The 2022 Tesla Model S sits at a crossroads in Tesla’s lineup. It’s the first full year of the refreshed body style and ground-shaking Model S Plaid, but it’s now old enough to show real-world reliability, depreciation, and battery health trends. If you’re eyeing a used luxury EV that can still outrun supercars and cover 350+ miles on a charge, the 2022 Model S deserves a hard look, especially as prices soften in 2026.
2022 Model S at a Glance
Overview: What Changed for the 2022 Tesla Model S?
Tesla’s big Model S refresh technically launched for 2021, but 2022 is when production ramped up and buyers started getting cars in meaningful volume. That makes 2022 a sweet spot: you get the latest body, interior, and Plaid powertrain updates, but with more used inventory and lower pricing than 2021 cars that often command a “first year” premium.
- Refreshed exterior with cleaner front fascia and updated lighting
- All‑new interior with horizontal 17-inch center screen and rear passenger display
- Available yoke steering (with traditional wheel option appearing later in the run for some markets), plus capacitive touch turn-signal and gear controls
- New tri‑motor Plaid performance powertrain with around 1,020 hp
- Updated battery pack and thermal management targeting better sustained performance and high-speed charging
- Standard dual‑motor all‑wheel drive for both trims
Why 2022 Matters for Used Buyers
Trims, Power, and Key Specs
2022 Tesla Model S Trim Comparison
Key performance, range, and pricing differences between the Long Range and Plaid versions of the 2022 Model S.
| Spec | Long Range (Dual Motor) | Plaid (Tri-Motor) |
|---|---|---|
| Drivetrain | Dual-motor AWD | Tri-motor AWD |
| Horsepower (approx.) | ~670 hp | ~1,020 hp |
| 0–60 mph (Tesla claim) | 3.1 seconds | 1.99 seconds |
| 0–60 mph (independent tests) | ~3.1–3.3 seconds | ~2.0–2.3 seconds |
| Top Speed | 155 mph | 200 mph (with appropriate wheels/tires) |
| EPA Range (19" wheels) | ≈405 miles | ≈396 miles |
| EPA Range (21" wheels) | ≈375 miles | ≈348 miles |
| Battery Capacity (usable est.) | ~100 kWh | ~100 kWh |
| Original Base MSRP (before fees) | ≈$95,000 | ≈$130,000 |
Specs are manufacturer and EPA figures; real-world results vary based on driving style, climate, and wheel size.
Wheel Size Matters for Range
2022 Tesla Model S By the Numbers
Range and Charging: Real-World 2022 Model S Experience
On paper, the 2022 Model S still has some of the best range on the road. Dual‑motor Long Range cars with 19-inch wheels are rated around 405 miles, while Plaid versions on 19s are just behind at about 396 miles. Swap to 21-inch wheels and those figures drop into the mid‑300s, before you factor in cold weather or high speeds.
What You Can Actually Expect
- Highway at 70–75 mph: Many owners report 70–80% of EPA range on long highway runs, especially with 21-inch wheels.
- Cold climates: Winter driving with frequent fast charging and cabin heat can trim range 25–40% on harsh days.
- City/suburban use: Stop-and-go driving is where the Model S shines, often matching or beating EPA numbers in mild temps.
Charging Experience
- Home charging: On a 240V Level 2 setup (about 40 amps), you can add 30–35 miles of range per hour, or a full charge overnight.
- Supercharging: On V3 Superchargers, peak rates can hit 200+ kW when the battery is warm and low, adding ~200 miles in roughly 15 minutes.
- Public CCS networks: With the right adapter, some 2022 owners also charge on CCS fast chargers, but Tesla’s Supercharger network remains the key advantage.
Used-Buy Tip: Ask for Charging History
Driving Experience: Comfort vs. Supercar Speed
Even in Long Range form, the 2022 Model S is properly quick, think high‑end German sport sedan levels of thrust. But the Plaid is a different animal. Its tri‑motor setup can launch you to 60 mph in just over two seconds in independent testing, making it one of the quickest production cars ever built, period.
How the 2022 Model S Feels on the Road
Luxury cruiser first, silent missile second.
Ride & Handling
The adaptive air suspension keeps the car composed and comfortable in most situations. Body control is tidy for a big sedan, but you still feel the weight if you push hard on a back road.
Steering & Yoke
Steering is precise but light on road feel, as with most Teslas. The yoke steering wheel polarizes drivers, quick inputs feel sharp, but low‑speed maneuvers and tight parking can be awkward.
Noise & Refinement
The 2022 update brought better noise isolation. Wind and road noise are well suppressed, though not quite at the level of the quietest German luxury sedans.
Plaid Performance Comes With Trade-Offs
Interior, Tech, and Comfort
Inside, the 2022 Model S leans hard into the minimalist, screen‑first design language Tesla is known for. The big changes versus earlier cars are the horizontal 17‑inch center display, the optional yoke steering, and the addition of a rear entertainment screen for back-seat passengers.
Strengths
- Spacious cabin: Plenty of legroom front and rear, plus a large hatchback cargo area and a small front trunk.
- Tech-forward feel: The infotainment is snappy and feature‑rich, with Netflix, games, and full-car controls on screen.
- Over-the-air updates: Software adds features and refinements over time, so a 2022 Model S in 2026 may feel more capable than when it left the factory.
Weak Spots
- Learning curve: Moving nearly every control into the touchscreen can be frustrating at first, especially climate and wiper controls.
- Materials & fit: Better than early Model S years, but still not quite at S‑Class or 7 Series levels in terms of material quality and detailing.
- Yoke ergonomics: Some drivers never fully warm up to the yoke and capacitive turn signals. If possible, test both yoke and round-wheel examples.
Cargo and Practicality Win
Safety, Autopilot, and Driver Assistance
Every 2022 Model S comes with a standard active safety suite including automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assistance, and adaptive cruise control. Where things get more complex is the ladder of software packages Tesla sells on top of that: Enhanced Autopilot and the much-discussed Full Self‑Driving (FSD) Capability.
- Standard Autopilot: Traffic-aware cruise control and lane centering on highways.
- Enhanced Autopilot (option): Adds automated lane changes, Navigate on Autopilot, and automated parking features.
- FSD Capability (option): Adds features like traffic light and stop-sign control, plus more advanced beta features where available. Despite the name, the driver must remain fully engaged.
Don’t Overvalue FSD on the Used Market
Reliability and Common 2022 Model S Issues
Early Model S years had well-publicized issues, door handles, MCU failures, drive units. The 2022 redesign addressed some historic weak points, but you’re still buying a complex, software-heavy luxury EV. As these cars age into 4–5 years old, a clearer picture of reliability is emerging.
Commonly Reported 2022 Model S Pain Points
Most are manageable, but you should know them before you buy.
Build Quality & Trim
Some owners report panel alignment inconsistencies, wind noise from frameless windows, and squeaks/rattles over rough pavement. Inspect door seals, hatch alignment, and test drive on varied roads.
Screen & Electronics Glitches
Occasional software bugs, Bluetooth quirks, or camera glitches are usually resolved with over-the-air updates or reboots. Check that cameras, parking sensors, audio, and steering-wheel controls all operate cleanly.
Battery & Drive Unit
So far, large-scale battery failures are rare, but range can decline a bit more quickly on Plaid models driven hard and charged frequently at Superchargers. Ask for current rated range at 100% to gauge degradation.
Brakes, Tires & Wear Items
Plaid models in particular eat through high-performance tires and can show faster brake wear if driven aggressively. Factor in premium rubber and larger rotors when budgeting maintenance.
Battery Health: What to Look For
Used Market, Pricing, and Depreciation in 2026
The Model S used to be one of the strongest value-holders in the EV space. But a wave of new competition, Tesla’s own price cuts on new vehicles, and broader sentiment swings have pushed used prices down sharply over the last few years. The flip side: 2022 Model S cars are now within reach for buyers who never considered a six‑figure new EV.
Typical 2026 Used Pricing for 2022 Model S (U.S.)
Approximate asking ranges observed in early 2026 for private-party and retail listings; actual pricing varies by region, mileage, and condition.
| Trim / Condition | Approx. Mileage | Typical Asking Range |
|---|---|---|
| Long Range – Clean, well maintained | 30,000–40,000 miles | $40,000–$45,000 |
| Long Range – High mileage or cosmetic wear | 60,000+ miles | $34,000–$40,000 |
| Plaid – Clean, enthusiast-owned | 20,000–35,000 miles | $55,000–$65,000 |
| Plaid – High mileage / track use likely | 50,000+ miles | $48,000–$55,000 |
Use these numbers as a starting point, then adjust for mileage, options, and condition. Certified or thoroughly inspected cars will sit at the higher end of the range.
Depreciation Snapshot
Who the 2022 Model S Is (and Isn’t) Right For
Great Fit If You Want…
- Long-distance EV capability: Few used EVs can match ~400 miles of rated range, Supercharger access, and strong fast‑charging performance.
- Supercar thrust with sedan practicality: Even non‑Plaid cars are legitimately quick; Plaid is in another universe entirely.
- Tech-first ownership: You like the idea of living inside a rolling software project with frequent new features and UI tweaks.
- Hatchback utility: You want a big trunk, folding rear seats, and room for gear or small families.
Maybe Not the Best Choice If…
- You prioritize traditional luxury feel: For ultra‑quiet cabins, plush ride, and old‑school controls, a Mercedes EQS or Lucid Air may fit better.
- You’re sensitive to service hassles: Tesla’s service experience can be region-dependent and sometimes backed up.
- You rarely road trip: If you mostly commute locally, a smaller, cheaper used EV might fit your needs just as well at lower cost.
- You dislike touch-only controls: If you hate digging in screens for basic functions, the 2022 Model S will test your patience.
Buying Checklist for a Used 2022 Tesla Model S
Essential Checks Before You Buy a 2022 Model S
1. Verify Battery Health and Rated Range
Ask the seller (or dealer) to charge the car to 90–100% and share the displayed rated range. Compare it to the original ~405‑mile (Long Range) or ~396‑mile (Plaid) rating to estimate degradation. With Recharged, your vehicle includes an independent <strong>battery health diagnostic</strong> in the Recharged Score.
2. Review Charging and Service History
Look for a balance of home Level 2 charging and Supercharging, and ask for records of any drive-unit, battery, or high-voltage system repairs. A strong digital service record suggests a well‑cared‑for car.
3. Inspect Wheels, Tires, and Brakes
On Plaid models especially, check for uneven tire wear, curb rash on 21-inch wheels, and brake rotor condition. Budget for a fresh set of quality tires if tread is low, performance rubber isn’t cheap.
4. Test All Tech Features
During the test drive, verify that Autopilot, cameras, parking sensors, Bluetooth, audio, and both screens work without glitches. A quick reboot is normal; persistent blackouts or errors are red flags.
5. Evaluate Interior Wear and Build Quality
Look closely at seat bolsters, door seals, trim alignment, and glass. Minor squeaks and rattles are common but should be reasonable for the mileage. Walk away from cars with signs of water leaks or structural repairs.
6. Confirm Software Options and Ownership
Check which Autopilot/FSD package is enabled in the software menu and verify it transfers with the car. Be wary of sellers pricing the car as if every optional software package is worth full original cost.
How Recharged Helps
2022 Tesla Model S FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2022 Tesla Model S
Bottom Line: Is a 2022 Model S a Smart Buy?
If you want a used EV that can comfortably crush cross‑country drives, annihilate most sports cars in a straight line, and still haul a family and their luggage, the 2022 Tesla Model S is hard to beat. It’s not the quietest or most traditionally luxurious option, and you’ll need to be comfortable living with a screen‑heavy interface and Tesla’s evolving software ecosystem. But steep depreciation and a growing used supply mean you can now get genuine flagship‑EV capability for the price of a new mid‑range crossover.
The key is picking the right car: prioritize battery health, realistic pricing, and a clean history over the wildest acceleration numbers or the flashiest wheels. If you want help separating the heroes from the headaches, Recharged can pair you with EV specialists, provide a Recharged Score Report on every car, and even handle trade‑ins and nationwide delivery. That way, your 2022 Model S feels like a smart upgrade, not a six‑figure gamble someone else already lost.
