Tesla’s journey through the years has been a tapestry of innovation, disruption, and at times, controversy. Despite a mixed record of reliability, Tesla has undeniably cemented its position as a frontrunner in American EV sales, boasting 50% market share in 2024. With Tesla’s pricing becoming increasingly attractive, a new wave of drivers is exploring Tesla models for the first time. Consumer Reports, through rigorous testing and extensive surveys, offers insights into the reliability of Tesla’s lineup. But how does Tesla’s reliability stack up against other automakers? We’ll answer this question and more as we look at the most reliable Tesla models in 2024.
Tesla Versus the Competition: Reliability
As of 2024, Consumer Reports ranks Tesla’s overall brand #14 of the 30 car brands that they’ve tested.
Their rankings are based on Tesla’s predicted reliability score. This time-tested method of scoring reliability includes all the vehicles within that brand for the newest three model years from the latest Consumer Reports member survey.
Here are the 10 most reliable automotive brands, according to CR.
Want to see the whole list with the finer details? Check it out here.
The Most Reliable Tesla Models in 2024
Surprisingly, Tesla’s two most affordable models are their most reliable, according to testing and surveys done by Consumer Reports. The most expensive Tesla models are actually the least reliable.
In 2024, the Tesla Model 3 and Model Y are the most reliable. Let’s zoom in to the details.
2024 Tesla Model 3
Price: $38,990 – $45,990
Predicted Reliability: 47/100
Overall CR Score: 71/100
The 2024 Tesla Model 3 boasts an impressive electric range of 341 miles. Tesla’s Supercharger network ensures convenience and efficiency, significantly reducing downtime during trips. The Model 3 was recently joined by the Hyundai IONIQ 6 in the club of long-range electric sedans. If recent sales trends are any indication, the Model 3 continues to be favored by more buyers. Learn more about Consumer Reports’ Tesla Model 3 reliability ratings here.
2024 Tesla Model Y
Price: $43,990 – $52,490
Predicted Reliability: 41/100
Overall CR Score: 72/100
In 2023, Tesla sold approximately 403,700 Model Ys in a record year for the company. Consumer Reports expects the 2024 Model Y to have average reliability when compared to the average new car. This prediction is based on Consumer Reports data from 2021, 2022 and 2023 models. Learn more about Consumer Reports’ Tesla reliability ratings here.
The Least Reliable Tesla Models
2024 Tesla Model S
Price: $74,990 – $89,990
Predicted Reliability: 30/100
Overall CR Score: 63/100
The Tesla Model S is the original mainstream Tesla model, although mainstream only for luxury buyers. The Model S proved that electric vehicles had a future. In 2024, it remains in Tesla’s lineup as a tiny fraction of it’s previous importance to the company. Sales have dwindled as the Model 3 and Model Y have moved to the forefront.
The Model S has an electric range of 320 to 405 miles depending on the model, with a 100 kWh lithium-ion battery. It supports plug-in charging with various options, including a Supercharger at 150–250 kW DC, allowing for rapid charging. If you’re looking for an electric luxury sedan, the Model S should be on your short list. However, Consumer Reports found multiple trouble areas when reviewing the reliability of the Model S. Learn more about Consumer Reports’ Tesla Model S reliability ratings here.
2024 Tesla Model X
Price: $79,990 – $94,990
Predicted Reliability: 27/100
Overall CR Score: 53/100
The Tesla Model X is the least reliable Tesla model, but it’s also the most expensive. Known for its distinctive gull-wing doors, the Model X offers a cargo volume ranging from 15 to 37.1 cubic feet, which expands to 91.6 to 92.3 cubic feet with the seats down. It was the sole 3-row electric SUV until the Rivian R1S and Kia EV9 were introduced. With a range of up to 335 miles, the Model X combines practicality with Tesla’s renowned electric performance. Learn more about Consumer Reports’ Tesla Model X reliability ratings here.
2024 Tesla Cybertruck
Price: $60,990 – $99,900+
Predicted Reliability: The Cybertruck has not yet been tested by Consumer Reports. We expect CR to test Tesla’s truck late this year.
Overall CR Score: N/A
Reviews of the Cybertruck are now available. We recommend this thorough review from Out of Spec on YouTube.
The Verdict: Are Tesla’s Reliable?
In 2024, Tesla’s reliability narrative is a blend of highs and lows, with Consumer Reports placing Tesla models below average in terms of reliability. However, the Tesla Model 3 and Model Y emerge as beacons of relative dependability within the Tesla lineup, anticipated to be the most reliable among Tesla’s offerings.
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