2023 Tesla Model 3

Fatalities reported

Owners filed 429 complaints about this vehicle with federal regulators, most often about the automatic emergency braking. It has been recalled 12 times.

Not among the Tesla Model 3 years to avoid. Which Tesla Model 3 years to avoid →

When it fails
020k40k60k90k120k200k
3,400 milesMedian miles at failure

39 complaints record an odometer reading. Failures cluster around 0–10,000 miles.

Most common 2023 Tesla Model 3 problems

97 of the 429 complaints (23%) are about the automatic emergency braking.

ComponentReportsCrashesFiresInjuries
Steering72
1007
Forward Collision Avoidance › Adaptive Cruise Control · automatic emergency braking64
402
Unknown or Other40
705
Service Brakes · brakes39
1306
Vehicle Speed Control · throttle and acceleration38
703
Electrical System32
705
Forward Collision Avoidance › Automatic Emergency Braking · automatic emergency braking29
604
Structure › Body · body and frame16
214
Suspension14
001
Air Bags · airbags13
907

2023 Tesla Model 3 automatic emergency braking problems

23% of all complaints

97 of the 429 complaints are about the automatic emergency braking. This is what owners describe:

  • brakes on its own28% · 27
  • sets off warning lights on the dash4% · 4

Share of the 97 automatic emergency braking complaints whose text describes each symptom. One complaint can describe several.

Typical mileage
4,000 mi
median of 8 reports
Peak year of filing
2023
63 automatic emergency braking complaints that year
Crashes · fires · injuries
11 · 0 · 7
in these complaints
Recalls on the automatic emergency braking
None
“Two separate incidents occurred on July 10th and July 12th 2026 involving adaptive cruise control. While adaptive cruise control was engaged my car slammed on the brakes for no reason. There was nothing in the roadway to cause abrupt braking. The second time it occurred my car was close to being rear ended by a vehicle driving behind me.”
Owner complaint, filed Aug 9, 2026
“My 2023 Tesla Model 3 (VIN [XXX]) has a recurring safety defect in its driver-assistance system involving two unsafe behaviors. First, “phantom braking”: while driving with Autopilot/FSD engaged, the vehicle decelerates suddenly and without warning when there is no obstacle or threat in its path, creating a rear-end collision risk. This was first reported within the vehicle’s warranty period and has recurred.”
Owner complaint, filed Jun 28, 2026

Complaints and recalls over time

By year of filing
2021: 0 complaints, 0 about the automatic emergency braking'212022: 11 complaints, 4 about the automatic emergency braking'222023: 211 complaints, 63 about the automatic emergency braking'232024: 104 complaints, 16 about the automatic emergency braking'242025: 55 complaints, 6 about the automatic emergency braking'252026: 48 complaints, 8 about the automatic emergency braking'26Recall 21V834000 (airbags)Recall 22V844000 (headlights)Recall 23V085000 (steering)Recall 23V434000 (electrical system)Recall 24V051000 (electrical system)Recall 24V376000 (seat belts)Recall 25V092000 (steering)Recall 26V283000 (backup camera)Recall 26V507000 (headlights)NHTSA investigation PE25012NHTSA investigation EA22002
All complaintsAbout the automatic emergency brakingRecall (red: the automatic emergency braking)NHTSA investigation opened

Complaints about the 2023 Model 3 peaked in 2023, with 211 filed that year. No recall on file covers the automatic emergency braking, the subject of 23% of the complaints. In 2026 owners filed 48 so far.

12 safety recalls

Part 573 reports
Exterior Lighting › Headlights26V507000
Filed Aug 4, 202620,349 vehiclesTesla, Inc.

Defect. Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2017-2023 Model 3 and 2020-2023 Model Y vehicles. The headlight low beams may be too bright and exceed the maximum light output. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."

Risk. Headlight low beams that are too bright can reduce visibility for oncoming drivers, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy. Tesla Service will replace the headlights, free of charge. Interim owner notification letters explaining the safety risk were be mailed October 3, 2026. Another notice will be sent once the repair becomes available. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-24-17-003.

Back Over Prevention › Software26V283000
Filed May 4, 2026218,868 vehiclesTesla, Inc.

Defect. 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.

Remedy. 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.

Steering › Electric Power Assist System25V092000
Filed Feb 14, 2025376,241 vehiclesTesla, Inc.

Defect. Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2023 Model 3 and Model Y vehicles operating software prior to 2023.38.4. The printed circuit board for the electronic power steering assist may experience an overstress condition, causing a loss of power steering assist when the vehicle reaches a stop and then accelerates again.

Risk. A loss of power steering assist can require greater steering effort, especially at low speeds, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy. Tesla has released an over-the-air (OTA) software update, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 25, 2025. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-25-00-004.

Tires › Pressure Monitoring and Regulating Systems24V935000
Filed Dec 17, 2024696,281 vehiclesTesla, Inc.

Defect. 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.

Remedy. 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.

Electrical System › Software24V554000
Filed Jul 24, 20241,849,638 vehiclesTesla, Inc.

Defect. 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.

Remedy. 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.

Seat Belts › Front › Warning Light/Devices24V376000
Filed May 28, 2024125,233 vehiclesTesla, Inc.

Defect. 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.

Remedy. 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.

Electrical System › Instrument Cluster/Panel24V051000
Filed Jan 30, 20242,193,869 vehiclesTesla, Inc.

Defect. 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.

Remedy. 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.

Electrical System › Adas › Driver Monitoring › Software23V838000
Filed Dec 12, 20232,031,220 vehiclesTesla, Inc.

Defect. 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.

Remedy. 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 › Propulsion System › Traction Battery23V434000
Filed Jun 19, 202326 vehiclesTesla, Inc.

Defect. Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2023 Model 3 and Model Y vehicles. The pyrotechnic battery disconnect may be defective.

Risk. A defective battery disconnect may not isolate the vehicle's high voltage battery after a crash or fault detection, increasing the risk of electrical shock and injury.

Remedy. Tesla Service will replace the pyrotechnic battery disconnect, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed August 18, 2023. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-23-16-005.

Steering › Automated/Adaptive Steering23V085000
Filed Feb 15, 2023362,758 vehiclesTesla, Inc.

Defect. 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.

Remedy. 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.

Exterior Lighting › Tail Lights22V844000
Filed Nov 15, 2022321,628 vehiclesTesla, Inc.

Defect. 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.

Remedy. 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.

Air Bags › Side/Window › Curtain21V834000
Filed Oct 25, 20213 vehiclesTesla, Inc.

Defect. Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2020-2021, 2023 Model 3 vehicles. The left and/or right side curtain air bag may have been improperly secured to the roof rail, which could result in a twisted air bag. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard numbers 214, "Side Impact Protection" and 226, "Ejection Mitigation."

Risk. A twisted side curtain air bag may improperly deploy, increasing the risk of injury or occupant ejection during a crash.

Remedy. Tesla Service will inspect and realign the left and right side curtain air bag as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 23, 2021. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-21-20-006.

All 12 campaigns on file, newest first.

NHTSA investigations

Office of Defects Investigation

Before a recall there is often an investigation: NHTSA opens one when complaints or manufacturer data point to a safety defect. 13 name the 2023 Model 3.

Lower Lateral Link detachmentPreliminary evaluation PE26006Open
Opened Jul 29, 2026suspension

The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) has received 156 complaints alleging a suspension failure in model year (MY) 2018-2020 Model 3 and MY 2021-2023 Model Y vehicles. The suspension failure involves the detachment of the front lower lateral link, which potentially causes a loss of vehicle directional control. In most cases, there was no advance warning or indication that the suspension failure would occur. Some cases cite noises occurring prior to failure, but note that the vehicle provides no visual warnings. Once the failure occurs, the vehicle may not be drivable, thus requiring a …

FSD Collisions in Reduced Roadway Visibility ConditionsEngineering analysis EA26002Open
Opened Mar 18, 2026electrical system

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, when encountering reduced roadway visibility conditions, to detect degradation and alert the driver with sufficient time to respond. ODI will evaluate the performance of FSD in degraded roadway conditions and the updates or modifications by Tesla to the degradation detection system, including the timing, purpose, and …

Traffic safety violations while Full Self Driving ("FSD") is engagedPreliminary evaluation PE25012Open
Opened Oct 7, 2025electrical system

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 Tesla has labeled as "FSD (Supervised)" and "FSD (Beta)." Tesla characterizes FSD as an SAE Level 2 partial automation system requiring a fully attentive driver who is engaged in the driving task at all times. Level 2 partial automation systems are designed to support and assist the driver in performing certain aspects …

Compliance with Standing General Order 2021-01 Reporting RequirementsAudit query AQ25002Open
Opened Aug 20, 2025electrical system

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 majority of these reports involved crashes in which the Standing General Order in place at the time required a report to be submitted within one or five days of Tesla receiving notice of the crash. When the reports were submitted, Tesla submitted them in one of two ways. Many of the reports were submitted as part of a …

Actually Smart Summon sessions resulting in low-speed impacts.Preliminary evaluation PE24033Closed
Opened Jan 6, 2025Closed Apr 3, 2026electrical system

On January 6, 2025, the Office of Defects Investigations (ODI) opened Preliminary Evaluation 24003 (PE24033) to investigate Actually Smart Summon (Summon) sessions resulting in crashes during active sessions. According to Tesla, Summon is a short-distance SAE Level 2 system, controlled by the user from a cell phone within a certain distance and intended for use in parking lots and on private property. ODI analyzed complaint data provided by Tesla as well as complaints submitted to ODI from consumers to identify Summon incidents resulting in crashes. ODI's analysis indicates that almost all …

FSD Collisions in Reduced Roadway Visibility ConditionsPreliminary evaluation PE24031Closed
Opened Oct 17, 2024Closed Mar 18, 2026electrical system

On October 17, 2024, NHTSA’s Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened a Preliminary Evaluation (PE24031) of Tesla’s Full Self Driving Beta and Full Self Driving (Supervised) (collectively, FSD) to assess: the ability of the FSD system to detect and respond appropriately to reduced roadway visibility conditions; whether any other FSD crashes had occurred under degraded roadway visibility conditions that are similar in nature to the four SGO-reported crashes identified in the opening document, and if so, the contributing circumstances for each of those crashes; and any updates or …

Recall 23V838 Remedy EffectivenessRecall query RQ24009Open
Opened Apr 25, 2024electrical system

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 system, which Tesla described as an SAE Level 2 (L2) Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS). Autopilot is the simultaneous engagement of Tesla’s Traffic-Aware Cruise Control (TACC) and Autosteer. In describing the safety defect, Tesla’s Defect Information Report (DIR) explained that “the prominence and scope of the …

Loss of steering controlEngineering analysis EA24001Closed
Opened Feb 1, 2024Closed Jun 25, 2026Led to recall 25V092steering

On July 28, 2023, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened a Preliminary Evaluation (PE23014) to investigate instances of loss of electronic power-assisted steering in MY 2023 Tesla Model 3 and MY 2023 Tesla Model Y vehicles manufactured by Tesla, Inc. The complaints allege a sudden and unexpected inability to turn the steering wheel or an increase in effort required to turn the steering wheel. These conditions were alleged to occur both during the drive cycle, at various speeds, and at vehicle start up. Consumers reported receiving the warning message “Steering assist reduced” either …

Loss of steering controlPreliminary evaluation PE23014Closed
Opened Jul 28, 2023Closed Feb 5, 2024steering

On July 28, 2023, The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened a Preliminary Evaluation (PE23-014) after receiving 12 Vehicle Owner Questionnaires (VOQs) reporting loss of steering control in model years (MY) 2023 Tesla Model 3 and Y vehicles. During PE23-014, ODI interviewed complainants, sent an Information Request (IR) letter to Tesla, and convened technical meetings with Tesla that included a joint inspection of a crashed vehicle. The investigation identified 2,388 total complaints regarding the alleged defect, including 124 complaints through VOQs and 2,264 complaints through …

Sudden Unintended AccelerationDefect petition DP23002Open
Opened Jun 29, 2023throttle and acceleration

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 DP20-001. The petitioner bases this information on a review of open-source research and the DP20-001 denial. The petition and related materials can be reviewed at NHTSA.gov under the following ODI number: 11528471.

Defect Petition Interlock RequestDefect petition DP23001Closed
Opened Apr 7, 2023Closed Mar 18, 2026unknown or other

On March 21, 2023, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) received a petition requesting a “recall of all Tesla cars” produced from 2013 to the date on which the petition was filed due to what Petitioner considers to be the increased likelihood of pedal misapplication. Attached to the Petition is a paper authored by Petitioner. According to Petitioner, the differences in the operator controls between the subject Tesla vehicles and internal combustion engine powered vehicles promote driver pedal misapplication, leading to sudden unintended acceleration (SUA) incidents. To fix this alleged …

Autopilot System Driver ControlsEngineering analysis EA22002Closed
Opened Jun 8, 2022Closed Apr 25, 2024Led to recall 23V085electrical system

The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) upgraded PE21020 to EA22002 on June 8, 2022, to extend work and deepen the PE21020 crash analysis, to supplement that analysis with additional data, and to perform vehicle evaluations to understand how Tesla’s Autopilot system may exacerbate human factors or behavioral safety risks by undermining the effectiveness of the driver’s supervision. To support this work, ODI collected additional crash information and assessed vehicle control authority, driver engagement technologies, and related human factors considerations associated with partial automation …

Unexpected Brake ActivationPreliminary evaluation PE22002Closed
Opened Feb 16, 2022Closed Jun 29, 2026automatic emergency braking

On February 16, 2022, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened a Preliminary Evaluation (PE22002) to investigate reports of unexpected deceleration while driving with the adaptive cruise control system engaged in Model Year (MY) 2021 – 2022 Model 3 and Model Y vehicles manufactured by Tesla. The subject systems include Autopilot (all versions), Full Self-Driving (FSD) and Traffic Aware Cruise Control (TACC). These complaints have been colloquially referred to as “phantom braking”. ODI opened PE22002 to determine the scope and severity of the potential problem and to assess any …

Technical service bulletins

76 on file

Repair instructions the manufacturer sent its dealers for the 2023 Model 3. Not recalls: the fix is usually free only while the car is under warranty.

equipment 15body and frame 7electrical system 6brakes 2steering 2seats 2suspension 1airbags 1

Crash test ratings

NHTSA 5-star safety ratings
Version testedOverallFrontalSideRolloverRollover risk
2023 Tesla Model 3 4 DR AWD★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★6.6%
2023 Tesla Model 3 4 DR RWD★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★6.6%

New Car Assessment Program results for this model year. Ratings compare cars of similar size and weight only.

What owners reported

Newest filings
Steering
Filed Oct 27, 2026SC

The steering wheel makes a grinding noise when it automatically adjusts (when the car starts). It also makes the same grinding noise when I adjust it

Steering
Filed Oct 5, 2026FL

Vehicle: 2023 Tesla Model 3 RWD, VIN 5YJ3E1EA3PF556059. Since the FSD software update from V12 to V14.1 (Supervised v14.1 Lite) in early August 2026, the vehicle repeatedly issues false 'apply steering wheel force' warnings while my hands are on the wheel, followed by sudden disengagement of Full Self-Driving without apparent cause. This has happened multiple times, including at highway speeds, which I consider a safety hazard. The Tesla service center in Miami Gardens has been unable to fix the problem after multiple visits. I emailed Tesla's North America service team on September 23, 2026 (with a photo of the in-car warning) and sent a follow-up on September 30, 2026; I have received no response.

Vehicle Speed Control
Filed Sep 29, 2026SC

Tesla has done away with a set maximum speed control when on FSD and uses speed profiles. These profiles can have the car speed at huge differences from the actual speed limit. Tesla previously gave the driver the option to control the maximum speed but eliminated it with version 14 FSD software.

Forward Collision Avoidance › Adaptive Cruise Control
Filed Sep 25, 2026CA

On September 23 2026 at night I was driving my car under FSD and am in full control of vehicle my car is on speed of 54-55mph and in the middle of the road without any obstacle present on the road the car did the super ghost breaking and my car stopped 100% with the screen turning red with a warning of collision w am thankful to god that no one is coming from behind otherwise it might be loss of lid or serious medical emergency . We are aware and keeping on checking the surroundings but it’s very hard or nearly impossible to go to 50 mph from 0 mph in 0 seconds.

Unknown or Other1 injured
Filed Sep 24, 2026PA

On September 20, 2026, at approximately 10:26 AM EDT, I was driving my Tesla on ON I-76 E MM 332.4 with Full Self-Driving (Supervised) engaged. It was raining, the pavement was wet, and there was heavy road spray. The vehicle's front dashcam recording, time-stamped "Sep 20, 2026, 10:26:02 AM," shows the car traveling in the right lane at about 55-56 mph with the on-screen indicator reading "Self Driving." The vehicle then steered to the right, out of its lane, toward the concrete barrier and roadside embankment. The "Self Driving" indicator disappears about half a second before the vehicle leaves the lane, at about 54 mph. I did not steer or brake before the vehicle left the lane. The vehicle then lost stability, spun across the roadway, and slowed from about 53 mph to nearly a stop, facing against the direction of traffic. While facing oncoming traffic, it was struck by an oncoming white sedan, which sustained front-end damage my car had been declared a total loss. I believe the Full Self-Driving system failed to keep the vehicle in its lane in rain and gave too little or no warning before handing control back to me, leaving no reasonable time to recover. I have kept the original dashcam footage and have sent Tesla a written request to preserve and release all vehicle data for this event, including FSD engagement and disengagement logs, driver-input data, and stability control data. I can provide the footage and any records Tesla releases to NHTSA on request.

Wheels
Filed Sep 16, 2026OR

Bought a 2023 Tesla model 3 from Carvawna on aug 30th drove car steering wheel was shaking at 70 mph or more; took to tire shop 3 tire were bad and unsafe,tires were worn below 3/32nds in the center, 2 tires foam was detached and broke tire sensor 4th tire was barley legal cannot believe vehical passed 150 inspection; silver rock only paid 1300,00 bill was 1714.00 left me with 396.00 out of pocket tires were very bad should never be sold Carvawna refuses to reimburse me for out of pocket completely unaccepticl from a car sales company pls help will try to send copy of repair order they would only pay for what they can buy for and were not ev rated

Steering
Filed Sep 15, 2026CA

Steering becomes very stiff or notchy where you have to pull it out of position or correct it constantly. Doesn't want to return to center! When you stop it returns to normal feeling then as soon as you get up to speed it becomes stiff again.

Service BrakesCrash
Filed Sep 14, 2026CO

I have a group of individuals that are hacking all of my accounts and trying to steal my car. They first hacked my emails then my Tesla account and now they are actually on the Teslas computer system and have been in the vehicle accessing the screen. After they hacked the system and stopped updates the car started having a bunch of safety concerns and alerts.The breaks were not working and the vehicle would freely roll when full pressure was applied. The collision system in the car was not working properly. Thinking it was possibly going to be hit by another car it would avoid nothing and jerk me out of the lane and nothing was around at all potentially causing an accident. Then the collision system stopped working all together. The steering system would not communicate properly with the system and kept requesting to be reconfigured with the system. The power train system kept throwing alerts. The tire pressure sensors stopped working and will not retrain now. They keep stopping the software updates now and have an IT admin portal device management program on the system and have complete control of the car’s system. Recently they were checking into enrolling in to fleet developer API to interact with the vehicle at code level. I have tried everything to get them off the account and they live at my apartment building. They are using illegal hacking tools and devices to gain access spyware and malware on all my devices.Tesla has done little to nothing to fix this problem and re

Back Over Prevention › Warnings
Filed Sep 14, 2026KY

Im using full self driving (fsd) and it scans the lot and chose to pull into an empty spot half way in and reverse almost smacking a car in the rear. It didnt appear it was gonna stop even though the car was showing on the screen. I do have the dash cam from where i had to step on the break for it to disengage.

Suspension
Filed Sep 10, 2026CA

I am filing an official safety complaint regarding a severe, premature failure of the front lower suspension system on my 2023 Tesla Model 3. While operating the vehicle, the front lower compliance links (Part numbers: 2188359-10-B, 2188354-10-B) and the lower lateral links (Part number: 1044341-00-G) suffered critical mechanical bushing degradation and structural wear, rendering the front suspension unsafe and compromised.This mechanical breakdown occurred at only 63,584 miles on a three-year-old vehicle under completely normal, standard highway and suburban driving conditions. There has been absolutely no external impact, wheel strike, curb strike, or collision to explain a simultaneous, symmetrical breakdown of multiple heavy suspension components on both the left and right sides of the vehicle. My tires show zero sidewall damage and the wheels have no structural bends, proving the issue is an inherent component lifecycle defect rather than a road hazard.This issue directly correlates with NHTSA Preliminary Evaluation PE26006, which investigates nearly 1.2 million Tesla Model 3 and Model Y vehicles for front lower lateral and compliance link failures. When seeking service, Tesla Service Center personnel attempted to classify this wear due to structural degradation but deny warranty or goodwill coverage. This component vulnerability represents an acute safety risk, as a total failure or detachment of these specific lower links while traveling at high speeds could cause a ca

Service Brakes
Filed Sep 9, 2026GA

I was driving with plenty of distance between me and the car in front of me. The car in front of me had stopped and the Automatic Emergency Braking System on my car went on. Thankfully, there was no car behind me, otherwise, I would have been hit. The sudden stopping has caused me significant lower back pain.

Steering
Filed Sep 9, 2026OK

OKC Tesla Service Center replaced the steering wheel due to delamination over the weekend. The car was dropped off on Friday the 4th of September 2026. I picked the car up on Monday the 7th. On Wednesday the 9th after getting on the highway and getting up to speed the steering wheel came out of the steering column and was physically disconnected from the car. I was able to temporarily get it back into place enough to get the car to a save location to be towed.

Service Brakes
Filed Aug 27, 2026GA

On XXX at around 3:30 PM EST, I was driving my 2023 Tesla Model 3 on [XXX] about 10 miles outside of [XXX]. I had the adaptive cruise control set at 75 mph. I was driving in the right lane of the two available lanes of travel in that direction. I noticed an unattended car on the right shoulder about a 1/4 mile up the road and continued my drive as normal. The car was at least 5' to 6' off the highway. As i got about 30 yards from the car, my car suddenly slammed on the brakes automatically, which forced me to react in a corrective manner. Thankfully there was nobody behind me or the severity of the braking would have likely caused a rear end collision. To my understanding, this phantom braking is a known issue with Teslas, so I wanted to document my experience to add to the record. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Forward Collision Avoidance › Adaptive Cruise ControlCrash
Filed Aug 24, 2026CA

On 8/24/2026 at approximately 12:02pm, my 2023 Model 3 was parked in my assigned space in a covered apartment carport, with a concrete support pillar approximately one to two feet from the passenger side. I entered a destination and activated FSD (Supervised) from Park, a Tesla-designed feature. Vehicle telemetry recorded in the dashcam clips shows FSD shifted into Drive, activated the right turn signal, turned the steering wheel to near full right lock, and accelerated to 3 mph, contacting the pillar with the passenger mirror and front door approximately 1.5 seconds after first movement. No accelerator or brake input was recorded from me before the collision. I applied the brake within one second of the impact beginning, and FSD disengaged. The pillar was within view of the vehicle's side cameras throughout. No warning was given. Damage to the passenger door; no injuries. Dashcam video with telemetry overlay and photos available.

Unknown or Other
Filed Aug 11, 2026MD

I am writing to report several safety incidents that occurred while using Full Self-Driving (FSD) mode on my 2023 Model 3. Below are the details of the specific behaviors observed: - Right turn on red almost crashed into an oncoming car from the left - Hard emergency brake due to a bird that was in the opposite lane - Additional emergency brake around 10 seconds later for no reason - Running a red light by more than a second

Forward Collision Avoidance › Adaptive Cruise Control
Filed Aug 9, 2026UT

Two separate incidents occurred on July 10th and July 12th 2026 involving adaptive cruise control. While adaptive cruise control was engaged my car slammed on the brakes for no reason. There was nothing in the roadway to cause abrupt braking. The second time it occurred my car was close to being rear ended by a vehicle driving behind me. I took the car which is still under warranty to Tesla who confirmed there is a known firmware issue. No time frame was provided as to when the issue will be fixed.

Vehicle Speed Control
Filed Aug 4, 2026IL

Whilst driving on highways which feature multiple speed limits - eg. 70 cars, 65 Trucks, 60 Buses. If full self driving more or when in adaptive cruise control - the car systems fail to recognize the restriction linked to the lower speed limits. As a result, you can be driving on Full Self Drive at 75mpm, the car sees a 65 followed by a 60 speed limit (neither applicable to cars), but the car brakes hard dropping the speed from 75 to 62 almost instantly and, on more than one occasion, a closely following car has almost collided with me. Until such time as the Tesla system can recognize the 'sub text' on a speed limit - the FSD and Adaptive cruise should not be certified. I also drive a BMW i4 and this reads all signs correctly, only applying those applicable to a car to the vehicle.

Steering
Filed Jul 16, 2026IN

The steering rack in my 2023 Tesla Model 3 is defective and I can show it for inspection. 1.5 years ago it failed and the torque sensor in the rack is showing that there is a constant demand (even when parked and my hands off the wheel) to turn the wheel to the right that you can see in the cars diagnostics menu. I took it in and showed the service advisor the raw data and took a drive with the tech who both acknowledged the data and the car wanting to drive off the road. They did an alignment on the car but the issue still persists even after I told them the night I drove it home in their survey. I live on very narrow country roads with little run off room and often times less than foot between cars as they pass. Several times I would get the 'corrective steering applied' warning as the car falsely thinking I was turning to drive off the road on the right and applied steering to pull the car left. A few of these times it was right as a oncoming car was approaching almost causing me to run into other cars multiple times because you have to get close to the edge of the road to make room for other cars to pass. I took it to a independent service center who confirmed that the steering rack torque sensor is at fault. I took it back again this week, showing them that the car is turning to the right 30-45% easier than to the left and they did another alignment with the same exact outcome. The car wants to drive right off the road.

Unknown or Other
Filed Jul 9, 2026CA

I was using FSD and my vehicle braked suddenly, with nothing in front of me, on the highway going over 50mph with a car close behind. the car to my right was swerving into my lane, so it was trying to help, but my vehicle should have veered left - not brake hard in the fast lane.

Structure › Body1 injured
Filed Jul 7, 2026AZ

Vehicle: Tesla Model 3 Issue: Power trunk failed to detect obstruction Date of incident: July 5, 2026 Location: Surprise, AZ During normal use of the vehicle, my child pressed the “close trunk” button while I was leaning into the trunk area. The powered trunk began closing and did not stop when it made contact with my head. Instead of reversing direction, the trunk continued applying downward force until I moved out of the way. This indicates a failure of the trunk’s obstruction detection system, which is supposed to prevent injury by stopping or reversing when an object or person is detected. This malfunction poses a significant safety risk, especially to children who may accidentally activate the trunk or to adults loading items. A powered trunk should not be able to continue closing on a person’s head. I request that NHTSA investigate whether this is a defect in the Tesla Model 3 trunk sensor system and whether similar incidents have been reported.

Forward Collision Avoidance › Adaptive Cruise Control
Filed Jun 28, 2026CA

My 2023 Tesla Model 3 (VIN [XXX]) has a recurring safety defect in its driver-assistance system involving two unsafe behaviors. First, “phantom braking”: while driving with Autopilot/FSD engaged, the vehicle decelerates suddenly and without warning when there is no obstacle or threat in its path, creating a rear-end collision risk. This was first reported within the vehicle’s warranty period and has recurred. Second, on the most recent occurrence, with a Tesla service technician riding along to witness the issue, Full Self Driving (Supervised) failed to proceed safely through the intersection of [XXX] and [XXX]. The vehicle stopped mid-turn while another vehicle approached from the opposite direction. I had to take manual control to complete the turn and avoid a hazard. The Tesla technician witnessed this directly, and the service summary states FSD “did not proceed through the intersection properly.” The vehicle has been to a Tesla service center twice for this defect. It has not been resolved. The behavior occurs without warning and is unpredictable. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Unknown or OtherCrash
Filed Jun 26, 2026CA

I was driving today in California, to TopGolf. I had to cross a railway crossing around [XXX] I think, or [XXX] - one of those 2, between [XXX] and [XXX] pm.. I was using Tesla's FSD driving to go on a local road. I was not distracted or occupied - the vehicle was going at a fairly high speed like maybe 35 or so, and in a couple of seconds, it broke the red and white safety gate at a railway crossing, inspite of it being down and the train being on the tracks - I WAS IN SHOCK. The car completely missed the red and white gate, and just blew past it, damaging my windshield completely to smithereens and throwing glass all over the car. I was in such SHOCK and TRAUMA that I literaly wanted to exit the car and sit down somewhere, but i gathered my composure and drove quickly to the nearest safest place I could stop, and got into some office parking garage. I then called the cops and reported it. This was such a shock, and thank the Almighty God that I wasnt hurt and that the train didn't just hit me. This HAS to be recalled, and there is no way this should be allowed on the roads. I used FSD a Lot and i will never use it again. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Structure › BodyCrashFire1 killed
Filed Jun 23, 2026FL

A fatal crash occurred involving a 2023 Tesla Model 3. The vehicle departed the roadway, impacted a guardrail, struck a utility pole on the driver’s side, rolled down an embankment, and came to rest upright. The crash resulted in catastrophic intrusion into the driver’s compartment and a fatal injury to the driver. I am requesting that NHTSA investigate the crashworthiness and occupant protection performance of this vehicle, including the structural integrity of the occupant compartment, airbag deployment and effectiveness, and the performance of any advanced driver assistance systems, including collision warnings and automatic emergency braking. I am also requesting review and preservation of all available vehicle data, including Event Data Recorder (EDR) information, vehicle telemetry, driver assistance system status, warning notifications, braking data, steering data, and any other information recorded before and during the crash. At this time, I do not know whether a vehicle defect or system malfunction occurred. My concern is whether the vehicle’s safety systems and occupant protection systems functioned as intended and whether additional vehicle data may help determine if any safety-related issues contributed to the severity of the crash.

Electrical System
Filed Jun 20, 2026GA

The vehicle was purchased pre-owned directly from Tesla. On the day of pickup and five days later, while operating on Full Self-Driving (FSD), the vehicle phantom-braked abruptly and then dangerously accelerated through a solid red light into cross-traffic intersections. The driver had to forcefully override the vehicle to prevent a crash. Tesla Service Center was notified but dismissed the issue, performing only a camera recalibration and charging a fee. Following the service appointment, the red-light running behavior stopped, but the vehicle continues to suffer from aggressive, sudden phantom braking multiple times on every single trip, creating a severe and continuous risk of a rear-end collision on public highways.

Forward Collision Avoidance › Adaptive Cruise ControlCrash
Filed Jun 9, 2026CA

I am reporting a safety concern involving a Tesla operating with Full Self-Driving Supervised active. On June 5, 2026, at approximately 7:50–7:55 AM Pacific Time, the vehicle was being driven with FSD Supervised engaged. The vehicle was in a turning maneuver when the driver mistakenly applied the accelerator. Vehicle data provided by Tesla appears to show ACTIVE_FSD shortly before the incident, a turning/steering angle, accelerator-pedal input/override, FSD becoming unavailable, and then crash-related/braking/tire-pressure signals shortly afterward. I am not claiming the vehicle accelerated on its own. The data appears to show driver accelerator input. My concern is that while FSD Supervised was active and the vehicle was already turning, the system allowed a strong accelerator override that rapidly worsened the situation. In this case, the vehicle went over a curb/sidewalk area and sustained significant damage. The safety concern I am reporting is whether FSD Supervised should better limit, warn, or manage strong accelerator override during low-speed turning maneuvers, especially where the vehicle may leave the roadway, cross a curb, or enter a sidewalk area. I believe this involved driver error as a mistake pedal acceleration, but the system design may have allowed that error to create a more dangerous outcome.

Service BrakesCrash1 injured
Filed Jun 8, 2026NJ

-I was driving down into an indoor basement level garage very slowly as there is a steep incline. It descends from street level to basement level within a distance of approximately 30 to 35 ft. At the end of the incline is a sharp curve to the right, followed by a sharp left turn to proceed straight. -While on the incline, the car was slowing to a stop. I gently tapped the accelerator to keep it moving. -The car suddenly lunged forward, rapidly accelerating. The acceleration was not consistent with the amount of accelerator input I applied. -I quickly steered right to avoid hitting the wall, then immediately steered left to avoid hitting parked cars and garage columns. -I braked as hard as possible, pumping it. The brake pedal was stiff. The car kept moving forward despite my efforts and did not stop until I crashed into a parked car at the end of the garage. -My son was in the front passenger seat. We both had seatbelts on. Other than whiplash, there were no major injuries. -There were no warnings, messages or any indications that a problem was present prior to the incident. -There was no one in the parked vehicle that was struck and no other people in the garage. -My cell phone automatically alerted emergency services. The police responded, and I reported the incident.

SteeringCrash2 injured
Filed Jun 8, 2026CA

While making a right turn from a near-stopped position, the steering wheel became stuck or extremely difficult to turn. The vehicle initially turned right normally, but when I attempted to steer back left/counterclockwise to complete the turn and straighten the vehicle, the steering wheel did not respond as expected. This caused the vehicle to continue in the wrong direction and resulted in a collision. I believe the electronic power steering assist system malfunctioned or failed. My concern is that the power steering assist experienced an overstress condition, causing a loss of power steering assist after the vehicle almost reached a stop and then accelerated again. This put my safety and the safety of others at risk because I was unable to steer the vehicle as intended during a low-speed turning maneuver.

Structure › Body
Filed May 21, 2026NV

The roof glass is unusually susceptible to failing and cracking under minimal impact. A very small item such as a pebble impacted the roof. The glass cracked. I understand the roof glass is a structural component. I would not expect a roof to require complete replacement due to a minor pebble.

Lane Departure › Blind Spot Detection
Filed May 19, 2026UT

I was traveling east on I-215 in [XXX] , exiting on [XXX] . I was in the RH lane, signaling to turn Rt. A small commercial van was in the two lanes Left of me with no turn signal on. Suddenly the van began coming into my lane. I turned my steering wheel slightly to the Rt to avoid a collision. Suddenly the autocorrect turned my wheel sharply Rt, then sharply Left. The car was rocking so sharply I feared a rollover or collision. The blind spot camera on the driver’s side did not pick up the van on my Left. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Electrical System › Adas › Autonomous/Self Driving
Filed May 15, 2026IL

Full Self Driving software runs a red light in complete disregard of traffic laws.

Electrical SystemCrash
Filed Apr 28, 2026CA

During Autopilot, the vehicle failed to recognize the curve (or did not input enough turning to steering) and accelerated at the curve thinking it is a straight to almost have me crash into a guard rail. No symptoms. No side damage or collisions with others.

Forward Collision Avoidance › Automatic Emergency BrakingCrash2 injured
Filed Apr 21, 2026TX

While driving at highway speed under normal operating conditions with the accelerator engaged and no braking input, the vehicle suddenly experienced a sustained 6-minute-12-second ADAS/EDR degradation cascade. This included OVERHEAT_PROTECT_FANONLY activation, repeated AEB_CAN_STATE_UNAVAILABLE toggling, FAULT 14.0 brake-signal mismatch, impossible negative brake pressures, and 27+ ABS/EBD/ESP fault-lamp cycles. No warning lamps, messages, or alerts appeared prior to the cascade. The degradation resulted in loss of braking assist and stability control functions, causing two collision events (right-side T-bone impact followed by curb strike) despite no driver error or input. This failure mode matches the exact ADAS/EDR degradation pattern under active NHTSA Engineering Analysis EA26002. Full technical details, timestamps, fault logs, sampling gaps, and EDR data are provided in the attached narrative PDF and supporting CSV files.

Structure › Body
Filed Mar 31, 2026CA

I am reporting a serious safety incident involving a 2023 Tesla Model 3. On March 29 at approximately 5:00 PM, while driving on the freeway at about 65 mph, the right-side passenger door suddenly opened while the vehicle was in motion. The door had been fully closed and latched prior to driving. There was no impact, obstruction, or warning indicating that the door was not secure. The opening occurred unexpectedly during normal driving conditions, creating a significant safety risk. After the incident, Tesla was contacted and indicated that a diagnostic inspection would require a fee, and they suggested the possibility of prior modification or tampering but did not provide a confirmed cause. The vehicle was purchased from a used car dealership, and the incident raises concerns about a potential mechanical or electronic failure of the door latch system and the safety of the vehicle as sold.This issue poses a serious risk to occupants and other road users, particularly at highway speeds. I am requesting that this incident be reviewed as a potential safety defect.

Forward Collision Avoidance › Adaptive Cruise Control
Filed Mar 23, 2026IN

The Full Self Driving (Supervised) system (FSD(S)) failed by running a red light. Video is available for inspection upon request. My safety was not at risk - this time - because the system waited until there was no cross traffic to resume motion, even though the light was still red. I have not tried to reproduce the problem for a dealer since it happens infrequently. (This is the third time in perhaps 6 months of subscription to TESLA's FSD(S). TESLA has not informed me of any inspections they have performed, even though they have been notified through the channel they provide. There was no indication from the car that it perceived any failure. It stopped only when I applied the brake. Prior symptoms include two previous incidents of stopping for a red traffic light, waiting until there was no cross traffic, then resuming motion while the traffic light was red. This is the first time I thought to save dash cam video.

Structure › Body
Filed Mar 20, 2026CA

Reporting a stress fracture in the front windhsield of my model 3 tesla. Looking online and speaking to attorney its a very common problem. Mine resulted simply from a heat wave it crack down the middle in a c shape emanating from the top edge of the windshield. No contact evidence and no contact or accident occurred. It’s now unsafe to drive my vehicle and tesla will not cover it under warranty. They are refusing to label it as a stress fracture though it clearly is. I’m filing this report so more awareness and pressure can be put on tesla to improve their windshield design. Its very unsafe to drive my car like this and now I’m forced to choose between my safety and affording a $1700 replacement. I have had several friends with the same problem and same response by tesla. My car had not been driven for 3 days and I have very low mileage, 18k. Car is 3 yrs old and in good condition.

Electrical System
Filed Mar 19, 2026CA

Door cannot be opened during power loss / emergency. I am a Tesla Model 3 owner in California. I discovered that the rear doors do not have a mechanical emergency release. Tesla service confirmed that my vehicle does not include any manual rear emergency door release system. This raises a serious safety concern because, in the event of a crash, fire, or 12V power failure, rear passengers—especially children or elderly occupants—may be unable to exit the vehicle. I request NHTSA to investigate whether the absence of a mechanical rear emergency release complies with FMVSS 206 and whether Tesla’s design poses a safety risk during emergency egress.

Electrical System1 injured
Filed Mar 7, 2026HI

The rear doors intermittently will not unlock. Even after hitting the unlock button from menu or short or long press of the driver unlock button or from the app unlock button. The driver only unlock feature is disabled. I have video that would not upload. Snapshots of video included.

Electrical System
Filed Mar 3, 2026PA

An incident that occurred while Full Self-Driving (FSD) was engaged. During the drive, the vehicle unexpectedly steered toward the curb while making a right turn. I was actively monitoring the vehicle and immediately took control of the steering, but the vehicle still made contact with the curb. After the incident, the vehicle developed steering misalignment, vibration while driving, and abnormal noise, which suggests possible suspension or wheel damage. Since FSD was engaged at the time, I would appreciate it if Tesla could review the vehicle logs and investigate whether there was any system malfunction or unexpected behavior from the FSD system.

Forward Collision Avoidance › WarningsCrash1 injured
Filed Feb 25, 2026FL

In autopilot mode on 1/28/26 the vehicle without any warnings went through a red light causing an accident. A week prior it failed to adjust speed in a 35 mile per hour zone maintaining 71.

Structure › Body
Filed Feb 23, 2026CA

The rear driver side door became impossible to open due to a trim piece failure - this is a safety hazard for rear seat passengers.

Suspension
Filed Feb 16, 2026TX

A bolt securing the rear subframe assembly is loose and missing its nut. This condition has caused damage to the rear subframe assembly, which now requires replacement. The vehicle was inspected by a licensed dealer who confirmed on video that no impact damage, scraping, bending, or collision damage is present on any surrounding components. The only affected area is the bolt and nut connection point. The dealer's professional assessment is that this is consistent with a factory assembly defect — either the nut was never installed or was not properly torqued during manufacturing. No routine service or alignment would require access to this fastener. Tesla's service records for this VIN should confirm no prior work has been performed in this area, meaning the fastener has not been touched since the vehicle left the factory. Factory-installed suspension bolts of this type are typically secured with a locking mechanism or thread locker; a properly installed nut does not detach through normal vehicle operation. This constitutes a safety defect. A rear subframe fastener that was not properly secured at the factory could lead to suspension component failure, loss of vehicle control, and a serious accident. Tesla's service center has denied warranty coverage for this repair despite the vehicle being within its warranty period, citing that "a manufacturing defect would have presented itself earlier" and that because I am not the original owner, they "don't know what might have happene

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Feb 12, 2026MI

COMPONENT: Battery and Charging System SUMMARY: 2023 Tesla Model 3 Long Range lost 15% battery capacity (345→300 miles) in 2 months at 9,816 miles. Comparison vehicle shows this is a defect, not normal wear. DESCRIPTION: Vehicle: 2023 Tesla Model 3 Long Range, VIN: [insert VIN], 9,816 miles Defect: Between September 2025 and November 2025, displayed range at 100% charge dropped from 345 miles to 300 miles—a 15% loss in just 2 months. Evidence This Is A Defect: I own a second 2023 Model 3 (base model) with 66,680 miles that only dropped from 272→260 miles (4.4% loss). The Long Range with 7x FEWER miles has 3x MORE degradation, indicating a battery pack defect. Service Refusal: Tesla Service ran “range analysis” but refuses to test battery capacity or check for dead cells. Only provided scripted responses about EPA vs real-world driving, which doesn’t explain why my high-mileage vehicle has healthier batteries. Safety Concern: Rapid cell degradation may indicate failing cells, thermal management defect, or fire risk. Unpredictable range loss creates stranding risk. Request: Investigate 2023 Model 3 LR battery packs for systemic defects. Require Tesla to perform cell-level diagnostics and replace defective packs. Documentation available upon request.

Structure › Body
Filed Feb 10, 2026CA

Tesla has completely removed the rear door manual release latch in my late 2023 Model 3 Performance. This elevates the concern of the ongoing NHTSA Defect Petition DP25002 (opened December 2025), which investigates similar issues with emergency egress controls on Model 3 vehicles, citing them as "hidden, unlabeled, and not intuitive." Again, in my late 2023 Model 3 Performance, these are entirely absent in the design. For some reason, Tesla has doubled down on the defect issue and completely removed the manual door release mechanism.

Electrical System › Adas › Autonomous/Self Driving
Filed Feb 9, 202614,469 milesCA

The contact owns a 2023 Tesla Model 3. The contact stated that while driving with the Autonomous Self Driving feature activated in rainy weather, the vehicle suddenly turned towards the left onto railroad tracks. The contact regained control of the vehicle and was able to drive off the railroad tracks. The tires and rims were damaged due to the failure. The vehicle was taken for repairs, and the tires and rims were replaced, and an alignment was scheduled to be performed. The manufacturer was informed of the failure, and a case was opened. The failure mileage was approximately 14,469.

Unknown or Other
Filed Feb 7, 2026CA

There is no manual door release for rear doors in the Tesla model 3 RWD. This can pose a safety issue if the car has no power and passengers need to evacuate the vehicle.

Unknown or Other
Filed Jan 27, 2026NC

Am reporting an issue involving unexplained cracking of my Tesla windshield with no known impact or debris strike. Last night at approximately 6:20 PM, while in Chapel Hill, NC, I entered my vehicle and noticed a crack on the driver’s side of the windshield. The outside temperature at that time was about 28°F. There was no audible rock strike and I have no recollection of anything hitting the glass. The morning low temperature was approximately 14°F. To my awareness, the passenger-side crack was not present earlier that morning. Approximately 15 minutes ([XXX]EDT) before writing this statement, I was seated in the passenger seat and noticed a second crack on the passenger side. The temperature had risen to about 34°F. Again, there was no strike event that I recall while driving or parked. Both cracks appeared within a short time span during an unusually cold period with temperature changes between 14°F and 34°F. The passenger crack visually resembles an impact point, but I cannot identify any incident that would have caused it. My concern is that these cracks may indicate thermal stress, structural flex, a material defect, or bonding/installation issue. Windshield failure without impact presents a safety hazard due to reduced visibility and potential compromise of structural integrity during a collision. I am requesting that NHTSA document and evaluate this issue for potential safety implications. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C

Structure › Body
Filed Jan 14, 2026CA

The entire bumper assembly fell off my Tesla Model 3 during the heavy rains on December 24. I didn't see it happen. It was just missing. But it may have happened on the freeway, when we drive through a flooded area. There is a history of this happening with this model when there is a lot of rain or you drive through a puddle. They admitted to this defect in 2020, but claim it was fixed. Apparently not. They are now telling me "we are unable to cover the repair under vehicle warranty because the condition was caused by outside factors," i.e., water. This cannot be normal.

Electrical System
Filed Jan 14, 2026CA

There is NO mechanism to unlock the rear passenger doors in case of electrical failure. No Emergency mechanical door opening in case of emergency. Passengers will NOT be able to get out of the LOCKED vehicle during an emergency (i.e. crash, battery fire, submerged in water, etc). This is an EXTREMELY IMMINENT DANGER for small kids who are sitting in car seats, since it will take even longer to release them from their straps in order to get out. The small rear windows are useless for escape. THIS FLAW DESIGN HAS ALREADY CAUSED DEATHS. Changes SHOULD BE MADE to enable emergence mechanical opening of the rear doors.

Air Bags
Filed Dec 26, 2025FL

There's a problem with the airbags, and the steering wheel is hard to turn.

Electrical System
Filed Dec 26, 2025TX

The blinkers do not respond to the change in blinkers when I initiate the blinker (right or left) by using the stalk. There has been numerous times that I fully pull down or push up the blinker stall and it would not engage the blinker but today I am reporting it because now I almost changed the lane after engaging the blinker but it didn’t happen

Complaints 1-50 of 429, newest first, reproduced as filed.

Across model years

Worst on record: 2018
YearComplaintsRecallsFiresDeathsAssessment
202630100Routine
2025123300Routine
2024222510Above average
2023 — this page4291211Fatalities reported
20227731841Fatalities reported
20216742258Fatalities reported
20204532122Fatalities reported
20196202254Fatalities reported
20181,0361941Fatalities reported
2017271600Routine

Compare every Model 3 year →

2023 Tesla Model 3: questions buyers ask

Is the 2023 Tesla Model 3 a good car?

It is not among the Model 3 years to avoid. Owners filed 429 complaints, against about 537 for a typical Model 3 year. The most common complaint is about the automatic emergency braking (23%). In NHTSA crash tests it scored 5 stars overall.

What is the most common problem with the 2023 Tesla Model 3?

The automatic emergency braking: 97 of the 429 complaints (23%) are about it. Owners most often say it brakes on its own (28%) and sets off warning lights on the dash (4%). The typical report comes at 4,000 miles.

How many recalls does the 2023 Tesla Model 3 have?

12 safety recalls on file with NHTSA, the most recent filed Aug 4, 2026. The largest, 24V051000, covered 2,193,869 vehicles. Recall repairs are free at a dealer; whether a specific car still has one open depends on its VIN.

At what mileage do 2023 Tesla Model 3 problems start?

Half of the complaints that record an odometer reading came in before 3,400 miles. For the automatic emergency braking the midpoint is 4,000 miles.

Has NHTSA investigated the 2023 Tesla Model 3?

Yes, 13 times. The latest, PE26006 ("Lower Lateral Link detachment"), was opened Jul 29, 2026 and is still open. 6 investigations are open.

Are there service bulletins for the 2023 Tesla Model 3?

The manufacturer filed 76 technical service bulletins and other notices for it with NHTSA, most of them about the body and frame (7), the electrical system (6) and the brakes (2). A bulletin is a repair instruction to dealers, not a recall: the fix is usually free only under warranty.

Reading this record

1 death reported in complaints filed with NHTSA.

Complaint counts track how many cars were sold and how long they have been on the road as much as they track quality. A common model from 2013 has had a decade to accumulate reports; a rare one from last year has not. The signal worth weighing is in the severity columns, in whether the same component keeps appearing, and in whether the manufacturer eventually opened a recall for it.

Recall repairs are free for as long as the recall stands. Check whether a specific car still has open work at NHTSA's VIN lookup.

Most recent recall on file: Aug 4, 2026. Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation.