Tesla

Model Y (1st)

2020-2024 · Compact SUV ยท 1 engine
Best Engine โŒ Avoid (1.0)
3,356 NHTSA Complaints
32 Recalls
20 Fire Reports
385 Crash Reports
Includes data from: MODEL YMODEL Y 5-SEATMODEL Y (All Variants)MODEL Y 7-SEAT
View all 2 generations of the Tesla Model Y → ๐Ÿ“‹ Inspection checklist

NHTSA Safety Ratings About NHTSA ratings

Overall โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜… 5/5
Frontal Crash
5/5
Side Crash
5/5
Rollover
5/5 (7.9% risk)
ESC: Standard FCW: Standard LDW: Standard
Overall โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜… 5/5
Frontal Crash
5/5
Side Crash
5/5
Rollover
5/5 (9.7% risk)
ESC: Standard FCW: Standard LDW: Standard
Overall โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜… 5/5
Frontal Crash
5/5
Side Crash
5/5
Rollover
5/5 (7.9% risk)
ESC: Standard FCW: Standard LDW: Standard
Overall โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜… 5/5
Frontal Crash
5/5
Side Crash
5/5
Rollover
5/5 (7.9% risk)
ESC: Standard FCW: Standard LDW: Standard
Overall โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜… 5/5
Frontal Crash
5/5
Side Crash
5/5
Rollover
5/5 (9.7% risk)
ESC: Standard FCW: Standard LDW: Standard
Overall โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜… 5/5
Frontal Crash
5/5
Side Crash
5/5
Rollover
5/5 (9.7% risk)
ESC: Standard FCW: Standard LDW: Standard
Overall โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜… 5/5
Frontal Crash
5/5
Side Crash
5/5
Rollover
5/5 (7.9% risk)
ESC: Standard FCW: Standard LDW: Standard
Overall โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜… 5/5
Frontal Crash
5/5
Side Crash
5/5
Rollover
5/5 (7.9% risk)
ESC: Standard FCW: Standard LDW: Standard
Overall โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜… 5/5
Frontal Crash
5/5
Side Crash
5/5
Rollover
5/5 (7.9% risk)
ESC: Standard FCW: No LDW: Standard
Overall โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜… 5/5
Frontal Crash
5/5
Side Crash
5/5
Rollover
5/5 (7.9% risk)
ESC: Standard FCW: Standard LDW: Standard
Overall โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜… 5/5
Frontal Crash
5/5
Side Crash
5/5
Rollover
5/5 (7.9% risk)
ESC: Standard FCW: No LDW: Standard
Overall โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜… 5/5
Frontal Crash
5/5
Side Crash
5/5
Rollover
5/5 (7.9% risk)
ESC: Standard FCW: Standard LDW: Standard
Overall โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜… 5/5
Frontal Crash
5/5
Side Crash
5/5
Rollover
5/5 (7.9% risk)
ESC: Standard FCW: No LDW: Standard
Overall โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜… 5/5
Frontal Crash
5/5
Side Crash
5/5
Rollover
5/5 (7.9% risk)
ESC: Standard FCW: No LDW: Standard
Overall โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜… 5/5
Frontal Crash
5/5
Side Crash
5/5
Rollover
5/5 (7.9% risk)
ESC: Standard FCW: Standard LDW: Standard
Overall โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜… 5/5
Frontal Crash
5/5
Side Crash
5/5
Rollover
5/5 (7.9% risk)
ESC: Standard FCW: Standard LDW: Standard
Overall โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜… 5/5
Frontal Crash
5/5
Side Crash
5/5
Rollover
5/5 (7.9% risk)
ESC: Standard FCW: Standard LDW: Standard

Reliability Overview

The 2020-2024 Model Y is Tesla's volume crossover and carries one of the heaviest fatality counts in this reliability database. NHTSA shows 3,356 owner complaints, 32 recall campaigns, 295 injuries, and 106 deaths attributed to defects across five model years. The Model Y has no engine. Its complaint record reflects a different set of failure modes: driver-assistance behavior, electric-drivetrain bugs, and assembly-line defects from a fast-ramped production run.

The single largest pattern in the complaint record is the 'Safety Systems' category at 1,942 reports, accounting for 58% of the generation's complaint volume. These are Autopilot disengagements, Full Self-Driving misbehavior, automatic emergency braking false-positives, and the phantom-braking pattern that has its own established NHTSA investigation history. Brake complaints (508) and steering complaints (345) overlap heavily with the same software stack. Electrical complaints (417) cover touchscreen freezes, 12-volt battery deaths that strand the vehicle even with the high-voltage pack at full charge, and infotainment unresponsiveness.

Software OTAs dominate the 32-recall count: FSD rolling-stop behavior (22V037), Autosteer driver-misuse mitigation (23V838), Pedestrian Warning System mute defects (22V063, 22V235, 24V153), and the camera/display recalls (25V002, 24V051, 24V035, plus 26V283 from May 2026). Mechanical assembly defects from the early Fremont ramp account for the most serious campaigns: front and rear suspension knuckle fracture (21V912), front upper control arm detachment (20V709), lateral-link fastener failure (21V835 and 22V895), and brake caliper bolts that may separate at the wheel rim (21V387). Hardware faults include the electronic power steering printed circuit board overstress (25V092) and the pyrotechnic battery disconnect defect (23V434).

For shoppers cross-shopping the Model Y against the Mustang Mach-E, Kia EV6, Hyundai Ioniq 5, or Polestar 2, this generation trades a deeper charging network and stronger software platform against a 106-fatality record and a heavy slate of mechanical recalls from the early Fremont production years. The 2020 model year shows up in the most early-build campaigns (suspension knuckles, control arms, brake caliper bolts, seat belt anchors, exterior lighting), reflecting the rush to volume production. 2023 and 2024 builds, including the structural giga-cast rear underbody that came online at the Austin plant, carry their own software-era recalls but a cleaner structural record.

The Model Y is not a recommendation the reliability data can support. Buyers who want one anyway should treat the 32-recall list as homework and the 106-death figure as a serious read on the gap between Autopilot's marketing and the crash record, not a footnote.

Engine Reliability Ratings

Tesla Model Y Unidentified Engine

โŒ Avoid (1.0)
3,356 complaints 671.2 per year
20 fire reports 106 fatalities
View details

Complaint Breakdown

safety systems
1942
brakes
508
electrical
417
other
352
steering
345

Known Issues

Safety Systems Issues (1,942 complaints)
Brakes Issues (508 complaints)
Electrical System Issues (417 complaints)

Battery & Propulsion Reliability

Battery Electric (BEV)

Battery & propulsion complaint analysis for the 2020-2024 Tesla Model Y

โŒ Avoid
287 battery-related complaints 51.4 per year 0 battery-related recalls

That's roughly 9.3x the typical rate for BEVs in this dataset (median 5.5 per year). This generation has materially more battery & propulsion complaints than its peers, even after accounting for sales volume.

23 fire reports 8 deaths

What kind of battery complaint?

Among the 287 battery-related complaints, here's the type mix. These percentages describe what the complaints are about โ€” not how reliable the vehicle is overall.

12V Auxiliary Battery 93 (32%)

Low-voltage battery deaths, common on EVs and hybrids that use a 12V for accessories.

Electric Propulsion 85 (30%)

Loss of power, drive unit, inverter, traction motor, DC-DC converter.

High-Voltage Battery 54 (19%)

Propulsion battery defects, capacity loss, BMS faults, replacement claims.

Thermal Events 28 (10%)

Battery fires, smoke, thermal runaway. Includes any complaint with fire reported.

Charging System 15 (5%)

Charge port, cable, mobile connector, or session failures.

Regenerative Braking 12 (4%)

Regen brake feel, one-pedal driving, B-mode complaints.

Sample complaint excerpts
12V Auxiliary Battery
  • [2023] My 2023 Tesla Model Y suddenly became inaccessible via key card and phone key with no prior warning. The tow operator successfully jump-started the vehicle with a 12V jump and it powered on โ€” suggesting a 12V battery failure, not an HV system failure. Tesla diagnosed water ingress in the HV battery pack and HV harness, citing an isolation resistance fault and open flood port. Their conclusion esca
  • [2023] I was turning right from a residential street onto a busy street during rush hour. I heard a sound, which made me think I might have run over something. Immediately following the sound, an alert showed up on the carโ€™s touch screen with the message: โ€œVehicle May not restart: Service requiredโ€. The car was immediately inoperable - the car could not move and it could not shift into neutral to be push
  • [2023] The vehicle completely locked me out. It was unresponsive to key card access as well as unresponsive to mobile app access. I was unable to unlock or open any door/latch/trunk or frunk. Iโ€™m no one was inside because they wouldโ€™ve been stuck with no way out. This is a major safety concern. I happened to be in a safe area but if this were on a really hot day or if people/minors/children were in the c
Electric Propulsion
  • [2023] My 2023 Tesla Model Y suddenly became inaccessible via key card and phone key with no prior warning. The tow operator successfully jump-started the vehicle with a 12V jump and it powered on โ€” suggesting a 12V battery failure, not an HV system failure. Tesla diagnosed water ingress in the HV battery pack and HV harness, citing an isolation resistance fault and open flood port. Their conclusion esca
  • [2023] While backing out of a parking stall, the bolts securing the front right lower control arm fell off. One of the bolts rolled under the car and the other bolt was still in the control arm. This vehicle has never been off road, or in an accident. It was towed to the dealership for repairs. It terrifies me to consider what would have happened to me or my family had the bolts fallen off driving at f
  • [2023] RE: VIN [XXX] Battery problem Car is less than 3 years old. Suddenly stopped in the middle of the road. Only had about 5 seconds or so to react and the car stuttered and shut down. Could not move it or drive it all. Dashboard was still working but it would not move and flashing red in the console. Very scary and frustrating experience. Fortunately, I was on a city and not on a highway. The car ha
High-Voltage Battery
  • [2023] My 2023 Tesla Model Y suddenly became inaccessible via key card and phone key with no prior warning. The tow operator successfully jump-started the vehicle with a 12V jump and it powered on โ€” suggesting a 12V battery failure, not an HV system failure. Tesla diagnosed water ingress in the HV battery pack and HV harness, citing an isolation resistance fault and open flood port. Their conclusion esca
  • [2023] Description of Incident: I was taking my family on a road trip from Disneyland back home to Chandler, Arizona when our 2022 Tesla Model Y displayed a battery issue. We stopped in Palm Springs to charge, but the battery would only charge very slowly and capped out at 32%. We brought the vehicle to the Palm Springs Tesla Service Center, where they diagnosed a failure in the high-voltage (HV) batter
  • [2023] On [XXX] at [XXX] on [XXX] I experienced a sudden malfunction of steering control of my Tesla Model Y, followed by a rightward movement initiated by vehicle automation and potentially amplified due to the steering malfunction. The vehicle then collided with an 18-wheeler truck on the right lane and came to a stop on the middle lane. I was driving past Tracy CA on [XXX] towards Modesto on a persona
Thermal Events
  • [2023] On Memorial Day weekend, my car was parked outside, and apparently back passenger window was left open, which caused the backseat area of the car to be soaked in water. We noticed that in the morning, and parked the car inside the garage, and kept the door and windows open so it could dry quickly. However, a few hours later, around 4:30 pm, the car caught fire while parked in the garage. We called
  • [2023] Vehicle had a open window during rain storm. Interior got wet. Next day the vehicle was left to dry out. Vehicle caught on fire and engulfed in flames in the backseat. Nobody was harmed fire was contained by the Frisco Fire Department. Vehicle was then towed away.
  • [2023] The contact owned a 2023 Tesla Model Y. The contact stated while driving 30 MPH in autopilot mode when the vehicle crashed into a tree. After the crash, the vehicle battery caught on fire and there was an explosion. The contact sustained bruises on the left hand that required medical attention. A police report was filed. The vehicle was towed but no further information was available. The vehicle w
Charging System
  • [2023] This is my 8th report. Just after my 7th report, in May 2025, I had my tires rotated at 25,000ish miles. The car still did not record that still shows the last rotation at 8,000 miles. Furthermore, I was told at Discount Tire that I needed new tires because the tread was so thin. I was aghast...a new Tesla with tires that wear out at 25,000 miles? I was told that Tesla does not provide adequa
  • [2023] I bought a 2023 Tesla Long-range Y in June 2023 at Tesla Santa Fe, New Mexico. I have had trouble with the brakes applying on their own during cruise control. It was very scary the first time it happened, but luckily there was very little traffic on the 2-lane highway I was traveling on. The Tesla dealer in Santa Fe told me they don't have a software fix yet and he simply avoids cruise control.
  • [2023] Steering wheel locked up one morning and immediately reported it to Tesla and they corrected it, but it seems like they just did a flush of the system. Not sure if there is still some fundamental flow. Charging port also kept on not responding either which basically makes the vehicle unable to move if it can't be charged.
Regenerative Braking
  • [2023] The vehicle's steering wheel vibrates regardles driving on highways/freeways and/or city streets. It happens since day 1 of ownership and has been owning for 4 months now. The vehicle's screen got blacked out twice when it was moving; thus, i couldn't read speed and perfom other functions such as turn on AC and/or heat. The regenerative braking/one pedal driving sometimes does not work. It some
  • [2021] 1. Under certain circumstances, the vehicle is able to decelerate using its regenerative braking system without illuminating the brake lights. This occurs during "one pedal driving" where the operator is driving only using the throttle to both accelerate and decelerate the car, without the input of mechanical brakes. This is a programming issue, not a mechanical issue. The brake lights are "trigg
  • [2021] While driving cross country on interstate highways using cruise control my car would try to stop itself. During a 500+ mile day it would do this 10x per day. Most times hard enough to engage seat beats. There has been no inspection. Tesla is denying a problem. The danger is if someone is following too close they could resend me. I was never in traffic when this happens. Never anyone in fron

Source: classified from NHTSA complaint and recall data. "Battery-related" includes high-voltage propulsion battery, charging system, hybrid drivetrain, electric propulsion, regenerative braking, 12V auxiliary battery, and thermal-event complaints. Other complaints (suspension, steering, brakes, infotainment) appear in the engine and vehicle-level sections. Rates are absolute counts, not normalized per-VIN โ€” high-volume models naturally produce more raw complaints than low-volume ones. Self-reported death and injury counts are capped per complaint to limit form abuse.

Battery: Tesla 2170 Long Range (NCM/NCA)

NCA / NCM ยท Panasonic (Nevada), LG Energy Solution (China) ยท Module-based (S-pack), liquid-cooled
โ–ผ You're looking at: Model Y Long Range / Performance
EPA range 316 mi ยท Highway est.* 269 mi ยท MPGe combined 121 ยท AC charger 11 kW ยท DC 10โ†’80% 29 min ยท Heat pump Yes
* Highway estimate = EPA combined ร— 0.85; real numbers vary with terrain, speed, and climate.
About the pack
Capacity
78 kWh
useable ยท 82 total
Fast charge
250 kW
peak ยท 27 min 10โ†’80%
Warranty floor
70%
capacity floor at 8 yr / 120k mi

Pack overview

ChemistryNCA / NCM
Cell supplierPanasonic (Nevada), LG Energy Solution (China)
Cell format21700 cylindrical
Voltage (nominal)360 V
CoolingLiquid (glycol)
ArchitectureModule-based (S-pack), liquid-cooled
Warranty 8 yr / 120k mi
Capacity floor70%

Known issues

Medium
Pyrotechnic battery-disconnect recall on 2023 Model 3 and Model Y (NHTSA 23V-434): a faulty squib could fail to fire in a crash, leaving the high-voltage system live. Tesla replaced the disconnect free of charge.
Low
Cold-weather range loss is consistent with NCM cylindrical chemistry. Owner data clusters at 25โ€“35% reduction near 20ยฐF, moderated significantly when the heat pump is enabled.
Owner-fleet data
Low
Range estimator on high-mileage cars reads low until the BMS recalibrates with a full 100% charge โ€” a known characteristic of the 2170 platform, not a pack defect.
Owner-fleet data

How this pack ages (industry context)

Industry fleet aggregates: 2.3% average annual capacity loss across 22,700 EVs / 21 models (Geotab, 2026), and 95% range retention at 5 years on average across 30,000+ vehicles (Recurrent, 2026).

OEM warranty floor on this pack: 8 yr / 120k mi to 70% capacity.

Public per-pack degradation curves are not available for most models. Individual results vary materially with climate, charging behavior, and DC fast-charge frequency.

Battery: Tesla 2170 Long Range (NCM/NCA)

NCA / NCM ยท Panasonic (Nevada), LG Energy Solution (China) ยท Module-based (S-pack), liquid-cooled
โ–ผ You're looking at: Model Y Long Range / Performance
EPA range 330 mi ยท Highway est.* 281 mi ยท MPGe combined 122 ยท AC charger 11 kW ยท DC 10โ†’80% 27 min ยท Heat pump Yes
* Highway estimate = EPA combined ร— 0.85; real numbers vary with terrain, speed, and climate.
About the pack
Capacity
78 kWh
useable ยท 82 total
Fast charge
250 kW
peak ยท 27 min 10โ†’80%
Warranty floor
70%
capacity floor at 8 yr / 120k mi

Pack overview

ChemistryNCA / NCM
Cell supplierPanasonic (Nevada), LG Energy Solution (China)
Cell format21700 cylindrical
Voltage (nominal)360 V
CoolingLiquid (glycol)
ArchitectureModule-based (S-pack), liquid-cooled
Warranty 8 yr / 120k mi
Capacity floor70%

Known issues

Medium
Pyrotechnic battery-disconnect recall on 2023 Model 3 and Model Y (NHTSA 23V-434): a faulty squib could fail to fire in a crash, leaving the high-voltage system live. Tesla replaced the disconnect free of charge.
Low
Cold-weather range loss is consistent with NCM cylindrical chemistry. Owner data clusters at 25โ€“35% reduction near 20ยฐF, moderated significantly when the heat pump is enabled.
Owner-fleet data
Low
Range estimator on high-mileage cars reads low until the BMS recalibrates with a full 100% charge โ€” a known characteristic of the 2170 platform, not a pack defect.
Owner-fleet data

How this pack ages (industry context)

Industry fleet aggregates: 2.3% average annual capacity loss across 22,700 EVs / 21 models (Geotab, 2026), and 95% range retention at 5 years on average across 30,000+ vehicles (Recurrent, 2026).

OEM warranty floor on this pack: 8 yr / 120k mi to 70% capacity.

Public per-pack degradation curves are not available for most models. Individual results vary materially with climate, charging behavior, and DC fast-charge frequency.

Battery: Tesla CATL LFP Prismatic (Standard Range)

LFP (lithium-iron-phosphate) ยท CATL (China) ยท Cell-to-pack (no modules), liquid-cooled, 360V
โ–ผ You're looking at: Model Y RWD trim (LFP on later builds)
EPA range 244 mi ยท Highway est.* 207 mi ยท MPGe combined 129
* Highway estimate = EPA combined ร— 0.85; real numbers vary with terrain, speed, and climate.
About the pack
Capacity
57.5 kWh
useable ยท 60 total
Fast charge
170 kW
peak ยท 25 min 10โ†’80%
Warranty floor
70%
capacity floor at 8 yr / 100k mi

Pack overview

ChemistryLFP (lithium-iron-phosphate)
Cell supplierCATL (China)
Cell formatPrismatic
Voltage (nominal)360 V
CoolingLiquid (glycol)
ArchitectureCell-to-pack (no modules), liquid-cooled, 360V
Warranty 8 yr / 100k mi
Capacity floor70%

Known issues

Medium
Pyrotechnic battery-disconnect recall (NHTSA 23V-434) on 2023 Model 3 and Model Y addressed a faulty squib that could fail to fire in a crash. Free dealer repair.
Low
LFP chemistry tolerates 100% daily charging without accelerated degradation; Tesla recommends weekly 100% charges to keep BMS calibration accurate.
Owner-fleet data
Low
Lower energy density means LFP packs are heavier per kWh than NCM; range-per-kWh is similar but cold-weather range is worse than NCM equivalent.
Owner-fleet data
Low
DC fast-charging peaks around 170 kW. Charge curve is flatter than NCM up to 80%, then tapers similarly above.
Owner-fleet data

How this pack ages (industry context)

Industry fleet aggregates: 2.3% average annual capacity loss across 22,700 EVs / 21 models (Geotab, 2026), and 95% range retention at 5 years on average across 30,000+ vehicles (Recurrent, 2026).

OEM warranty floor on this pack: 8 yr / 100k mi to 70% capacity.

Public per-pack degradation curves are not available for most models. Individual results vary materially with climate, charging behavior, and DC fast-charge frequency.

Battery: Tesla CATL LFP Prismatic (Standard Range)

LFP (lithium-iron-phosphate) ยท CATL (China) ยท Cell-to-pack (no modules), liquid-cooled, 360V
โ–ผ You're looking at: Model Y RWD trim (LFP on later builds)
EPA range 260 mi ยท Highway est.* 221 mi ยท MPGe combined 120
* Highway estimate = EPA combined ร— 0.85; real numbers vary with terrain, speed, and climate.
About the pack
Capacity
57.5 kWh
useable ยท 60 total
Fast charge
170 kW
peak ยท 25 min 10โ†’80%
Warranty floor
70%
capacity floor at 8 yr / 100k mi

Pack overview

ChemistryLFP (lithium-iron-phosphate)
Cell supplierCATL (China)
Cell formatPrismatic
Voltage (nominal)360 V
CoolingLiquid (glycol)
ArchitectureCell-to-pack (no modules), liquid-cooled, 360V
Warranty 8 yr / 100k mi
Capacity floor70%

Known issues

Medium
Pyrotechnic battery-disconnect recall (NHTSA 23V-434) on 2023 Model 3 and Model Y addressed a faulty squib that could fail to fire in a crash. Free dealer repair.
Low
LFP chemistry tolerates 100% daily charging without accelerated degradation; Tesla recommends weekly 100% charges to keep BMS calibration accurate.
Owner-fleet data
Low
Lower energy density means LFP packs are heavier per kWh than NCM; range-per-kWh is similar but cold-weather range is worse than NCM equivalent.
Owner-fleet data
Low
DC fast-charging peaks around 170 kW. Charge curve is flatter than NCM up to 80%, then tapers similarly above.
Owner-fleet data

How this pack ages (industry context)

Industry fleet aggregates: 2.3% average annual capacity loss across 22,700 EVs / 21 models (Geotab, 2026), and 95% range retention at 5 years on average across 30,000+ vehicles (Recurrent, 2026).

OEM warranty floor on this pack: 8 yr / 100k mi to 70% capacity.

Public per-pack degradation curves are not available for most models. Individual results vary materially with climate, charging behavior, and DC fast-charge frequency.

Vehicle-Level Issues

These issues affect the Tesla Model Y regardless of engine variant.

Safety Systems Issues (1,942 complaints)
safety_systems critical
Brakes Issues (508 complaints)
brakes critical
Electrical System Issues (417 complaints)
electrical critical
Steering Issues (345 complaints)
steering critical
Suspension Issues (189 complaints)
suspension critical

Buyer's Guide

On data alone there is no clean recommended year. Every Model Y produced 2020-2024 has at least one of the 32 NHTSA recalls applicable to some VINs in its build window, and the worst-rated structural recalls (suspension knuckles, control arms, lateral links, brake caliper bolts) concentrate on 2020-2022 builds. 2023 and later cars get the giga-cast Austin underbody and cleaner mechanical assembly, but those years carry more software-era recalls (rearview camera issues, FSD safety, electronic power steering circuit overstress). The single most-affected year is 2020 itself, which appears in the most early-build mechanical campaigns.

Before buying any 2020-2024 Model Y, run the VIN through Tesla's mobile app or the NHTSA VIN lookup and confirm every applicable recall has been completed. For 2020-2022 cars in particular, verify the suspension knuckle replacement (21V912), front upper control arm inspection (20V709), lateral-link fastener torque check (21V835), and brake caliper bolt inspection (21V387) are all closed. For all years, document the current Autopilot and FSD software version against the most recent OTA recall list. The FSD-related campaigns are remedied by software update only; if the car was bought used and last updated by a prior owner, the version may be out of date.

On the used market, the Model Y depreciates faster than its German or Korean EV peers but the maintenance story is cleaner: no engine, no transmission to service, and brake pads that last longer thanks to regenerative braking. The trade-off is the recall and software complexity, which buyers should weigh against the gap between Autopilot's advertised capabilities and its NHTSA investigation history.

Recalls (32)

26V283000May 4, 2026serious
Back Over Prevention

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."

25V092000Feb 13, 2025serious
Steering

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.

25V002000Jun 30, 2025serious
Back Over Prevention

Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2024-2025 Model 3, Model S, 2023-2025 Model X, and Model Y vehicles. The computer circuit board may short, resulting in the loss of the rearview camera image. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 111, "Rear Visibility."

24V051000Jan 29, 2024serious
Electrical System

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."

24V376000May 27, 2024serious
Seat Belts

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."

24V153000Feb 26, 2024serious
Forward Collision Avoidance

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."

24V554000Jul 23, 2024serious
Latches/Locks/Linkages

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.

24V886000Nov 21, 2024serious
Seats

Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2024 Model Y vehicles. The weld attaching the seat recliner mechanism to the front seat backs may fail.

24V035000Jan 21, 2024serious
Back Over Prevention

Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2023 Model S, X, and Y vehicles equipped with full self-driving computer 4.0 and running a software release version 2023.44.30 through 2023.44.30.6 or 2023.44.100. Software instability may prevent the rearview camera image from displaying.

24V935000Dec 16, 2024serious
Tires

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."

23V385000May 29, 2023serious
Steering

Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2022-2023 Model Y vehicles. The steering wheel fastener may be loose.

23V130000Feb 26, 2023serious
Seats

Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2022-2023 Model Y vehicles. The bolts securing the second-row seat back frames may not have been securely tightened.

23V434000Jun 18, 2023serious
Electrical System

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

23V085000Feb 14, 2023serious
Steering

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.ย  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.

23V489000Jul 13, 2023serious
Forward Collision Avoidance

Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2023 Model S, Model X, and Model Y vehicles. The forward-facing camera may be misaligned, causing some of the active safety features such as emergency braking, forward collision warning, and lane assist to become unavailable without alerting the driver.

23V838000Dec 11, 2023serious
Electrical System

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.

22V037000Jan 26, 2022serious
Electrical System

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.

22V702000Sep 18, 2022serious
Visibility

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."

22V844000Nov 14, 2022serious
Exterior Lighting

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

22V235000Dec 3, 2022serious
Electrical System

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."

22V895000May 11, 2022serious
Suspension

Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2023 Model Y vehicles. The front suspension lateral link fasteners may not have been properly attached to the sub-frame.

22V063000Apr 1, 2022serious
Electrical System

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."

22V050000Feb 1, 2022serious
Electrical System

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."

22V045000Jan 1, 2022serious
Electrical System

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."

21V846000Oct 28, 2021serious
Forward Collision Avoidance

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.

21V835000Oct 24, 2021serious
Suspension

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.

21V389000May 24, 2021serious
Seat Belts

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.

21V388000May 24, 2021serious
Seat Belts

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.

21V387000May 24, 2021serious
Service Brakes

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.

21V912000Nov 20, 2021serious
Suspension

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.

20V609000Sep 29, 2020serious
Exterior Lighting

Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2020 Model Y vehicles equipped with a global rear lamp and tow package configuration. A software error prevents the illumination of trailer brake lights. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."

20V709000Nov 16, 2020serious
Suspension

Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2020 Model Y vehicles. The bolts connecting the front upper control arm and steering knuckle may have not been properly tightened, allowing the upper control arm to detach from the steering knuckle.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common 2020-2024 Tesla Model Y problems?

The 2020-2024 Tesla Model Y has accumulated 3,356 NHTSA complaints. The most frequently reported problem areas are Safety Systems, Brakes, Electrical System. As with any used vehicle, an inspection before buying and a vehicle history report are recommended.

Which Tesla Model Y engine is most reliable?

The 2020-2024 Tesla Model Y was offered with 1 engine option. Based on NHTSA complaint data, the Tesla Model Y Unidentified Engine has the lowest complaint density and is considered the most reliable choice for buyers.

Is the 2020-2024 Tesla Model Y a good used car?

The 2020-2024 Tesla Model Y can be a sound used car depending on trim, mileage, and maintenance history. With 3,356 total NHTSA complaints on record, prospective buyers should review the known problem areas and check for open recalls before buying.

How many NHTSA complaints does the 2020-2024 Tesla Model Y have?

The 2020-2024 Tesla Model Y has 3,356 complaints filed with NHTSA as of our latest data pull. Complaint counts reflect owner-reported issues and do not necessarily indicate defects or safety risks on their own.

What recalls affect the 2020-2024 Tesla Model Y?

There are 32 NHTSA recalls affecting some 2020-2024 Tesla Model Y vehicles. Recall status varies by VIN โ€” check the NHTSA recall database at recalls.nhtsa.dot.gov with your specific VIN to confirm which campaigns apply.

What should I check before buying a used Tesla Model Y?

Before buying a used Tesla Model Y, verify all open recalls are completed via the NHTSA VIN lookup tool. Pay particular attention to Safety Systems, Brakes, Electrical System, which are the most commonly reported problem areas. Request maintenance records, have an independent mechanic inspect the vehicle, and run a vehicle history report to check for prior accidents or title issues.

What are the NHTSA crash test ratings for the Model Y?

The 2024 Tesla Model Y received an overall 5-star safety rating from NHTSA. Frontal crash: 5 stars. Side crash: 5 stars. Rollover: 5 stars (7.9% rollover probability). Electronic Stability Control: Standard. Forward Collision Warning: Standard. Lane Departure Warning: Standard. These ratings are based on standardized crash tests conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Data from NHTSA federal complaints database. 3,356 complaints analyzed. Data confidence: high. Last updated: 2026-05-23.

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