Tesla's Model X Facing Some Early Consumer Quality Issues

Shares of Tesla Motors Inc (NASDAQ: TSLA) were trading lower by more than 3 percent on Tuesday, likely in reaction to Consumer Reports' first look of the Model X SUV.

Consumer Reports detailed the story of Michael Karpf, a 75-year-old retiree who flew to Tesla's factory in California to pick up his Model X SUV and then drive it back home to New Rochelle, New York. However, the report added that the vehicle faced a "string of problems as soon as he left the factory."

The report said one of the "falcon wing" rear doors failed to close while another could only be opened from the inside. In addition, one of the falcon door's didn't sense an overhang and bashed into it while the driver's door window wouldn't motor down properly.

Related Link: JPMorgan Likes GM In The Near Term, But Raises Tesla's Long-Term Estimates

Each of the issues required a separate visit to a Tesla facility in Santa Monica. However, all the issues were handled "quickly and completely."

Unfortunately, more problems were observed, including a distortion of headlights, taillights and streetlamps at night, problems with the AutoPilot and insufficient heating to keep the SUV warm during cool evenings.

"This thing is beautiful," Kapf said. "The car's power is incredible. It handles fantastic. It's hard to believe it's almost three tons. I'm rather impressed with the car overall."

Tesla's problems appear to extend beyond Karpf, as noted by Consumers Reports Tesla's message boards are "already swelling with complaints" from Model X owners.

A Tesla spokeswoman wrote in an email to Consumers Report:

"We are committed to making the world's most reliable cars. While we have seen some issues with early Model X builds, the issues are not widespread, and we are working closely with each owner to respond quickly and proactively to address any problems. We will continue to do so until each customer is fully satisfied. This commitment is one of the reasons why 98 percent of our customers say they will buy another Tesla as their next car."