How many steering complaints does the 2013 Tesla Model S have?

NHTSA lists 29 steering complaints for the 2013 Tesla Model S, which is 6% of the 459 total complaints filed for that model year.

Is there a steering recall for the 2013 Tesla Model S?

Yes. Recall 18V204000, reported March 29, 2018, covers 2012-2016 Model S vehicles with Bosch steering racks whose aluminum mounting bolts can corrode and fracture. Tesla's remedy is replacing the steering gear mounting bolts and adding corrosion protection.

At what mileage do steering problems usually appear on the 2013 Model S?

The median mileage at failure for steering complaints on the 2013 Model S is 76,000 miles.

Have steering problems caused crashes or injuries on the 2013 Model S?

NHTSA data tied to the Steering component on the 2013 Model S shows 2 crashes, 1 fire, and 1 injury.

2013 Tesla Model S Steering Problems

NHTSA lists 29 Steering complaints for the 2013 Tesla Model S, 6% of that year's 459 total complaints. Two crashes, one fire, and one injury are linked to this component, with a median failure mileage of 76,000 miles. A related recall (18V204000) covers corroding steering gear mounting bolts.

Steering complaints: 29; 6% of 459
Crashes reported: 2
Fires reported: 1
Injuries reported: 1
Median mileage: 76,000 mi
Related recalls: 1

Typical steering symptoms owners report

Steering wheel abnormally tightens with a cracking noise, later traced to a worn shaft and rack-and-pinion nut.
Front wheel hub assembly separates from the upper control arm, causing sudden loss of steering control.
Corrosion on the lower steering shaft and u-joint leads to power steering failure.
Electric power steering assist cuts out intermittently, making the wheel almost impossible to turn, in some cases reported after an over-the-air software update.
A dashboard message reads 'power steering assist system disabled' while the steering wheel becomes difficult to turn, traced to the steering gear and mounting bolts.
Owners report the steering rack failing due to corroded mounting bolts, in one case just before the related recall was issued.

When 2013 Tesla Model S steering complaints were filed

First complaint Aug 7, 2013, latest Jun 24, 2026.

29 complaints filed with NHTSA from Aug 2013 to Jun 2026; peak Aug 2016 (3).

Steering recalls for the 2013 Tesla Model S

NHTSA 18V204000Mar 29, 2018Steering70,421 vehicles
Steering:electric power assist system
Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2012-2016 Tesla Model S vehicles equipped with Bosch steering racks. The aluminum bolts that attach the power steering gear assist motor to the gear housing may corrode and fracture causing a reduction or complete loss of power steering assist.
Risk: Loss of power steering assist would require a higher steering effort, especially at lower speeds, which may increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Tesla will notify owners, and Tesla Service Centers will replace the steering gear mounting bolts and add a corrosion-preventative sealer, free of charge. The recall began May 7, 2019. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-18-32-002.

Steering complaints by Model S model year

Raw complaint counts per model year; newer years have had less time to accumulate complaints.

20121 (2%)
201329 (6%)
201427 (7%)
201551 (8%)
201686 (13%)
201747 (11%)
201815 (9%)
20194 (9%)
202010 (13%)
202129 (16%)
202221 (15%)
202320 (18%)
20244 (11%)
20251 (17%)

Frequently asked questions

How many steering complaints does the 2013 Tesla Model S have?: NHTSA lists 29 steering complaints for the 2013 Tesla Model S, which is 6% of the 459 total complaints filed for that model year.
Is there a steering recall for the 2013 Tesla Model S?: Yes. Recall 18V204000, reported March 29, 2018, covers 2012-2016 Model S vehicles with Bosch steering racks whose aluminum mounting bolts can corrode and fracture. Tesla's remedy is replacing the steering gear mounting bolts and adding corrosion protection.
At what mileage do steering problems usually appear on the 2013 Model S?: The median mileage at failure for steering complaints on the 2013 Model S is 76,000 miles.
Have steering problems caused crashes or injuries on the 2013 Model S?: NHTSA data tied to the Steering component on the 2013 Model S shows 2 crashes, 1 fire, and 1 injury.