Source: EPA FuelEconomy.gov & manufacturer data. Figures reflect base trim; actual specs vary by trim level.
About the 2013 Tesla Model S
The 2013 Tesla Model S is a ev that earns a Carivo score of 6.8/10 — rated Good. Its strongest dimension is Technology at 8.1/10, while Reliability at 4.6/10 is where it trails the competition most noticeably. It's a capable but unexceptional ev — stronger alternatives exist if you're willing to shop the segment carefully.
Reliability and safety are the two dimensions that matter most for long-term ownership costs. At 4.6/10 for reliability, this ev trails its segment. That doesn't rule it out, but go in with eyes open on running costs. Safety lands at 7.8/10 — solid, though some rivals offer more advanced driver-assist features as standard. Confirm official results for your trim at nhtsa.gov/ratings.
With 7.8/10 for performance, this is a car tuned for daily driving rather than excitement — perfectly capable on the commute, unremarkable on a back road. On technology it rates 8.1/10: a modern, well-integrated suite that compares favorably with anything at this price point.
Priced from $43,550–$53,626, 95 MPG, seating 5, the Tesla Model S sits in the mid-market bracket of the ev segment. The value score of 6.4/10 is a red flag — comparable alternatives offer meaningfully more for the same outlay. Shop the segment before deciding. At 13 years old, resale value, parts availability, and whether a successor model has improved on its weak points are all worth investigating before committing.
Verdict: The 2013 Tesla Model S sits in the middle of the field. Until its value and reliability scores improve, stronger options exist at this price. Worth a look if it fits a specific need; otherwise use our compare tool against the segment leaders first.
Carivo scores are our own editorial assessment, informed by NHTSA safety and recall records, EPA fuel-economy figures, and manufacturer-published specifications. Scores are reviewed periodically and updated when new data becomes available. See our full methodology →
How It Ranks Among EVs
The 2013 Tesla Model S ranks #260 of 268 evs in the Carivo database — better than 3% of the segment. Its 6.8/10 overall score is 0.8 points below the segment average of 7.6/10. Its $43,550 starting price undercuts the segment's median of $52,750 by about 17%.
Across the Model S model years we've scored, the 2013 holds its position — we didn't find an older year that delivers similar scores for meaningfully less money.
Strong safety ratings from NHTSA and independent testers
Competent performance that satisfies most everyday driving demands
Modern, intuitive tech suite with wireless connectivity and up-to-date ADAS
Exceptional fuel efficiency at 95 MPG — among the best in its class
✗ Where it falls short
Below-average reliability data — factor in potential repair and maintenance costs
Value-for-money is a weak point; comparable alternatives offer more for the price
NHTSA Recalls — 2013 Tesla Model S (11 on record)
The following recall campaigns have been filed with NHTSA for this model and year. Recall repairs are performed free of charge by franchised dealers; check your specific vehicle by VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Parking brake 19/04/2017 · 17V260000
Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2016 Model S and Model X vehicles. The electric parking brake calipers have an internal gear that may be improperly manufactured, possibly resulting in the gear fracturing during parking brake application or release.
Air bags / Frontal / Passenger side / Inflator module 09/01/2018 · 18V031000
Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling all 2013 Model S vehicles equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating…
Steering / Electric power assist system 29/03/2018 · 18V204000
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…
Seat belts / Front 23/11/2015 · 15V780000
Tesla Motors, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain model year 2012-2015 Model S vehicles manufactured May 31, 2012, to November 12, 2015. The affected vehicles are equipped with driver or front passenger seat belts that may be improperly connected to the…
Equipment / Electrical 13/01/2014 · 14V006000
Tesla Motors, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain model year 2013 Model S vehicles equipped for, and delivered with, certain NEMA 14-50 (240 volt) Universal Mobile Connector (UMC) adapters. During charging, the adapter, cord, or wall outlet could overheat.
Showing 5 of 11 campaigns — see the full list on NHTSA's site.
Common Questions — 2013 Tesla Model S
Is the 2013 Tesla Model S reliable?
We rate the 2013 Tesla Model S's reliability 4.6/10 — below the segment average, so budget for higher maintenance. It has 11 NHTSA recall campaigns on record for this model year (details in the recalls section above — repairs are free at dealers).
How many recalls does the 2013 Tesla Model S have?
11 NHTSA recall campaigns matched this model and year as of our latest check. Verify your specific vehicle by VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Is the 2013 Tesla Model S worth buying?
It scores 6.8/10 overall, ranking #260 of 268 evs in our database (better than 3% of the segment). Stronger-scoring alternatives exist at similar prices — use our compare tool before committing.
How much does the 2013 Tesla Model S cost?
The 2013 Tesla Model S starts at $43,550 and ranges up to $53,626 across trims (MSRP when new). At 95 MPG, expect roughly $553/year in fuel at 15,000 miles/year.
Owner Essentials — Tesla Model S
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More Tesla Reviews
Explore the full lineup of Tesla models scored by Carivo — ranked by overall score across reliability, safety, value, performance, and technology.
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