2020 Tesla Model X Problems and Top Complaints – Is Your Car A Lemon?

Updated on August 30th, 2023 Author: Brian Jones

Premium-focused drivers want an electric SUV that outperforms the other options on the road, which is why they spend more for the 2020 Tesla Model X. The automaker claims that this luxury model is “designed for efficiency,” but customers don’t seem to agree. This model struggles with the suspension, vehicle speed control and electrical system

Click on other model year to view more problems:  2019   2021   2022   2023

NHTSA Complaints for the 2020 Tesla Model X

Problems with the Suspension

The suspension of a vehicle is necessary for a smooth ride. Yet, the Model X seems to completely overlook the comfort of the occupants.

Here is one NHTSA review. “Upon accelerating the front end bounces and vibrates unsafely. Tesla is aware of the faulty dangerous design, yet they continue to sell their Model X without disclosing to purchaser. Additionally, they refuse to repair the vehicle, indicating that new front half axles will only temporarily solve the issue. The bounce happens when starting from a complete stop or often when accelerating from one speed to another. The bounce has been happening since April but repeated repair requests to Tesla have been refused.”

Tesla knows there are severe suspension concerns. Service Bulletin #SB-20-31-001 talks about how the front stabilizer bars might have the wrong vulcanized bushings installed, which create a squeaking noise while going over roads with imperfections. Maybe the noises have something to do with making the Model X more “efficient.” Certainly customers spend less time driving the SUV because of the annoying noise.

Problems with the Vehicle Speed Control

Another major fault with the Model X has to do with the speed control. This system is causing a lot of concerns for customers.

Here’s one NHTSA complaint to look at. “I was the fourth vehicle in line at a bank drive thru and when the vehicle in front of me moved up in line, I placed the vehicle in Drive and suddenly the vehicle accelerated out of control and hit two vehicles and then went over a curb into a parking lot and crashed into two other vehicles, which resulted in a serious accident involving four other vehicles. Fortunately, no one was seriously hurt. My vehicle was a total loss.”

While Tesla has remained quiet about these problems, it’s clear that there is nothing efficient about the Model X. Actually, in this situation, there was a small amount of efficiency, in that the driver was already at the bank, so the money needed to pay for everyone else’s repairs was at least handy.

Problems with the Electrical System

One final look occurs with the electrical system. Considering that this is an electric vehicle, one would think this system would be perfected, but that’s not the case.

One Edmunds review states, “I bought a Model X with a warranty from Tesla, warranty of course includes the battery.  It is rated for 237 miles of range. Within four days of purchase, I noted I am getting 40 miles on it before it is at zero.  The car is also losing 24 miles per day when it’s not being driven.  Published documents indicate you shouldn’t lose more than 5-10/day. Their service support indicates it is completely normal and refuses to do anything about the battery – in fact they told me my car’s battery is outperforming the average Model X.  I don’t understand how this is normal.  How is it normal that the car only is able to do 1/6 of its rated range?  The average American drives 18 miles to work – good luck making it home.  It’s misleading advertising and poor warranty support. I wish I wouldn’t have bought the car.  Buyer beware.”

Again, Tesla remains quiet about the electrical system problems. Imagine getting behind the wheel of this SUV that doesn’t drive straight and unintentionally propels forward only to find out that it’s impossible to go beyond 40 miles of drive time. When one considers how much is paid for this vehicle, it’s clear that a lot is being spent per mile. Maybe it’s time to consider a bus pass instead. That would be a great way to become more efficient.

Your Lemon Law Legal Rights

Think you have a lemon? Sit back and let the experts work out your lemon case at no cost to you. The law makes Tesla pay legal fees. You may be able to get your lemon out of your life. Every year, auto manufacturers buy back, replace or pay cash settlements to thousands of ‘lemon’ owners like you.

About the Author:

Brian Jones spent more than 30 years working as an ASE Certified Master Tech and Parts Specialist at multiple dealerships. Brian has become an authority in the industry, traveling across the country to consult for car dealerships and contributing his expertise as a writer for several major automotive publications. In his spare time, Brian enjoys working on pickup trucks, muscle cars, Jeeps and anything related to motorsports.

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