Tesla Model 3 recalls and complaints, 2019, 2021, 2023–2024
Every tracked model year in one table: NHTSA recalls, owner complaints and what they are about.
NHTSA lists 33 recall campaigns and 1,918 owner complaints for the Tesla Model 3 model years VinSnap tracks (2019, 2021, 2023–2024). The most-recalled systems are electrical system (10), back over prevention (3) and forward collision avoidance (3). Owners complain most about the forward collision avoidance (802), vehicle speed control (282) and electrical system (264). The 2021 model year has the most complaints (663, next is 2019 with 613); raw counts are not adjusted for sales or years on the road. Complaints report 202 crashes, 12 fires, 117 injuries and 13 deaths.
Last updated: · Source: NHTSA recalls and complaints databases
Tesla Model 3 recalls and complaints by model year
| Model year | Recalls | Complaints | Crashes | Fires | Injuries | Deaths |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2019 | 22 | 613 | 59 | 5 | 29 | 4 |
| 2021 | 22 | 663 | 46 | 5 | 19 | 8 |
| 2023 | 12 | 425 | 72 | 1 | 50 | 1 |
| 2024 | 5 | 217 | 25 | 1 | 19 | 0 |
Recall and complaint counts per model year from NHTSA. Crash, fire, injury and death figures are what owners reported in their complaints, not confirmed findings. Year links open that year's specs, recall list and complaint breakdown.
Most-recalled systems
| System | Recall campaigns | Model years |
|---|---|---|
| Electrical system | 10 | 2019, 2021, 2023 |
| Back over prevention | 3 | 2019, 2021, 2023–2024 |
| Forward collision avoidance | 3 | 2019, 2021 |
| Seat belts | 3 | 2019, 2021, 2023 |
| Air bags | 2 | 2021, 2023–2024 |
| Exterior lighting | 2 | 2019, 2021, 2023 |
| Steering | 2 | 2019, 2021, 2023 |
| Suspension | 2 | 2019, 2021 |
| Equipment | 1 | 2019 |
| Latches/locks/linkages | 1 | 2021, 2023–2024 |
Most-complained-about components
| Component | Complaints | Share | Year with most |
|---|---|---|---|
| Forward collision avoidance | 802 | 42% | 2021 (407) |
| Unknown or other | 300 | 16% | 2021 (94) |
| Vehicle speed control | 282 | 15% | 2021 (123) |
| Electrical system | 264 | 14% | 2019 (91) |
| Service brakes | 242 | 13% | 2021 (125) |
| Steering | 202 | 11% | 2023 (87) |
| Lane departure | 144 | 8% | 2019 (70) |
| Suspension | 122 | 6% | 2019 (82) |
| Air bags | 118 | 6% | 2019 (84) |
| Seat belts | 82 | 4% | 2019 (54) |
A complaint can name more than one component, so shares can add up to more than 100%.
Which NHTSA model names are counted
NHTSA files recalls and complaints under exact model names. This page adds up: MODEL 3.
Frequently asked questions
How many recalls does the Tesla Model 3 have?
NHTSA lists 33 recall campaigns across the Tesla Model 3 model years 2019, 2021, 2023–2024, most often for the electrical system (10), back over prevention (3) and forward collision avoidance (3).
Which Tesla Model 3 year has the most complaints?
Of the years VinSnap tracks, the 2021 Tesla Model 3 has the most NHTSA complaints (663), ahead of the 2019 (613). Counts are not adjusted for how many were sold or how long they have been on the road.
What do Tesla Model 3 owners complain about most?
Across 2019, 2021, 2023–2024, NHTSA complaints most often name the forward collision avoidance (802 complaints), vehicle speed control (282 complaints) and electrical system (264 complaints).
Are Tesla Model 3 recall repairs free?
Yes. Safety recall repairs are done free of charge by franchised Tesla dealers. Recalls apply to specific build ranges, so check your VIN to see which campaigns cover your vehicle.