure was never explained or investigated even at my request stating that they do not take apart the drive unit. This incident occurred after driving 7hrs of heavy rainfall for 2 days. A quick google search of "2016 Tesla model S drive unit failure" reveals plenty of Tesla owners that had similar issues.

NHTSA ID

11701515

Incident

Nov 21, 2025

I am writing to formally report a recall-related safety defect that occurred after the eMMC recall service on my vehicle’s Media Control Unit (MCU). Following the recall, the display adhesive began to leak and the screen started separating from its frame. The adhesive continues to drip onto the dashboard and the display shows signs of delamination. This is a safety issue that directly affects driver visibility and may result in electrical contamination inside the MCU. Under federal law, Tesla is required to correct any defect that is related to or arises from a recalled component. This obligation is clearly stated in 49 U.S. Code Section 30120 and 49 CFR Section 573.6. The adhesive leakage and display delamination meet the definition of a related safety defect under 49 CFR Section 573.5(c) because the problem is connected to the same system that was recalled and repaired. A manufacturer performing a recall repair must return the system to safe operating condition. Tesla is therefore responsible for verifying and correcting any new or worsening safety defect identified during or after recall service. Tesla’s own internal Service Bulletin SB-21-17-003 confirms this obligation. It states that if display delamination, bubbling, or adhesive leakage is observed, the entire MCU assembly must be replaced. The service department’s statement that Tesla is “not obligated” to inspect or replace the screen is incorrect and contradicts both federal recall requirements and Tesla’s own technical documentation.

NHTSA ID

11698437

Incident

Nov 7, 2025

The center touchscreen in my Tesla Model S developed a yellow discoloration and later began leaking a sticky fluid from the edges of the display. This fluid appears to be seeping from inside the screen and emits a noticeable odor. The touchscreen is the primary interface for controlling most of the vehicle’s safety-critical systems, including the backup camera, gear selection, climate control, lights, and driver assistance settings. The leak causes visible streaking and distortion on the display. This directly impacts the rearview camera feed — making it harder to see obstacles or pedestrians when reversing — which is a federally mandated safety feature under FMVSS 111. The problem worsens in hot weather and may result in fluid dripping onto electronics below, creating an electrical hazard or sudden display failure while driving. This appears to be a known design flaw in which the adhesive or seal inside the display fails over time. The issue can impair visibility of safety alerts, rearview camera images, and vehicle status, posing a significant safety risk to occupants and others.

NHTSA ID

11679579

Incident

Aug 8, 2025

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.

NHTSA ID

11673529

Incident

Jul 14, 2025

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.

NHTSA ID

11667966

Incident

Jun 16, 2025

The contact owns a 2016 Tesla Model S. The contact stated while attempting to park the vehicle, the brake pedal was depressed and failed to respond. There were no warning lights illuminated. The contact depressed the brake and the vehicle kept rolling forward. The contact opened the door for the vehicle to come to a stop. On another occasion, the contact stated that the ADAS feature engaged and while driving at various speeds, and the vehicle failed to recognize stop signs, traffic lights, or pedestrians. The contact stated that the function was a paid feature; however, the system failed to operate as designed. On another occasion, the contact stated that the steering will shift to one side while driving at various speeds, and the vehicle became difficult to steer. The vehicle was not taken to the dealer to be diagnosed or repaired. The dealer was made aware, and the contact had a pending appointment scheduled. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 79,000.

NHTSA ID

11653299

Incident

Feb 1, 2025

Mileage

79,000 mi

Component Failure: The Tesla NEMA 14-50 charging adapter for my 2016 Model S malfunctioned, causing overheating that melted a prong and led to an electrical fire. The defective adapter appears identical to those in Tesla's November 2016 recall, though mine was designated "not affected." The damaged adapter and charging cable are available for inspection. Safety Risk: This malfunction created a serious fire hazard endangering myself and my property. The electrical fire damaged both my vehicle and charging equipment, and the fire could have spread to my home, potentially endangering my family and neighbors. Verification: I took the damaged adapter to the Tesla Service Center in Colorado Springs, where technicians acknowledged the damage but refused to replace it under the recall. They visually confirmed the melted prong and fire damage. Manufacturer Response: After the incident, I contacted Tesla Corporate requesting replacement of the defective equipment. They responded that they don't believe the electrical fire was caused by the defective plug, despite physical evidence showing the same issue as recalled units. Warning Signs: Prior to failure, I noticed intermittent charging interruptions and the adapter becoming unusually hot. These symptoms began approximately three weeks before the fire incident. There were no dashboard warnings about potential charging equipment issues.

NHTSA ID

11645180

Incident

Nov 24, 2024

The contact owns a 2016 Tesla Model S. The contact stated that while driving at undisclosed speeds, the instrument cluster became inoperable on several occasions. The contact stated that the failure had occurred several times. The vehicle was taken to the dealer; however, the contact was informed that the failure would reoccur unless the vehicle was updated with a new infotainment center and a faster processor. In addition, the contact stated that the vehicle had been taken to the dealer several times due to the failure. The contact stated that recently the instrument cluster and the ECM were replaced. In addition, the vehicle recently received a software update. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure but provided no assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 73,000.

NHTSA ID

11597213

Incident

Apr 6, 2024

Mileage

73,000 mi

The contact owns a 2016 Tesla Model S. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V838000 (Electrical System) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was not contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.

NHTSA ID

11595017

Incident

Jun 18, 2024

Received and OTA notice on the dashboard that states "Battery Fuse replacement" is required. The fuse is due to a Li-ion battery that wears out for a safety system. Life expectancy of the battery is 10 years. It has not lasted 8 full years. This is stated as a safety issue and Tesla has since redesigned this item to not required the batteries. I have alerted Tesla about this issue, have not had a reply, as yet. The vehicle can be operated without this safety device, which seems inappropriate. I feel this should be replaced under warranty and/or recall - but it appears Tesla will want to charge an excessive amount of money.

NHTSA ID

11594757

Incident

Jun 17, 2024

Driving 75mph on cruise control. Car sensed a vehicle in front of me (which there were no vehicles in sight) my Tesla started flashing the red car light and making the alert noise. My vehicle automatically slammed on the brakes dropping me to about 40mph instantly. My greatest fear continuing to drive this vehicle is if I use cruise control, and it senses a vehicle in front of me without their actually being a vehicle and slams on the brakes again myself or someone is going to get hurt. This has the potential to cause death or cause severe injury.

NHTSA ID

11563311

Incident

Jan 3, 2024

Sudden unintended acceleration appeared to cause the Tesla while parking the car on the street in front of home accelerate go out of control and crash into the home totaling the car and damaging the house. Two days prior the vehicle was brought into a Tesla service location where Tesla replaced the 12 volt battery that they believed was causing the car not to power on properly at that time. After the crash and googling to see if others suffered similar issues it appears the NHTSA recently reopened a review of sudden unintended acceleration and this incident seems to align with concerns of the petitioner [XXX] . The police filed a report and it’s at the towing place where the insurer Allstate is going to evaluate the car for a total loss. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ID

11558021

Incident

Dec 1, 2023

Dear NHTSA, I am writing to file a complaint regarding a SUA incident that occurred on October 20, 2023, involving my 2016 Tesla Model S. On the day of the incident, I pulled into my garage and began to park my car. When I pressed the brake pedal, the car suddenly accelerated forward, crashing into the garage wall and totaling the vehicle. The garage wall was severely damaged and will need to be rebuilt. This is not the first time that my Tesla has experienced SUA. In 2017, I filed a complaint with NHTSA regarding a similar incident. In my previous complaint (issue # 11000097 dated June 19, 2017), I described a similar incident that occurred in December 2016. At the time, Tesla denied that the incident was caused by SUA and no further action was taken. I am convinced that the SUA incident on October 25, 2023, was caused by a defect in my Tesla Model S. I am also concerned that other Tesla owners may be at risk of similar incidents. I urge NHTSA to investigate this matter and take appropriate action to protect consumers. I believe that Tesla should be held liable for the damages to my vehicle and my garage wall, and that the company should be required to recall all Tesla Model S vehicles that are at risk of SUA. Thank you for your time and consideration. Sincerely,

NHTSA ID

11554936

Incident

Oct 20, 2023

The contact owns a 2016 Tesla Model S. The contact stated that over time, the adhesive for both the forward display and center console had degraded to the point that both components were able to move freely. The contact stated that the center console eventually lost electrical power, and as a result, the contact lost control and visibility of important vehicle safety features and information. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who was unable to provide a specific diagnosis, but the vehicle was repaired after replacing the forward display and center console. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 58,000. The VIN was invalid.

NHTSA ID

11535557

Incident

Jun 15, 2022

Mileage

58,000 mi

The glue that was used on the screen of the Tesla has been leaking and the service center refused to pay for the repairs. The glue is now exposed into the car and outside of the screen and is toxic. I am now breathing toxic glue and its giving me and my family headaches when we are inside of the Tesla.

NHTSA ID

11508575

Incident

Feb 22, 2023

At 22 degrees fahrenheit, the vehicles cabin heat shut off after hearing a noise. The Noise appeared to be a broken cabin heating element. The window screen quickly fogged, and water began attaching to the outside of the windscreen, building up as ice. The windscreen was completely almost blocked. This problem has appeared common in my online research. I was informed by a non manufacture repair business that the issue became apparent during the low temperature cold weather in December 2022. The vehicle will be inspected by the manufacture. No warnings, alerts, or service indicators were show. The vehicle is still showing proper operation.

NHTSA ID

11499061

Incident

Dec 23, 2022

The contact owns a 2016 Tesla Model S. The contact stated that while driving at an unknown speed, the electrical system intermittently failed. The contact stated that the turn signals failed to sound, the back-up camera was blank or was sometimes distorted. The contact stated that he was concerned for his safety while driving. No warning lights were illuminated. Additionally, the contact stated that two years ago, the vehicle performed a software update and afterwards, the electronics failed to properly operate. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed that the failure was a known issue, and that the contact needed to wait for a software update. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and the contact was informed to wait for the software update but no further assistance was provided. The failure mileage was unavailable.

NHTSA ID

11486623

Incident

Feb 27, 2020

While on the road/highway, the screen goes blank and soon starts rebooting itself. This is a big distraction and a matter of anxiety for the driver who fears sudden stopping of the car till the screen comes back up in a few minutes. This has happened to me intermittently many times. I have reported it several times but nothing was done since the technician at Tesla couldn’t repeat it the one time they may have test driven the car. That is the problem with intermittent issues. But for me, that one more time it happens next time, and I get anxious and distracted, it may result in an accident. I think this is a serious safety issues that many other Tesla owners have reported as seen on the web. Since your form asks for one specific date of incident I have indicated one approximate date but this has happened several times over last three years.

NHTSA ID

11486616

Incident

Feb 1, 2022