2021 Tesla Model 3 Health Check: TSBs and Known Issues

The 2021 Tesla Model 3 stands out for its relatively clean record, with no recalls, owner complaints, or federal investigations reported to NHTSA. This indicates a generally robust vehicle. However, like any complex machine, it has been the subject of manufacturer service bulletins (TSBs) addressing specific issues. These TSBs highlight potential concerns such as a refrigerant sensor fault and cosmetic steering wheel cover separation, which are detailed below. This article provides a comprehensive overview of these known issues to help owners and prospective buyers understand the vehicle's reliability profile.

At a glance

The 2021 Tesla Model 3 has an impressive safety and reliability record, with zero recalls, zero owner complaints, and no open federal investigations. The primary issues identified for this model year are addressed through manufacturer service bulletins, which include a few minor functional concerns and predominantly informational communications regarding the digital owner's manual.

Recalls

No recalls have been reported for the 2021 Tesla Model 3.

Owner complaints

No owner complaints have been reported to NHTSA for the 2021 Tesla Model 3.

Federal investigations

No federal investigations have been opened against the 2021 TESLA Model 3.

Service bulletins

While the 2021 Tesla Model 3 has a clean record regarding recalls and complaints, several manufacturer service bulletins have been issued. The majority of these bulletins are informational, focusing on the vehicle's integrated digital owner's manual. However, a few address specific potential issues that owners should be aware of.

One notable issue is a refrigerant sensor fault that may affect certain 2021 Tesla Model 3 and Model Y vehicles. This issue, documented under NHTSA Manufacturer Communication 10253653 (bulletin SB2118002), involves the refrigerant pressure/temperature (P/T) sensors in the heat pump and can lead to problems with the HVAC system.

Another concern is the steering wheel cover material separating. Owners of 2021-2023 Tesla Model 3 and Model Y vehicles might observe the steering wheel cover material separating at the 3 and 9 o'clock positions. This is a cosmetic issue, as clarified in NHTSA ID 10245512 (bulletin SB-23-32-003), and does not impact the steering wheel's functional integrity.

Additionally, a service advisory addresses the Occupant Classification System (OCS) installation. Manufacturer communication NHTSA ID 10240946 (bulletin SB2320002R4) highlights the need for a specific OCS installation in the front passenger seat of certain 2021-2023 Model 3 and Model Y vehicles before servicing OCS subcomponents.

Numerous other bulletins, such as NHTSA ID 11008831, NHTSA ID 11008824, and NHTSA ID 10253670, inform owners that the 2021-2024 Tesla Model 3, along with other models, features a fully digital owner's manual integrated into the vehicle's touchscreen, replacing traditional physical copies.

Should you be worried?

Based on the available data, owners of the 2021 Tesla Model 3 generally have little to worry about. The absence of recalls, owner complaints, and federal investigations points to a highly reliable vehicle. The identified issues, such as the 2021 Tesla Model 3 refrigerant sensor fault and steering wheel cover separation, are addressed by manufacturer service bulletins and do not appear to pose significant safety risks or widespread functional failures. Most bulletins are informational, ensuring owners understand how to access their digital owner's manual.

What 2021 Tesla Model 3 owners should do

1. Stay informed: Regularly check for any new manufacturer communications or software updates from Tesla.
2. Monitor for symptoms: Be aware of potential HVAC system issues that could indicate a refrigerant sensor fault.
3. Inspect cosmetic items: Periodically check the steering wheel cover for any signs of separation, though this is primarily cosmetic.
4. Consult your digital manual: Utilize the in-vehicle digital owner's manual for up-to-date information specific to your vehicle's configuration and software version.
5. Contact Tesla Service: If you experience any issues or have concerns, schedule an appointment with a Tesla service center.