Tesla Model Y Complaints

4,325 consumer complaints on file.

#11741791June 3, 2026
SEATS, UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Seat occupancy sensor failed for the second time. The car will randomly shut off if I am inside because it does not detect a passenger. When I exit the vehicle, the car will stay on for an extended period of time due to failed seat occupancy sensor. This is a widespread issue affecting all makes and models of Tesla. They are aware of the high rate of failure and have not made any attempt to issue a recall. This is dangerous and inconvenient as the infotainment system will not pair with your phone because it does not detect a driver. When moving, the car will also randomly throw itself into PARK at speed if you don’t put on your seatbelt before moving. The first time this happened, I smashed my head on the steering wheel.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11741812June 3, 2026
BACK OVER PREVENTION: WARNINGS
While using Full Self-Driving, Tesla hit a parked car when pulling out of a parking spot in a lot.
Crash:
Yes
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11741805June 3, 2026
SUSPENSION, UNKNOWN OR OTHER
I purchased a 2021 Tesla Model Y (VIN: [XXX] ) used directly from Tesla. I am the first retail owner outside of Tesla. I am currently experiencing a knocking noise from the driver side suspension. I have requested that Tesla inspect and complete the following federally mandated safety recalls and service bulletins, none of which appear in my vehicle’s service history: • NHTSA Recall 21V-835 / SB-21-31-003 — Front suspension lateral link fasteners may loosen and separate from the sub-frame, causing instability and crash risk • NHTSA Recall 21V-912 — Suspension knuckles may fracture • SB-20-31-006 — Front upper control arm ball joint reseal Tesla service has refused to perform these repairs free of charge, citing expired warranty (warranty expired April 5, 2025). Tesla’s response does not address that these are federal safety recalls, not warranty repairs. Federal law requires recall repairs to be performed free of charge regardless of warranty status, age, or mileage. Tesla has also failed to provide written documentation confirming whether these recalls were completed prior to selling me the vehicle. Instead, I have been redirected to a self-service VIN lookup tool and a general data privacy request form — neither of which confirms when, where, or whether the recall work was actually performed. I am requesting NHTSA investigate Tesla’s failure to complete these safety recalls prior to selling this vehicle to a retail customer, and their refusal to honor federal recall obligations. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11741802June 3, 2026
WHEELS
I am filing a complaint for my 2023 Tesla Model Y (VIN: [XXX] ) due to TPMS failure after update 2026.2.9.1. Tesla denied recall 24V935 coverage. I request review. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11741720June 3, 2026
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
My 2021 Tesla Model Y experienced a critical failure resulting in the vehicle displaying diagnostic code BMS_079. After the fault appeared, I was informed that the vehicle's High-Voltage (HV) Battery requires replacement at a cost exceeding $10,000. As a result of this failure, the vehicle is no longer drivable and has been effectively rendered unusable. The High-Voltage (HV) Battery Management System and/or HV battery pack failed, triggering Tesla diagnostic code BMS_079. The vehicle is currently unable to operate due to this fault. The vehicle and battery system are available for inspection upon request. The sudden failure of the HV battery system created a significant safety concern because the vehicle lost its ability to operate as intended. A battery failure can leave drivers stranded unexpectedly, potentially in unsafe locations such as highways, intersections, remote areas, or during adverse weather conditions. The inability to reliably operate the vehicle creates a safety risk for both occupants and other motorists. The fault code BMS_079 was diagnosed and confirmed through Tesla's service system. Tesla service personnel indicated that the HV battery requires replacement and that the vehicle cannot be driven safely until the repair is completed. Prior to the vehicle becoming inoperable, warning messages appeared on the vehicle display indicating a problem with the battery system. The BMS_079 fault code was displayed, and the vehicle subsequently restricted operation.no warning signs prior. I am concerned that a major HV battery failure requiring a repair exceeding $10,000 occurred on a 2021 Tesla Model Y. A failure of this magnitude on a relatively modern electric vehicle raises concerns regarding battery reliability, consumer cost burden, and potential safety implications when vehicles become unexpectedly disabled. I am requesting that this issue be investigated and that appropriate action be taken to address similar failures affecting Tesla owners.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11741715June 3, 2026
SERVICE BRAKES, ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, STEERING
am reporting a serious safety concern involving a 2025 Tesla Model Y, VIN [XXX] . On [XXX], the vehicle was being driven on [XXX] in Columbus, Ohio while the driver was traveling to Columbus Preparatory Academy. During the trip, the steering reportedly stopped responding properly, and the driver struggled to control the vehicle. Witnesses at the scene reported that the driver appeared to be fighting with the steering and trying to stop the vehicle or prevent it from drifting. The vehicle then lost control, accelerated or continued moving uncontrollably, flipped/rolled over, and sustained major damage. A police report was created by the Columbus Police Department under report number [XXX]. The vehicle involved is a 2025 Tesla Model Y. This was a serious crash involving a possible steering malfunction, loss of control, and rollover. The vehicle is currently located at Pro-Cars, 400 Stimmel Rd, Columbus, OH 43223. Tesla was contacted after the incident, and the representative advised that the vehicle should be taken to a collision center. I am filing this complaint because the incident appears to involve a potential safety defect affecting steering control and vehicle control. I request that NHTSA review this matter as a possible vehicle safety defect. The vehicle has not yet been repaired, and I am attempting to preserve it for inspection. I have supporting materials including the police report, photos/videos, witness information if needed, towing/storage documentation, and communications regarding the vehicle. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Crash:
Yes
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11741705June 3, 2026
UNKNOWN OR OTHER, LANE DEPARTURE: BLIND SPOT DETECTION, BACK OVER PREVENTION: REARVIEW SYSTEM BRAKING
Even after the recent recall for backup camera freezing, my backup camera froze again today. I took the car in, in the past, to report the problem and was told to reset the computer even after the technician witnessed the problem. Got charged $300 so haven't been back. Problem has been there for a couple of years. I had hoped the software update would fix it but no such luck.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11741689June 2, 2026
VISIBILITY/WIPER, LANE DEPARTURE: ASSIST, LANE DEPARTURE: WARNING
I am reporting a safety incident involving my 2025 Tesla Model Y and Full Self-Driving. While driving with Full Self-Driving engaged… latest update, the vehicle steered into an express-lane barrier/bar structure. The impact caused severe windshield damage and apparent body damage near the passenger-side A-pillar / windshield frame / roof rail area. The windshield is heavily cracked across the driver’s side and center area, and the vehicle is not safe to drive. I was able to get home safely and filed an insurance claim. I preserved TeslaCam footage and photos of the damage. The in-vehicle Tesla playback shows Full Self-Driving engaged during the incident. I also copied the TeslaCam files from the vehicle’s USB drive. The exported video file does not appear to show the same Full Self-Driving overlay that appears in the in-vehicle playback. I am reporting this as a potential safety issue involving Tesla Full Self-Driving steering behavior and impact with a fixed roadway/express-lane structure. No injuries occurred, but the vehicle sustained significant windshield damage and possible body/frame-area damage.
Crash:
Yes
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11741636June 2, 2026
LANE DEPARTURE: ASSIST, LANE DEPARTURE: WARNING, FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: AUTOMATIC EMERGENCY BRAKING
Incident Report – 2026 Tesla Model Y Date of Incident:XXX Time of Incident: 12:30 am Location: [XXX] I was operating my 2026 Tesla Model Y and was driving manually. Full Self-Driving (FSD), Autosteer, and other self-driving functions were not engaged at the time of the incident. While traveling on Highway 16 at approximately 60 mph, the vehicle approached the right-side white lane line. At that point, I experienced a sudden steering intervention that turned the vehicle sharply to the left. The steering input was unexpected and occurred while I was manually controlling the vehicle. Following the steering intervention, the vehicle crossed the centerline into the opposing lane of travel and continued off the roadway into the ditch on the opposite side of the road. The incident resulted in damage to the vehicle. Road conditions were dry. Weather conditions were safe. Lane markings were clear. I am requesting that Tesla preserve and review all vehicle telemetry, event logs, steering-assistance records, and any other relevant data associated with this incident. Specifically, I request an investigation into whether Lane Departure Avoidance, Emergency Lane Departure Avoidance, or any other driver-assistance feature activated and contributed to the steering maneuver. I am also requesting a determination regarding responsibility for the resulting vehicle damage and whether Tesla will reimburse repair costs if a system malfunction or defect is identified. Supporting documentation, including photographs, dashcam footage (if available), repair estimates, and other evidence, can be provided upon request. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Crash:
Yes
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11741614June 2, 2026
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
The contact owns a 2026 Tesla Model Y. The contact stated that while driving at 65 MPH, with the autopilot feature engaged, the vehicle approached a lane closure as big, metal arrow road signs where on the road indicating the road closure. The contact, who was distracted at the time, expected the vehicle to acknowledge the road closure and switch lanes. The vehicle failed to recognize the Chevron barricade lights on the highway and the vehicle ran through the road signs without warning. The contact was forced to take over and stop the vehicle due to the failure. Due to the failure, the front, driver side mirror detached from the vehicle. The contact exited the highway and inspected the damage to the vehicle. Despite the failure, the contact managed to drive the vehicle home. The service center was notified of the failure and an appointment was made to have the damages repaired. The cause of the failure had yet to be determined. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 21,000.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11741505June 2, 2026
AIR BAGS
The contact owned a 2023 Tesla Model Y. The contact stated while driving at approximately 58 MPH, the vehicle hydroplaned and the front passenger side crashed into a lamp pole however, the air bags were not deployed. The air bag warning light was illuminated. No injuries were sustained and no medical attention was sought. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed that the vehicle was totaled. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 57,577.
Crash:
Yes
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11741200June 1, 2026
VISIBILITY/WIPER, FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: AUTOMATIC EMERGENCY BRAKING, BACK OVER PREVENTION: WARNINGS
On XXX at approximately 8:30 PM, the vehicle was operating under Full Self-Driving (Supervised) mode when it failed to detect or react to a stationary pole, resulting in a front-end collision. 1 System Failed: The Full Self-Driving software, Tesla Vision camera system, and Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) failed to detect the obstacle or apply brakes. The vehicle is available for inspection upon request. 2 Safety Risk: The autonomous driving software drove the vehicle directly into a fixed object without warning, creating a severe collision risk for occupants and nearby pedestrians. 3 Confirmed by Dealer: Yes. The vehicle was taken to the Tesla Service Center in [XXX] on XXX, where technicians officially captured and logged the diagnostic vehicle data for this specific incident under my active service file. 4 Inspected: The physical hardware and system logs have been initially inspected and captured by Tesla Service technicians. 5 Prior Warnings: There were zero warning lamps, chime alerts, or visual indicators on the center console display prior to the impact. The system treated the obstacle as navigable space INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11741191June 1, 2026
STEERING, UNKNOWN OR OTHER
On XXX at approximately 12:30–1:00 PM, I was backing my Tesla Model Y out of my garage. While reversing, I felt unusual vibrations coming from the vehicle. After backing out, I shifted the car into Drive and attempted to make a left turn. At that point, the vehicle would not turn, and it began producing significant noise and vibration. I exited the vehicle to inspect it for any obvious issues, such as an object lodged underneath the car or a flat tire. I found no visible obstructions, and all four tires appeared to be in good condition. I then drove the vehicle forward toward my driveway and garage area and inspected it again. During this inspection, I found a finger-sized screw or bolt underneath the vehicle. I attempted to reverse the car once more, but the same problem occurred: excessive vibration and an inability to steer either left or right. There were no warning lights, alerts, or notifications displayed on the Tesla screen at any point during this incident. I subsequently contacted Tesla Roadside Assistance and requested that the vehicle be towed to a Tesla Service Center. Tesla remotely accessed the vehicle data but informed me that they could not detect any issues based on the vehicle diagnostics. They suggested that I drive the vehicle to the service center. I explained that the vehicle was unable to turn left or right and that I did not believe it was safe to operate under those conditions. At the time of the incident, I was accompanied by my [XXX] father-in-law, and we were preparing to travel to an urgent care facility. The vehicle had been operating normally the previous day. The vehicle currently has approximately 32,077 miles and is approximately 2 years and 5 months old from the date of manufacture. The vehicle has no history of repair work or tire service performed outside of Tesla-authorized service. My primary concern is the significant safety risk presented by this failure on public space. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11741088May 31, 2026
STRUCTURE:BODY
My 2026 Tesla model Y frunk (front hood) internal compartment doesn’t has safety release latch and light. And doesn’t has any mechanism to alert me if human or animal accidentally inside the frunk which concerns me so have to report this issue. Thanks
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11741075May 30, 2026
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
This incident is related to Full self driving feature in my Model Y. It abruptly stopped on the road even when there was no obstacle. Luckily there were no vehicles behind my car which would otherwise resulted in accident and injuries to myself and my family.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11741069May 30, 2026
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
The persistent intervention-reason prompt (the black box that appears immediately after disengaging FSD and stays until answered) creates a safety-critical distraction exactly when the driver must regain full attention and control. It forces eyes off the road or interaction with the screen during the handover moment, increasing crash risk. It cannot be dismissed without input and has no timeout or “X” button. Request NHTSA investigate this as a potential defect in the driver-assistance system.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11741056May 30, 2026
STRUCTURE:BODY, BACK OVER PREVENTION: WARNINGS
1. Failed Component/System: The failed system is the Tesla Full Self-Driving (FSD - Supervised) software and its underlying vehicle control logic, specifically resulting in an uncommanded torque request (Sudden Unintended Acceleration). 2. Safety Risk: The vehicle engaged in Sudden Unintended Acceleration (SUA) in reverse from a complete stop, without any driver pedal input. In a parking environment, this uncommanded acceleration poses an extreme and immediate threat to life safety. Had a pedestrian, child, or another moving vehicle been behind my car instead of a metal pillar, this software malfunction would have resulted in severe injury or a fatal collision. 3. Inspection Status: The vehicle has not yet been inspected by the manufacturer, police, or insurance representatives. I am intentionally securing the vehicle to preserve the crucial diagnostic logs and EDR data from being erased or reset during standard repair procedures, pending official data extraction. 4. Warnings/Symptoms: There were absolutely no warning lamps, error messages, or visual/audible symptoms prior to the failure. Furthermore, during the uncommanded acceleration, the system did not issue an FSD disengagement warning or chime. The dashcam footage confirms that the FSD visualization remained active and blue on the screen throughout the entire unintended acceleration event up until the impact.
Crash:
Yes
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11740760May 29, 2026
SERVICE BRAKES, SUSPENSION
Service Concern — Front Suspension / Rattling Noise Vehicle is experiencing a persistent rattling/knocking noise from the front area when driving over bumps, uneven pavement, or rough roads. Noise is noticeable at low to moderate speeds and appears suspension-related. Condition seems consistent with known Tesla Model Y service concerns regarding: * front upper control arm mounts, * front damper assemblies, * and wiper bracket pencil braces. Requesting inspection and evaluation of: * front suspension components, * damper assemblies, * upper control arm mounts, * and any applicable Tesla Service Bulletins related to front-end NVH/rattling concerns. Noise has become increasingly noticeable during normal driving conditions and is affecting ride quality. Please document findings and advise whether repairs are covered under warranty. The symptoms typically include: * Rattling noise over small bumps * Knocking or clunking from the front suspension * Noise on rough pavement, speed bumps, or uneven roads * Sometimes vibration or looseness felt near the dashboard/firewall area The repair procedure mentioned is consistent with a Tesla internal service approach for addressing front-end NVH issues (Noise, Vibration, Harshness). Here’s what each item means: Front Upper Control Arm Mounts These are suspension mounting components near the top of the front wheel assembly. If worn, loose, or improperly isolated, they can create: * Metallic knocking * Clicking during suspension travel * Vibration transferred into the cabin Replacing them helps stabilize suspension movement. Front Damper Assemblies The dampers (shock absorbers/struts) control suspension rebound and compression. Faulty or noisy dampers can produce: * Hollow clunks * Rattles over expansion joints * Repetitive knocking on rough roads Replacing the assemblies usually resolves internal damper noise. Wiper Bracket “Pencil Braces” These braces sit beneath the cowl/wiper assembly area. On some vehicles they c
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11740671May 28, 2026
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
While my vehicle was operating under FSD, it ran a red light at the above intersection, resulting in an accident.
Crash:
Yes
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11740586May 28, 2026
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: ADAPTIVE CRUISE CONTROL, ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, UNKNOWN OR OTHER
On Feb 25, 2026 My 2022 Tesla model Y with only 25k miles on it suddenly stopped knowing where it was and almost drove me into a ditch. All cameras stopped working and the gps was stuck in the same wrong location. (Service Mode showed Primary DAS ECU shows "AP IN COREBOOT" and "Status: INIT." Secondary B shows nominal. Features unavailable. GNSS shows 0 satellites in open sky.) Tesla service said I was outside of warranty and “There is an internal processor issue with your autopilot system that will prevent updates from installing. The only solution is replacing the computer on April 9, 2026, 12:22,” I had had other computer related issues I brought up during regular service visits but weren’t recorded and I was told software updates would fix such as: delayed rearview camera upon startup, navigation volume resetting, headlights staying on for extended periods after exit, and lockout issues. I asked Tesla to document the specific failure codes which they never sent. They said “Tesla diagnostics are showing the primary Autopilot computer is not booting properly, which is preventing cameras, software updates, and related systems from functioning. Because the computer is not initializing, a firmware reinstall will not complete successfully. At this point, replacement of the computer is the required repair to restore normal functionality.” My car had a safety recall during its service appointment that they could not install software for unless I paid $3200 to replace computer. I had total loss of rearview camera (FMVSS 111 violation) and loss of Active Safety Systems (AEB/FCW), but Tesla refused to repair a federally mandated safety defect if I didn’t pay the full repair cost.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0

← Back to Tesla Model Y