What is the issue with Tesla’s reliability?

Despite their cutting-edge technology, Tesla vehicles continue to raise questions about their long-term reliability.

Tesla, the pioneer of electric cars, attracts enthusiasts with its spectacular performance and innovative technological approach. But behind the futuristic veneer, the question of reliability looms large. According to the latest Consumer Reports study on used cars, Tesla languishes at the bottom of the rankings, far from European and Japanese benchmarks.

The study focused on vehicles aged five to ten years, a period that coincided with the ramp-up in production of the Model 3. At that time, Tesla even had to assemble some models under a temporary structure in the parking lot of its still-under-construction factory in Fremont, California. This setup was far from ideal for ensuring the longevity of the vehicles, which partly explains the issues faced by the early generations.

But Tesla is improving!

However, not all indicators are in the red. Recent models show significant improvements, especially since the facelift of the Model: Tesla now ranks in the top 10 of the most reliable new cars according to Consumer Reports. The brand seems to have stabilized its production and improved quality, offering more reassuring reliability to new vehicle buyers.

This contrast highlights a crucial point: while new Teslas attract consumers with their technology and improved reliability, used models remain more risky. In contrast, brands such as Honda, BMW, or Toyota favor conservative yet effective developments, ensuring reliable cars over the years. According to Steven Elek, the automotive analysis director at Consumer Reports, these vehicles are “reliable from the outset and remain so over time”, a clear advantage for cautious buyers.

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In its defense, Tesla is not the only electric brand facing challenges among new entrants. The major Californian competitor Rivian, for example, also ranks low, but this time among new cars. At least Tesla has surpassed this stage!

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