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2021 Tesla Model Y Maintenance Schedule

Manufacturer-recommended service intervals and open recall alerts for your 2021 Tesla Model Y.

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Recalls22Full scheduleKnown issues8

How Tesla schedules service

Tesla vehicles have no engine oil, no transmission fluid, no spark plugs, no timing belt, and no exhaust system to maintain. The schedule below is the entire factory-recommended service list. Tesla does not require dealer-stamped service intervals to maintain warranty — owners can service most items at home or at any qualified shop.

⚠️

22 Open Recalls

Source: NHTSA

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:ADAS:AUTONOMOUS/SELF DRIVING:SOFTWARE

Campaign #22V037000 · Jan 27, 2022

Issue: Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2016-2022 Model S and Model X, 2017-2022 Model 3, and 2020-2022 Model Y vehicles. The "rolling stop" functionality available as part of the Full Self-Driving (Beta) software may allow the vehicle to travel through an all-way stop intersection without first coming to a stop.

Risk: Failing to stop at a stop sign can increase the risk of a crash.

Fix: Tesla will perform an over-the-air (OTA) software update that disables the "rolling stop" functionality, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 28, 2022. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-22-00-001.

SUSPENSION

Campaign #21V912000 · Nov 21, 2021

Issue: Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Model Y vehicles. The front and rear suspension knuckles may fracture, causing the suspension links to separate.

Risk: Suspension links that separate can reduce vehicle stability and control, increasing the risk of a crash.

Fix: Tesla Service will inspect and replace the knuckles as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 18, 2022. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-21-31-004.

SUSPENSION:CRITICAL FASTENERS

Campaign #21V835000 · Oct 25, 2021

Issue: Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Model Y and 2019-2021 Model 3 vehicles. The front suspension lateral link fasteners may loosen, allowing the lateral link to separate from the sub-frame.

Risk: A lateral link separation could shift the wheel alignment, causing instability and increasing the risk of a crash.

Fix: Tesla Service will tighten or replace the lateral link fasteners as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 20, 2021. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-21-31-003.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE

Campaign #22V045000 · Jan 2, 2022

Issue: Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Model S and Model X, 2017-2022 Model 3, and 2020-2022 Model Y vehicles. The audible chime may not activate when the vehicle starts and the driver has not buckled their seat belt. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."

Risk: The driver may be unaware that their seat belt is not fastened, increasing the risk of injury during a crash.

Fix: Tesla will perform an over-the-air (OTA) software update, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 1, 2022. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-22-00-002.

SEAT BELTS:REAR/OTHER:RETRACTOR

Campaign #21V388000 · May 25, 2021

Issue: Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2019-2021 Model Y vehicles. One or both fasteners that secure the left and right second row seat belt retractors may not be properly attached.

Risk: Improperly attached fasteners may prevent the seat belt retention system from performing as designed, increasing the risk of injury.

Fix: Tesla Service will inspect and replace both fasteners if necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 23, 2021. Owners may contact Tesla customer service online by visiting www.tesla.com/support/contact or by calling 1-877-79-TESLA (or 1-877-798-3752). Tesla's number for this recall is SB-21-20-002.

SEAT BELTS

Campaign #21V389000 · May 25, 2021

Issue: Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2018-2020 Model 3 and 2019-2021 Model Y vehicles. One or both fasteners that secure the front seat shoulder belt to the b-pillar may not be properly attached.

Risk: An improperly attached fastener may prevent the seat belt system from performing as designed, increasing the risk of injury.

Fix: Tesla Service will inspect and repair both fasteners if necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 23, 2021. Owners may contact Tesla customer service online by visiting www.tesla.com/support/contact or by calling 1-877-79-TESLA (or 1-877-798-3752). Tesla's number for this recall is SB-21-20-001.

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:DISC:CALIPER

Campaign #21V387000 · May 25, 2021

Issue: Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2019-2021 Model 3 and 2020-2021 Model Y vehicles. The brake caliper bolts may be loose, allowing the brake caliper to separate and contact the wheel rim.

Risk: Contact with the rim may cause a loss of tire pressure, increasing the risk of a crash.

Fix: Tesla Service will inspect and tighten, or replace the caliper bolts as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 23, 2021. Owners may contact Tesla customer service online by visiting www.tesla.com/support/contact or by calling 1-877-79-TESLA (or 1-877-798-3752). Tesla's number for this recall is SB-21-33-002.

FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: SENSING SYSTEM: CAMERA

Campaign #21V846000 · Oct 29, 2021

Issue: Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2017-2021 Model S, Model 3, Model X, and 2020-2021 Model Y vehicles operating software version 2021.36.5.2. A communication error may cause false forward-collision warning (FCW) or unexpected activation of the automatic emergency brake (AEB) system.

Risk: Unexpected activation of the AEB system may cause the car to stop suddenly, increasing the risk of a crash.

Fix: Tesla Service has released an over-the-air (OTA) software update, free of charge. The recall began October 25, 2021. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-21-00-004.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE

Campaign #22V050000 · Feb 2, 2022

Issue: Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Model 3, Model S, Model X, and 2020-2022 Model Y vehicles. A software error may cause a valve in the heat pump to open unintentionally and trap the refrigerant inside the evaporator, resulting in decreased defrosting performance. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 103, "Windshield Defrosting and Defogging Systems."

Risk: Decreased defrosting performance may reduce the driver's visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.

Fix: Tesla will perform an over-the-air (OTA) software update, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 1, 2022. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-22-18-002.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE

Campaign #22V063000 · Apr 2, 2022

Issue: Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Model S, Model X, Model Y, and 2017-2022 Model 3 vehicles. The Boombox function allows sounds to be played through an external speaker while the vehicle is in motion, which may obscure the Pedestrian Warning System (PWS) sounds. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 141, "Minimum Sound Requirements for Hybrid and Electric Vehicles."

Risk: Pedestrians may be unaware of an approaching vehicle if the PWS sounds are obscured, increasing the risk of a crash.

Fix: Tesla will perform an over-the-air (OTA) software update that will disable the Boombox functionality when the vehicle is in Drive, Neutral and Reverse modes, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed April 5, 2022. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-22-00-003. Note: This recall has been superseded by Recall 22V-235. Tesla's number for the new recall is SB-22-00-003.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE

Campaign #22V235000 · Dec 4, 2022

Issue: Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Model Y, Model X, Model S, and 2017-2022 Model 3 vehicles. The Boombox function allows sounds to be played through an external speaker while the vehicle is in motion, which may obscure the Pedestrian Warning System (PWS) sounds. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 141, "Minimum Sound Requirements for Hybrid and Electric Vehicles."

Risk: Pedestrians may be unaware of an approaching vehicle if the PWS sounds are obscured, increasing the risk of a crash.

Fix: Tesla will perform an over-the-air (OTA) software update that will disable the Boombox functionality when the vehicle is in Drive, Neutral and Reverse modes, including Summon and Smart Summon, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 6, 2022. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-22-00-003. Note: This recall supersedes recall 22V-063. Vehicles configured with Summon or Smart Summon and already remedied under 22V-063 will need to have the new remedy software installed.

FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: AUTOMATIC EMERGENCY BRAKING

Campaign #22V317000 · Sep 5, 2022

Issue: Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Model 3 and 2021 Model Y vehicles. The fisheye and narrow camera cable terminals were incorrectly installed in the cable harness connector, resulting in swapped camera views.

Risk: Swapped camera views can prevent the vehicle's cameras from detecting crossing objects and high-curvature lane lines, impairing the Autosteer and Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) performance, and increasing the risk of a crash.

Fix: Tesla Service will correct the swapped terminals and recalibrate the cameras, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 8, 2022. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-22-17-007.

VISIBILITY:POWER WINDOW DEVICES AND CONTROLS

Campaign #22V702000 · Sep 19, 2022

Issue: Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2017-2022 Model 3, 2020-2022 Model Y, and 2021-2022 Model S and Model X vehicles. The window automatic reversal system may not react correctly after detecting an obstruction. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 118, "Power-Operated Window Systems."

Risk: A closing window may exert excessive force by pinching a driver or passenger before retracting, increasing the risk of injury.

Fix: Tesla will perform an over-the-air (OTA) software update of the automatic window reversal system, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 31, 2032. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-22-00-013.

EXTERIOR LIGHTING:TAIL LIGHTS

Campaign #22V844000 · Nov 15, 2022

Issue: Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2023 Model 3 and 2020-2023 Model Y vehicles. One or both taillights may intermittently fail to illuminate.

Risk: A taillight that fails to illuminate may reduce the visibility of the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.

Fix: Tesla has released an over-the-air (OTA) software update, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 14, 2023. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-22-00-016.

STEERING:AUTOMATED/ADAPTIVE STEERING

Campaign #23V085000 · Feb 15, 2023

Issue: Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2016-2023 Model S, Model X, 2017-2023 Model 3, and 2020-2023 Model Y vehicles equipped with Full Self-Driving Beta (FSD Beta) software or pending installation.  The FSD Beta system may allow the vehicle to act unsafe around intersections, such as traveling straight through an intersection while in a turn-only lane, entering a stop sign-controlled intersection without coming to a complete stop, or proceeding into an intersection during a steady yellow traffic signal without due caution. In addition, the system may respond insufficiently to changes in posted speed limits or not adequately account for the driver's adjustment of the vehicle's speed to exceed posted speed limits.

Risk: FSD Beta software that allows a vehicle to exceed speed limits or travel through intersections in an unlawful or unpredictable manner increases the risk of a crash.

Fix: Tesla will release an over-the-air (OTA) software update, free of charge.  Owner notification letters were mailed April 15, 2023.  Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752.  Tesla's number for this recall is SB-23-00-001.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:ADAS:AUTONOMOUS/SELF DRIVING:SOFTWARE

Campaign #23V838000 · Dec 12, 2023

Issue: Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling 2012-2023 Model S, 2016-2023 Model X, 2017-2023 Model 3, and 2020-2023 Model Y vehicles equipped with all versions of Autosteer leading up to the version(s) that contains the recall remedy. In certain circumstances when Autosteer is engaged, the prominence and scope of the feature's controls may not be sufficient to prevent driver misuse of the SAE Level 2 advanced driver-assistance feature.

Risk: In certain circumstances when Autosteer is engaged, and the driver does not maintain responsibility for vehicle operation and is unprepared to intervene as necessary or fails to recognize when Autosteer is canceled or not engaged, there may be an increased risk of a crash.

Fix: Tesla will release an over-the-air (OTA) software update, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed February 10, 2024. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-23-00-008.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: INSTRUMENT CLUSTER/PANEL

Campaign #24V051000 · Jan 30, 2024

Issue: Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2012-2023 Model S, 2016-2024 Model X, 2017-2023 Model 3, 2019-2024 Model Y, and 2024 Cybertruck vehicles. An incorrect font size is displayed on the instrument panel for the Brake, Park, and Antilock Brake System (ABS) warning lights. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 105, "Hydraulic and Electric Brake Systems" and 135, "Light Vehicle Brake Systems."

Risk: Warning lights with a smaller font size can make critical safety information on the instrument panel difficult to read, increasing the risk of a crash.

Fix: Tesla began releasing an over-the-air (OTA) software update, free of charge. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-24-00-003.

FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: WARNINGS:EXTERNAL/PEDESTRIAN ALERT

Campaign #24V153000 · Feb 27, 2024

Issue: Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2013, 2018-2021 Model S, 2020-2021 Model X, 2018-2022 Model 3, and 2020-2022 Model Y vehicles. A factory reset muted the Pedestrian Warning System (PWS) sounds. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 141, "Minimum Sound Requirements for Hybrid and Electric Vehicles."

Risk: Pedestrians may be unaware of an approaching vehicle if the PWS sounds are muted, increasing the risk of a crash.

Fix: Tesla released an over-the-air (OTA) software update, release 2023.44.30.14, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 27, 2024. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-24-00-006.

SEAT BELTS:FRONT:WARNING LIGHT/DEVICES

Campaign #24V376000 · May 28, 2024

Issue: Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2012-2024 Model S, 2015-2024 Model X, 2017-2023 Model 3, and 2020-2023 Model Y vehicles. In the event of an unbelted driver, the seat belt warning light and audible chime may not activate as intended. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."

Risk: A seat belt warning system that fails to alert occupants of an unbelted seat belt can increase the risk of injury during a crash.

Fix: Tesla will release an over-the-air (OTA) software update. Owner notification letters were mailed July 26, 2024. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-24-00-008.

LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:HOOD:LATCH

Campaign #24V554000 · Jul 24, 2024

Issue: Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2021-2024 Model 3, Model S, Model X, and 2020-2024 Model Y vehicles. The hood latch assembly may fail to detect an unlatched hood condition after the hood has been opened.

Risk: An unlatched hood can fully open, obstructing the driver's view and increasing the risk of a crash.

Fix: Tesla has released an over-the-air (OTA) software update, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 24, 2024. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-24-00-012.

TIRES:PRESSURE MONITORING AND REGULATING SYSTEMS

Campaign #24V935000 · Dec 17, 2024

Issue: Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2024 Cybertruck, 2017-2025 Model 3, and 2020-2025 Model Y vehicles. The tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) warning light may not remain illuminated between drive cycles, failing to warn the driver of low tire pressure. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 138, "Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems."

Risk: Driving with improperly inflated tires increases the risk of a crash.

Fix: Tesla released an over-the-air (OTA) software update, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed February 15, 2025. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-24-00-018.

BACK OVER PREVENTION:SOFTWARE

Campaign #26V283000 · May 5, 2026

Issue: Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2017, 2021-2023 Model 3, 2020-2023 Model Y, 2021-2023 Model S, and Model X vehicles operating software version 2026.8.6. The rearview camera image may be delayed when the vehicle is placed in reverse. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."

Risk: A delayed rearview image reduces the driver's view behind the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.

Fix: Tesla has released an over-the-air (OTA) software update, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 3, 2026. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-26-00-001.

Recall data refreshed Jul 19, 2026.

Essential maintenance

Critical for safety and preventing major damage

🔄

Tire Rotation

Every 6,250 mi

Rotate tires every 6,250 miles or when tread depth difference exceeds 2/32". Performance models (Model 3 Performance, Model Y Performance) wear front tires faster — rotate at 5,000 miles.

Estimated cost — typical U.S. ranges

Dealer

~$85

Shop

~$60

DIY

Free

Often free at the shop where you bought the tires — worth asking before paying.

🧪

Brake Fluid Test

On condition / lifetime

Test brake fluid for moisture every 2 years on Model 3/Y, every 4 years on Model S/X. Replace if moisture content exceeds the test threshold. Regenerative braking dramatically extends fluid life vs ICE vehicles.

Estimated cost — typical U.S. ranges

Dealer

~$180–$200

Shop

~$125–$140

DIY

~$10–$25

DOT 3 or 4 — match the cap. Vacuum bleeders make this a one-person DIY.

💨

Tire Pressure Check

Every 1,000 mi (monthly)

Check tire pressure monthly. Tesla's range estimates assume manufacturer-spec pressure; under-inflation costs 5-10% range and accelerates tire wear.

Estimated cost — typical U.S. ranges

Dealer

~$15

Shop

~$10

DIY

Free

Free at any gas station. A $10 gauge pays for itself the first time you catch a slow leak.

Important maintenance

Keeps your vehicle running smoothly and efficiently

📐

Wheel Alignment Check

Every 12,500 mi

Check alignment at 12,500 miles or any time tire wear is uneven. Tesla's instant torque amplifies misalignment-driven tire wear.

Estimated cost — typical U.S. ranges

Dealer

~$165

Shop

~$115

DIY

Pro only

Needs an alignment rack — not a DIY job. Most shops charge $80–$150 for a four-wheel.

❄️

A/C Desiccant Bag

On condition / lifetime

Model 3 / Model Y: replace A/C desiccant bag every 4 years. Model S (2021+) / Model X (2021+): every 6 years. Required to keep heat pump operating efficiently.

Estimated cost — typical U.S. ranges

Dealer

~$290–$360

Shop

~$205–$255

DIY

Pro only

Refrigerant handling is EPA-regulated — shop-only. Often deferred unless AC performance drops.

🛑

Brake Caliper Service (cold climates)

Every 12,500 mi

Owners in cold-climate regions (snow, road salt) should clean and lubricate brake calipers every 12,500 miles or annually. Light brake use from regen lets caliper sliders seize.

Estimated cost — typical U.S. ranges

Dealer

~$275–$330

Shop

~$195–$235

DIY

~$20–$60

Pin lube + boot inspection. Stuck calipers cause uneven pad wear — worth doing if you DIY the pads anyway.

🔋

12V Auxiliary Battery (legacy lead-acid)

On condition / lifetime

Pre-2021 Model 3, pre-2022 Model Y, and earlier Model S/X use a 12V lead-acid auxiliary battery — typical service life 3-4 years. Newer models use a 16V lithium-ion battery rated for the life of the vehicle.

Estimated cost — typical U.S. ranges

Dealer

~$225–$390

Shop

~$160–$280

DIY

~$130–$250

Most auto-parts stores test and install batteries free with purchase. Skip the dealer markup.

Recommended maintenance

Extends the life of your vehicle and improves comfort

🌬️

Cabin Air Filter

On condition / lifetime

Model 3 / Model Y: replace every 2 years. Model S / Model X: replace every 3 years (HEPA filter, larger). Sooner in dusty climates or wildfire-prone regions.

Estimated cost — typical U.S. ranges

Dealer

~$60–$95

Shop

~$45–$70

DIY

~$15–$40

Usually behind the glovebox. Shops charge labor for a 10-minute job — easy DIY win.

🦠

HEPA Filter (Model S / X with Bioweapon Defense Mode)

On condition / lifetime

Model S and Model X equipped with Bioweapon Defense Mode use a HEPA filter — replace every 3 years.

Estimated cost — typical U.S. ranges

Dealer

~$130–$210

Shop

~$95–$150

DIY

~$35–$90

HEPA-grade replacement; aftermarket is improving but selection is narrower than standard cabin filters.

🔌

High-Voltage Battery — No Service

On condition / lifetime

The high-voltage battery is sealed and has no scheduled maintenance. Tesla's 8-year/100,000-150,000-mile battery warranty covers capacity retention to 70%.

Estimated cost — typical U.S. ranges

Dealer

—

Shop

—

DIY

—

Traction battery service varies dramatically by vehicle ($5k–$20k+). Get a quote — we won't pretend to know.

Known issues for this vehicle

What drivers and federal regulators have officially reported about the 2021 Tesla Model Y.

🔎

7 active NHTSA investigations

Source: NHTSA

  • Compliance with Standing General Order 2021-01 Reporting Requirements

    Action #AQ25002 · opened Aug 20, 2025

    The Office of Defects Investigation (“ODI”) has identified numerous incident reports submitted by Tesla, Inc. (“Tesla”) in response to Standing General Order 2021-01 (the “SGO”), in which the reported crashes occurred several months or more before the dates of the reports. The ma…

    View on NHTSA →

  • Sudden Unintended Acceleration

    Action #DP23002 · opened Jun 29, 2023

    The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) received a petition requesting that ODI reevaluate its decision to deny DP20-001 on the basis that intermittent high electrical current demands on the vehicles' 12VDC systems may have caused some or all of the incidents examined by ODI in…

    View on NHTSA →

  • FSD Collisions in Reduced Roadway Visibility Conditions

    Action #EA26002 · opened Mar 18, 2026

    The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) is opening this Engineering Analysis to evaluate Tesla’s Full Self Driving Beta and Full Self Driving (Supervised) (collectively, FSD) degradation detection system. The focus of this investigation will be to assess the system’s ability, w…

    View on NHTSA →

  • Electronic door handles become inoperative

    Action #PE25010 · opened Sep 15, 2025

    The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) has received nine Vehicle Owners Questionnaires (VOQs) reporting an inability to open doors on Model Year (MY) 2021 Tesla Model Y vehicles. The most commonly reported scenarios involved parents exiting the vehicle after a drive cycle in o…

    View on NHTSA →

  • Electronic door handles become inoperative

    Action #PE25010 · opened Sep 15, 2025

    The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) has received nine Vehicle Owners Questionnaires (VOQs) reporting an inability to open doors on Model Year (MY) 2021 Tesla Model Y vehicles. The most commonly reported scenarios involved parents exiting the vehicle after a drive cycle in o…

    View on NHTSA →

  • Traffic safety violations while Full Self Driving ("FSD") is engaged

    Action #PE25012 · opened Oct 7, 2025

    The Office of Defects Investigation (“ODI”) is opening this Preliminary Evaluation (PE) to assess the scope, frequency, and potential safety consequences of FSD executing driving maneuvers that constitute traffic safety violations. This investigation concerns versions of FSD that T…

    View on NHTSA →

  • Recall 23V838 Remedy Effectiveness

    Action #RQ24009 · opened Apr 25, 2024

    The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) is opening a Recall Query to assess the remedy adequacy of Recall 23V838. On December 12, 2023, Tesla filed a Defect Information Report (Recall 23V838) applicable to all Tesla models produced and equipped with any version of its Autopilot…

    View on NHTSA →

Reported to NHTSA

Front suspension lateral link, control arm, and bushing failure

SUSPENSION

36 NHTSA complaints · 2024-05 → 2026-06 (sample of 200 most-recent of 1025 total)

“Vehicle experienced front suspension lateral link failure. The links separated from the sub-frame due to improperly secured fasteners. This is the exact defect described in existing recall SB-21-31-003 / NHTSA Campaign 21V835000. The existing recall states 'front suspension…”
— Owner report, NHTSA ODI #11718296
“My 2021 Model Y at 49,865 miles had a safety-critical failure of the "front lower compliance and lateral links." The Tesla technician confirmed it was a "safety issue."”
— Owner report, NHTSA ODI #11698390
“Front suspension upper control arm makes loud creaking/squeaking noises when turning at low speeds. This is a known and widespread issue affecting Tesla Model Y and Model 3 vehicles, caused by premature ball joint wear. This poses a safety risk, as the upper control arm is a…”
— Owner report, NHTSA ODI #11689573

Read all complaints on NHTSA →

Reduced or lost steering assist and steering rack failure

STEERING

12 NHTSA complaints · 2024-05 → 2026-04 (sample of 200 most-recent of 1025 total)

“My 2021 Tesla Model Y experienced a sudden loss of steering assist, resulting in an extremely heavy steering and loss of steering ability, at highway speed. I needed extreme efforts to push the steering wheel to go off highway to avoid accident. This happened on 6/14/2025…”
— Owner report, NHTSA ODI #11669709
“Steering assistance reduced alert is showing up on vehicle. It is difficult to drive the car. The car has less than 33,000 miles on it.”
— Owner report, NHTSA ODI #11659635
“At 59k miles the steering rack failed, warranty expired at 50k miles. This was a $3,000 repair. A number of fellow Tesla owners have encountered this same failure.”
— Owner report, NHTSA ODI #11616057

Read all complaints on NHTSA →

12V battery failure with inoperable doors and occupants trapped

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

25 NHTSA complaints · 2024-06 → 2026-05 (sample of 200 most-recent of 1025 total)

“On August 20th, 2025 at 2:50pm, my eight-month-old infant was trapped inside my Tesla Model Y for approximately 30 minutes due to a critical systems failure. The vehicle experienced an error with the 12V battery that rendered the doors, windows, and trunk completely…”
— Owner report, NHTSA ODI #11689915
“[XXX] , my [XXX] son, was strapped in his car seat, wide-eyed and confused, as we sat trapped in our Tesla for thirty agonizing minutes. The battery had died without warning, leaving us locked inside our own garage. No power, no way to open the doors. I tried to keep [XXX]…”
— Owner report, NHTSA ODI #11687538
“The contact owns a 2021 Tesla Model Y. The contact stated after placing the children in the vehicle, he was unable to enter the vehicle. The contact stated that the vehicle lost electric power while attempting to open the door with the key fob and with the phone App however,…”
— Owner report, NHTSA ODI #11596922

Read all complaints on NHTSA →

High-voltage battery charging failure with BMS fault code

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

11 NHTSA complaints · 2024-05 → 2026-06 (sample of 200 most-recent of 1025 total)

“After charging the vehicle threw error code “BMS_a079 Unable to charge - Maximum charge level reached Reduced maximum charge level - Schedule service”. The car would no longer charge and had to be taken in for service. Tesla advised the High Voltage battery needed to be…”
— Owner report, NHTSA ODI #11711113
“I am filing this complaint regarding a high-voltage battery defect in my 2021 Tesla Model Y. The vehicle has been diagnosed by Tesla Service, and both the technician and service advisor confirmed that the high-voltage battery has an internal short. This is a critical failure…”
— Owner report, NHTSA ODI #11704000
“The contact owns a 2021 Tesla Model Y. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked, the contact observed the code BMSA079 on the computer, and messages "Vehicle Unable to Charge to Maximum Charge Level" and “Maximum Charge Level Reached - Reduced Maximum Charge…”
— Owner report, NHTSA ODI #11708424

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Seat belt latch failure and passenger restraint system fault

SEAT BELTS

19 NHTSA complaints · 2024-06 → 2026-06 (sample of 200 most-recent of 1025 total)

“Both rear seat belt buckles (driver-side rear and center) fail to latch securely. The metal tongue inserts fully into the buckle but does not lock with an audible click and releases immediately upon light tension. This prevents the seat belts from restraining passengers in a…”
— Owner report, NHTSA ODI #11697124
“Rear passenger seatbelt stopped latching”
— Owner report, NHTSA ODI #11624337
“Front Passenger Safety Restraint System Fault​ There have been hundreds of people if not thousands who are reporting this common issue on various forms online and its a very common issue.”
— Owner report, NHTSA ODI #11596002

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Camera and driver-assist computer failure

BACK OVER PREVENTION

18 NHTSA complaints · 2024-05 → 2026-06 (sample of 200 most-recent of 1025 total)

“All cameras went blank on vehicle 4 year and 7 months old. All driver assistance systems became suddenly disabled. Tesla service diagnosis established that computer needs to be replaced for a cost of $2,000.”
— Owner report, NHTSA ODI #11675542
“- Computer appears to stop working in colder temperatures (or random). - ALL cameras, including rear view camera (needed for backing up) and side cameras stop working. Error message shown on touch screen saying cameras are not available. - All road sensing information…”
— Owner report, NHTSA ODI #11658669
“The vehicle's Autopilot/Full Self-Driving (HW3) computer has failed at approximately 70,000 miles. Tesla Service has diagnosed the vehicle as requiring replacement of the HW3 computer. As a result of this failure, multiple safety related systems are inoperative, including…”
— Owner report, NHTSA ODI #11720961

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Phantom braking under cruise control

FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE

13 NHTSA complaints · 2024-08 → 2026-05 (sample of 200 most-recent of 1025 total)

“To Whom It May Concern: I am writing to report yet another dangerous incident of phantom braking in my Tesla vehicle. As a Tesla owner who has previously filed multiple complaints about this issue, I am deeply concerned and frustrated by the lack of resolution to this…”
— Owner report, NHTSA ODI #11624433
“Driving [XXX] enroute to Houston from Peoria, AZ, on cruise control, the auto braking activated aka ghost braking, causing the car to extremely brake. No other cars or trucks near us and no signs in area that might affect cruise control. I thought this was fixed! Totally…”
— Owner report, NHTSA ODI #11607914

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Full Self-Driving and Autopilot driving behavior

FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE, LANE DEPARTURE

13 NHTSA complaints · 2024-04 → 2026-05 (sample of 200 most-recent of 1025 total)

“Tesla’s Full Self-Driving (FSD) system has repeatedly demonstrated unsafe behavior in my 2021 Model Y (VIN [XXX] , ~60,184 miles). The issues involve Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Keeping Assistance, and Forward Collision Warning. FSD frequently follows vehicles too closely,…”
— Owner report, NHTSA ODI #11687653
“While my vehicle was operating under FSD, it ran a red light at the above intersection, resulting in an accident.”
— Owner report, NHTSA ODI #11740671

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Note: NHTSA also opened 25 defect investigation(s) on this vehicle that closed without action.

Issues on other model years

  • 2020 Tesla Model Y →
  • 2022 Tesla Model Y →
  • 2023 Tesla Model Y →
  • 2024 Tesla Model Y →
  • 2025 Tesla Model Y →
  • 2026 Tesla Model Y →

Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation (ODI). Complaint data refreshed Jul 21, 2026. Investigation data refreshed Jul 21, 2026.

We display NHTSA's record with attribution; we don't editorialize on what these complaints mean for any specific vehicle.

Typical U.S. ranges. Actual quotes vary by shop, parts choice, and vehicle condition.

How we estimate: Dealer = OEM parts × 1.4 + labor × $165/hr. Shop = parts + labor × $115/hr. DIY = parts only.

This maintenance schedule for the 2021 Tesla Model Y reflects Tesla's published service intervals. Your actual service needs may vary based on driving conditions, climate, and vehicle usage. Always consult your owner's manual for model-specific recommendations.

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