Dealer visit checklist
2023 Tesla Model S checklist
Print it or keep it on your phone. Tick each item as you go so nothing gets missed.
Inspect the car
- Check every panel gap and look for mismatched paint (signs of past accident repair)
- Look at the tires: even wear, matching brands, at least 4/32" tread
- Check under the car and engine bay for oil, coolant or other leaks
- Start the engine cold; listen for knocks, ticks or squeals and watch for smoke
- Test every window, lock, seat, light, the A/C, heat and infotainment
- Test drive on city streets and highway: straight braking, smooth shifts, no pulling
- Ask for the service records and a vehicle history report
- Have an independent mechanic do a pre-purchase inspection (about $100–$200)
Known 2023 Tesla Model S problems to check
- Panel gaps and paint quality inconsistencies remain a persistent complaint on delivery and require immediate inspection
- Yoke steering wheel (standard on most 2023 trims) draws widespread ergonomic criticism and can be legally restricted in some states for road tests
- 12V lithium battery failures have been reported, potentially leaving the car unable to power on and requiring roadside assistance
- Suspension rattles and squeaks, particularly over rough pavement, are reported more frequently than the price point would suggest
- Mobile service response times and service center availability vary dramatically by region, creating long wait times for even minor issues
Ask: have these recalls been fixed?
- STEERING:AUTOMATED/ADAPTIVE STEERING: Tesla, Inc.
- FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: SENSING SYSTEM: CAMERA: Tesla, Inc.
- SEAT BELTS:FRONT: Tesla, Inc.
- STEERING: STEERING WHEEL/HANDLE BAR: Tesla, Inc.
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:ADAS:AUTONOMOUS/SELF DRIVING:SOFTWARE: Tesla, Inc.
- LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:DOORS:LATCH: Tesla, Inc.
- BACK OVER PREVENTION: SENSING SYSTEM: CAMERA: Tesla, Inc.
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: INSTRUMENT CLUSTER/PANEL: Tesla, Inc.
Negotiate the price
- Know the typical price: about $90,000 for this model year
- Negotiate the out-the-door price, not the monthly payment
- Get the full price with every fee listed in writing before you sign
- Bring your own loan pre-approval so the dealer has a rate to beat
- Say no to add-ons you didn't ask for (paint protection, VIN etching, nitrogen tires)
- Negotiate your trade-in separately, after the car's price is agreed
- Be ready to walk away; another listing is usually a click away