Tesla Model Y Complaints

4,325 consumer complaints on file.

#11657285April 28, 2025
VISIBILITY:DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER/HVAC SYSTEM
Component or System Failure: The HVAC system, specifically the compressor and supermanifold, failed on my 2020 Tesla Model Y. Tesla retained the replaced components during service, so they are not available for inspection. Safety Risk: This failure caused a loss of cabin heating and prevented proper windshield/window defrosting during cold weather, severely impairing visibility and creating unsafe driving conditions. Critically, this system also regulates battery heating. Without it, battery performance in cold temperatures can be compromised, reducing driving range, impairing charging capability, and risking vehicle operability in freezing conditions. Problem Confirmation: Tesla service technicians diagnosed and confirmed failure of the compressor and supermanifold. Full replacement was required to restore proper HVAC and battery heating functions. Inspections Conducted: The vehicle was inspected by Tesla service both before and after the failure. Prior to my ownership, the vehicle had been brought in by a family member (prior owner) for HVAC performance concerns. HVAC issues reappeared around 28,000 miles, but I was unable to immediately schedule repairs due to the Tesla Service Center being approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes away and personal scheduling constraints. The vehicle was finally repaired on April 24, 2025, at 38,511 miles. Warning Indicators: Before the failure, HVAC symptoms included inconsistent heating, occasional HVAC warnings, and degraded cold weather performance. Additional Context: I was required to pay $2,992.89 for the repair out of pocket, as the vehicle was just outside of warranty. Due to this failure, I drove for an extended time without reliable cabin heat, defrosting, or proper battery heating in winter conditions, exposing me to serious safety risks. Tesla has acknowledged HVAC component contamination issues in official service bulletins, suggesting a known systemic problem.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11657299April 28, 2025
AIR BAGS
The contact owned a 2023 Tesla Model Y. The contact stated that while driving at 45 MPH, occupied with his son in the vehicle, another vehicle collided into the front center of the vehicle, causing the vehicle to merge into another lane. The air bags did not deploy. The contact sustained injuries to his neck, shoulder, and lower back. The contact son sustained injuries to the neck. No medical attention was required. The vehicle was towed to Al's Towing Yard. The contact stated that a police report was filed. The contact mentioned that the seat belts did retract. The contact stated that the failure was not diagnosed by a dealer or independent mechanic. The vehicle was deemed a total loss. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, and they informed the contact to call his insurance company. The approximate failure mileage was 30,491.
Crash:
Yes
Fire:
No
Injuries:
2
Deaths:
0
#11657208April 28, 2025
SEAT BELTS
The contact owns a 2023 Tesla Model Y. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, an unknown seat belt message was displayed along with an audible chime while the front driver's side seat belt was securely buckled. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who replaced the front driver's side seat belt buckle, but the failure persisted. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V376000 (Seat Belts); however, the VIN was not included in the recall. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 76,792.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11657092April 27, 2025
BACK OVER PREVENTION: SENSING SYSTEM: CAMERA, EXTERIOR LIGHTING:TURN SIGNAL
The backup camera system is not available, no camera visibility on any of the cameras, no sensors detection, blinkers only lit for 2 seconds and after that they are turned off automatically. Vehicle is not safe to drive with the risk of system failure while driving.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11656974April 26, 2025
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Critical Safety Defect Report – Tesla Full Self-Driving (FSD) Malfunction on [XXX] I am writing to formally report a critical and potentially deadly safety defect involving Tesla’s Full Self-Driving (FSD) system. During a recent road trip with my husband and daughter from Boston, MA to Washington, D.C., I used Tesla's FSD feature. On our return trip on [XXX] while traveling on [XXX] under FSD control, the system demonstrated erratic and dangerous behavior that nearly caused a fatal accident. As we approached an intersection on [XXX] , I observed that the traffic lights were red. However, the vehicle—still under FSD control—continued traveling at approximately 70 mph without slowing down. Sensing something was wrong, I quickly intervened and manually stopped the car at the intersection, where cross traffic was moving at high speeds in both directions. Had I reacted even a second later—or had the lights remained red in our direction—we likely would have been struck and potentially killed by the oncoming traffic. After reviewing dashcam footage from the incident, I confirmed that the FSD system had not only failed to recognize the red traffic signal but had also directed the car onto the wrong path, leading us into the potential path of oncoming vehicles. This serious failure posed an extreme and unacceptable risk to my family’s lives. Following the incident, my young daughter was deeply traumatized and developed a high fever that night. This experience has left lasting emotional and psychological distress for all of us. I believe this event highlights a severe and urgent defect in Tesla’s FSD system. I respectfully urge the NHTSA to launch an immediate investigation to prevent similar occurrences that could result in injury or loss of life. I am prepared to submit the dashcam footage and relevant vehicle logs to support this report. Please advise on the next steps for providing this evidence. Thank you for your attention 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
#11656833April 25, 2025
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: AUTOMATIC EMERGENCY BRAKING, VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL, FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: WARNINGS
On Tuesday, [XXX], around [XXX] returning home and in my driveway when the following happened. Pulling into the left side of the driveway because a utility van was parked on the right side of the driveway with the rear door and driver’s side door opened with no one in the vicinity. There was not enough room to go forward into the garage. I was almost at a complete stop with the intention of getting out of the car to shut the drivers side door. That was when the car sped up at full speed and turned to the right into the van and continued in the right direction into the garage. The car was headed to the right back corner of the garage smashing into paint cans, a freezer, sink and cabinets. I had no control over the car from the time the car sped up and smashed into the back of the garage and it all happened in a matter of a few seconds. The vehicle has been totaled by the insurance company. This incident was recorded in the vehicle’s computer. The police department was called the same day and a police officer came to the house to record the incident. The car was towed to Gerber Collision & Glass, 10491 Corkscrew Commons Dr., Estero, FL 33928, phone (239) 947-6050. The car computer system should have recorded the event. 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
#11655993April 22, 2025
VISIBILITY:REARVIEW MIRRORS/DEVICES:EXTERIOR
Vehicle Component: Exterior Mirrors Make: Tesla Model: Model Y Model Year(s): 2022, 2023, 2024 (and ongoing) Problem Description: Since the 2022 model year, the Tesla Model Y has exhibited a recurring issue with excessive vibration in the driver side exterior mirror at highway speeds. The vibration becomes noticeable around 50 mph and increases in severity with speed, making it difficult to clearly see vehicles in the adjacent lane. This issue persists even after mirror replacements or realignments, indicating a possible design or manufacturing defect affecting multiple vehicles. The vibration affects driver visibility and could pose a significant safety risk, particularly during lane changes or merging maneuvers. Numerous Model Y owners have reported similar complaints in forums and online communities, suggesting this may be a widespread issue. Tesla service centers have been unable to provide a consistent or effective fix for the problem. Safety Concern: The impaired visibility caused by the vibrating mirror compromises driver awareness and increases the likelihood of collisions. This defect should be investigated for potential recall or corrective action.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11655915April 21, 2025
STEERING
Vehicle was performing normally until I stopped and put vehicle into reverse to back into a supercharger stall. Heard a clunk when starting to back up. Car started to resist moving and front started to lift in the air a few inches. Stopped and went forward to go around and try again. Vehicle would not turn to left when going forward. Got out and noticed front passenger wheel was not aligned with other front wheel. Then noticed tie rod was ripped out of socket.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11655844April 21, 2025
STEERING, SUSPENSION
Knocking noise coming from front left tire when turning, accelerating, and reversing. Investigated noise and found a bolt hanging (unscrewed) from control arm/tie rod and another bolt loose and working it's way loose. If this bolt unscrew, I'm positive steering would be lost. See pictures.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11655627April 19, 2025
SEATS
Drivers seat is loose, hundreds of other posters online have complained about the same thing. Seat shifts forward and back on acceleration. They want over $2000 for a seat repair.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11655447April 18, 2025
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL, STEERING, FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: ADAPTIVE CRUISE CONTROL
The Adaptive cruse control would stop working off an on. also it would give false land departure warnings causing driver to swerve thinking they were going to run into another care
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11655135April 17, 2025
WHEELS
"What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request?" The rear left tire (interior side) and rim assembly failed while driving under normal conditions. The tire experienced a sudden blowout, and the rim sustained significant damage. Based on the damage observed, it appears the rim may have failed first, puncturing the tire and causing the blowout. Yes, the damaged components are available for inspection upon request. "How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk?" The sudden tire blowout at freeway speeds (60+/- mph) could have posed a serious risk to my safety and the safety of other drivers. Fortunately, I was able to maintain control of the vehicle and safely pulled over to the shoulder. "Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center?" As of now, the issue has not yet been reproduced or confirmed by a Tesla dealer or independent service center, Tesla repair staff immediately ruled out any responsibilities as they perceived to be a foreign object hit the inside of the driver rear tire, which I did not feel anything hitting the car or the tires bumping any object. We went to an authorized Continental dealer/store to inquire for procedure on how to request for investigation for any tire defects, but we were told by the manager that if the tire is OEM, they do not accept. "Has the vehicle or component been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives or others?" The vehicle and damaged components have not yet been formally inspected by Tesla, police, or insurance representatives, but I am preparing documentation and plan to submit everything for evaluation by Tesla and possibly my insurance. "Were there any warning lamps, messages or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure, and when did they first appear?" There were no messages (Sentry by Tesla), or symptoms prior to the failure. The tire pressure was actively monitored.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11654625April 14, 2025
AIR BAGS, FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: AUTOMATIC EMERGENCY BRAKING, VISIBILITY:DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER/HVAC SYSTEM
My wife was driving the car on March 7th 2025. Before she leaves the house, she had her front defroster on and the windshield was clear before she leaves the house. 5 minutes later, the front windshield became so foggy to the point she could not see anything in front of her and the front defroster was still on. And because of that so foggy windshield she moved out of her lane with no lane departure warning or anything and then she hit the railway pole without any emergency brakes going off or any warning signs letting her that she is about to hit something. The whole front of the car was gone and the car was totally lost but no airbags deployed at all and that was also concerning. Also there was no issues or any warning lamps or messages before the loss. The car was taken to a body shop and was inspected by the body shop and I believe a representative from my insurance company went to inspect the car at the body shop. So these are the parts I felt faulty or causing the safety concern: - front defroster - automatic emergency brakes - lane departure warning - forward collision warning
Crash:
Yes
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11654477April 14, 2025
AIR BAGS
The contact owns a 2021 Tesla Model Y. The contact stated while attempting to start the vehicle, the message "Front Passenger Safety Restraint System Fault" was displayed on the instrument panel. The local dealer was contacted; however, the vehicle was not diagnosed. The contact was informed that the VIN was not under recall. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 68,400.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11654110April 11, 2025
SEAT BELTS
The panel covering the driver seatbelt popped open & now the seatbelt position cannot be adjusted correctly. It appears as if the track holding the seat belt behind the panel is loose /rattling and the seatbelt system may need to be tightened down. I immediately contacted the dealer/manufacturer & Tesla wants 17 days to simply look at the issue.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11653981April 10, 2025
UNKNOWN OR OTHER, FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: ADAPTIVE CRUISE CONTROL
This is my 6th complaint about Tesla. I wrote recently when my remote drivers could not unlock my car. I solved it myself and when I got home, I called Roadside service for help re-programing the key card that failed. The person told me to call Tesla on Monday about the inability of my other drivers to unlock my car. I did that yesterday, and I told him I thought it was something wrong with my car, and suspected I needed to take it in for service. He said no, it wasn't the car but that I needed Premium Connectivity ($10/mo) in order for my drivers to be able to unlock my car. He put me on hold and came back to tell me that "it's a safety thing" so that no one can remotely unlock my car. The reason I put 2 friends in other states on my profile was for them to be able to help me, as a single woman who lives alone and takes camping trips alone. That is not a possibility. Furthermore, I asked him about the sudden braking on Cruise Control and he'd never heard of it. He uses the auto drive, that they don't call auto drive anymore...presumably because of the safety issues. I think this car needs to be recalled like the trucks were. They are not safe and Tesla doesn't care. By the way, the car has 5G, but I cannot stream my music or listen to podcasts, to which I'm already subscribed, without paying for Premium Connectivity. What a scam.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11653724April 9, 2025
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
See attached document for complaint.
Crash:
Yes
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11653378April 8, 2025
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: WARNINGS
The front collision warning is too sensitive and reacts unnecessarily to many events that are not a risk for collision. In addition, the sound of the warning is too loud causing the driver to become unnecessarily startled and may cause possible loss of control of the vehicle.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11653356April 8, 2025
LANE DEPARTURE: ASSIST, FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: ADAPTIVE CRUISE CONTROL
While driving westbound on Lee Jackson Memorial Highway (U.S. Route 50) after passing the intersection with Stonecroft Boulevard in Chantilly, Virginia, the Autopilot system on my Tesla Model Y malfunctioned. Without any warning or obstacle in my lane, the vehicle suddenly and sharply veered to the right, directly toward two vehicles traveling in the adjacent lane. I was holding the steering wheel at the time and was able to immediately countersteer to prevent a collision. There were no audible or visual warnings from the vehicle before or during the incident. The Autopilot system did not display any messages or alerts, and no braking or turn signal was engaged by the system. The lane shift was abrupt and uncommanded. The dashcam footage clearly captured the incident, and it is available for inspection upon request. To my knowledge, the issue has not yet been reproduced or inspected by the manufacturer or service center. The vehicle has not been examined by police, insurance representatives, or others at this time. This unexpected maneuver created a serious safety risk for myself and nearby drivers.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11652895April 4, 2025
UNKNOWN OR OTHER, FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: ADAPTIVE CRUISE CONTROL, LANE DEPARTURE: WARNING
Any of categories are matching with my issue. 3 1/2 years old, 64,000 miles Tesla model y, ECU, which controls Full self driving , and drive assist system, is fault right after warranty expires. The replacement cost is $2,800. Does it make sense that ECU fault on the owner? It is only 3 1/2 years old car. It is definitely defective part, but Tesla service is not replace for free. I am concerning if ECU fails while I am driving.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0

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