The Tesla Model S changed the EV landscape. Available in New Zealand since 2015 and onward, they have become more prevalent on our roads due to being technologically advanced, and having great performance. As time moves on and you are looking at a used model, it's important to know what to look for.
Common issues include battery degradation (reduced range), suspension air strut failures, touchscreen delamination or failure, door handle malfunctions, and MCU (Media Control Unit) failure. Also be aware of body and paint, as Teslas of this age have reports of paint issues and rust.
Check tyre condition, as these cars are fast and wear tyres. Ensure all lights are functional (especially the complicated rear light bar). Brakes also, as they are heavy and need to function correctly.
Older Model S vehicles will experience battery degradation over time. Have the battery health and range tested. Also, suspension components are known issues, being heavy cars can cause issues over bumps. Check all aspects are functioning correctly, any error codes could be a sign