Tesla's impact on the automotive industry is undeniable. The firm has revolutionized the electric vehicle (EV) sector, capturing the hearts of countless fans who believe in Elon Musk's vision. While their rapid growth is impressive, making over 1.8 million deliveries in 2023, their flagship Model X, launched in 2015, has faced various challenges. The Model X promised to be the ultimate electric luxury SUV, boasting innovative features like falcon-wing doors, advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), and impressive performance.

However, early adopters reported reliability issues that left them frustrated and disappointed. These issues, coupled with a shift in consumer preferences towards more affordable and practical EVs, contributed to a decline in Model X sales. In 2022, Model S and X deliveries only accounted for about four-percent of Tesla's global total, prompting price cuts for both variants in an attempt to attract buyers despite the known issues. Adding more flame to the fire, Tesla CEO, Elon Musk's acknowledgment of the Model X as a "blunder," raises concerns about the future of Tesla's offerings. On the bright side, the 2024 Model X has seen various improvements to tackle these issues.

UPDATE: 2024/03/11 16:00 EST BY ANIEBIET INYANG NTUI

This article has been updated to reflect the latest information regarding the reliability of the Tesla Model X. To provide you with the most accurate and current insights, this revision incorporates recent developments and ongoing discussions surrounding the Model X's shortcomings.

In order to give you the most up-to-date and accurate information possible, the data used to compile this article was sourced from Tesla and other reliable sources such as NHTSA, Consumer Reports, CarBuzz, and HotCars.

Design Flaws In The Tesla Model X

The Tesla Model X, once hailed as a revolutionary electric SUV, garnered significant attention for its innovative design and features. However, beneath its sleek exterior lie some shortcomings that have caused frustration for some owners.

From Wow Factor To Woe Factor

The signature falcon-wing doors, while undeniably eye-catching and conversation-starting, have become a source of significant trouble for some Model X owners. These complex, upwards-swinging doors are prone to malfunctions, ranging from inconsistent opening and closing to complete failure. This not only disrupts the intended smooth operation but can also lead to inconvenience and safety concerns. Additionally, sensor malfunctions designed to prevent the doors from hitting objects have resulted in accidents and costly repairs, further adding to the frustration.

The Windshield Conundrum

The Model X boasts a panoramic windshield, offering an impressive, unobstructed view for both driver and passengers. However, this expansive glass surface comes at a cost. Many owners have reported the windshield being susceptible to cracking, even from minor impacts like small stones. While Tesla maintains that these cracks don't pose a safety risk, they can be expensive to repair and hinder driver visibility, impacting both safety and driving experience.

A Bumpy Road

The suspension system, crucial for a comfortable and safe ride, has also raised concerns among some Model X owners. Reports of strange noises emanating from the system raise red flags, indicating potential underlying issues. Additionally, some owners have experienced premature wear and tear on the suspension, leading to costly repairs or replacements. This is particularly concerning for a vehicle positioned as a luxury SUV intended for long journeys under various conditions.

2024 Tesla Model X Exterior Dimensions

(Specs sourced from Tesla)

Power And Range Hampered By Battery And Charging Woes

While Tesla has established itself as a leader in the EV market, the Model X has faced its share of challenges. Despite boasting impressive initial range and performance figures, concerns surrounding battery life, charging difficulties, and a stark contrast to the Model 3's capabilities have tarnished the Model X's reputation.

Battery Deterioration and Reduced Range

Like all batteries, Tesla's, despite their extended life, eventually degrade. This has translated into a real-world concern for some Model X owners, particularly those with older models, who have reported a noticeable decrease in range and overall performance over time. This can be particularly frustrating, as the advertised range of the Model X, originally reaching up to 371 miles, becomes increasingly unattainable.

Charging System Frustrations

Adding to the Model X's woes, the charging system has been a persistent source of frustration for many owners. The car frequently falls short of the advertised range due to the issue of the battery draining too quickly. This is further compounded by reported difficulties in getting the car to charge consistently or maintain a charge.

Another significant drawback of the Model X, for the older models, is its lagging fast-charging capabilities compared to its more affordable sibling, the Model 3. This disparity has been particularly perplexing to consumers, contributing to the Model X's weaker sales performance compared to other Tesla models. The inability to keep pace with the fast-charging advancements of the Model 3 has undoubtedly discouraged potential buyers who prioritize quick and efficient charging experiences.

A Bumpy Ride For Model X Owners

The Tesla Model X boasts an impressive array of features and technology, but its air suspension system has been a persistent source of trouble for some owners. This complex system, responsible for adjusting the ride height and handling of the vehicle, has been plagued by issues including:

• Leaking Air Suspensions: Leaks occur in various components of the system, leading to a loss of air pressure and a gradual decline in ride height. This can not only affect the car's handling but also raise concerns about safety and stability.
• Loud Air Compressors: While the air compressor naturally cycles on and off to maintain pressure, some Model X owners have reported unusually loud operation. This can be a sign of wear and tear or potential compressor failure.
• Inconsistent And Uneven Ride Height: The air suspension is designed to automatically adjust the ride height based on various factors. However, some owners have experienced situations where the car sits unevenly, affecting its stance and potentially impacting handling.

Multiple Safety-related Recalls Plague The Model X

The decision to purchase a car hinges on various factors, but safety undoubtedly reigns supreme. The Tesla Model X, however, has cast a shadow over its image with a concerning history of safety-related recalls, raising serious questions about its reliability and adherence to safety standards.

A Concerning Track Record

The 2022 Model X alone paints a concerning picture, having been recalled over 15 times for safety issues. These issues encompass a wide range of crucial functionalities, including:

• Seat belt malfunction: In July 2023, Tesla recalled nearly 16,000 Model S and Model X due to a potential seat belt issue. The issue involved the front-row seat belts potentially not being properly connected, which could increase the risk of them detaching in a collision.
• Airbag malfunction: Improper deployment of side airbags during collisions poses a significant risk to passenger safety. A total of 7,600 Teslas (Model S & X) where affected by the recall in 2021.

Beyond The Model X

These issues extend beyond the Model X. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) prompted Tesla to recall nearly 362,000 vehicles, in February 2023, due to concerns with the Autopilot software. The NHTSA cited the system's ability to "exceed speed limits or travel through intersections in an unlawful or unpredictable manner," highlighting a potential risk of crashes arising from the software's functionality.

Addressing Early Model Concerns

Though the Model X was a trailblazer in the electric SUV market, earlier models encountered reliability challenges, evident in multiple recalls and reports of build quality and software issues. It's important to distinguish these concerns from the 2024 Model X, which has only faced one recall to date and incorporates improvements addressing past issues.

Tesla Model X 2024 Updates

The 2024 Model X addresses some of the concerns raised about previous models.

• Improved Build Quality: While concerns persist in some reviews, Tesla claims to have made strides in enhancing the overall build quality.
• Steering Wheel Option: The controversial yoke steering wheel is no longer the only option. Buyers can now choose a traditional flat-bottomed steering wheel.
• Redesigned Glass Roof: The new glass roof allows for more natural light, improving the interior experience.

The 2024 Model X Is An Epitome Performance And Efficiency

The 2024 Tesla Model X boasts impressive performance, aiming to rival even modern sports cars. Offered in two configurations, the base Model X and the high-performance Plaid, both deliver exceptional acceleration and handling.

• Thrilling Acceleration: The standard Model X packs a punch with 670 horsepower and rockets from 0 to 60 mph in a claimed 3.8 seconds. Real-world tests have even shown even faster times, with older models achieving a 3.3-second sprint.
• Plaid Power: Upgrading to the Model X Plaid unleashes even more power, with a tri-motor setup generating 1,020 horsepower. This translates to a 2.5-second 0-60 mph time.
• Exceptional Handling: Both models benefit from a drag coefficient of 0.24. This translates to better handling and efficiency. Additionally, the Plaid boasts torque vectoring for sharper cornering and upgraded brakes for enhanced stopping power.
• Adaptive Comfort: Tesla equips both models with adaptive air suspension, providing a comfortable ride while maintaining impressive handling capabilities.
• Efficiency Considerations: While not the most frugal option in Tesla's lineup, the Model X offers decent efficiency. The base model leads the pack with a 102 MPGe EPA-estimated combined energy consumption. The Plaid's efficiency varies depending on wheel size, ranging from 91 to 98 MPGe.
• Towing and Payload: The Model X proves its versatility with a 5,000-pound towing capacity and a 654-pound payload capacity, making it a capable choice for hauling cargo or trailers.

2024 Tesla Model X Performance Specs

(Specs sourced from Tesla & the EPA)

• Range and Charging: The base Model X delivers an impressive 335-mile EPA-estimated range, while the Plaid offers a slightly lower 326-mile range. Charging times vary depending on the charging method, with Level 1 charging taking 135 hours and Level 2 charging taking 18 hours for a full charge. Tesla's Supercharger network offers the fastest charging option, replenishing the battery from 10- to 80-percent in just 30 minutes.

2024 Tesla Model X Charging Specs

(Specs sourced from Tesla)

Overall, the 2024 Tesla Model X combines exhilarating performance with impressive efficiency and practicality, making it a compelling option for those seeking a luxurious and powerful electric SUV.