Service-Bulletin

2021-2023 Tesla Model 3 Trunk Water Leak TSB

A manufacturer communication (TSB) from Tesla, identified by NHTSA ID 10235969, addresses a potential issue where water may leak into the trunk area of some 2021-2023 Model 3 vehicles through the trunk lid. This can lead to water ingress and potential damage.

ByAhmet Topcu — Founder & Editor-in-ChiefAutomated summary2021 Tesla Model 3
2021 TESLA Model 3 — Tesla Model 3 trunk water leak
Editorial illustration generated for this article.
Tesla Model 3 trunk water leaktrunk leakwater in trunkModel 3 water ingresstrunk lid leakNHTSA ID 10235969Tesla TSBSTRUCTURE:BODY:TRUNK LID2021 Tesla Model 3 trunk leak2022 Tesla Model 3 trunk leak
Tesla Model 3
2022–2023

Owners of 2021-2023 Tesla Model 3 vehicles may experience a Tesla Model 3 trunk water leak, where water enters the trunk compartment. This issue is detailed in a manufacturer communication, classified as a Technical Service Bulletin (TSB), under NHTSA ID 10235969. The communication indicates that water may be leaking inside the trunk area through the trunk lid.

Symptoms

The primary symptom of this issue is the presence of water inside the trunk area. Owners might notice dampness, standing water, or water stains on the trunk lining or cargo. This indicates a Tesla Model 3 trunk water leak originating from the trunk lid.

Diagnosis / Trigger Conditions

The TSB broadly describes the condition as water leaking through the trunk lid. This suggests that the leak may occur during rain, car washes, or other situations where water comes into contact with the trunk lid. Technicians would typically perform a water test to confirm the exact entry point of the water.

Repair Procedure Summary

While the specific repair steps are not detailed in the summary, addressing a water leak through the trunk lid typically involves inspecting the trunk lid's seals, weatherstripping, and body panel alignment. Technicians would identify the source of the water ingress and then apply appropriate sealing materials, adjust components, or replace faulty seals to prevent further leaks. The goal is to ensure the trunk area remains dry and protected from the elements.

Owner Action

If you own a 2021-2023 Tesla Model 3 and notice any signs of a Tesla Model 3 trunk water leak, it is recommended to contact a Tesla Service Center. Inform them about the water ingress in your trunk and reference the manufacturer communication associated with NHTSA ID 10235969. They will be able to diagnose the specific cause of the leak and perform the necessary repairs to resolve the issue.


Source: NHTSA ID 10235969

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the problem with the Tesla Model 3 trunk?
Some 2021-2023 Tesla Model 3 vehicles may experience a trunk water leak, where water enters the trunk compartment through the trunk lid. This issue is documented in a manufacturer communication (TSB) with NHTSA ID 10235969.
How do I know if my Tesla Model 3 has a trunk water leak?
You may notice dampness, standing water, or water stains on the trunk lining or cargo. These are clear indicators of a water leak in the trunk area of your 2021-2023 Tesla Model 3.
What should I do if I find water in my Tesla Model 3 trunk?
If you discover a Tesla Model 3 trunk water leak, you should schedule an appointment with a Tesla Service Center. Mention the issue of water leaking through the trunk lid and the associated NHTSA ID 10235969 for reference.
Is there a specific recall for the Tesla Model 3 trunk water leak?
This issue is addressed by a Technical Service Bulletin (TSB), not a recall. TSBs provide repair information to dealerships for common problems, but do not always involve a safety defect or a free repair campaign for all affected vehicles unless covered by warranty.

What Tesla Model 3 owners report

Counted from the records in our database across 10 model years.

4,387
Owner complaints
36
Recalls
249
Service bulletins
459
Crashes reported
22
Fires reported
256
Injuries reported

The 2021 model year

674 complaints, the 3rd most of 10 model years on file. Owners reported 46 crashes, 5 fires and 19 injuries for this year, which also has 22 recalls on file.

Structure, the system this article covers, accounts for 164 of 4,387 complaints (4%), including 17 for 2021.

Complaints by model year

Model years with the most complaints for the Tesla Model 3
201727
20181,036
2019620
2020453
2021674
2022773
2023429
2024222
2025123
202630

Most-reported systems

  1. Forward Collision Avoidance — 1,751
  2. Vehicle Speed Control — 635
  3. Service Brakes — 571
  4. Electrical System — 566
  5. Steering — 414

Latest recalls for the 2021 model year

  • 26V507000 — Exterior Lighting (Aug 2026)
  • 26V283000 — Back Over Prevention (May 2026)
  • 24V935000 — Tires (Dec 2024)
All 2021 recalls →

Recent owner reports about structure

I am reporting a safety concern regarding the glovebox fascia on my Tesla Model 3. The material on the glovebox trim is peeling and separating, which appears to be caused by prolonged exposure to heat inside the vehicle.

2021 Tesla Model 3 owner, Jul 2026

I wrote several months ago about my 2021 tesla model 3 that the rear doors do not have any mechanical door handle release and is a big safety concern also how can a manufacturer get away with this and also not informing the consumer that anyone sat in the…

2021 Tesla Model 3 owner, Feb 2026
Read owner complaints →

Complaints are owner reports filed with NHTSA. They are unverified, and counts depend on how many vehicles were sold, so they are not a failure rate.

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