2019 Tesla Model S Engine Problems
- Complaints
- 2about this part
- Share
- 5%of 44 total for the year
- Median mileage
- 9,000miles
- Trend
- Not enough dataFewer than 15 complaints, too few for a reliable trend.
NHTSA recorded 2 complaints about the engine of the 2019 Tesla Model S, 5% of the 44 complaints for this model year. Where a mileage was given, the median is 9,000 miles. 1 of these say a crash was involved, according to the filers.
Fewer than 15 complaints name this part, so treat the figures as a rough indication only.
Example complaints
Selected from NHTSA records; personal details are removed. They are consumer reports, not findings.
“I was driving my 2019 Model S Tesla on autopilot down the freeway at freeway speed when suddenly it started braking and the alarms went off as if reacting to an impending collision. Only, there was nothing in front of me to react to. The guy behind me rear ended me and spun across traffic lanes. Thankfully, everyone walked away from this with what we think is just whiplash at this time - it could have been so much worse!”
NHTSA complaint #11339261, filed 2020-07, 9,000 miles“While I have not experienced this issue personally yet, it is highly possible that it affects all 2012–2020 Tesla Model S vehicles equipped with the large induction motor. The issue appears to involve a manufacturing/design defect that allows coolant to leak into the motor due to a failed seal. Once coolant enters the motor, it can short electrical components and potentially cause additional electrical issues. In many cases, the failure occurs without warning, immediately disabling the vehicle and potentially leaving the driver stranded without any notice. …”
NHTSA complaint #11757258, filed 2026-08Engine: other model years
| Year | Complaints | Share of year |
|---|---|---|
| 2022 | 1 | 1% |
| 2021 | 1 | 1% |
| 2019 | 2 | 5% |
| 2018 | 1 | 1% |
| 2017 | 4 | 1% |
| 2016 | 5 | 1% |
| 2015 | 17 | 3% |
| 2014 | 12 | 3% |
| 2013 | 21 | 5% |
| 2012 | 1 | 2% |
Other parts of the 2019 Tesla Model S
12 complaintsSuspension
8 complaintsBrakes
7 complaintsElectrical system
5 complaintsOther or unknown
4 complaintsSteering
4 complaintsTransmission and drivetrain
3 complaintsVehicle speed control
3 complaintsVisibility (wipers, defrost, mirrors)
3 complaintsAir bags
2 complaintsBack-over prevention (rear camera)
2 complaintsExterior lighting
2 complaints
← All problems reported for the 2019 Tesla Model S
About this data. Data from NHTSA (ODI) complaints, recalls, TSBs and investigations, updated Oct 27, 2026. Complaints are unverified consumer reports and may be duplicated or inaccurate.
To check a specific vehicle for open recalls, use its VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. Methodology